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Tombs of the Nobles Luxor

4.5
·304 reviews·, Egypt

Discover ancient secrets and breathtaking Nile views at the Tombs of the Nobles, a less-crowded gem offering vibrant frescoes and a glimpse into elite...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early morning

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdLow
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Tombs of the Nobles - Image 1

Tombs of the Nobles Luxor

Best Time

Early morning

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover ancient secrets and breathtaking Nile views at the Tombs of the Nobles, a less-crowded gem offering vibrant frescoes and a glimpse into elite Egyptian life.

4.5
(304 reviews)

"Peaceful, atmospheric, and rich in history with epic views – a must-visit for history lovers!"

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

The climb is steep and the paths are uneven. Good footwear is a must for exploring the tombs and summit.

💧 Bring Water & Sun Protection

The Egyptian sun is intense. Pack plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat for your visit.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Tomb of Sennefer (Vineyard Tomb)

Tomb of Sennefer (Vineyard Tomb)

Qurna

Marvel at the vibrant, well-preserved frescoes depicting grapevines and intricate scenes. A true hidden gem!

Tomb of Ramose (TT 55)

Tomb of Ramose (TT 55)

Qurna

Witness poignant murals of mourners, showcasing detailed depictions of grief and ancient Egyptian rituals.

Panoramic Nile Views

Panoramic Nile Views

Summit of the hill

Hike to the top for breathtaking, unobstructed views of the Nile River, islands, and Aswan city.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds & Heat

Visit early morning to avoid the intense sun and enjoy fewer visitors. The Tombs of the Nobles are less crowded than major Luxor sites, offering a more intimate experience. Wear sturdy shoes for the uphill climb and uneven terrain.

Accessing the Tombs

While a public ferry is budget-friendly, private boats offer more flexibility. Locals with keys are essential for opening many tombs; tipping them is customary and appreciated for their guidance and upkeep.

Best Times

When
Early morning
Why
Beat the heat and crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Far from boring 🫶 📍 Video locations (more of my trips in my story highlights and my other videos): - Egypt: Al Sahaba Mosque Sharm El Sheikh, Karnak Temple, Great Pyramids of Giza, Siwa, Aswan, Hurghada Red Sea, Abu Simbel - Qatar: Habitas Ras Abrouq, Museum of Islamic Arts, Katara Village, Therme Chedi Doha, Mina District, National Museum of Qatar - Saudi: Riyadh, Habitas AlUla, Red Sea, Hegra, S...
@aureliestoryy
980.5K likes • 7.5M views

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

The climb is steep and the paths are uneven. Good footwear is a must for exploring the tombs and summit. Reddit

💧 Bring Water & Sun Protection

The Egyptian sun is intense. Pack plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat for your visit. Reddit

Aswan 🤩 #aswan #egypt #lotus #fyp
@misterrcool
686K likes • 3.6M views
Ramose Tomb (TT 55) - Tombs of the Nobles A mural feature in Ramose’s tomb depicts a procession of mourners, with a group of women in white robes Wailing and grieving for the departed With tear-streaked cheeks and uplifted hands #egypt #مصر #experienceegypt #luxor
mohamdriyd
161 likes • 5.7K views

💰 Tip the Locals

Guides with keys are essential for many tombs. A small tip is greatly appreciated for their help and upkeep. Reddit

🚢 Budget Ferry Option

Opt for the local public ferry (around 5 EGP) for a budget-friendly crossing to the West Bank. Reddit

The Nobles’ Tombs of Luxor, adorned with detailed frescoes and inscriptions, reveal the rich and vibrant lives of Egypt’s ancient dignitaries, capturing their stories in stunning art and architecture.#nileriver #egypt #nilecruise #مصرية #viajandosolo #viajarsola #luxor #templos #nobles #herogliphics #aswan #cleopatra #alejandromagno #alejandria #tutankamon #localguides #mexicotravel #egypttraveler...
tour_para_ti
9 likes • 2.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

The climb is steep and the paths are uneven. Good footwear is a must for exploring the tombs and summit. Reddit

💧 Bring Water & Sun Protection

The Egyptian sun is intense. Pack plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat for your visit. Reddit

💰 Tip the Locals

Guides with keys are essential for many tombs. A small tip is greatly appreciated for their help and upkeep. Reddit

🚢 Budget Ferry Option

Opt for the local public ferry (around 5 EGP) for a budget-friendly crossing to the West Bank. Reddit

📸 Capture the Details

The intricate frescoes are stunning. Take your time to appreciate the artistry and stories within the tombs. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.5
(304 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Tombs of the Nobles for their authentic feel, stunning Nile views, and lack of crowds, offering a peaceful escape from more tourist-heavy sites. The vibrant frescoes and the opportunity to interact with local guides are highlights, though the uphill climb and occasional litter are noted drawbacks.

