Is a Luxor Hot Air Balloon Ride Worth It?
For most people, yes. A sunrise balloon flight over Luxor’s West Bank is one of the most memorable hours of an Egypt trip, and it is easy to fit into a Nile cruise because most ships moor in Luxor overnight. But it is not for everyone, and there are a few things to know before you book.
What do you actually see?
Balloons launch from the West Bank at first light. As you rise, the Temple of Hatshepsut appears against the cliffs, then the Ramesseum, the Colossi of Memnon, green sugar cane fields and the Nile, with the sun coming up over the East Bank. It is the only way to see how the temples, the fields and the desert fit together.
How long is the flight?
Usually around 45 minutes to an hour in the air, depending on the wind. With pickup, the boat crossing, inflation and the return, the whole outing takes a few hours. You are normally back on your ship for breakfast.
Is it safe?
Flights are run by licensed operators and only go ahead when the authorities allow it on the morning. That also means a weather cancellation is possible. When we quote, we set out the rebooking or refund terms so you know where you stand.
Who should skip it?
- Anyone who is pregnant, or has back or serious mobility problems. Landings can be bumpy.
- People with a strong fear of heights.
- Travellers who really cannot face a pre-dawn pickup.
How do you fit it into a Nile cruise?
Most Luxor to Aswan cruises spend the first night moored in Luxor. Most Aswan to Luxor cruises spend the last night there. Either gives you one dawn in Luxor. The best morning is one when your cruise programme has no early excursion, or when the West Bank visit starts later. Tell us your ship and dates and we will pick the right morning and collect you from the ship.
Book the flight on its own as our Hot Air Balloon Over Luxor’s West Bank, or choose a package that already includes it, like the Nile Cruise with Sunrise Hot Air Balloon.
What if I am not on a cruise?
Stay at least one night in Luxor. From Cairo, our Luxor overnight trip with a balloon flight flies you down, covers both banks and puts you in the basket at dawn on day two.
What should I wear?
Layers. It is cold before sunrise in winter, and warms up quickly once the sun is out. Wear a hat if you have little hair: the burner above the basket is hot. Closed shoes are best for the landing in the fields.
What else is worth doing in Luxor?
If the balloon is your dawn, fill the rest of the day with something on the quieter West Bank, like our Medinet Habu and Valley of the Queens tour, or end it with a sunset felucca to Banana Island.
The balloon is quoted on request. Send us your date and the number of people, and we will confirm the price and the terms in writing.
