Dendera Temple Day Trip from Luxor
Active
5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Half-day excursion from Luxor to the ancient city of Dendera, home to one of Egypt’s best-preserved temple complexes. This tour allows travelers to explore the stunning architectural and artistic achievements of the Ptolemaic era, including intricately carved reliefs, grand columns, and astronomical ceilings. With hotel pickup, comfortable air-conditioned transportation, and a licensed Egyptologist guide, you will gain deep insight into the religious, cultural, and historical significance of this remarkable site. Ideal for history enthusiasts and first-time visitors alike, this tour combines convenience with educational depth, providing a memorable journey into Egypt’s rich past while enjoying the scenic Nile-side countryside along the way.
Available options
Entrance fees+Car+Tour Guide
Private air-conditioned vehicle
Tour guide
Entrance fees
pickup and drop-off
Bottled water <br/>Pickup included
Dendera Day Trip + Car Only
Inclusions:
Private air-conditioned vehicle
Professional driver
Hotel or Nile cruise pickup and drop-off<br/>Pickup included
Dendera Day Trip+Car+Guide
Private air-conditioned vehicle
Professional Egyptologist guide
Hotel or Nile cruise pickup and drop-off
Bottled water <br/>Pickup included
What's included
Air-conditioned transportation
Admire detailed Ptolemaic reliefs and astronomical ceilings
Bottled water during the tour
Hotel or Nile cruise pickup and drop-off
Professional licensed Egyptologist guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Your day begins with a convenient morning pickup from your hotel or Nile cruise in Luxor. Travel in a modern air-conditioned vehicle with a professional Egyptologist guide who will provide historical context and fascinating stories throughout the journey. The drive to Dendera takes approximately two hours, offering scenic views of the Nile and surrounding farmlands along the way.
2
Upon arrival, your tour starts at the Temple of Hathor at Dendera, dedicated to the goddess of love, music, and joy. This temple, remarkably well-preserved, features elaborate reliefs depicting pharaohs making offerings to the gods, intricate columns decorated with floral motifs, and impressive inscriptions that reveal religious practices and daily life in ancient Egypt. Your guide will explain the temple’s significance, its Ptolemaic construction, and the unique astronomical ceiling that illustrates the Egyptian zodiac.
Continue your exploration through the temple’s inner sanctuaries, where detailed carvings and hieroglyphics recount myths, rituals, and divine stories. The temple’s rooftop offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, providing excellent opportunities for photography and quiet reflection on this ancient spiritual center.
3
During the drive back, your guide will provide further insights into the local culture, history, and significance of the Nile in shaping the region’s development over millennia.
Upon arrival in Luxor, you will be dropped off at your hotel or Nile cruise, concluding a full day of cultural discovery and historical enrichment. This tour provides a balanced combination of sightseeing, education, and comfort, making it ideal for travelers of all ages and interests.
What's not included
Entrance fees to Dendera Temple
Tipping (optional)
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
IT
FR
ES
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Luxor
Luxor, once the ancient city of Thebes, is a treasure trove of ancient Egyptian history and architecture. Known for its magnificent temples, tombs, and monuments, it offers an unparalleled glimpse into the past. The city is often referred to as the world's greatest open-air museum, with landmarks like the Valley of the Kings and Karnak Temple attracting visitors from around the globe.
Top Attractions
Karnak Temple Complex
The Karnak Temple Complex is a massive temple complex dedicated to the god Amun-Ra. It is one of the largest religious buildings ever constructed and a must-visit for its grandeur and historical significance.
Historical/Architecture
2-3 hours
Egyptian Pounds 160
Valley of the Kings
The Valley of the Kings is a burial site for pharaohs and nobles from the New Kingdom period. It contains over 60 tombs, including the famous tomb of Tutankhamun.
Historical/Architecture
3-4 hours
Egyptian Pounds 240 (includes entry to 3 tombs)
Luxor Temple
Luxor Temple is a large ancient Egyptian temple complex located on the east bank of the Nile. It was constructed around 1400 BCE and dedicated to the god Amun-Ra.
Historical/Architecture
1-2 hours
Egyptian Pounds 160
Hatshepsut Temple
The Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut is a stunning temple dedicated to the female pharaoh Hatshepsut. It is uniquely designed and set against the cliffs of Deir el-Bahari.
Historical/Architecture
1-2 hours
Egyptian Pounds 120
Luxor Museum
The Luxor Museum is a small but impressive museum showcasing artifacts from the Theban Necropolis and the surrounding area. It provides a great overview of Luxor's rich history.
Museum
1 hour
Egyptian Pounds 100
Must-Try Local Dishes
Kushari
A popular Egyptian dish made with rice, lentils, pasta, and fried onions, topped with tomato sauce and garlic vinegar.
Main Dish
Vegetarian
Ful Medames
A traditional Egyptian breakfast dish made from slow-cooked fava beans, often served with eggs, falafel, and tahini.
Breakfast
Vegan
Grilled Kebab
Marinated and grilled skewers of lamb or chicken, often served with rice and salad.
Main Dish
Contains meat
Baklava
A sweet pastry made with layers of filo dough, nuts, and honey syrup.
Dessert
Vegetarian, contains nuts
Popular Activities
Hot air balloon ride
Felucca sailing
Horseback riding
Nile River cruise
Spa treatments
Café hopping
Temple visits
Museum tours
Best Time to Visit
October to April
This period offers the most comfortable weather for sightseeing and exploring the ancient sites. The cooler temperatures make it ideal for outdoor activities.
15°C to 30°C
59°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Arabic
- Widely spoken: English, French
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas
Currency
Egyptian Pound (EGP)
Time Zone
GMT+2
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Luxor is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and tourist sites.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas
- • Use reputable tour companies and guides
- • Negotiate prices in advance for taxis and services
Getting there
By air
- Luxor International Airport • 6 km from city center
By train
Luxor Train Station
By bus
Luxor Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Local buses are a cheap and common way to get around Luxor. They can be crowded and may not be the most comfortable option for tourists.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Careem
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
East Bank
West Bank
Day trips
Valley of the Queens
3 km from Luxor • Half day
The Valley of the Queens is a burial site for the wives and children of pharaohs. It contains over 70 tombs, including the famous tomb of Nefertari.
Dendera Temple Complex
60 km from Luxor • Full day
The Dendera Temple Complex is a well-preserved temple dedicated to the goddess Hathor. It is known for its beautiful reliefs and the famous Dendera zodiac.
Abydos Temple
140 km from Luxor • Full day
The Abydos Temple is a significant archaeological site dedicated to the god Osiris. It is known for its well-preserved reliefs and the famous Abydos King List.
Festivals
Luxor African Film Festival • Late March to early April
Luxor International Folk Festival • Late October to early November
Eid al-Fitr • Varies (end of Ramadan)
Pro tips
- Visit major attractions early in the morning to avoid crowds and the heat.
- Hire a knowledgeable local guide to fully appreciate the history and significance of the ancient sites.
- Stay hydrated and wear sun protection, as the sun can be intense, especially during the summer months.
- Bargain politely in markets and with street vendors, as prices are often inflated for tourists.
- Try local dishes like Kushari and Ful Medames for an authentic culinary experience.
$50
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
