🇪🇬 Egypt
Luxor travel guide
Luxor is the world's greatest open-air museum, ancient Thebes, capital of the New Kingdom pharaohs. The East Bank holds Karnak and Luxor Temples; the West Bank reveals the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut Temple, and Colossi of Memnon. No place on Earth has more concentrated ancient wonders.
Language
Arabic (English at sites)
Currency
Egyptian Pound (EGP)
Timezone
EET (UTC+2)
Best time
October to April
Budget/day
EGP 600-1800/day ($12-36)
When to visit
Jan
7°C - 23°C
Feb
9°C - 26°C
Mar
12°C - 30°C
Apr
16°C - 35°C
May
21°C - 39°C
Jun
24°C - 42°C
Jul
25°C - 42°C
Aug
25°C - 42°C
Sep
22°C - 39°C
Oct
18°C - 35°C
Nov
13°C - 29°C
Dec
9°C - 24°C
Safety
safeLuxor is safe and heavily policed for tourism. Harassment from boat and carriage vendors can be persistent. Use licensed guides for Valley of the Kings.
Women travellers
Tourist area but conservative Upper Egypt. Dress modestly. Avoid walking alone at night beyond main tourist strip.
Culture & etiquette
- + Respect tomb rules (no photos in many)
- + Dress modestly
- + Hire official guides
- + Start early on West Bank
- - Don't touch ancient paintings
- - Don't photograph where forbidden
- - Don't skip Valley of the Kings
- - Don't underestimate heat
Food to try
Grilled Nile fish
Fresh river fish
Molokhia
Green soup with rabbit or chicken
Fatta
Bread-rice-meat dish
Hidden gems
Details are indicative and may change. Verify visa, safety, and entry requirements before travel.