Valley of the Kings
Explore the magnificent tombs of Egypt's pharaohs, a breathtaking necropolis filled with ancient art and history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid the heat and crowds
Valley of the Kings
Best Time
Avoid the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the magnificent tombs of Egypt's pharaohs, a breathtaking necropolis filled with ancient art and history.
"Walking among the tombs of Egypt’s ancient pharaohs gives you a real sense of history and mystery."
Hydrate and Protect Yourself
Bring plenty of water; it's expensive inside. Wear a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. :droplet: :sunwithface:
Haggle Respectfully
Sellers are present. A firm 'la shakran' (no thank you) usually suffices if you're not interested. :moneywithwings:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Tomb of Tutankhamun
Central Valley
See the final resting place of the boy king, famous for its discovery and the 'curse' legends.
Tomb of Ramses IX
Eastern Valley
Marvel at the vibrant, well-preserved hieroglyphs and detailed artwork depicting the pharaoh's journey.
Tomb of Seti I
Eastern Valley
Explore one of the longest and deepest tombs, renowned for its intricate carvings and astronomical scenes.
Tomb of Ramses V & VI
Eastern Valley
Admire the stunning colors and detailed astronomical paintings in this tomb, often praised for its beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Ticket Strategy for Tombs
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Hydrate and Protect Yourself
Bring plenty of water; it's expensive inside. Wear a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. :droplet: :sunwithface:
Haggle Respectfully
Sellers are present. A firm 'la shakran' (no thank you) usually suffices if you're not interested. :moneywithwings:
Photography Rules
Photography rules can vary; check current regulations. Some tombs may require an extra fee for photos.
Consider a Guide
A guide can enhance your understanding of the history and significance of each tomb. :scroll:
Tips
from all over the internet
Hydrate and Protect Yourself
Bring plenty of water; it's expensive inside. Wear a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. :droplet: :sunwithface:
Haggle Respectfully
Sellers are present. A firm 'la shakran' (no thank you) usually suffices if you're not interested. :moneywithwings:
Photography Rules
Photography rules can vary; check current regulations. Some tombs may require an extra fee for photos.
Consider a Guide
A guide can enhance your understanding of the history and significance of each tomb. :scroll:
Skip the Cart Ride
You can walk from the ticket office to the tombs; the cart ride costs extra and drivers expect tips. :walking:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Valley of the Kings as an awe-inspiring journey into ancient history, marveling at the intricate tombs and vibrant hieroglyphs. The sheer scale and historical significance are highlights, though the intense heat and potential for aggressive sellers are noted drawbacks. Many recommend strategic planning for tomb selection and hydration.
"What an amazing experience!!! Be prepared to haggle if you want to buy something from the sellers.. if not just smiles, say a firm "no thankyou" (la shakran) and keep walking.. it hit 37° when we visited yesterday, so ensure ypu take sun protection and plenty of water.. the tombs were amazing and as humid as hell! Such rich history of an amazing country.. there are large carts to take you from the car park to the Valley.. and the drivers appreciate a tip.. you can pay to visit Tutankhamun's tomb where his body is on display.. there are other tombs you can visit, but you can only visit 3, they will punch a hole in your ticket, so they can tell how many tombs you have visited.. well worth a visit.. a breath taking experience."
Fay Hamilton
"Reach in history, not so spectacular though, some empty tombs, over all a place to visit if you are in Egipt as tourist, maybe once is enough for a lifetime. Guide is required to find out interesting things, all though egiptian guides are presenting their part of history. Pay attention to the people offering to take pictures with your phone, they will ask for money, they can be very annoying and possible aggressive."
BOGDAN
"The Valley of the Kings in Luxor is an incredible and unforgettable experience. Walking among the tombs of Egypt’s ancient pharaohs, including the famous tomb of Tutankhamun, gives you a real sense of history and mystery. The intricate wall paintings and hieroglyphs tell stories of the afterlife and the beliefs of the ancient Egyptians. Did you know that the valley contains over 60 tombs, yet many are still undiscovered? Visiting this site is truly a journey back in time!"
Atanas Valchev
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Valley of the Kings is located on the West Bank of Luxor. You can reach it by taxi, private car, or as part of an organized tour. Many visitors combine a visit with other West Bank sites like the Temple of Hatshepsut.
