Valley of the Kings Tours, Tickets & Visitor Guide
Everything you need to plan the perfect visit to the burial place of Egypt's pharaohs — which royal tombs to see, ticket tiers and hours, and private Egyptologist-guided tours that skip the queues and the heat.
What to See in the Valley of the Kings
More than 60 rock-cut royal tombs are carved into the Theban hills — here are the ones worth prioritising.
Tomb of Tutankhamun (KV62)
The famous boy-king’s tomb, where Howard Carter found the intact golden treasures in 1922. The mummy still rests inside (separate ticket).
Tomb of Seti I (KV17)
The longest and most beautifully decorated tomb in the valley, with vivid astronomical ceilings and reliefs (premium ticket).
Tomb of Ramesses VI (KV9)
One of the most colourful and best-preserved tombs, famous for its complete Book of the Day and Night ceiling.
Royal Tomb Paintings
Hieroglyphs and funerary art in near-original colour line the descending corridors of more than 60 royal tombs.
Theban West Bank
The valley sits among the Temple of Hatshepsut, Colossi of Memnon, and Medinet Habu — a full day of West Bank wonders.
Tiered Tomb Access
A standard ticket covers three tombs; Tutankhamun, Seti I, and Ramesses V/VI require separate add-on tickets.
Plan Your Visit
Tickets
A general Valley of the Kings ticket admits you to three open tombs (rotated to preserve them). The tombs of Tutankhamun (KV62), Seti I (KV17), and Ramesses V/VI (KV9) each need a separate add-on ticket — we include the ones you want in your private tour.
Opening Hours
The valley is generally open daily from around 6:00am to 5:00pm (longer in summer). Go at opening to beat both the Luxor heat and the cruise-ship crowds.
How Long to Spend
Allow 2–3 hours to see three or four tombs at a relaxed pace. Most visitors pair it with the Temple of Hatshepsut and the Colossi of Memnon for a complete West Bank day.
Visit Hassle-Free
Heat, photography passes, and choosing which tombs are open can be confusing. A private Egyptologist guide secures the right add-on tickets and brings the tombs’ stories to life (guides explain outside; interiors are self-walked).
Private Valley of the Kings & Luxor Tours
Hand-picked Luxor experiences with licensed Egyptologist guides, tomb tickets handled, and private transfers.
This one-day Luxor tour from Cairo offers an unforgettable adventure exploring the ancient treasures of Luxor. Guests will visit the awe-inspiring Val...
Travel Joy Egypt offers a luxurious 5-star cruise experience on board M/S Nile Dolphin between Luxor and Aswan. Guests can enjoy deluxe cabins, gourme...
This full-day Luxor tour allows one to experience the rich heritage of ancient Egypt through its magnificent archaeological sites. Guests will be imme...
ravel Joy Egypt offers a comprehensive day trip from Safaga Port exploring Luxor’s renowned sites, including the vast Karnak Temple complex, the Valle...
This incredible private tour offers travelers a unique opportunity to journey back in time and explore two of ancient Egypt’s most magnificent sites. ...
Valley of the Kings FAQ
How much do Valley of the Kings tickets cost?+
The valley uses a tiered system: a general ticket admits you to three open tombs, while the tombs of Tutankhamun, Seti I, and Ramesses V/VI each require a separate add-on ticket. Prices are set by the Ministry of Tourism and change periodically, so we include the correct tickets in every private tour and keep them current for you.
Which tombs are included in the Valley of the Kings ticket?+
The standard ticket lets you enter any three of the tombs that are open on the day (the open set rotates to protect the paintings). The tombs of Tutankhamun (KV62), Seti I (KV17), and Ramesses V/VI (KV9) are premium tombs that need separate tickets.
Can you take photos inside the tombs?+
Yes, with a photography pass purchased at the entrance (the tomb of Tutankhamun has its own photo rules). Flash is not allowed, as it damages the ancient pigments. Our guides arrange the photo pass so you do not miss the shot.
How long do you need at the Valley of the Kings?+
Most visitors spend 2–3 hours seeing three or four tombs. To make the most of the Theban West Bank, combine it with the Temple of Hatshepsut and the Colossi of Memnon on a half- or full-day private tour.
Where is the Valley of the Kings and how do I get there?+
It is on the West Bank of the Nile across from Luxor, about a 30-minute drive from the city centre or East Bank hotels. Our private Luxor tours include air-conditioned transfers and a licensed Egyptologist guide.
Want the full history and tomb-by-tomb story? Read our in-depth Valley of the Kings guide.