Karnak & Luxor Temple Half-Day Tour

The Karnak Temple Complex

First, you visit Karnak, the largest temple complex in the world, covering about 247 hectares. Successive pharaohs expanded it for more than 2,000 years, and it was dedicated mainly to the god Amun-Ra. Its most impressive part is the Great Hypostyle Hall with 134 monumental columns, the twelve central ones reaching about 21 metres. Obelisks, pylons, the Sacred Lake and sanctuaries also tell an extraordinary story of the successive eras of ancient Egypt, which your Egyptologist brings to life.

Luxor Temple

Next, you drive to Luxor Temple on the East Bank of the Nile. Its construction began under Amenhotep III around 1390 BC, and it was later expanded under Ramesses II. The temple played a special role in the annual Opet Festival, when statues of the gods from Karnak were carried here in a grand procession. What’s more, the two monuments are linked by the famous Avenue of Sphinxes, originally lined with more than a thousand statues.

Lunch

To finish, you enjoy a tasty lunch at a local restaurant in Luxor. Importantly, lunch is included in the tour price.

Why Choose the Karnak and Luxor Temple Tour?

Above all, you see Luxor’s two most important monuments in just four hours. The tour is also private, so you explore without crowds and at your own pace. Your English-speaking Egyptologist guide answers all your questions, so you learn the history of ancient Thebes in an accessible way. Pick-up from your hotel or Nile cruise ship is included. If you have little time in Luxor, this half-day route is ideal. Your afternoon also stays free for relaxing or a felucca ride. Sharara Tours takes care of the organisation, so all you need to do is choose a date and book. Discover more Luxor tours.

Practical Tips

Above all, bring a hat, sunglasses and water. Wear comfortable shoes too, as there is a lot of walking at Karnak. Mornings are best, as it is cooler. Remember to bring cash for entrance tickets if you are not booking them with us.