MapVivid
Valley of the Kings and around
A day in Luxor · 9:30–17:30 · 6 stops
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mapvivid.com/luxor/itineraries/valley-of-the-kings-and-aroundA walking day around Valley of the Kings, Temple of Hatshepsut and Tombs of the Nobles, with a lunch break nearby and Deir el-Medina to end the day.
Every stop on Google Maps: open the list
Morning
9:301Valley of the Kings ↗1 hGo early
Royal tombs of New Kingdom pharaohs
- Ticket covers three tombs
- No photography inside tombs
↓ 10 min walk
10:452Temple of Hatshepsut ↗1 hGo early
Terraced mortuary temple at Deir el-Bahari
- Little shade
- Pair with the Valley of the Kings
↓ 11 min walk
11:453Tombs of the Nobles ↗30 min
Painted private tombs on the west bank
- Choose a few tombs only
- Take a torch
↓ 10 min walk
Lunch
13:30Lunch break nearby · Find restaurants nearby on Google Maps ↗
↓ 14 min walk
Afternoon
15:005↓ 24 min walk
16:306
Good to know. Times are a guide for an unhurried pace. Check opening days before you go.
Luxor tips
Transportation
- Take the public ferry: The local ferry across the Nile between the East and West Banks is far cheaper than private motorboats.
- Hire a driver for the West Bank: Tombs and temples are spread out, so a taxi or driver for the day makes visiting much easier.
- Cycle the West Bank: Renting a bike is a pleasant way to explore villages and some sites, but avoid midday heat.
Local Hacks
- Visit Karnak early: Arrive at opening to avoid crowds and heat, and return for the evening sound and light show if you wish.
- Fly at dawn: Hot-air balloon rides over the West Bank at sunrise give unforgettable views of temples and fields.
- Take a felucca at sunset: A sailboat ride on the Nile at sunset is relaxing; agree the price and duration beforehand.
Saving
- Consider the Luxor Pass: If you plan to visit many sites, the Luxor Pass can save money compared with individual tickets.
- Eat local: Try koshari, ful and taameya at local eateries for cheap, filling meals.
- Carry small notes: Keep small Egyptian pounds for tips, ferries and snacks, as change can be hard to get.
Security
- Agree caleche prices: Horse-drawn carriage drivers can be persistent; agree the price and route clearly before you ride, or politely decline.
- Beware tomb guards: Guards may offer to show hidden areas or allow photos for baksheesh; this may break rules, so politely decline.
- Check balloon operators: Use licensed, reputable hot-air balloon companies and follow all safety instructions.
Cultural
- Understand baksheesh: Tipping is expected for many small services; carry small notes and tip modestly.
- Respect mosques: Dress modestly and remove shoes when visiting, and avoid prayer times.
- Learn some Arabic: Phrases like shukran and salaam alaikum are warmly received.
Weather/Clothing
- Expect extreme summer heat: June to August is scorching; visit sites at dawn, drink plenty of water and wear a hat.
- Enjoy pleasant winters: November to February is the best time to visit, with warm days and cool nights; bring a light jacket.
- Dress modestly: Light, loose clothing that covers shoulders and knees is respectful and also protects from the sun.
Planned with MapVivid. Opening hours change, so check each place before you go. This day, with the map: mapvivid.com/luxor/itineraries/valley-of-the-kings-and-around
Day 1 of 29:30–17:306 stops
Valley of the Kings and around
A walking day around Valley of the Kings, Temple of Hatshepsut and Tombs of the Nobles, with a lunch break nearby and Deir el-Medina to end the day.
Opens Google Maps with every stop of the day, ready to save to your own list.
Morning
109:30 · 1 hRoyal tombs of New Kingdom pharaohs
- Tip: Go early
2 tips
- Ticket covers three tombs
- No photography inside tombs
📷 Photos
10 min walk
210:45 · 1 hTerraced mortuary temple at Deir el-Bahari
- Tip: Go early
2 tips
- Little shade
- Pair with the Valley of the Kings
📷 Photos
11 min walk
311:45 · 30 minPainted private tombs on the west bank
3 tips
- Choose a few tombs only
- Take a torch
- Quiet and atmospheric
📷 Photos
10 min walk
412:30 · 1 hMortuary temple of Ramesses II
3 tips
- Look for the fallen colossus
- Less crowded
- Allow an hour
📷 Photos
Lunch
Lunch break nearby · 13:30
Find restaurants nearby on Google Maps14 min walk
Afternoon
515:00 · 1 hTwo giant statues of Amenhotep III
3 tips
- Free to view from the road
- Good at sunrise
- Quick stop on the west bank
📷 Photos
24 min walk
616:30 · 1 hVillage of the royal tomb workers
3 tips
- Small tombs with bright paintings
- Quiet site
- Combine with Valley of the Queens
📷 Photos
Take this day with you
Add the stops to your calendar
Times are local time in Luxor. Apple Calendar adds every stop at once (Outlook too). Google Calendar adds one event per link.
Times are a guide for an unhurried pace. Check opening days before you go.