Best Tombs to Visit in Valley of the Kings | Guide to Egypt's Royal Necropolis

Planning your visit to Egypt's royal necropolis? This complete guide covers the best tombs to visit in Valley of the Kings — from the famous KV62 of Tutankhamun to the spectacular KV9 of Ramesses VI. Whether you're looking for the top Valley of the Kings tombs included in your standard ticket or deciding which must-see tombs in Valley of the Kings are worth the extra splurge, this guide helps you choose the best Valley of the Kings tomb for an unforgettable experience.

Understanding Your Valley of the Kings Ticket

Before we dive into the best tombs to visit in Valley of the Kings, you need to understand how ticketing works — because this is where most visitors make mistakes.

Your standard entry ticket to the Valley of the Kings costs approximately 750 EGP (around $15–16 USD) and allows entry to three tombs of your choice. With over 60 tombs in the valley and around 18–20 open at any one time, that "simple" rule suddenly becomes a stressful decision. The selection changes — typically 8–12 tombs are open on any given day.

Key things to know:

• Your ticket gets stamped each time you enter a tomb — lose it, and you may need to buy a new one
• Some tombs cost extra on top of your standard ticket
• You need a plan before you walk in, or you'll waste your precious entries on the wrong tombs

For many travelers, the best tombs to visit in Valley of the Kings are a combination of the included tombs and one or two extra ticket tombs. The golden rule: decide your three before you enter.

The Best Tombs to Visit in Valley of the Kings — Top Picks

1. KV9 — Ramesses VI (The Best Value Extra Ticket)

KV9, the tomb of Ramesses V and Ramesses VI, is widely considered the best tomb to visit in Valley of the Kings for the price. This is the most popular and most worthwhile tomb to enter at an extra cost.

Why it's one of the best Valley of the Kings tombs:

• One of the largest and most spectacular tombs in the valley
• Corridors stretch 104 metres deep into the cliff
• Every surface is covered with texts from the Book of the Gates, the Book of Caverns, and the Book of the Heavens
• The astronomical ceiling in the burial chamber — a map of the night sky painted 3,200 years ago — is among the most astonishing things you will see in Egypt
• The murals are exquisite, colorful, and without glass protection
• The ceiling murals are stunning

Fun fact: Ramesses VI's tomb was built over Tutankhamun's, which is partly why Tutankhamun's tomb survived — the rubble from KV9's excavation buried the entrance to KV62 for centuries.

Cost: 220 EGP (approximately $4.50–$5 USD)

Best for: The best value extra ticket. If you only pay for one extra tomb, make it this one.

2. KV62 — Tutankhamun (The Most Famous Tomb)

KV62 is the most famous tomb in Egypt, and arguably the world. Howard Carter discovered it largely intact in 1922 — the only royal tomb in the valley to survive looters with most of its treasures still in place.

What makes it one of the top Valley of the Kings tombs:

• The tomb is modest in size — Tutankhamun died young (around 18–19) and his burial was hastily prepared
• The mummy of Tutankhamun still rests in its original stone sarcophagus
• The wall paintings show vivid scenes of the king's journey to the afterlife in extraordinary colour
• The golden coffin is now at the Grand Egyptian Museum in Cairo, but the tomb, the mummy, and the experience are unlike anything else in the valley

Cost: 400 EGP (approximately $8–10 USD)

Best for: History enthusiasts and anyone who wants to see the tomb of the world's most famous pharaoh. For many, this is a must-see tomb in Valley of the Kings.

3. KV17 — Seti I (The Finest Tomb in the Valley)

KV17, the tomb of Seti I, is the longest, deepest, and most beautifully decorated tomb in the Valley of the Kings. One of the great achievements of Egyptian art, this cathedral-like tomb is the finest in the Valley of the Kings.

Why it's among the best Valley of the Kings tombs:

• The 137-metre-long tomb is the longest and deepest of all the tombs
• The first tomb to be decorated with a complete program of religious texts
• The elegant painted scenes and reliefs are of exquisite quality
• Features ten rooms and seven corridors with polychrome reliefs of excellent quality
• Known as the "Pharaoh's Starry Ceiling"

Cost: 1,000 EGP (approximately $20–22 USD) — the most expensive extra ticket in the valley

Best for: Travelers who want the absolute finest tomb in the valley and are willing to pay for it. Long closed to visitors, it is now reopened — money well spent.

4. KV11 — Ramesses III (The Longest Tomb)

KV11, the tomb of Ramesses III, is the longest tomb in the valley at 185 metres.

What makes it one of the best tombs to visit in Valley of the Kings:

• The tomb is very deep and long, with colorful reliefs featuring traditional ritual texts and snake elements
• Protected by glass
• The mural of the blind harpist is very famous
• Maze-like side chambers offer a real sense of adventure

Cost: Included in standard ticket

Best for: Travelers who want to experience the sheer scale of royal burials.

