Day two of your Luxor adventure begins in the most magical way imaginable—with a hot air balloon ride over the West Bank of Luxor. Before the break of dawn, you’ll be picked up from your hotel and transferred to the launch site, where the balloons inflate in the cool morning air under a blanket of stars.
As you gently rise into the sky, the first light of sunrise spills across the Nile Valley. Below you, the timeless Valley of the Kings, the lush green fields of farmers, and the ancient tombs begin to glow in hues of gold and rose. It’s a moment of profound peace and awe—an unforgettable panorama that connects heaven and earth.
After a smooth landing, you’ll return to your hotel for a well-deserved Egyptian breakfast. Enjoy fresh local bread, falafel, eggs, fruits, and sweet tea as you reflect on the majesty you just witnessed. Once refreshed, the true exploration begins.
Your guide will lead you to the sacred Valley of the Kings, the burial site of Egypt’s most iconic pharaohs from the 18th to 20th dynasties. As you descend into the ancient rock-cut tombs, you’ll find vividly preserved wall paintings depicting the pharaohs’ journey to the afterlife. You may choose to enter the legendary Tomb of Tutankhamun (optional with an extra ticket), a moment that offers an intimate connection to the boy king who has captivated the world.
Next, ascend the cliffs to the stunning Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, one of Egypt’s most architecturally unique and harmonious monuments. Built into the limestone cliffs of Deir el-Bahari, this terraced mortuary temple is a tribute to Egypt’s greatest female pharaoh. Your guide will share tales of Hatshepsut’s bold reign, her expeditions to Punt, and how she redefined power and beauty in ancient times.
On the return, stop at the Colossi of Memnon, two gigantic seated statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III that once guarded his now-vanished mortuary temple. Though weathered by time, these monumental sentinels still stand tall, echoing ancient songs in the desert wind.
After a soul-stirring day of discovery, enjoy a hearty lunch at a local restaurant. Savor authentic Egyptian cuisine, such as grilled meats, kofta, tahini, rice-stuffed vegetables, and traditional molokhia. After lunch, return to your hotel for some well-earned rest or an optional evening stroll along the Nile.