No trip to Egypt is complete without Luxor

I thought after surviving Cairo, the road ahead would be smooth. Turns out, I was too naive. 😅 If Cairo has one scammer per square meter, Luxor has a hundred. 😮💔 But this city in southern Egypt, home to the highest concentration of royal tombs and temples and nourished by the Nile, encapsulates the most glorious civilization of ancient Egypt. Speaking subjectively: No matter how rampant the scammers are in Luxor, this is a place you MUST visit! 🏛️✨ If you only have 1-2 days, here’s a suggested itinerary (in order): Hot Air Balloon Ride 🎈 Book your hot air balloon ride before arriving in Luxor. Try to fly on the first morning—if weather cancels it, you can reschedule for the next day. Prices range from 900-1100 EGP (should include pickup). The first flight picks you up from your hotel around 4:20 AM. 🌅 Valley of the Kings ⚰️ After returning to the hotel for breakfast, head to the Valley of the Kings. The basic ticket (480 EGP) includes three tombs. I chose: KV2 (Ramses IV) KV11 (Ramses III) KV14 (TAUSART & SETNAKHT double tomb) KV2 and KV11 have exceptionally well-preserved and colorful murals. KV14, though a double tomb, has faded colors deeper inside—it feels rushed, as ancient Egyptians believed disaster would strike if a tomb wasn’t finished before the pharaoh’s death. 😬 The extra-paid tomb KV9 (Ramses V & VI) is a must-see! For just 144 EGP, its murals and colors surpass all the ones included in the general ticket. 🎨💎 Medinet Habu (Habu City) 🏰 Ticket: 160 EGP. Built 3200 years ago for Ramses III, this temple reflects Egypt’s peak prosperity before its decline. You can see royal residences, ceremonial sites, and reliefs depicting events from over 3000 years ago—around China’s Shang Dynasty era. It’s surreal to touch ancient history! 🤯📜 Karnak Temple 🌞 Construction began 3900 years ago in honor of the gods Amun, Mut, and Khonsu. It took over a thousand years to build, featuring 20+ shrines and 134 massive columns, each with unique reliefs and paintings. The aesthetics, patience, and craftsmanship are astounding! 😍✨ As light filters through, you’ll feel transported between modern and ancient civilizations—this will be the most awe-inspiring experience in Egypt! 💫 The ticket was originally 450 EGP, but the clerk offered a discount (90 EGP less per person). Just as I said “thank you,” he asked for a tip? 😑 Yes, requests for tips are everywhere in Luxor—any conversation might end with a demand for money. Opening hours: 6:00-17:30. It’s better to visit later to avoid harsh overhead light. 🌆 Nile Felucca Ride ⛵ We booked a 2-hour felucca ride for 5 people (700 EGP total). Choose sunset time—the blue water and gentle breeze washing away the day’s fatigue make it incredibly relaxing. 🌊😌 #SeeTheWorldsBeauty #EgyptTravel #Luxor ✨🇪🇬🌍