Luxor West Bank Tour: Valley of the Kings, Queens & Hatshepsut

First, early in the morning, ideally between 7:00 and 8:00 am, we pick you up from your hotel or Nile cruise ship. Then you head to Luxor’s West Bank, home to some of the most important monuments of ancient Egypt.

The Valley of the Kings

You begin at the famous Valley of the Kings, the necropolis where New Kingdom pharaohs (c. 1550–1070 BC) built their tombs deep in the rocky slopes.

What’s more, more than 60 royal tombs have been discovered here, their interiors decorated with hieroglyphs and colourful scenes of gods, rituals and ancient Egyptian beliefs about the afterlife.

The entrance ticket includes three accessible tombs, and your Egyptologist helps you choose the most interesting ones. However, entry to the Tomb of Tutankhamun and some other specially ticketed tombs requires an additional ticket.

The Valley of the Queens

The next stop is the Valley of the Queens. Although less famous than the Valley of the Kings, it holds dozens of tombs prepared for queens, princes, princesses and other members of the royal families.

Its greatest treasure is the Tomb of Queen Nefertari, the beloved wife of Ramesses II. Its exceptionally well-preserved paintings impress with their intense colours, precise details and elegant depictions of the gods and the queen.

Entry to the Tomb of Nefertari costs extra and is not included in the basic tour price.

The Temple of Queen Hatshepsut

Next, you visit the monumental Temple of Hatshepsut at Deir el-Bahari, set into the limestone cliffs of the Theban necropolis.

Its distinctive architecture is based on three monumental terraces linked by ramps. Interestingly, Hatshepsut was one of the most significant women to rule ancient Egypt as pharaoh.

On the temple walls, you also see famous reliefs depicting the expedition to the Land of Punt and scenes of Hatshepsut’s divine origin and right to rule.

Lunch

During the day, there is a break for lunch at a local restaurant. Importantly, the meal is included in the tour price.

The Colossi of Memnon

To finish, you stop at the impressive Colossi of Memnon. These two monumental seated statues depict Pharaoh Amenhotep III and are about 18 metres tall.

Then we drive you back to your hotel or cruise ship in Luxor.

Why Choose the Luxor West Bank Tour?

Above all, you see the most important necropolises of ancient Thebes in a single morning. The tour lasts about six hours, so you have the afternoon free to relax. It is private, so you explore without the crowds. Lunch at a traditional restaurant is also included. Sharara Tours takes care of the organisation, so all you need to do is choose a date. Discover more Luxor tours or read about the Valley of the Queens.

Practical Tips

Above all, bring a hat, sunscreen and water. Wear comfortable, closed shoes too. Book your ticket for the Tomb of Nefertari in advance, as places are limited.