Valley of the Kings – when to go

Valley of the Kings – when to go

When planning a visit to the Valley of the Kings, there are a few important things to bear in mind.

Firstly, the tourist season. In Egypt, this runs from October to April, which coincides exactly with the European winter, late autumn and early spring. Naturally, the largest number of tourists arrive during the festive season (mainly at Christmas and New Year). The second popular period is the winter holidays. Although these fall in different months in different countries, there is a noticeable increase in the number of tourists.

Secondly, the time of year. It’s no surprise that the peak season falls during the winter months, given the temperatures. It’s only then that they’re bearable for the average visitor from Europe or America. Remember, in summer temperatures in the Valley very often exceed 40 degrees Celsius! And you won’t find any pleasant, cool shade in the tombs.

Winter is much more pleasant – with temperatures hovering around 20–25 degrees Celsius.

Thirdly, the time of day. The Valley of the Kings is situated between mountains, so there’s no shade (apart from the tombs themselves, the shops and the toilets :). A walk amongst the tombs can take up to a dozen or so minutes, which can be a gruelling experience in the scorching sun. It’s worth arriving early in the morning (it opens at around 6 am!).

Fourthly, day trips. There’s another reason why it’s worth going there in the morning or late afternoon. Midday is when coaches arrive in the Valley, bringing tourists from the coast – and from ships sailing on the Nile. The Valley fills up instantly, and long queues form at some of the tombs.’

A few tips to get you started

So how should you plan your visit?

If you’re coming on a coach tour, choose one that arrives in the Valley towards the end of the day. There are noticeably fewer people then. And if you’re travelling independently, be at the Valley gates by six in the morning. By the time the ‘main wave’ of tour groups arrives at eight or nine, you’ll already have seen the main attractions.

If you can, visit out of season. We enjoyed it here in April – the temperatures were still bearable, and there were relatively few people. It’s best to avoid a trip to the Valley between June and September. It’s not good for your health.

Start by choosing the most popular tombs. You’ll get to see them before the crowds arrive. Save the sites off the beaten track for last, such as the tombs of Thutmose IV or Siptah. The most expensive tomb, that of Seti I, is also slightly less crowded.