Dendera: Day Trips and Tours from Luxor

Straddling the banks of the famous River Nile, Dendera is a remarkable ancient city just north of Luxor. While it might not have the same reputation as its southern neighbor, Dendera is awash with extraordinary ruins, relics and artifacts that offer a rich insight into ancient Egyptian culture.

The city is best known for its Temple of Hathor, which dates back to the Ptolemaic period and is one of Egypt's most beautiful temples. But that's not all you'll see on a Dendera day trip from Luxor; this little-known town has been a place of worship since the Old Kingdom period, remaining an important pilgrimage site to this day.

Here's all you need to know about Dendera, one of the most exciting day trips from Luxor.

How to get to Dendera From Luxor?

Dendera is located approximately 80 kilometers north of Luxor in Egypt, sitting on the West Bank of the River Nile, right across from the town of Qena.

From Luxor to Dendera by car

The most convenient way to reach Dendera from Luxor is by car. You can either rent a car or hire a taxi for the journey. The route typically takes around 1.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions and the chosen route. You can either travel along the East Bank (via Qena) or the West Bank (passing the Valley of the Kings) — if possible, go up one way and come back the other.

Guided tour to Dendera From Luxor

To make the most of your visit and ensure a hassle-free experience, you can opt for a guided tour to Dendera from Luxor. Lasting anywhere from 5 to 12 hours, these guided tours provide transport, knowledgeable guides and a structured itinerary, as well as lunch and any entrance fees.

Some combination tours also visit the nearby town of Abydos, or dedicate additional time to exploring Luxor.

What is the typical itinerary?

Each tour may vary depending on the provider, but most itineraries start with convenient pickup from your Luxor hotel. You’ll then travel by air-conditioned vehicle to Dendera and explore the ancient temple complex of Hathor, one of the best-preserved temples of Ancient Egypt's New Kingdom period, remaining an important pilgrimage site to this day.

Most Dendera tours are combined with the nearby historic city of Abydos, where sites like the Osiris Temple and the Temple of Seti I await. Depending on your chosen tour, you could also cruise along the Nile, ride in a traditional wooden felucca, explore Luxor's sites (like the Valley of Kings) or even take a hot-air balloon ride.

After plenty of time to explore both ancient cities, enjoy lunch, and learn about the area's past from your guide, you'll be dropped back off at your hotel in Luxor before day's end.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Dendera?

There are several types of tours available to Dendera, with options to suit every budget and interest. The most popular options are listed in detail below.

Half-day tour to Dendera from Luxor

Suited to travelers short on time who only want to see Dendera,  half-day tours typically take 5 to 6 hours. These are the quickest options, and usually include transport, lunch, a knowledgeable Egyptologist guide and entrance fees to sites like the Dendera Temple, home of the spectacular Dendera Zodiac.

Full day tour to Dendera and Abydos

About an hour's drive north of Dendera is the ancient city of Abydos, home to many of the most well-preserved temples in Egypt. On full-day tours, you'll get to explore both towns, with more room for sightseeing, lunch and free time.

Both small group and private tours are available; the latter are great options for anyone who wants to customize their itinerary. Either way, they include transport from Luxor, lunch (usually served at a local restaurant), an expert Egyptologist guide, entrance fees to locations like the Dendera Temple and the Seti I temple in Abydos, and possible extra visits to attractions like the Osiris temple or the Temple of Rameses II.

Many full-day tours to Dendera (and Abydos) also provide the option for a traditional felucca cruise.

2-Day private tour of Dendera plus Abydos and Luxor

Experience a comprehensive Egyptian adventure, visiting 3 fascinating archaeological sites in one tidy package. First, explore Luxor's East and West Banks — the Valley of the Kings, the Colossi of Memnon, the Temple of Hatshepsut and the Avenue of the Sphinx typically included.

On day 2, your friendly guide will escort you up the river to Abydos where you'll find get to admire the breathtaking architecture of the Temple of Seti I and the Osireion. Later, usually after lunch, you'll stop at the ancient city of Dendera where you can visit the well-preserved temple devoted to goddess Hathor at the Dendera Temple Complex.

Nile River cruise from Luxor to Dendera with temple tour and lunch

Lasting around 12 hours, this relaxing, educational tour is the perfect way to experience a different vantage point of the region – from the River Nile itself. From Luxor, you'll embark on a scenic cruise with a buffet lunch and plenty of snacks and coffee, before docking at Dendera. After disembarking, you'll have a couple of hours to wander around the temple complex, taking in its beauty and listening to your guide's commentary about Ancient Egypt’s mythology.

Then it’s back on board for another relaxing cruise down the river before returning to Luxor, during which you can jump in the water for a swim or simply sunbathe and unwind.

How much does a day trip to Dendera from Luxor cost?

Dendera day trips from Luxor vary in price but generally start at around US$45 per person, with discounts available for children (usually half-price). Half-day trips cost between US$50 and US$100 per person, rising up to between US$80 and US$200 for full-day trips.

Meanwhile, private tours can cost upwards of US$200 – however, this is often per vehicle, not per person, so it may be a cheaper option if you're with a large group.

A Nile cruise to Dendera costs about US$130 per person, while a 2-day private tour to Abydos, Luxor and Dendera costs between US$250 and US$350, depending on how many people are in your group.

What will you see and do?

On day trips to Dendera from Luxor, you'll visit the Dendera Temple complex, which consists of a main temple dedicated to Hathor, as well as Roman and Ptolemaic Greek buildings, a Coptic church (which dates back to about the 5th century), and plenty of ancient Egyptian ruins.

Led by a knowledgeable, friendly guide, you'll be able to explore the various chambers and learn about Ancient Egyptian mythology.

Depending on your tour, you'll usually visit the Temple of Seti I and the Temple of Hathor in nearby Abydos as well. Finally, your day trip could also feature a traditional felucca ride or a longer cruise on a Nile River boat.

When is the best time to visit?

Dendera can be visited year-round, however, the best time to visit is usually during the cooler months of October to April. The summer months (May-September) can be extremely hot.

Travel tips

• For the best bang for your buck, consider booking a package tour that includes both Dendera and Abydos and/or Luxor.
• When visiting the temples, remember to bring plenty of water, wear comfortable clothing and shoes, and protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen or a hat.
• Be respectful when visiting any ancient monuments, don’t touch walls or artifacts, and be mindful of other visitors.
• Lastly, book your tour online and in advance to get the best price and secure your preferred date.