Like stepping back in time, Egypt is a destination full of history, culture and adventure. Cairo, the nation's capital, is flush with outdoor activities (camel rides, quad bike tours and more), many of which are centered around the Great Pyramids of Giza.

But there's so much more to this city than its World Wonder. From ground level, Cairo – and Egypt – is a breathtaking, sprawling desert. But from hundreds of feet up in the air in a hot air balloon, where you can see the River Nile twisting its way through the city, it's an entirely different experience.

Hot air balloon tours in Cairo (which are often combined with trips to Luxor) offer a unique perspective on the region – one that's worth waking up in the wee hours of the morning for.

Here's everything you need to know about hot air balloon rides, one of the most exhilarating outdoor activities in Cairo.

What are the best hot air balloon tours from Cairo?

There are not too many standalone Cairo hot air balloon rides. Instead, the majority of hot air balloon tours in Cairo are combined with trips to Luxor, river cruises, or multi-day tours to Aswan. Let's take a look at the most popular options.

Nile River cruises with hot air balloon ride

Departing from Cairo, you'll first embark on a night train that whisks you down to Luxor. The next morning, after trying some local tea to help you wake up, you'll embark on a thrilling hot air balloon ride over Luxor, with the backdrop of the Valley of Kings. After touching down, you'll have a few hours to appreciate Luxor's West and East Banks before hopping on a Nile River cruise that will whisk you all the way down to the ancient city of Aswan.

From Aswan station, you'll typically travel back to Cairo by train — a wonderful, 12-hour journey that takes you across the center of the Egyptian desert and through its beautiful oases.

Depending on your preference, this style of tour can be extended to 5 days, 6 days, 7 days or 8 days, giving you more time to explore the area.

Luxor in 2 days: Felucca, camel and hot air balloon rides (by plane from Cairo)

Focusing on outdoor activities with a side of history, this 2-day itinerary from Cairo to Luxor is perfect for those looking for an action-packed weekend away. With guaranteed flight times and a private tour guide, you'll be able to make the most out of your time in Luxor.

With an Egyptologist guide leading the way, activities include a felucca sailboat ride down the Nile River (this traditional style of sailboat has been used in Egypt since antiquity), camel rides on the west bank of Luxor and a hot air balloon ride at sunrise. As you glide over the most famous historical city in Egypt, you'll gain a new perspective of the Nile, the Valley of the Kings and Queens and the sheer size of the desert.

After touching down, you'll have plenty of opportunities to explore Luxor's many ancient sites, including the Colossi of Memnon, the Karnak Temple Complex and the Valley of the Kings. When you're finished exploring, you'll fly back to Cairo for the evening and be taken back to your hotel.

6-Day adventure including the Pyramids, Aswan, Luxor, the Red Sea, and a hot air balloon ride

A comprehensive itinerary for those with a little extra time, this 6-day experience takes you from Cairo all the way down to Hurghada on the Red Sea, via some of Egypt's most iconic sites. Start your journey off at the Giza Pyramids and then head south on a scenic flight to Aswan for a dose of ancient Egyptian history. From there, you'll board a cruise ship to travel north to Luxor where you'll enjoy a hot air balloon ride at sunrise.

Finish off your trip with some relaxation time on the Red Sea in Hurghada before returning home with another picturesque flight.

Since this style of tour features flights instead of overnight train travel, you'll get to explore more of Egypt in a shorter amount of time.

Are there any hot air balloon combo tours from Cairo?

Yes, almost all hot air balloon tours from Cairo are part of a package tour with a combination of activities. In addition to the hot air balloon ride itself, most tours include a felucca sailboat ride on the Nile River, a camel ride, and visits to several historical attractions in Luxor, Aswan, and the surrounding area.

The combination of activities ensures that visitors have an unforgettable experience while learning about Egypt’s illustrious past.

Besides those already mentioned, some of the other most popular combination tours include the 7-day Egypt highlights tour (which visits Aswan, Abu Simbel, Luxor, Cairo and the Nile), the 5-day luxury cruise that makes several stops on its downriver journey, and private itineraries of up to 14 days for those looking to explore all that Egypt has to offer.

What are the prices of hot air balloon tours from Cairo?

Since hot air balloon tours in Cairo are typically part of more comprehensive tour packages, the price can vary widely, depending on the number of days and attractions included. Typically, however, the cheapest package starts at around US$150.

To get more specific, a 3-day Nile River package that includes a hot air balloon ride typically ranges between US$330 and US$900 — more expensive options usually include more days on the water, a more luxurious cruise ship, more land-based attractions, or a combination of all of these factors.

A 2-day package featuring a balloon ride, felucca ride and camel ride is usually priced around US$550 for adults, US$450 for kids and US$250 for infants — however, prices can vary substantially depending on how many people are in your group.

A 6-day package featuring a hot air balloon ride, the Red Sea and a cruise costs closer to US$950 for adults. Children are typically discounted (around US$550) while infants, depending on the tour, will be free or as little as US$150.

For private tours that are tailored to individual needs, prices can be as much as US$1,500 for 8-night tours.

What are the inclusions?

All of the tours mentioned here include a hot air balloon ride that soars over Luxor and the Valley of the Kings. Due to being multi-day packages by nature, several other attractions and activities are also included.

Depending on the tour, these may include an overnight stay(s) on a Nile River cruise ship, rides on camels, visits to local markets and temples, guided tours of ancient cities and more.

Transport from Cairo is also often provided – sometimes by plane, other times by overnight train.

Finally, the cost of your tour also covers the knowledgeable tour guide, food (usually breakfast and dinner) and the cost of entry to most of the local attractions.

Every tour is different, so it's best to check with the provider before booking to see exactly what's included.

Where do hot air balloon tours start?

All hot air balloon tours in Cairo will start with pick up from central Cairo or Giza from your hotel. Once picked up, you will be taken to either the airport for your flight or the train station for your overnight train. After touching down in Luxor, you'll then make your way to the West Bank where your actual balloon flight will take place.

How long are hot air balloon rides?

Hot air balloon tours in Cairo are part of more comprehensive combo packages, which can last anywhere from 1 to 8 nights, including the time spent in Luxor.

The actual balloon flight portion of the tour typically lasts for 1 hour, plus the time to drive to the departure point in Luxor.

Are they accessible to wheelchair users?

Some hot air balloon tours in Cairo are wheelchair friendly, especially those that spend most of their time on the Nile River cruises. However, this is not a blanket rule. Since many activities are included, it's best to check with the provider before booking to confirm if they can accommodate your needs.

When is the best time for a hot air balloon tour from Cairo?

The best time for a hot air balloon tour from Cairo is during the cooler months of the year, which are between November and February, to avoid the extreme heat. This period also tends to be more stable weather-wise, increasing the likelihood of good flying conditions.

Which other outdoor activities can be done in Cairo?

Camel riding tours in Cairo
Desert safaris in Cairo
Airplane tours in Cairo
Jeep tours in Cairo
Quad tours in Cairo

Travel tips

Dress in layers as the temperature can fluctuate during the flight, especially between the ground and the air. Comfortable, flat shoes are recommended as you'll be standing during the flight.
A hat can protect you from the heat of the burners above, as well as shield you from the sun.
Egypt is known for its sunny and hot climate. Even in cooler months, don't forget to use sunscreen and stay hydrated.

Hot Air Balloon Rides in Cairo