'Known in pharaonic times as 'the city of a thousand gates' Luxor stands on the site of Egypt's ancient capital, Thebes.'

The small town of Luxor more than lives up to its promise of historical splendour. Capital of Egypt when the pharaonic empire reached its full power and glory, riches were lavished upon the temples and tombs built in the surrounding area. Across the river is the starkly desolate Valley of the Kings, burial ground for many of the New Kingdom pharaohs, including Tutankhamun. In the very centre of the modern town is the temple of Luxor, once connected by an avenue of sphinxes to the temple of Karnak. After a hard day's exploring, what could be better than drinking a cool beer whilst watching the sun set behind the Theban hills?

The excursion capital of the world, there is practically no limit to the amount and variety of excursions to do in and around Luxor. As well as the usual sightseeing, it is also possible to ride horses in the desert, go felucca sailing and enjoy balloon flights over the West Bank.