This comprehensive tour offers travelers an immersive exploration of Upper Egypt’s iconic landmarks. Embarking on a comfortable overnight journey by first-class train from Cairo to Luxor, visitors can experience the grandeur of ancient sites like the Valley of the Kings, Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, and Temple of Karnak. Led by expert guides and transported in air-conditioned vehicles, the tour caters to various needs, with the option to upgrade for a more premium experience. With positive reviews highlighting the seamless organization and knowledgeable commentary, this journey promises to captivate those seeking to uncover the stunning legacy of Egypt’s past. What awaits as these travelers step into the footsteps of pharaohs?
Key Points
- This tour allows visitors to explore Upper Egypt’s top attractions, including the Valley of the Kings, Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, and Temple of Karnak.
- The tour includes a first-class overnight train ride from Cairo to Luxor, as well as air-conditioned vehicle transfers and expert tour guides.
- Travelers can optionally upgrade to a VIP bus or sleeper train at an additional cost for a more comfortable journey.
- The tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for both adults and children, with an option to use an international student card for discounts.
- The tour has received a 5-star rating on Viator and Tripadvisor, with reviewers praising the knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and seamless organization.
Overview of the Tour
This guided multi-day excursion allows visitors to explore Upper Egypt’s top attractions.
After being picked up from their hotel in Cairo, travelers embark on a first-class overnight train ride to Luxor, where they’ll visit ancient landmarks like the Valley of the Kings, Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, Temple of Karnak, and Colossi of Memnon.
The package includes air-conditioned vehicle transfers, expert tour guides, and entrance fees to all sightseeing destinations.
Travelers can choose to upgrade to a VIP bus or sleeper train at an additional cost.
With a maximum of 15 participants, this tour offers a personalized experience, and comes highly recommended by previous visitors with a 5-star rating on Viator and Tripadvisor.
Inclusions and Additional Information
The tour package includes pick-up and drop-off at train stations in Cairo and Luxor, first-class seated train tickets for the roundtrip journey, and air-conditioned vehicle transfers and tours in both cities.
Travelers can also expect an expert tour guide, with different language options available, and all entrance fees to the sightseeing destinations are covered.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, and children must be accompanied by an adult. Travelers are advised to bring a camera and an international student card, which can provide a 50% discount on entrance fees.
While no pick-up service is provided upon return to the Cairo train station, it can be requested for an additional cost. The option to upgrade to a VIP bus is also available without extra charge.
Pickup and Train Logistics
The tour begins with pickup from the traveler’s hotel in either Cairo or Giza.
Alternatively, travelers can opt to upgrade their train tickets to a sleeper train for an additional $150 per person roundtrip.
In some cases, the sitting train may be swapped for a VIP bus at no extra cost.
The train transport is an integral part of the experience, providing a comfortable and efficient way to travel between Cairo and Luxor.
Whether it’s a first-class seated train or an upgraded sleeper option, the journey sets the stage for the upcoming exploration of ancient Egyptian landmarks.
Travelers can look forward to a seamless transition between the tour’s various components, ensuring a smooth and memorable experience.
Reviews and Ratings
Travelers consistently praise this Cairo to Luxor multi-day tour, with overwhelmingly positive reviews across popular booking platforms. The tour holds a 5-star rating on both Viator and Tripadvisor, with 20 glowing reviews from past customers. Guests highlight the knowledgeable and multilingual tour guides, the comfortable transportation, and the seamless organization of the itinerary. Many also appreciate the flexibility to upgrade to a VIP bus without additional cost.
| Reviewer | Rating | Highlight |
|---|---|---|
| Joanne C. | 5/5 | "Excellent tour guide, comfortable transportation, and incredible sights!" |
| Michael S. | 5/5 | "Highly recommend this tour for anyone visiting Luxor from Cairo." |
| Sarah W. | 5/5 | "The overnight train was a unique experience, and the itinerary was well-paced." |
| Ahmed R. | 5/5 | "Top-notch service from beginning to end. Truly a highlight of our Egypt trip." |
Exploring Luxor’s Ancient Landmarks
After arriving in Luxor via the overnight train, visitors typically explore the city’s ancient landmarks, beginning with the renowned Valley of the Kings.
