Famous for being home to some of the oldest and largest Ancient Egyptian temples and tombs, the city of Luxor is a paradise for history enthusiasts and passionate Egyptologists alike.

In addition to its man-made structures, Luxor also boasts a stark natural beauty, characterized by its desert surroundings on the banks of the Nile River.

There is no better way to see this incredible city than with a hot air balloon ride in Luxor. Float above the famous monuments and see the region from an entirely different perspective. You’ll undoubtedly gain a new appreciation for Luxor’s magnificent beauty.

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

What are the best hot air balloon rides in Luxor?

Luxury hot air balloon ride in Luxor

See the world’s greatest open-air museum from above and make unforgettable memories during your time in Luxor with this luxury hot air balloon ride. Don’t forget to pack your camera as the views that you’ll experience are sure to be out of this world!

Your tour begins with a hotel pickup and a quick motorboat ride across the Nile River to the West Bank, where your hot air balloon experience will begin. You’ll enjoy a light breakfast and a cup of coffee or tea before taking to the skies.

Fly over some of Luxor’s most notable attractions, including the Valley of the Kings, the Valley of the Queens, Hatshepsut Temple and Luxor Temple among others. Enjoy a soft landing before you are taken back to your accommodation in Luxor.

Sunrise hot air balloon ride in Luxor

There is no better way to watch the first rays of light come up over the beautiful city of Luxor than with a sunrise hot air balloon ride, which is sure to be a memorable experience. Tick this experience off your bucket list as you soar above the clouds!

A driver will fetch you from your hotel in Luxor, or the port if that is more convenient, and from there you will be taken to the hot air balloon launch site. The hot air balloon will ascend as the sun is rising and you’ll get to see incredible views of the desert and Luxor’s ancient temples.

You’ll spend an hour of sky-bound sightseeing before landing, after which you will be provided with a flight certificate to commemorate your special excursion before being driven back to your hotel or the port.

Private hot air balloon ride in Luxor

Make the most of your hot air balloon experience in Luxor by booking a private excursion — perfect for special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries or even proposals. The small hot air balloon can carry anywhere between 2 and 20 people.

Once you arrive on the West Bank, you’ll be greeted with a hot beverage and some snacks before you enjoy the gentle take-off. You’ll experience the incredible weightlessness that comes with hot air ballooning as you admire the magnificent views below!

As you fly over the city, you’ll see its many temples and tombs, as well as the Nile River, the desert terrain and local farmlands. Make memories to last a lifetime on this hot air balloon ride that is operated exclusively for you and your travel companions.

Are there any combo tours available with hot air balloon rides in Luxor?

Hot air balloon ride with full-day sightseeing tour in Luxor

Once your balloon ride has come to an end, enjoy a full day of exploring Luxor’s main sites that you may have spotted from the sky, including the Valley of the Kings and Queens, Luxor Temple, Karnak Temple, Hatshepsut Temple and others.

An English-speaking tour guide will be with you every step of the way and will be there to answer any questions that you may have about the sites visited.

Sunrise hot air balloon ride and sunset felucca ride in Luxor

Begin your day with an incredible hot air balloon ride over Luxor. Next, your guide will take you to some of the city’s best attractions, including temples and tombs. Stop for lunch before continuing your sightseeing adventure.

End the day with a boat tour on a traditional felucca on the Nile River as you take in views of the beautiful Karnak Temple at sunset.

3-Night cruise to Aswan from Luxor with hot air balloon ride

Take a cruise down the Nile River to Aswan, exploring some of Egypt’s most iconic sites as you enjoy 3 action-packed days of sightseeing and activities. In addition to a hot air balloon ride, you’ll be treated to a cruise on a traditional felucca.

You’ll see several different temples during your time on the cruise ship and you’ll stay in a 5-star cabin and enjoy delicious meals onboard. This opportunity allows you to make the most of your time in Luxor and surrounding areas.

