Luxor with kids

Luxor can be a great place for children, but it is also a hot, dusty city with long walks. A good family plan keeps the monument time short and the fun parts frequent. The ancient world sticks best when children are not exhausted.

Here is how families usually get it right.

Mornings for monuments

Visit the big sites early. The West Bank has the Colossi of Memnon, the valley tombs and the temple of Hatshepsut. Children often love the colossal statues and the colorful tomb paintings, especially when the guide points out animals, boats and gods with animal heads.

At Karnak, the forest of columns and the huge gateways impress even teenagers. Keep the visit to a couple of hours and leave while everyone is still interested.

Afternoons for rest

Heat is the real enemy. Go back to the hotel for lunch and a swim, and do not try to fill the middle of the day. Children who rest are much better company in the evening.

Evenings for fun

A private horse carriage ride is a hit with younger children. You ride along the corniche, walk through the market for spices and tea, and see Luxor Temple lit up after dark. It takes about three hours.

A motorboat to Banana Island is just as easy. Children can walk among the banana trees, eat fruit and watch the sun set from the boat. Older children and teenagers might prefer the quad bike safari, where age rules apply, so ask us when you book.

• West Bank in the morning – statues, tombs, a temple
• Hotel lunch and pool time
• Banana Island or carriage ride in the evening
• Quad safari for older children, subject to age rules

Tips for keeping the peace

Bring snacks, since some sites have little food nearby. Let children take photographs, as it keeps them engaged. Plan one big sight per day for younger children, and two for teenagers.

Finally, be honest about what will not work. Long drives, very early starts and back-to-back temple days wear children out. If your children are under about ten, the Cairo flight day is probably best skipped.

Using the evenings well

Families often find that the best moments in Luxor happen away from the monuments. A boat ride, a walk in a market or a horse carriage under the lights can stay with children longer than a hall of columns.

Ask your guide to include a stop for ice cream or fresh juice. These small breaks make a long day feel lighter, and they give you time to ask what children have noticed.

Finally, check the pace halfway through the day. If everyone is flagging, shorten the plan. A relaxed family is the whole point of the trip.

We can adjust start times for families with young children, so tell us when you book.

If your children are keen on a particular subject, such as mummies, animals or boats, tell your guide. Luxor has something for each of them, and a good guide will lead with it.