Imagine waking up in a quiet oasis, surrounded by the ancient tombs and pyramids of Luxor, Egypt. You’re about to embark on an unforgettable tour of the Valley of the Kings, one of the most popular tourist destinations on earth.
The Valley of the Kings is a royal necropolis located on the west bank of the Nile River in Luxor, Egypt. It was used for the burial of Pharaohs and their consorts during the New Kingdom period from ca. 1539 BC to 1075 BC. The tombs are decorated with scenes from Egyptian mythology and give clues as to how they lived.
Most of the tombs were discovered by Victor Loret in 1898 and include KV62, the tomb of Tutankhamun. The most famous tomb, however, is that of King Ramses II, who was buried there over 3,000 years ago.
Make sure to visit this remarkable archeological site on your next trip to Egypt—you won’t regret it!
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An Overview of the Valley of the Kings
The Valley of the Kings is a valley in Luxor, Egypt, that is home to the tombs of some of the country’s most famous pharaohs. These include Tutankhamun and Ramses II, to name just a few.
The valley was discovered in 1822 and has been open to tourists since 1922. It’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in all of Egypt, and for good reason: it’s full of history and amazing architecture. If you’re planning a trip to Egypt, be sure to add the Valley of the Kings to your itinerary—you won’t regret it!
History of the Ancient Tombs
The Valley of the Kings is one of the most popular tourist destinations in all of Egypt for a very good reason: its tombs are an unparalleled windows into the ancient world. The first tomb in the valley was discovered by accident in 1819 by Giovanni Battista Belzoni, and since then, it’s been an unbroken chain of discoveries as archeologists and explorers uncover more and more of these ancient tombs.
Each tomb is a veritable time capsule, containing murals, hieroglyphs and artifacts that offer a unique glimpse into the lives and deaths of the pharaohs who built them. Many of these tombs were looted in antiquity, but that hasn’t stopped archeologists from making amazing discoveries inside them, including the tomb of Tutankhamun in 1922.
No visit to Luxor is complete without a tour of the Valley of the Kings- make sure to book ahead to avoid disappointment!
Popular Touring Sites in the Valley
When you visit the Valley of the Kings, you’ll have plenty of tourist hotspots to choose from. The most popular ones are Hatshepsut’s Temple, the Colossi of Memnon, and of course, the Valley of the Kings itself.
Each of these locations offer a different glimpse into ancient Egyptian history and culture. Hatshepsut’s Temple is an interesting mix of both Egyptian and Greek styles, and the Colossi of Memnon are two massive statues that are still remarkably intact.
But the Valley of the Kings is by far the most popular destination in the area. It’s where you’ll find King Tutankhamun’s tomb, as well as dozens of other tombs that have been discovered over the years. If you’re a history buff, there’s no better place to be.
Important Guidelines for Touring the Valley
When you visit the Valley of the Kings, keep in mind that there are some important guidelines to follow. As you wander through the ancient tombs, be sure to stay on marked pathways and don’t touch or lean against any of the walls—these could be fragile and could collapse if disturbed. Make sure to also wear appropriate clothing and leave any large bags back at your hotel; you won’t need them.
It’s also important to remember that photography is strictly prohibited inside tombs, so you won’t be able to capture your journey on film. Don’t worry though; the memories are sure to last a lifetime with or without pictures. Finally, make sure to check with your guide regarding permitted items before entering so that you don’t break any rules during your tour of this magical area of Egypt.
Accommodation and Restaurants Nearby
If you’re ready to plan your trip to the Valley of the Kings, you’ll want to know that there are plenty of places to stay and eat in Luxor. Many people opt for a hotel in the city, as most of the valley is only about 15-20 minutes by car away. There are many options available depending on your budget, whether you’re looking for a 5-star luxury resort or just a basic place to rest your head.
Once you’ve sorted out your accommodation, don’t forget to explore the nearby restaurants. Luxor has an array of different culinary experiences available—from traditional Egyptian cuisine to international dishes like Italian and Japanese. If you’re looking for something more unique, try out Arabian Nights Cafe, near Karnak Temple. This cafe serves up traditional Egyptian fare cooked with local spices and souvenirs from around Egypt’s historical sites.
Plan Your Trip to Visit the Valley of the Kings
The Valley of the Kings is one of the most spectacular and mysterious places in Luxor, and should be part of any trip to Egypt. Planning for your visit is key – you want to make sure you have enough time to explore everything that this site has to offer.
First, decide whether you’re going to visit the Valley solo or with a tour group. Going it alone can be a bit daunting if you don’t know where you’re going, but with a group tour, you get knowledgeable guides who will provide information on sites and artifacts as well as provide valuable insights into the history of Luxor and its culture.
Second, plan your route of exploration. Some areas are closed due to excavation or restoration work so make sure to check out their website prior to your trip. It’s also important that you select the right day or time since it can get quite crowded inside the valley during peak season.
Finally, make sure that you wear appropriate clothing and comfortable shoes so that you can explore without feeling uncomfortable. And most importantly – don’t forget your camera!
| Tour Name | Duration |
|---|---|
| Luxor Short Breaks | Tour Category |
| Luxor West Bank Tour One Day Trip | 1 Day – 8 Hours |
| 3 Days Luxor Tour – Luxor short Breaks | 3 Days – 2 Nights |
| Egypt 12 Days : The Ultimate Itinerary | 12 Days – 11 Nights |
Conclusion
If you want to visit the Valley of the Kings, we suggest Luxor – it’s the perfect starting point for your Egyptian adventure. And, of course, we’re here to help make sure your tour is unforgettable. Call us today to book your trip!