5. KV2 — Ramesses IV (The Best Introduction)

KV2, the tomb of Ramesses IV, is widely recognized as a "must-visit" trio member.

Why it's a top Valley of the Kings tomb:

• One of the best-preserved tombs, with bright and clear paintings on the walls and ceiling
• An excellent choice for a first visit
• The murals are well-preserved and vividly colored, making it the perfect introduction
• The closest and most crowded free tomb from the entrance, the chamber is not large, the lighting is very good, and the colors are vivid
• Highly recommended by many guides

Cost: Included in standard ticket

Best for: First-time visitors and those wanting well-preserved artwork without extra cost.

6. KV6 — Ramesses IX (The Accessible Option)

KV6, the tomb of Ramesses IX, is another excellent included tomb.

Why it's among the best Valley of the Kings tombs:

• The murals are intact with strong color contrasts
• Features a unique blue and yellow starry sky
• One of the more accessible tombs, with a relatively short corridor and a well-preserved burial chamber

Cost: Included in standard ticket

Best for: Those wanting an accessible tomb with beautiful ceiling artwork.

7. KV8 — Merenptah (The Hidden Gem)

KV8, the tomb of Merenptah (son of Ramesses II), is highly recommended by local guides.

What makes it one of the top Valley of the Kings tombs:

• The entrance is steep, resembling a deep, endless time tunnel
• Although the murals are severely damaged, the tomb's structure is very standard
• Passes through descending corridors, halls, and shafts, finally reaching the huge red granite sarcophagus chamber

Cost: Included in standard ticket

Best for: Those interested in tomb architecture and structure.

8. KV14 — Tausert & Setnakht (The Quiet Double Tomb)

KV14 is a relatively large and deep double tomb at the end of the Valley of the Kings.

Why it's one of the best Valley of the Kings tombs for peace seekers:

• Fewer visitors and dimmer lighting
• A double tomb used by two pharaohs
• Offers a quieter, more atmospheric experience

Cost: Included in standard ticket

Best for: Travelers wanting to escape the crowds.

The Best Valley of the Kings Tomb Combinations

Based on expert recommendations and real visitor experiences, here are the best combinations for your three included tombs:

The "Must-See" Trio (Included Tombs):

• KV2 (Ramesses IV) — well-preserved and vividly colored
• KV6 (Ramesses IX) — intact murals with a unique starry sky
• KV11 (Ramesses III) — large scale with exquisite murals

The Strategy Guide Recommendation:

• KV2 → KV8 → KV11 — Best 3 included tombs
• Add KV9 as your extra ticket (save it for last)

The Simple Recommendation:

• If you have a general ticket (3 tombs): Choose KV11, KV2, and KV8
• If you want to add one extra ticket: Add KV9 (best art for the price)

Mobility-Friendly Picks:

• KV2 + KV6 + KV9 — These tombs are more accessible than others

Valley of the Kings Ticket Prices 2026

Here's what you need to know about ticket prices for the Valley of the Kings in 2026:

The Standard Entry ticket costs 750 EGP (approximately $15–16 USD) and includes entry to three tombs of your choice.

Extra ticket tombs:

• KV62 — Tutankhamun: 400 EGP (~$8–10 USD)
• KV9 — Ramesses VI: 220 EGP (~$4.50–5 USD)
• KV17 — Seti I: 1,000 EGP (~$20–22 USD) — when open

Prices are estimates based on mid‑2026 exchange rates and may change. Always check current prices at the ticket office.

Best Time to Visit the Valley of the Kings

The best time to visit the Valley of the Kings is early morning — arrive at 6:00 AM when the gates open. This helps you beat the crowds and enjoy a much quieter visit.

Why early morning:

• Cooler temperatures — the valley has very little shade
• Best light for photography (where permitted)
• Fewer group tours — most arrive between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM

Best months: October to April offers the most comfortable temperatures for exploring the valley. Summer months (June–August) can be extremely hot — the valley is exposed and temperatures regularly exceed 40°C.

