If you’re planning a trip to Luxor, one of the most asked questions is the valley of the kings tickets price and what that entry cost actually covers. The Valley of the Kings is the burial ground of Egypt’s New Kingdom pharaohs and the ticketing system includes a basic entry fee plus separate fees for certain high-demand tombs—knowing the breakdown ahead of time will save you time and money on the West Bank.
This guide explains official ticket categories and sample prices, where and how to buy tickets, practical visiting tips for getting the most out of your visit, and how guided tours differ from self-guided entry. Information here follows official attraction data and widely used booking partners to help you plan accurately for your Luxor visit.
Understanding the official Valley of the Kings ticket categories
The Valley of the Kings operates with a primary entry ticket and a handful of separate-access tomb tickets for particularly popular or fragile tombs. The basic Valley of the Kings entry cost grants access to the site and a limited number of tombs (the specific tombs included can rotate). Special tombs such as Tutankhamun’s tomb (KV62) typically require an additional ticket.
Officially, foreign adult visitors pay the highest rate, while Egyptian and Arab visitors have reduced rates. Students with valid international student ID cards may also be eligible for discounts at the ticket window. Note that the Ministry responsible for antiquities occasionally adjusts prices, so always check current official notices when planning.
Current ticket prices and what they include
As of the most recent official pricing updates, the Valley of the Kings entry cost for foreign adult visitors is typically set at a base fee (paid at the main ticket office) that includes entry to the site and access to a selection of tombs. Additional tickets are required for specific tombs that are separately managed due to conservation or high demand.
Typical pricing structure (official categories):
- Basic Valley of the Kings entry (foreign adult): official base fee (covers access to the site and a limited number of tombs).
- Special tomb ticket — Tutankhamun (KV62): additional fee required to enter KV62 when it is open to the public.
- Premium or restricted tombs (e.g., Seti I or other rarely opened tombs): historically these have had separate premium access fees when available and open.
- Discounted rates for Egyptian and Arab visitors, and student concessions with valid ID.
Because official tomb access can change (locks, conservation, rotation of open tombs), the exact tombs available under the base ticket are announced at the site ticket office. For current opening lists and to avoid disappointment, buy early in the day and verify with staff at the ticket counter.
How to buy Valley of the Kings tickets — step-by-step
There are three common ways to acquire Valley of the Kings tickets: at the official ticket office on site, via a travel agent or hotel (which may add a service fee), or by booking a guided tour or skip-the-line ticket through international booking platforms. Buying at the ticket office is straightforward but queues form early in peak season.
To purchase on the day: arrive early (the site opens in the morning), go to the main ticket office near the entrance and present passport or ID. If you want to enter a special tomb like Tutankhamun, buy that separate ticket at the same counter if available.
If you prefer a guided option or to guarantee access to specific tombs—especially in high season—consider a guided tour. Many visitors use reputable tour platforms; for a curated list of tours and user reviews, see GetYourGuide’s Luxor tours page for available day tours that include the Valley of the Kings and other West Bank highlights.
Practical visiting tips to get the most for your entry cost
Plan your visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and the midday heat. Tombs are small, temperature-controlled spaces and can quickly feel crowded; arriving close to opening time gives you the best chance to enjoy tomb interiors with fewer people. Keep the Valley of the Kings tickets price balanced against the value of quieter access if you can allocate time early.
- Bring passport or ID — needed for buying tickets and sometimes checked at entry.
- Photography rules vary: flash photography is typically prohibited inside tombs; some tombs may prohibit all photography. Confirm at the ticket desk.
- Wear comfortable shoes — getting between tombs involves walking on uneven desert paths.
- Carry water and sun protection; there is little shade on the West Bank plateau.
- Respect conservation rules: do not touch painted surfaces or lean on ancient walls.
If you have an interest in visiting a specific tomb (for example, KV62 for Tutankhamun), purchase the special-access ticket as early as possible because these are limited and sell out quickly on busy days.
Comparison table: ticket types, typical prices, and access
| Ticket type | Typical official price (example) | What it covers | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Valley of the Kings entry | Official base fee (foreign adult) | Site entry and access to a rotating selection of tombs | Buy at main ticket office; tomb list posted daily |
| Tutankhamun (KV62) special ticket | Separate additional fee | Access specifically to the Tutankhamun tomb | Limited availability; popular and often sold separately |
| Premium/restricted tombs | Premium access fee when available | Entry to rare tombs such as Seti I when opened | Availability and fee vary; check official notices |
| Concessions (Egyptian/Arab/Students) | Discounted rate | Same access as applicable category | Valid ID required |
Guided tours vs. buying entry-only tickets
Guided tours often combine Valley of the Kings entry with transport, a licensed Egyptologist guide, and visits to nearby West Bank attractions such as Hatshepsut’s Temple and the Colossi of Memnon. Guided options are useful if you want contextual interpretation and skip-the-line assistance for special tomb tickets, though they typically cost more than entry-only fees.
If you prefer independent exploration, buy the base ticket on site and optionally purchase a map or hire a local guide upon arrival. For reliable, pre-booked guided experiences with verified operators and customer reviews, many travelers check international platforms; you can review options and secure a slot ahead of time via this curated portal for Luxor tours GetYourGuide’s Luxor page.
Guided tours can be particularly valuable when trying to access special tomb tickets because tour operators often reserve allocations in advance, reducing the risk of missing out on high-demand tombs.
FAQs
How much does a Valley of the Kings ticket cost for foreign visitors?
The Valley of the Kings base entry cost for foreign visitors is a standard official fee set by the authorities; special tombs like Tutankhamun typically have an additional ticket price. Rates are published by the site management and may be updated periodically, so check current official notices when planning. The base ticket covers access to the necropolis and a selection of tombs that rotate.
Can I visit Tutankhamun’s tomb with the basic ticket?
No — Tutankhamun’s tomb (KV62) usually requires a separate special-access ticket in addition to the Valley of the Kings base ticket. Special tomb tickets are limited and can sell out, so buy early in the day at the ticket office or secure access through a guided tour that includes the tomb.
Are there discounts for Egyptian residents or students?
Yes. Egyptian and Arab visitors receive discounted rates, and students with valid international or recognized student ID cards may be eligible for concessions. Always have appropriate identification ready at the ticket office to claim any reduced rates.
Is photography allowed inside the tombs?
Photography rules vary by tomb. Flash photography is commonly prohibited to protect ancient pigments, and some tombs may ban photography altogether. Check with the ticket office or posted rules at each tomb entrance before taking photos.
What is the best time of day to visit to avoid crowds?
Arrive close to opening time for the calmest experience and to avoid both crowds and the afternoon heat. Early morning visits give you the best chance to experience tomb interiors with fewer people and better light for exterior photographs of the site.
Conclusion
Understanding the valley of the kings tickets price and the structure of the entry cost is key to planning an efficient and rewarding visit in Luxor. Expect a base entry fee that covers site access and a rotating selection of tombs, plus separate fees for high-demand tombs such as Tutankhamun. Buy special tickets early, bring ID for any concessions, and consider a guided tour if you want guaranteed access to particular tombs or a richer historical interpretation. With a little planning you can make the most of your time in this extraordinary archaeological landscape.