Welcome to Luxor, Egypt’s Valley of the Kings, a historic necropolis which can be found on the west bank of the Nile River. The tombs of numerous pharaohs from the New Kingdom era, including the well-known Tutankhamun, are located at this important historical site. There are many things to do and see if you decide to visit the Valley of the Kings. This is your resource for the top outdoor activities, sights to see, and unique advice for your trip.
Outdoor activities
A variety of outdoor adventures are available in the Valley of the Kings, allowing guests to take in the area's stunning scenery and prehistoric past. We'll examine two of the top outdoor pursuits in the valley in this section: hot air balloon rides and camel rides.
Hot Air Balloon Ride
One of the most unique ways to experience the Valley of the Kings is to take a hot air balloon ride over the area. This thrilling experience allows you to see the entire valley from a bird’s eye view, offering breathtaking vistas of the desert and the Nile River. The ride typically takes place early in the morning, just as the sun is rising, creating a stunning display of colors. It’s an experience that’s sure to be unforgettable.
Camel Rides
Another great way to explore the Valley of the Kings is on camelback. Several camel rental services in the area offer guided tours through the desert, allowing you to take in the sights at a leisurely pace. You’ll be able to see the tombs up close and personal and the surrounding desert landscape. It’s a great way to experience the area from a different perspective.
Must See Places
Some of the most spectacular ancient tombs and monuments in the world can be found in the Valley of the Kings. In this section, we'll walk you through two of the valley's must-see attractions: Tutankhamun's tomb and the Colossi of Memnon.
Tomb of Tutankhamun
The most famous tomb in the Valley of the Kings is undoubtedly that of Tutankhamun. This pharaoh’s tomb was discovered nearly intact in 1922 by archaeologist Howard Carter, and it remains one of the most important archaeological discoveries in history. The tomb is located in the eastern part of the valley, and it’s well worth the visit. You’ll see incredible treasures, including Tutankhamun’s sarcophagus and his famous golden mask.
Tomb of Ramesses VI
Another tomb that’s not to be missed is that of Ramesses VI. This tomb is considered one of the most impressive in the valley due to its elaborate decoration and well-preserved condition. The tomb is located in the western part of the valley, and it’s a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the pharaohs.
Unusual Tip
If you're looking for a one-of-a-kind experience in the Valley of the Kings, we've got you covered. In this section, we'll share an unusual tip that will make your trip unforgettable: visit the Colossi of Memnon at sunrise.
Visit the Workers’ Village
While most tourists to the Valley of the Kings concentrate on the tombs itself, there is another location that is well worth a visit. The workers who constructed the tombs resided here during the New Kingdom era. You can visit their residences, business spaces, and even a bakery. It offers a fascinating look into the life of those who created the tombs that have become so well-known throughout Egyptian history.
Hidden Wonders
The Valley of the Kings is home to some of the most fascinating and unique sites in Egypt, including some hidden gems that are lesser-known to most travelers. In this section, we'll highlight two must-see places in the valley.
The Colossi of Memnon
These two massive statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III have been guarding the entrance to the Valley of the Kings for over 3,000 years. The statues are over 18 meters tall and some of Egypt’s largest. Legend has it that if you visit the statues at sunrise, you can hear them singing.
Deir el-Medina
This ancient village was home to the artisans and workers who built the tombs in the Valley of the Kings. The village is well-preserved and offers a fascinating look into the lives of the people who lived and worked here over 3,000 years ago. You can see their homes, workshops, and even their graffiti, which provides a unique insight into their daily lives.
Accommodation Suggestions
Finally, we'll offer some lodging options for travelers with varying budgets. Whether you want a luxurious stay or a low-cost option, we've got you covered. Each suggestion will include a brief description of the hotel or guesthouse, as well as location and amenities information.
Luxury:
In the center of Luxor, not far from the Valley of the Kings, stands the luxurious 5-star hotel known as the Sofitel Winter Palace Luxor. The hotel is set in a historic structure that was constructed in 1886 and features opulent rooms and suites, a gorgeous pool, as well as numerous restaurants and bars. The hotel also provides a variety of extras like a spa, a fitness center, and round-the-clock room service.
Mid-range:
A stunning 5-star hotel with a variety of services at a more reasonable price is the Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa. The hotel is close to the Valley of the Kings and is situated on the east bank of the Nile River. It has roomy suites and rooms, a sizable outdoor pool, numerous dining options, bars, and a full-service spa.
Budget:
The Bob Marley House Sherief Hotel Luxor is a fantastic choice for those on a tight budget. The Valley of the Kings is not far from this tiny hotel, which is situated on the west side of the Nile River. The hotel is clean, comfy, and reasonably priced, however it only has basic accommodations and modest rooms. A rooftop patio with breathtaking views of the Nile River and the surroundings is also available at the hotel.
Backpacker:
For backpackers and budget-conscious travelers, the Boomerang Guesthouse Luxor is a great option. This small guesthouse is located on the west bank of the Nile River, just a short distance from the Valley of the Kings. It offers simple rooms and dorms, as well as a range of communal spaces, including a rooftop terrace and a garden. The guesthouse is clean, friendly, and affordable, making it a great option for travelers on a tight budget.
Everyone interested in the history of ancient Egypt must travel to the Valley of the Kings. There’s plenty to see and do here, from the spectacular tombs to the stunning desert environment. Don’t forget to see the well-known tombs of Ramesses VI and Tutankhamun, as well as go horseback riding or on a hot air balloon flight for a truly unique perspective. Visit the Workers’ Village to learn more about the lives of the individuals who constructed these amazing tombs. Travel safely!
