Journey Through Time: The Valley of the Kings
Explore the Valley of the Kings, an archaeological wonder in Luxor, Egypt, where the tombs of ancient pharaohs reveal the mysteries of the past.
Nestled on the west bank of the Nile, the Valley of the Kings is an archaeological treasure trove that has captivated historians and travelers alike. This site served as the burial ground for many of Egypt's most powerful pharaohs during the New Kingdom period, from around 1550 to 1070 BC. The valley is renowned for its elaborate tombs, which were meticulously constructed to ensure the safe passage of the deceased into the afterlife. Visitors can explore these tombs, including that of the legendary Tutankhamun, whose untouched burial chamber was discovered in 1922, revealing a wealth of artifacts that shed light on ancient Egyptian culture and beliefs. The artistry found within these tombs is extraordinary, with vibrant hieroglyphs and intricate paintings that depict scenes from the pharaohs' lives and their journeys into the afterlife. Each tomb tells a unique story, and the sheer scale of the site is awe-inspiring. As you walk through the arid landscape, you can almost feel the presence of the ancient kings who once ruled this land. The Valley of the Kings is not just a destination; it's an invitation to connect with the past and witness the grandeur of a civilization that has left an indelible mark on history. While exploring, be sure to take your time to appreciate the stunning details in the tombs and consider hiring a knowledgeable guide to enrich your experience with insights into the significance of what you see. The site is also a part of the larger area of Luxor, which boasts other remarkable attractions such as the Temple of Hatshepsut and the Colossi of Memnon, making it a perfect base for further exploration of ancient Egypt.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds and the heat.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking through uneven terrain.
- Hire a local guide for an in-depth understanding of the history and significance of the tombs.
- Bring water and sunscreen, as there are limited shaded areas.
- Check for any temporary closures of specific tombs to plan your visit accordingly.
A brief summary to Valley of the Kings
- Luxor, Luxor Governorate, EG
- Visit website
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, start from Cairo and take the AUC Road towards the Cairo-Alexandria Desert Road (E1). Continue on this road until you reach the Luxor governorate. Once you arrive in Luxor, follow signs for the Valley of the Kings, which is located approximately 5 kilometers west of the city center. Look for signs indicating the entrance, and be prepared to pay an entrance fee of approximately 100 EGP per person to access the site.
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Bus
You can take a bus from Cairo to Luxor, which is a popular option for travelers. Buses depart from Cairo's Tahrir Square or the bus station in Giza. The journey takes around 10-12 hours, and tickets typically cost between 200-300 EGP. Once you arrive in Luxor, you can take a taxi or a local minibus to the Valley of the Kings, which is about 5 kilometers from the bus station. The taxi fare should be around 50 EGP.
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Train
Trains from Cairo to Luxor are a comfortable option. You can take an overnight sleeper train or a daytime train from Ramses Station in Cairo. The ticket prices range from 300 EGP for a sleeper ticket to around 150 EGP for a regular seat. Upon arriving at Luxor train station, you can take a taxi or local minibus to reach the Valley of the Kings, which is approximately 5 kilometers away. Expect to pay around 50 EGP for the taxi ride.
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Taxi
If you are already in Luxor and want to avoid public transport, hiring a taxi is a convenient option. You can easily find taxis around the city. Make sure to negotiate the fare beforehand; it should cost around 50 EGP to get to the Valley of the Kings from the city center. Taxis can also be hired for a round trip, which will allow you to explore the area without worrying about transport back to your hotel.
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Local Tours
Consider joining a guided tour that includes transportation to the Valley of the Kings. Many local travel agencies offer packages that include entrance fees, a guide, and transportation from your hotel in Luxor. Prices for these tours can range from 300 to 600 EGP per person, depending on the inclusions. This is a hassle-free way to see the site and gain insights from knowledgeable guides.
Attractions Nearby to Valley of the Kings
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KV62 - Tomb of Tutankhamun
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KV9 Ramses V & VI
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KV11 Rameses III
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KV6 - Tomb of Ramses IX
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KV7 - Tomb of Ramses II
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KV8 - Tomb of Merenptah
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KV4 - Tomb of Ramesses XI
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KV2 - Tomb of Ramses IV
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Tumba KV14 de Tausert y Sethnajt
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KV34 Thutmosis III
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KV1 Ramses VII
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Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut
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Al-Qurn
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Deir el-Bahari
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Valley of the Kings, Luxor
Landmarks nearby to Valley of the Kings
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KV17 - Tomb of Seti I
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Tomb of Ay (WV 23)
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Temple of Thoth (Qasr El-Aguz)
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West Bank Private Transport Luxor
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El-Gezira Hotel & Restaurant
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Luxor Nile Ferry - West Bank
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Luxor day tour to East & West Banks
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Alexbank
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NBE ATM - Sofitel Winter Palace Hotel 1 Luxor - فندق سوفتيل 1 الأقصر
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Ancient Luxor Quay
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First Pylon Luxor Temple
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Remaining Luxor Obelisk
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Luxor Temple
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The Sphinx Avenue
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Avenue of the Rams