Abydos: Day Trips and Tours from Luxor

Luxor and history go hand in hand. If you're hunting for fascinating insights into bygone eras after wandering around the city, look no further than a day trip from Luxor to the city of Abydos — a nearby site of immense religious significance that's brimming with archaeological treasures.

Sitting along the banks of the Nile, Abydos constantly delights visitors with its mix of stunning temples, tombs and ruins. It's famed for being the burial site of Osiris — an Egyptian god of the afterlife — and contains some of Egypt's oldest surviving monuments: the Temple of Seti I, the Osirion, and the Royal Necropolis, to name a few.

Here's all you need to know about visiting Abydos, one of the most inspiring destinations for day trips from Luxor.

How to get to Abydos From Luxor?

Abydos rests on the west bank of the Nile, a simple and beautiful 170-kilometer commute to the northwest of Luxor.

Depending on your budget and preferences, you can either travel by car, public transit, or as part of an arranged tour (with the added benefit of having expert guides).

From Luxor to Abydos by car

One of the most convenient ways to reach Abydos is by car. You have two very different routes to choose from — while the duration is similar (about 3 hours), the scenery is vastly different.

You can either take the Aswan-Giza Road (Route 60) and continue north along the West Bank of the Nile River, following the road as it passes by built-up towns and lush riverside scenery.

Alternatively, you can take the Luxor-Aswan highway through the thick of the desert, which is marginally longer but offers an unrivaled sense of adventure.

From Luxor to Abydos by public transit

If you're on a tighter budget, taking the train from Luxor to Sohag followed by a one-hour taxi ride to Abydos would be the most affordable option. Egyptian Railways operates a train from Luxor to Sohag hourly, which takes just under 3 hours.

Guided tour to Abydos From Luxor

The most convenient, hassle-free way to get from Luxor to Abydos is by joining a guided tour. Not only do you save time, but you also get the added benefit of having an expert guide who can tell you all about the area's fascinating historical sites and monuments.

The duration of the guided tour varies but generally ranges from 8 to 10 hours, allowing heaps of time to explore the ancient wonders of Abydos.

What is the typical itinerary?

While every guided tour will differ slightly, a typical Abydos day trip from Luxor typically follows a similar structure. Early in the morning, you'll be picked up at your hotel in Luxor.

After meeting your friendly driver, you'll travel by air-conditioned minibus (or car) to Abydos, enjoying the beautiful Egyptian landscapes along the way. The journey is close to 3 hours, giving you time to relax and soak in the surroundings while your guide tells you stories of the region's rich history.

Once you reach Abydos, your first stop will likely be the iconic Temple of Seti I, where you'll discover intricate carvings along the walls and ceilings that depict mythological scenes. Next up, you'll typically visit the Osireion, a mysterious underground structure associated with the god Osiris.

Depending on your tour, you might also get to visit the city of Dendera on the way back, another historical site along the Nile that's about halfway between Abydos and Luxor. Its main temple (considered the best-preserved temple in Egypt) is dedicated to the goddess Hathor and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

Finally, at the end of your tour, you'll be dropped back off at your hotel in Luxor, with plenty of photos to show and stories to tell.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Abydos?

There are several types of tours available to Abydos, depending on your budget and preferences. The most popular options are listed in further detail below.

Small group tours to Abydos from Luxor

Suited to those traveling on a budget, small group tours typically involve traveling by air-conditioned minibus (or car) with a group of up to 8 people. You'll have an experienced guide who will share facts about the region's history and culture, as well as answer any questions you may have.

Expect to visit incredible historic sites across both Abydos and Dendera, with lunch and transport included.

Private tour to Abydos from Luxor

For those looking for a more personalized experience, private tours offer a more luxurious and intimate setting. You'll have your own experienced guide who will take you on a tailored tour of the region's history, culture and scenery.

Since the tour is private, you have the flexibility to customize your own itinerary, should you want to spend more or less time in particular places, such as the Temple of Rameses II or the Temple of Seti I.

Day trip to Abydos and Dendera plus felucca ride from Luxor

In addition to visiting two ancient sites, this day tour combines visits to Abydos and Dendera with a traditional felucca ride along the Nile.

The Felucca is an authentic Egyptian sailboat that has acted as a form of transportation for thousands of years. It offers you the chance to relax and take in the stunning views of palm trees, villages, farms, and life on the river, away from the tourist crowds.

Two-Day Private Tour of Abydos plus Luxor Temples and Dendera

A far more comprehensive option, this style of tour takes you to three of the most incredible archaeological sites in Egypt. You'll start your journey at Luxor, visiting the Valley of the Kings, the Colossi of Memnon and the Temple of Hatshepsut, as well as both the East Bank and the West Bank.

After an overview of the city on day one, you'll venture to Abydos via air-conditioned transport on day two. Once there, you'll explore the magnificent Temple of Seti I and the mysterious Osireion.

Afterwards, you'll make your way to the city of Dendera, known for its well-preserved temple dedicated to the goddess Hathor. You'll also visit Dendera, where you'll get to explore the Dendera Temple Complex and witness its stunning ceiling paintings and the famous Dendera zodiac relic.

How much does a day trip to Abydos from Luxor cost?

The cost of a day trip to Abydos from Luxor can vary, with prices starting at around US$50 per person and climbing up to US$200 per participant for more comprehensive and longer options.

Small group tours to Abydos from Luxor cost between US$50 and US$80 per person, while private tours with a felucca ride typically start from around US$100.

Private tours may be more expensive, up to US$250, however, these are often priced per group, so it's best to double-check all details before booking.

Finally, a 2-day private tour of Abydos, Luxor and Dendera will cost between US$250 and US$350 per person, depending on the number of people in your group.

What will you see and do?

On day trips to Abydos from Luxor, you'll usually visit the Temple of Seti I and the Temple of Hathor, as well as the Osireion. Your day trip may also include a traditional felucca ride along the Nile with plenty of time to relax and take in the views.

You'll also explore the city of Dendera, known for its remarkable temple complex dedicated to Hathor. Depending on your chosen tour, you might also take a felucca ride or explore Luxor's historical sites.

When is the best time to visit?

Egypt gets very hot during the summer months, so the best time to visit Abydos from Luxor is between October and April. During this period, temperatures are at their more comfortable levels and days are usually plenty sunny.

Travel tips

• Book your tour online and in advance to get the best price
• Be sure to dress appropriately for religious sites and observe any customs or rules that apply.
• Wear comfortable shoes as walking is usually required during these trips.
• Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated throughout the day.
• Abydos is a bit far from Luxor, so it's best to start your day trip early in the morning to have enough time to explore the site comfortably.
• Bring sunscreen and a hat to shield yourself from the sun.
• The main attraction in Abydos is the Temple of Seti I, dedicated to the god Osiris, so don’t skip it!
• There are many hidden gems and smaller structures worth exploring so take your time.
• There are limited food options in Abydos, so consider packing snacks or a light meal.
• Abydos is an ancient and sacred place, so be respectful of the surroundings: do not touch or climb on the ancient structures, and follow all rules and regulations.