Ultimate Private Valley of the Kings Tour from Luxor Embark on an exclusive, privately guided Valley of the Kings tour from Luxor and step directly into the monumental history of Ancient Egypt’s New Kingdom. This focused half-day excursion is dedicated to exploring the magnificent royal tombs on the West Bank of Luxor, the infamous Necropolis of Thebes. By booking this premium experience through Cruise Era, you secure a seamless adventure led by a licensed Egyptologist, ensuring you receive unparalleled insight into the pharaohs’ final resting places. This specialized Valley of the Kings tour from Luxor offers an intimate and high-quality way to witness some of the world’s most spectacular ancient artistry and funerary tradition.
Tour Overview and Unique Care
This private excursion is designed to maximize your time viewing the treasures of the West Bank with unmatched comfort and expert guidance.
| Feature | Detail |
| Duration | 4 Hours |
| Transportation | Private Air-Conditioned Vehicle |
| Departure from | Central Luxor Hotel or Harbor |
| Languages | English |
| Platform to Book | Cruise Era |
Why Travelers Choose Our Private Tour
While exploring ancient tombs is a profound experience, the quality of your guide and the service you receive truly elevates the journey. We pride ourselves on the human element:
- Personalized Comfort: You may find the heat intense, but our guides are known for their genuine care, ensuring you always have a cold bottle of water passed with a smile.
- Genuine Empathy: If anyone in your group feels unwell, your guide won’t miss a beat. Comfort, kindness, and calm take over, transforming a moment of stress into one of support.
- Lasting Connections: By the end of this focused journey to the royal necropolis, you’re not just a traveler; you’re often waving goodbye to a new friend you hope to meet again.
Detailed Itinerary: Exploring the Royal Necropolis
Your comprehensive tour of this crucial burial site starts in the morning with convenient hotel pickup from your central Luxor accommodation or the harbor. You will be transported in a private, air-conditioned vehicle directly to the Necropolis of Thebes on the West Bank of Luxor. During this approximately four-hour guided trip, you will visit a selection of the most magnificent royal tombs within the Valley of the Kings.
The Must-See Tombs Included in Your Visit
With your general admission ticket, you can visit three of the currently open royal tombs. Our Egyptologist guide highly recommends prioritizing the following tombs for your first visit:
1. Tomb of Ramesses III (KV11)
Known for its remarkable preservation and vibrant colors, the Tomb of Ramesses III (KV11) is an essential stop. This complex tomb is famous not just for its ritual texts (like the Book of Gates) but also for its unusual secular scenes. In the side chambers, you will find highly detailed painted sunken reliefs depicting foreign tributes, the royal armoury, and boats. A true highlight is the depiction of blind harpists, which led to the tomb’s alternative name: the ‘Tomb of the Harpers’.
2. Tomb of Ramesses IX (KV6)
The Tomb of Ramesses IX is noted for its exceptional level of decoration and color saturation. Even in areas where paint has deteriorated, the sheer detail is stunning. A key feature is the ceiling above the sarcophagus, dominated by the image of the sky goddess Nut stretching across the space. This tomb contains one of the Valley’s largest sarcophagi, offering a spectacular glimpse into royal funerary rites. Witnessing this ancient craftsmanship is an unforgettable part of any Valley of the Kings excursion.
3. Tomb of Merenptah (KV8)
Tomb 8 was the burial place of Pharaoh Merenptah, a son of Ramesses II. Discovered by Howard Carter, this tomb represents a shift in design. It marked the first time the entire tomb was constructed on a single, straight axis, abandoning the jogged corridors seen in earlier tombs. Furthermore, the entrance was made considerably wider. The tomb’s heightened corridors and chambers, coupled with its protective figures of the god Ptah, make it a fascinating study in the evolving architecture of the royal necropolis.
The Iconic Tomb of Tutankhamun (Optional)
No visit to the royal necropolis is complete without acknowledging the legendary King Tutankhamun (KV62).
- Tomb of King Tutankhamun (KV62): This young king is arguably the most famous in the world. He ascended the throne around age 10 and died at 19. By purchasing an additional ticket (currently 600 EGP), you gain the exclusive opportunity to come face to face with his royal mummy within the tomb, where it has rested for millennia. This is an unparalleled opportunity to connect with one of history’s great mysteries.
Essential Travel Information for Your Trip
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable private tour of the royal tombs, please review these important details:
- Tickets and Fees: Entrance tickets to the archaeological sites are not included in the tour price. The general admission ticket for 2025 is 750 EGP and gives you access to three of the open tombs. The ticket must be paid for on-site using a card (cash is not accepted for entry).
- Accessibility: Please note that the archaeological sites and the interiors of the tombs feature uneven surfaces, steps, and narrow spaces, which makes them not wheelchair accessible or stroller accessible. The transport vehicle is wheelchair accessible, but be prepared for difficulties at the sites themselves.
- Optional Extras: We can arrange an optional hot air balloon experience to complement your tour of the Valley of the Kings. The price and details can be requested upon arrival in Luxor. Airport pick-up can also be arranged (details available on our General Info Page).
- Gratuities (Baksheesh): Due to low wages in Egypt, tipping (“Baksheesh”) is an integral part of life. We advise carrying small notes to use for service providers. Your expert guide is happy to offer guidance on who and how much to tip.
- Pets and Infants: The tour is not suitable for pets. Infants must not sit on laps, and infant seats are unavailable.
Book your premium, private valley of the kings tour from luxor today through Cruise Era and prepare for a historical journey unlike any other.

