While the Valley of the Kings is on the West Bank, it's a significant distance from the ferry terminal or main road. A short, inexpensive cart ride or a longer walk is available from the ticket office to the tomb entrances.
Many travelers opt for a guided tour that covers multiple sites on the West Bank, including the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut Temple, and the Colossi of Memnon. This is often the most efficient way to see everything.
Public transport directly to the Valley of the Kings is limited. Taxis and ride-sharing services are more common, or you can arrange transport through your hotel or a tour operator.
From central Luxor, it typically takes about 30-45 minutes to reach the Valley of the Kings by car or taxi, depending on traffic and your starting point.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
A standard ticket to the Valley of the Kings costs around 260 EGP (approximately $9 USD) and typically includes access to three tombs.
The general ticket allows entry to three tombs from a selection of those open to the public. The specific tombs available can change, so it's best to check on-site.
Yes, Tutankhamun's tomb requires a separate ticket in addition to the general admission ticket. It's one of the most popular, so factor this into your plans.
While you can often purchase tickets on-site, buying them in advance through official channels or tour operators can sometimes save time, especially during peak season.
Discounts may be available for students with valid ID, but it's advisable to check the official ticket office or website for the most current pricing and eligibility criteria.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Dress comfortably and modestly, respecting local customs. Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended due to the heat. Comfortable walking shoes are essential as there's a lot of walking. :athletic_shoe:
Photography rules can be strict and may vary. Generally, general photography is allowed in most tombs, but flash photography is prohibited. Tutankhamun's tomb often has specific restrictions.
A standard ticket grants access to three tombs. Your ticket will be marked to track how many you've entered.
Restrooms are available near the ticket office and visitor center. It's highly recommended to bring your own water, as it's significantly more expensive inside the site. :droplet:
The terrain can be uneven, and some tombs involve steep descents. Accessibility can be challenging, so it's best to inquire about specific tomb accessibility if needed.
📸 📸 Photography
The colorful hieroglyphs and detailed artwork inside the tombs offer incredible photo opportunities. The exterior landscape with the rocky cliffs also provides scenic shots.
Photography is generally permitted in most tombs, but flash is usually forbidden. Some tombs, like Tutankhamun's, may have additional restrictions or require a separate photo ticket.
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light, which can be more flattering for tomb interiors and exteriors. Avoid the harsh midday sun for the best results.
Tripods are generally not allowed inside the tombs. A good quality smartphone or camera with excellent low-light capabilities will serve you well.
Yes, you may encounter individuals offering to take photos with your phone for a fee. Be prepared to negotiate or politely decline if you prefer to take your own pictures.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Explain the stories behind the hieroglyphs in simple terms, turning it into a treasure hunt for symbols or animals. The sheer scale of the tombs and the mystery surrounding pharaohs can be captivating. While the cart ride costs extra, it might be a worthwhile investment to save little legs from the heat and distance.
💰 Budget Travelers
Bring your own water and snacks from a local market in Luxor to avoid inflated prices within the site.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Be aware of photography restrictions; flash is usually prohibited, and some tombs may require an extra fee. Consider visiting tombs like Ramses V & VI or Ramses IX, which are often praised for their well-preserved and colorful decorations.
The exterior landscape also provides dramatic shots, especially with the rugged cliffs. Remember to bring a camera with good low-light performance, as interior lighting can be dim. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of the Valley of the Kings
Over 60 tombs and chambers have been discovered within the valley, each a testament to the wealth, power, and beliefs of ancient Egypt. These tombs were intended to protect the pharaoh's body and possessions for the afterlife. The intricate hieroglyphs and colorful murals adorning the tomb walls depict religious texts, rituals, and scenes from the pharaoh's life, offering invaluable insights into ancient Egyptian cosmology and funerary practices. The discovery of Tutankhamun's nearly intact tomb in 1922 by Howard Carter brought global attention to the Valley of the Kings and its archaeological treasures.
+1Navigating the Tombs: What to Expect Inside
Inside, you'll be struck by the vibrant colors of the hieroglyphs and artwork, which have remarkably survived for millennia. These decorations often tell stories from the Book of the Dead, the Amduat (a text describing the sun god's journey through the underworld), and the pharaoh's achievements. Pay attention to the details – the depictions of gods, goddesses, and the pharaoh interacting with the divine are fascinating. Remember that flash photography is prohibited to protect the delicate artwork, and some tombs may require an additional ticket for entry or photography.
+1
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