Valley of the Kings: Tombs Guide & Which to See (2026)

Cut into a barren desert valley behind Luxor's West Bank, the Valley of the Kings hid the tombs of Egypt's New Kingdom pharaohs for three thousand years, and their painted walls remain so vivid they look freshly finished. But the visit confuses first-timers: 63 known tombs, only a rotating handful open at once, and several charging extra. Here's how to do it well. (See it on the interactive map.) ## How the ticket works The standard ticket admits you to three open tombs, and which three changes periodically, so the authorities can rest the fragile painted ones. A few celebrated tombs carry separate, additional fees and are gated turnstiles within the valley: most notably Seti I (KV17), Tutankhamun (KV62), and Ramesses VI (KV9). Buy tickets at the visitor centre; a small electric train shuttles you up to the tomb clusters. ## Which tombs to prioritise

• Seti I (KV17), extra fee, and worth it: the longest (137 m) and most exquisitely decorated tomb in the valley, its ceilings and reliefs barely faded. If it's open and your budget allows, make this the one.
• Ramesses VI (KV9), extra fee; famous for its astronomical ceiling of the goddess Nut swallowing and birthing the sun.
• Tutankhamun (KV62), extra fee; small and modest after the grander tombs (his treasure now lives at the Grand Egyptian Museum), but it's the Tutankhamun, and his mummy is still here.
• Among the standard rotation, Ramesses III (KV11) and Ramesses IX (KV6) are reliably colourful.
• Just over the ridge, the Valley of the Queens holds the tomb of Nefertari (QV66), a separate, premium ticket and often called the most beautiful painted tomb in all Egypt; entry is time-limited to protect it, and worth every pound. ## Practical tips
• Go at opening. The valley is a sun-trap that bakes by mid-morning; early means cooler air, softer light and emptier tombs.
• Photography needs a separate photo ticket (rules tighten in the premium tombs), check on arrival.
• A guide adds enormously, but note that guides aren't allowed inside the tombs, a good one briefs you thoroughly outside, then you go in alone. A private Egyptologist is the best upgrade.
• Combine with the rest of the West Bank: Hatshepsut's temple, the Colossi of Memnon, Medinet Habu, and a sunrise hot-air balloon. For the full Luxor picture, see the Luxor travel guide and the Egypt Travel Guide 2026.