This sprawling necropolis houses the elaborate tombs of numerous pharaohs, including the famous King Tutankhamun.
Nearby, the impressive Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, a stunning architectural achievement, stands as a testament to the power and legacy of one of Egypt’s few female rulers.
The grand Temple of Karnak, with its massive columns and intricate carvings, provides a glimpse into the religious and cultural significance of ancient Thebes.
Visiting the Valley of the Kings
Upon arriving at the Valley of the Kings, visitors are immediately struck by the grandeur and mystery of this ancient necropolis, home to the elaborate tombs of numerous Egyptian pharaohs.
As they step into this UNESCO World Heritage site, they’ll have the chance to explore the remarkably well-preserved tombs, adorned with intricate hieroglyphics and vibrant murals that offer a glimpse into the lives and beliefs of the pharaohs.
The highlights include the tombs of famous rulers like Tutankhamun and Ramses II, where visitors can marvel at the stunning artistry and the insights the tombs provide into the fascinating world of ancient Egyptian royalty.
Touring the Temple of Karnak
The Temple of Karnak, one of the most impressive religious complexes in ancient Egypt, captivates visitors with its colossal columns, towering obelisks, and intricate carvings.
Travelers marvel at the sheer scale of the temple, which took over 2,000 years to construct.
Highlights include the Great Hypostyle Hall, a forest of massive stone pillars, and the Sacred Lake, which was used for ritual purification.
Guides share insights into the temple’s rich history, from its origins as a cult center for the god Amun to its later expansion under successive pharaohs.
Visitors can explore the site’s many chapels, pylons, and courtyards, each offering a glimpse into the grandeur of ancient Egyptian religious architecture.
Experiencing the Colossi of Memnon
Towering over the Nile River’s west bank, the colossal Colossi of Memnon captivate visitors with their sheer grandeur and historical significance.
These massive statues, each standing at over 60 feet tall, depict Pharaoh Amenhotep III and once guarded the entrance to his mortuary temple.
Though the temple has long since crumbled, the twin Colossi have endured, becoming iconic landmarks of ancient Thebes.
Visitors can marvel at the colossal figures, which are carved from blocks of quartzite sandstone, and learn about their fascinating history and the myths surrounding them.
The Colossi of Memnon offer a glimpse into Egypt’s glorious past and a chance to connect with the country’s rich cultural heritage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?
Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized to the traveler’s preferences. The tour operator offers flexibility to modify the included sights and activities based on the traveler’s interests and schedule within the overall tour structure.
Is Photography Allowed at All the Sites Visited?
Photography is generally allowed at the sites visited, though some restrictions may apply. Visitors should check with their tour guide for specific guidelines at each location to ensure they can capture the best photos during the tour.
How Much Time Is Allocated for Each Landmark Exploration?
The tour typically allocates 1-2 hours for exploring each major landmark, allowing ample time to take in the sights and gain insights from the expert guide. The duration at each site may vary based on the group’s interests and pace.
Are Audio Guides Available at the Historical Sites?
Audio guides are not mentioned as being included in this tour. The tour description focuses on transportation, guides, and entrance fees, but does not indicate if audio guides are available at the historical sites.
What Are the Payment Options for the Tour?
The payment options for the tour include cash or credit card. Entrance fees must be paid in Egyptian pounds. Some discounts may be available for students with valid international ID cards.
Recap
This Cairo to Luxor tour offers an immersive experience exploring Upper Egypt’s renowned historical sites.
Travelers can enjoy a comfortable train journey, expert guidance, and air-conditioned transportation.
With optional upgrades available, the tour caters to diverse needs, allowing visitors to marvel at the grandeur of ancient Egyptian landmarks like the Valley of the Kings, Temple of Karnak, and Colossi of Memnon.