"You have to cross the Nile to the opposite side of Aswan. It seems this is not part of the typical tourist tours because there were literally no foreign tourists (which I liked). You have to walk up these long stairs, so not suitable for people who have difficulties walking. Once you reach the tombs there are some guys that propose you to follow them to open the tombs. They actually did have the keys so without them you cannot visit the inside tombs, they are nice so definitely do it and give them a little tip. The place is cool because you can explore it on your own, but from a preservation point of view I guess it's not ideal. If you still have some courage to walk further up, you can walk to the summit where you will find the chapel and an amazing view over the Nile. Entrance price was something like 200 Egyptian pounds I believe."

William Vanaudenhove

"Amazing location, gives you a chance to sail to reach the place and have a little hike up the mountain to reach the tombs. Tombs are much simpler than the Pharaoh's ones, but they surely feel authentic dating over 2k years BC. Definite bonus is the view you get of the Nile, islands and Aswan city. And you have nearly no tourists - much calmer! Shame you find litter though... but not too much. Strong winds.
Amazing couple of hours!"

Aušra Gabrėnaitė

"Embarking on our journey to this magnificent monument posed challenges, leading us to opt for a private boat. Negotiating the price was a task, but we later discovered a budget-friendly public ferry (just 5 EGP) taking the same route. Consider it if a private boat isn't your preference.

The path to the monument, unfortunately, wasn't pristine, with horses and camels scattering the area, causing a bit of a mess and an unpleasant odor. Despite this, we pressed on.

Ascending the 200 steps to the Tomb Of The Nobles was a trek, and to our dismay, we learned that the colorful Tomb Of Sirenput || was closed. Recognized as the most vibrant in the area, we decided to invest in the experience, paying a local to unlock it and guide us through the entire location.

However, the effort paid off as the view from the top, overlooking the Nile, was genuinely breathtaking. The majestic river sprawled before us, casting a spell with its fascinating beauty. In retrospect, despite the initial hurdles, the journey was rewarding, offering glimpses into the rich history and stunning vistas that make this monument a must-visit in Aswan. 🌍

#AswanAdventure #Nile #TombOfTheNobles"

Mohamed Badr

What People Like

Authentic atmosphere
Spectacular Nile views
Fewer tourists

What People Dislike

Steep uphill climb
Occasional litter

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

To reach the Tombs of the Nobles, you'll need to cross the Nile to the West Bank. You can take a local public ferry from central Aswan (around 5 EGP for foreigners) or opt for a private boat. Once on the west bank, follow signs or Google Maps uphill towards the 'Tombs of the Nobles'. Reddit

While there are options, finding the right ferry dock can be tricky. Look for the dock marked 'West Bank Ferry' on Google Maps. Once on the west bank, follow the uphill path; locals often guide visitors. Reddit

The most budget-friendly way is the local ferry, which takes about 5-10 minutes. Private boats offer more convenience but are pricier. Reddit

Taxis are generally available in Luxor, but they will likely drop you off at the ferry terminal. You'll still need to cross the Nile and then make your way uphill. Reddit

Many tours focus on the more famous sites like the Valley of the Kings. However, some private guides or specialized tours might include this lesser-known gem. It's worth inquiring with local tour operators. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The entrance fee for foreigners is approximately 200 Egyptian Pounds as of recent reports. Prices can change, so it's good to have some cash on hand. Reddit

Tickets are typically purchased on-site at a small office located below the main stairway leading up to the tombs. It's advisable to buy them upon arrival. Reddit

Not all tombs are always open. Some, like the vibrant Tomb of Sirenput II, may be closed. Locals with keys can often open specific tombs for an additional tip. Reddit

The site generally opens early in the morning and closes in the late afternoon. It's best to visit during daylight hours. Going early is recommended to avoid crowds and heat. Reddit

The Tomb of Sennefer is usually included within the general entrance ticket, but access might depend on whether a local guide with keys is available. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

It's a more intimate and less crowded experience than major sites. You'll climb a hill to reach tombs with ancient frescoes. The views from the summit are spectacular. Reddit

Yes, there's a significant uphill walk with steep, uneven stairs to reach the tombs. Good walking shoes are essential. Reddit

You can explore the general area on your own, but locals with keys are needed to open many of the tombs. They can also offer guidance. Reddit

Yes, local guides often wait near the entrance and have keys to open various tombs. They can provide insights into the history and art. Reddit

Comfortable, sturdy walking shoes are a must. Light, breathable clothing is recommended due to the heat. A hat and sunglasses are also advisable. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally allowed inside the tombs, but check for any specific signs or restrictions. Flash photography might be prohibited to protect the ancient artwork. Instagram

