Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Luxor

A Magical Sunrise in the Sky

There’s something truly unforgettable about floating high above the Nile Valley as the sun rises, casting golden light over Luxor’s temples, tombs, and palm-fringed fields. A hot air balloon ride over Luxor is one of the most magical experiences you can have in Egypt—peaceful, scenic, and steeped in history from the moment you lift off.

Whether you’re chasing iconic views of the West Bank’s ancient monuments or simply craving a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, this is the one-of-a-kind experience.

What to Expect

The experience usually begins well before dawn. They picked me up from my hotel around 4:00 AM, then took me across the Nile with a Felucca to the West Bank, where the launch fields are located. The balloons slowly came to life—massive, colorful orbs rising against the stillness of the desert.

Once in the air, we ascended anywhere from 500 to 1,000 feet, the views were absolutely unmatchable. We had panoramic views of Luxor’s temples, fields, and the Nile. Below, I could see the Temple of Hatshepsut, the Colossi of Memnon, Medinet Habu, and even the edges of the Valley of the Kings.

You hear the loud roar of the flame as the balloon inflates, but once the fire stops, it’s nothing but silence, calm, and pure peace.

My group had about 20 people, and we all fit into one giant balloon basket. The flight lasted around 45 minutes. I never felt unsafe, but I probably wouldn’t recommend it if you’re afraid of heights.

One thing that might be worth mentioning: around the balloon launch sites, it’s common to see a group of young kids approaching the area, asking for food or small donations. If you’re in a position to help—even if it’s just offering a snack or some water—it can mean a lot. I didn’t have anything on me at the time, but someone else in our group gave one of the kids her sandwich. It’s a small reminder of the realities that exist outside the bubble of travel, and a chance to share kindness in a very human moment.

Why Luxor Is Perfect for Ballooning

Luxor’s unique combination of open landscape, historic ruins, and calm morning air makes it one of the best places in the world for hot air ballooning. The early morning hours provide perfect flying conditions, and the scenery is unlike anywhere else on earth—where else can you drift above tombs carved into cliffs, statues older than cities, and temples lit by the rising sun?

It’s also incredibly affordable compared to balloon rides in other countries, making it one of Egypt’s best-value luxury experiences.

Tips for a Safe and Scenic Flight

Book in advance, especially during peak season (October to April), as sunrise slots fill quickly.
Go with a licensed operator. Safety records matter—reputable companies follow strict civil aviation guidelines.
Dress in layers. Early mornings can be chilly, but it warms up quickly once the sun rises.
Bring your camera, but secure it with a strap—you’ll want both hands free to soak in the views.

How Much Does It Cost?

Prices vary by operator and whether you book direct or through a tour package. On average:

Group rides: $50–$80 USD per person
Private rides: $250+ USD (perfect for honeymoons or special occasions)

Most tours include pickup/drop-off, tea or light refreshments, and a flight certificate.

Book your Hot Air Balloon ride in Luxor here!

Did You Know?

Luxor is one of the top hot air balloon destinations in the world—on par with Cappadocia, Turkey, and Bagan, Myanmar.
You can see over 4,000 years of history from the air in a single panoramic sweep.
Egypt’s aviation authority monitors all flights closely, and balloon pilots must be licensed and trained specifically for desert flying conditions.

Are you ready to start discovering Egypt?

During my trip to Egypt, I booked a couple of tours and had an incredible time! I’m sharing the links below in case you’re interested.

Are you ready to start discovering Egypt?

During my trip to Egypt, I booked a couple of tours and had an incredible time! I’m sharing the links below in case you’re interested.

Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Luxor

A Magical Sunrise in the Sky

What to Expect

Why Luxor Is Perfect for Ballooning

Tips for a Safe and Scenic Flight

How Much Does It Cost?

Did You Know?

Are you ready to start discovering Egypt?

Are you ready to start discovering Egypt?

More things to see in Egypt