How much do hot air balloon rides in Luxor cost?

Hot air balloon rides in Luxor differ quite significantly in cost, and there is an excursion available to suit every budget and preference.

Basic hot air balloon rides in Luxor typically cost around US$55 for a group experience that you’ll share with other travelers. Although the cheapest option available, these tours still include hotel transfers, a hot drink and all fees and taxes.

Slightly more luxurious experiences, which may include breakfast and longer flight times, usually cost upwards of US$80 per person. Private hot air balloon rides can cost anywhere between US$100 and US$250 per person depending on the size of your group.

Combination hot air balloon rides that include a full-day sightseeing tour can cost from US$130 per person, while a tour with a felucca boat ride can cost US$150 per person. A 3-day cruise to Aswan that includes a hot air balloon ride will cost from about US$150 per person.

What is included?

When you book a hot air balloon ride in Luxor, everything is taken care of for you and you’ll receive a hotel pickup, bottled water and a coffee or tea. All fees and taxes are included in the cost of your tour, and some tour operators even provide a flight certificate or souvenir.

‘Luxury’ hot air balloon rides may also include breakfast alongside a more personalized experience that caters to your specific needs. Keep in mind that gratuities are not included, so feel free to tip your hot air balloon pilot at the end of your excursion.

Where does it start?

The majority of hot air balloon tour operators offer complimentary hotel pickup services from Luxor’s main hotels. This means that the tour operator will take care of your transfer so long as you are staying at a centrally-located hotel.

As most hot air balloon flights take off on the West Bank, you’ll need to take a ferry over the Nile River if you are staying on the East Bank. This boat trip will also usually be organized by your tour operator. If not, you’ll get picked up from the port.

Just remember to be ready and waiting outside your hotel at the stipulated pickup time so that you do not keep your tour guide and group waiting.

How long does it last?

The flight time of hot air balloon rides in Luxor is usually anywhere between 45 minutes and 1.5 hours. However, hot air balloon excursions in Luxor typically last around 3 hours when you take hotel transfers and safety briefings into consideration.

Is it wheelchair friendly?

While not all hot air balloon rides in Luxor are wheelchair friendly, there are a few hot air balloon tour operators that offer wheelchair-accessible tours. If you or any of your travel companions are using a wheelchair, make sure you check for wheelchair accessibility when booking your tour.

When is the best time for a hot air balloon ride in Luxor?

The best time for a hot air balloon ride in Luxor is typically in the early morning, just after sunrise. This is when the winds are usually the calmest and the air is the most stable, making it the safest time to fly.

The early morning light also provides excellent lighting conditions for viewing the landscape and archaeological sites, and capturing exceptional photographs.

It's also a good idea to book your hot air balloon ride early on in your trip, in case the weather turns and you will need to complete it on another day.

Is it safe?

Hot air balloon rides are safe, and are piloted by experienced and licensed professionals. You will receive a safety briefing at the beginning to ensure everyone's security and comfort for the duration of the flight.

Are children allowed?

Children are allowed on hot air balloon rides, but will need to be accompanied by an adult. Check with your tour provider beforehand for any age restrictions or limitations for infants.

What happens in the case of bad weather?

Hot air balloon rides depend on good weather in order to operate. Should the weather turn on the day of your tour, you can either opt for an alternate date or request a full refund.

Which other popular outdoor activities can be done in Luxor?

Travel tips

Hot air balloon rides in Luxor are popular, so it's a good idea to book in advance to secure your spot. This is particularly true during the peak tourist season (October through April).
Dress in layers, as it can be cool in the early morning when you take off, but it can quickly warm up as the sun rises. Wear comfortable shoes as you will be likely be standing for the duration of the flight.
The views from the balloon are spectacular, and you'll definitely want to capture them. However, make sure your camera or phone is secured with a strap so you don't risk dropping it!

Hot Air Balloon Rides in Luxor