Nabateans & Pharaohs Tour Package

We begin with a visit to the Valley of the Kings on the west bank of the Nile. The site contains the once-hidden tombs of more than 62 pharaohs, including Tutankhamun, Seti I, Ramses III and IV. A discreet hillside entrance takes us underground; a series of corridors and antechambers leads down to the burial chamber and sarcophagus. The walls are covered in brightly painted images and hieroglyphs – a map of the afterlife to ensure the king’s safe passage. One ticket allows us to see three tombs. The ticket usually allows entry into what are regarded as some of the most impressive tombs; however, if you have time, a visit to the tomb of Ramses VI is also highly recommended (extra cost). Entry to Tutankhamun’s tomb costs approximately US$12, payable locally. In terms of size and decoration, it is not as impressive as many of the other tombs but is, of course, historically fascinating. Visits to tombs are now strictly controlled to halt further deterioration of wall paintings – each tomb is periodically closed for a number of weeks.Next stop is Queen Hatshepsut’s mortuary temple – a masterpiece of ancient architecture. The temple bears resemblance to classic Greek design yet is 1,000 years older. We have a tour of the site and then proceed to Carter House, a mud brick construction where Howard Carter was based while leading the team who discovered Tutankhamun’s tomb. The house is now a museum and contains maps, books and other items from Carter’s time there. Finally, we return to our hotel in Luxor for the night.