A Destination Guide to Exploring the Tombs of the Pharaohs in Luxor
Located on the West Bank of the Nile in Luxor, the Valley of the Kings is one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites. For over 500 years during the New Kingdom (16th to 11th century BC), this dusty canyon was the primary burial ground for Egypt’s greatest pharaohs, including Tutankhamun, Ramses II, and Seti I. As an independent travel advisor, I often see visitors overwhelmed by the choice of which tombs to enter, how the ticketing works, and how to avoid crowds. In this guide, I share my expert, unbiased advice to help you plan a successful, awe-inspiring visit to the land of the dead.
Table of Contents
- 1. How the Tickets Work: Prices and Inclusion Rules
- 2. Top 3 General Tombs to Visit (Included in Base Ticket)
- 3. Premium Tombs (Extra Tickets Required)
- 4. Insider Tips for the Best Experience
- 5. Common Mistakes to Avoid at the Valley of the Kings
- 6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How the Tickets Work: Prices and Inclusion Rules
Understanding the ticketing system at the Valley of the Kings is essential. You cannot purchase tickets at the tomb entrances; you must buy them at the main visitor center. *Note:* The ticket counter is now **100% cashless**, meaning you must pay with a credit or debit card.
- General Entry Ticket (600 EGP – approx. $19 USD): This ticket grants you access to the main valley and allows you to enter **any 3 tombs** out of the 8 to 10 general tombs that are open on that day. The open tombs rotate regularly to allow for restoration and humidity control.
- Electric Tram (Taf-Taf): A small electric train that carries you from the visitor center up to the tomb area (approx. 200 meters). It costs **20 EGP (~$0.60 USD)** and is highly recommended to save your energy in the hot weather.
2. Top 3 General Tombs to Visit (Included in Base Ticket)
If you have a general ticket, here are the three open tombs I highly recommend for their vibrant colors and well-preserved carvings:
- Tomb of Ramses IV (KV 2): Known for its wide corridor and beautiful blue astronomical ceiling depicting the goddess Nut swallowed by the sun. The colors are incredibly vivid, and the tomb is relatively easy to walk through.
- Tomb of Ramses III (KV 11): Famous for its unique side chambers containing carvings of ancient Egyptian harpists, food preparation, and royal weapons. It is one of the longest and most interesting tombs in the valley.
- Tomb of Merenptah (KV 8): The son and successor of Ramses II. This tomb features a steep descent leading to a massive granite sarcophagus lid with detailed carvings of the pharaoh.
3. Premium Tombs (Extra Tickets Required)
If you wish to see the most famous or beautifully preserved tombs, you must purchase additional premium tickets. Here is a breakdown of the three open premium tombs:
| Tomb Name | Price (EGP) | Price (USD approx.) | Why Visit? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tomb of Tutankhamun (KV 62) | 360 EGP | $11.50 USD | See the mummy of the boy king and his gold-leaf sarcophagus. The tomb itself is small and simple, but the history is unmatched. |
| Tomb of Ramses VI (KV 9) | 180 EGP | $6.00 USD | Features one of the most breathtaking, completely decorated astronomical ceilings in Egypt. Excellent value for money. |
| Tomb of Seti I (KV 17) | 1,800 EGP | $58.00 USD | The absolute masterpiece of the valley. Every wall is covered in relief carvings of incredible quality. Highly recommended for art lovers. |
4. Insider Tips for the Best Experience
- Arrive Early: The site opens at 6:00 AM. Arriving by 6:30 AM allows you to beat the massive cruise boat tour groups (who usually arrive by 8:30 AM) and escape the midday heat, which can exceed 42°C (108°F) in summer.
- Photography Rules: You can take photos with your mobile phone for free inside the tombs, but flash photography is strictly prohibited as it damages the ancient paint. Professional cameras require a special photography permit.
- Bring a Torch/Phone Light: While the tombs are lit, some of the deeper chambers and carvings are in shadows. A small light will help you appreciate the depth of the relief carvings.
5. Common Mistakes to Avoid at the Valley of the Kings
- Buying the Base Ticket Only: Many visitors skip the Tomb of Ramses VI or Tutankhamun to save money, only to regret it later. I advise purchasing the Ramses VI add-on; it is reasonably priced and visually spectacular.
- Getting Scammed by “Tomb Guardians”: Inside the tombs, some local staff may offer to point out specific carvings or take photos of you in exchange for baksheesh (tips). If you are not interested, politely say “La, Shukran” (No, thank you) and walk away.
- Rushing the West Bank: The West Bank also contains the Valley of the Queens (Tomb of Nefertari), Hatshepsut Temple, and the Colossi of Memnon. Plan at least a full day (or preferably two half-days) to explore without exhaustion.
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the Mummy of Tutankhamun inside his tomb?
Yes. While most of his treasures are displayed at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, his actual physical mummy remains inside his original tomb (KV 62) in the Valley of the Kings, displayed in a climate-controlled glass case.
Are the tombs wheelchair accessible?
Most tombs require descending wooden staircases and ramps, which are not suitable for wheelchairs. However, a few tombs (like Ramses IV) have relatively flat entryways. Contact your advisor to arrange specific access if needed.
Can I visit the tombs if I am claustrophobic?
Some tombs (like Merenptah) descend deep into the earth and can feel hot and humid. If you suffer from claustrophobia, I suggest visiting the Tomb of Ramses IV, which is wide, brightly lit, and has a high ceiling.
Summary
The Valley of the Kings is an unmatched historical treasure. By arriving early in the morning, choosing your 3 general tombs wisely, and investing in the premium Ramses VI ticket, you will experience an unforgettable walk through the tombs of ancient Egypt’s legendary rulers.