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Getting There & Away

Getting There & Away

Luxor, Egypt

Air Travel

Luxor International Airport LXR

LXR is the main airport for Luxor, situated about 7 km (4.3 miles) east of the city center.

Airport Overview

  • It handles both domestic and limited international flights.
  • Its proximity makes travel to the city quick.
  • Dollar Flight Club for flight deals.

Airlines & Routes

EgyptAir operates frequent domestic flights from Cairo (CAI) to Luxor (LXR). International flights are often seasonal charters.

Connecting Flights

  • Most international travelers fly into Cairo International Airport (CAI).
  • Connect through Cairo, a major Middle Eastern, or European hub like Istanbul or Dubai.
  • Use Skyscanner to search for flight options.

Seasonal Availability

Prices rise during peak tourist season (Oct-April) and holidays.

Airport Facilities

LXR has basic amenities: currency exchange, ATMs, duty-free, cafes.

Airport Transfers

Taxis readily available, pre-booked hotel transfers, ride-sharing.

Transfer Options

Taxi Services

  • Taxis outside the terminal.
  • Negotiate fare before the journey.
  • Approximate cost: EGP 150-250 to Luxor city center.
  • Many hotels offer pre-booked transfer services.

Ride-Sharing

  • Uber and Careem services may exist.
  • Need a local SIM or international roaming for data.
  • Less reliable than taxis directly from the airport.
  • DiscoverCars.com for car rental options (but self-driving not advised).

Travel Planning

International Connect

Most international travelers connect via Cairo for onward flights to Luxor.

Seasonal Considerations

Direct international flights to Luxor are often seasonal, check availability.

Land Transportation

Train Travel

Luxor serves as a major stop on the main railway line connecting Cairo in the north to Aswan in the south.

Train Types

  • Sleeper Trains: Watania Sleeping Trains offer private cabins with meals.
  • Seated Trains: Various classes (First Class A/C, Second Class A/C) are more affordable.
  • Journey Times: Cairo to Luxor takes 9-12 hours; Luxor to Aswan 3-4 hours.

Bus Travel

Reputable companies like Go Bus and Blue Bus offer modern, air-conditioned buses connecting Luxor to other major cities.

Bus Services

  • Journey Times: Cairo to Luxor takes 10-12 hours; Hurghada to Luxor 4-5 hours.
  • Buses depart from specific terminals in Luxor, e.g., the Go Bus station.
  • Purchase tickets at stations or online for certain services.

Self-Driving Notes

Self-driving is not advised for tourists in Egypt. Consider hiring a driver if you prefer private road travel.

Driving Challenges

  • Aggressive driving styles present on roads.
  • Road conditions vary, with potholes or uneven surfaces possible.
  • Lack of clear signage and unfamiliar traffic laws.

Road Conditions & Safety

Major highways between cities are generally paved. Driving after dark presents hazards due to unlit vehicles and obstacles.

Night Driving Risks

  • Unlit vehicles and pedestrians on roads at night.
  • Animals on the roads after dark.
  • Reduced visibility a major concern for night driving.

Border Crossing Note

  • Not applicable for Luxor directly.
  • Luxor functions as an internal destination within Egypt.
  • International border crossings do not apply to Luxor travel.
  • No specific border procedures affect Luxor visits.
  • Focus on domestic travel connections within Egypt.
  • Plan for internal checkpoints on longer road trips.

River & Departure

Nile River Access

Luxor serves as a major port for Nile River cruises. These typically operate as multi-day tours between Luxor and Aswan.

Cruise & Ferry

  • No sea cruise ports exist as Luxor is inland.
  • Local ferries cross the Nile between Luxor East Bank and West Bank.
  • Felucca (traditional sailboat) and motorboat rentals are available for short trips.

Departure Information

Prepare for your departure from Luxor to ensure a smooth exit.

Exit Procedures

  • No specific exit fees or taxes are typically charged to tourists upon departure.
  • Arrive at Luxor International Airport 2-3 hours before international flights.
  • For domestic flights, arrive 1.5-2 hours early; 30-60 minutes for train/bus.

Ferry Convenience

Local ferries cross the Nile for inexpensive transport between banks.

Cruise Dock Access

Nile cruise boats dock near Luxor Temple, with easy access to transport.

No Unique Transport

No cable cars, funiculars, or unique local transport exist for Luxor.

Airport Facilities

Airport Amenities

Luxor Airport (LXR) has basic amenities for departing travelers.

Services Available

  • Cafes and small eateries.
  • Duty-free shops for last-minute purchases.
  • Currency exchange and ATMs.

Train & Bus Stations

Train and bus stations also offer facilities for waiting travelers.

Station Amenities

  • Small shops for snacks and drinks.
  • Waiting areas for comfort before boarding.
  • Restroom facilities.

Local Access for Departure

Airport Access

Taxis are outside Luxor Airport for convenient departures.

Station Access

Train and bus stations are easily reached by local taxis.

Pre-Booked Services

Arranged hotel transfers ensure a smooth trip to your departure point.

Travel Recommendation

Consider booking an overnight sleeper train between Cairo and Luxor for a comfortable and time-efficient journey, allowing you to wake up refreshed in Luxor.