The panoramic views from the summit overlooking the Nile are incredible. Inside the tombs, focus on capturing the detailed frescoes and inscriptions. Reddit

Drone usage is typically restricted at archaeological sites in Egypt. It's best to check with local authorities or your guide before attempting to fly a drone. TikTok

While some visitors mention horses and camels in the vicinity, it's important to be mindful of animal welfare and avoid contributing to any potential mess. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the tomb interiors and the expansive views. A camera with good low-light performance is beneficial for the darker tomb areas. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Tombs of the Nobles can be an engaging experience for families, offering a less crowded alternative to major attractions. The climb up the hill can be an adventure for older children, but parents should be mindful of the steep and uneven stairs, especially with very young children. Reddit The vibrant frescoes inside the tombs can capture a child's imagination, offering visual stories of ancient life. Instagram Consider bringing extra snacks and plenty of water, as facilities are limited. The panoramic views from the top also provide a great opportunity for family photos. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the Tombs of the Nobles is an excellent choice. Opting for the local public ferry (around 5 EGP) is significantly cheaper than private boats for crossing the Nile. Reddit While there's an entrance fee (approx. 200 EGP), the experience offers great value, especially when combined with the stunning views. Tipping the local guides is expected, but these tips are usually modest and contribute to a more authentic experience. Reddit Pack your own water and snacks to save on costs at the site. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Adventurers

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Significance of the Tombs of the Nobles

The Tombs of the Nobles in Luxor, often referred to as the Valley of the Nobles, offer a fascinating glimpse into the lives of ancient Egypt's elite officials, governors, and scribes. Unlike the grand royal tombs in the Valley of the Kings, these tombs were designed for high-ranking individuals and their families, serving as their eternal resting places and chapels. The tombs date primarily from the New Kingdom period (circa 1550–1070 BCE) and are renowned for their vibrant, detailed frescoes that depict scenes of daily life, religious rituals, and the deceased's achievements. These artworks provide invaluable historical and cultural insights, showcasing everything from agricultural practices and banquets to funerary processions and offerings to the gods. Instagram

Key figures buried here include Harkhuf, a governor of Elephantine who led expeditions into Nubia, and Mekhu and Sabni, known for their inscriptions detailing family and military accomplishments. The Tomb of Sennefer, also known as the 'Tomb of the Vineyards,' is particularly celebrated for its stunning ceiling decorations resembling grapevines, a testament to the artistry and symbolism of the era. TikTok The preservation of these tombs varies, but many still retain their vivid colors and intricate carvings, offering a more personal and less ostentatious view of ancient Egyptian society compared to the pharaohs' monumental burials. Instagram

Visiting the Tombs of the Nobles provides a unique perspective on ancient Egyptian society, highlighting the importance of provincial administration and the lives of those who served the state. The relative lack of crowds compared to more famous sites allows for a more contemplative experience, where visitors can truly appreciate the artistry and historical significance of these ancient burial chambers. The panoramic views from the hilltops also add to the experience, offering a serene backdrop to the historical exploration. Reddit

Navigating Your Visit: Practicalities and Local Interaction

Getting to the Tombs of the Nobles involves a journey across the Nile. While private boats are an option, the local public ferry is a significantly more budget-friendly choice, costing around 5 EGP for foreigners. This short ride offers scenic views of the river and the city. Reddit Once on the west bank, the site requires an uphill trek. Be prepared for steep, uneven stairs, making comfortable and sturdy footwear essential. Reddit The terrain can be sandy, so good grip is important. Bringing water, sunscreen, and a hat is crucial to combat the strong Egyptian sun, especially if visiting during warmer months. Reddit

A unique aspect of visiting the Tombs of the Nobles is the interaction with local guides who hold the keys to many of the tombs. Without them, access to some of the most decorated chambers might be impossible. These individuals play a vital role in preserving and showcasing these historical sites. It is customary and highly recommended to tip them generously for their assistance, guidance, and for keeping the areas clean. Reddit While the experience can feel a bit unmanaged from a preservation standpoint, the personal touch and access provided by these locals enhance the visit significantly. Reddit Some visitors have noted that certain tombs, like the vibrant Tomb of Sirenput II, might be closed, but paying a local can often grant access. Reddit

Beyond the tombs themselves, a hike to the summit of the hill offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Nile, surrounding islands, and Aswan city. This vantage point provides a beautiful perspective and a rewarding conclusion to the visit. Reddit For those interested in further context, the Nubian Museum in Aswan houses artifacts discovered in these tombs, offering a deeper understanding of the history and the lives of the nobles buried there. Reddit

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