Tips for Visiting the Valley of the Kings Tombs

1. Arrive early — 6:00 AM is the sweet spot. You'll have the tombs almost to yourself for the first hour.
2. Plan your three tombs in advance — Know which tombs you want to visit before you arrive. The selection changes, but the highlights (KV9, KV11, KV6, KV2) are usually open. Decide your 3 before you enter.
3. Budget for extra tickets — If you want to see Tutankhamun's tomb, Seti I's tomb, or KV9, factor in the additional cost. KV9 is the best value extra ticket.
4. Bring plenty of water — There is very little shade in the valley, and the walk between tombs adds up.
5. Wear comfortable shoes — The ground is uneven, and many tombs have steep stairs. KV8 has a particularly steep entrance.
6. Sun protection is essential — Hat, sunglasses, and high‑SPF sunscreen are non‑negotiable.
7. Consider a guide — The Valley of the Kings is layered with meaning that is invisible without explanation. A licensed Egyptologist guide transforms the experience. For more on guide costs, check out our guide to Luxor tour guide prices .
8. Allow 2–3 hours for the valley alone — 5–6 hours for a full West Bank day that includes the Valley of the Queens, Hatshepsut's temple, and the Colossi of Memnon.
9. Respect the site — Do not touch the wall paintings. The oils from your skin damage the ancient pigments.
10. Bring small change for tips — Guides, drivers, and site staff appreciate tips for good service.
11. Consider the shuttle bus — There is some distance from the main gate to the tomb entrances. You can spend 20 EGP on a shuttle bus round trip to save time and energy.
12. Bring cooling gear — The tomb chambers are not ventilated; it can get really stuffy when crowded.

Plan Your Valley of the Kings Visit with Tour Guides Egypt

The Valley of the Kings is one of the most extraordinary places on earth — a narrow desert valley that holds the secrets of Egypt's most powerful pharaohs. The best tombs to visit in Valley of the Kings are not just holes in the ground; they are 3,300‑year‑old illustrated guides to the afterlife, covered in some of the finest art ever created. But the valley can be overwhelming. Sixty‑three tombs. A rotating selection of open tombs. Extra tickets for the most famous ones. The heat, the crowds, the steep stairs. Without a plan, you can easily waste time and miss the best parts.

That's where having the right local partner makes all the difference.

Tour Guides Egypt connects you with trusted local professionals who know the Valley of the Kings inside out. Our Local Tour Guides are licensed Egyptologists who bring the tombs to life — decoding the texts from the Book of the Dead, explaining the symbolism of the astronomical ceilings, and pointing out details you would never notice on your own. They can help you choose the best Valley of the Kings tomb based on what's open on the day of your visit, saving you time and money. Our Tour Representatives handle logistics — tickets, transfers, and timing — so you can focus on the experience. And when you need to move between the valley and other West Bank sites, our Private Drivers provide comfortable, reliable transportation.

For travelers who want to combine the Valley of the Kings with other Luxor highlights — the Karnak Temple Complex , Luxor attractions , and a hot air balloon ride over Luxor — we can help you design a comprehensive itinerary. You can also plan a tailor-made Egypt trip that combines the valley with Cairo, Aswan, and the Nile.

Ready to explore the Valley of the Kings? Reach out to us on [WhatsApp] for instant support — our team is ready to answer your questions about the best tombs to visit in Valley of the Kings, customize your itinerary, and turn your Egyptian dream into reality. The tombs of the pharaohs are waiting — and we're here to help you discover them.

Frequently Asked Questions about The Best Tombs to Visit in Valley of the Kings

Q: What are the best tombs to visit in Valley of the Kings?
A: The best tombs to visit in Valley of the Kings include KV9 (Ramesses VI) for the best value extra ticket, KV62 (Tutankhamun) for historical significance, KV11 (Ramesses III) for its length, KV2 (Ramesses IV) for well-preserved artwork, and KV6 (Ramesses IX) for its accessible beauty.

Q: Which Valley of the Kings tombs are included in the standard ticket?
A: Your standard ticket allows entry to three tombs of your choice. The top included tombs are KV2 (Ramesses IV), KV6 (Ramesses IX), KV8 (Merenptah), KV11 (Ramesses III), and KV14 (Tausert & Setnakht).

Q: What is the best tomb to visit in Valley of the Kings for the price?
A: KV9 (Ramesses VI) is widely considered the best value tomb. At 220 EGP, you get one of the largest and most spectacular tombs in the valley with an astonishing astronomical ceiling.

Q: How much does it cost to visit the Valley of the Kings?
A: The standard entry ticket costs 750 EGP (~$15–16) and includes three tombs. Extra tickets cost 400 EGP for Tutankhamun, 220 EGP for Ramesses VI, and 1,000 EGP for Seti I.

Q: Is Tutankhamun's tomb worth the extra cost?
A: The tomb itself is modest in size — Tutankhamun died young and his burial was hastily prepared. But the atmosphere is electric. The mummy still rests in its original sarcophagus. For history enthusiasts, it's absolutely worth the extra ticket.

Q: Which Valley of the Kings tomb is the largest?
A: KV11 (Ramesses III) is the longest tomb in the valley at 185 metres. However, KV17 (Seti I) is the deepest at 137 metres.

Q: Which tomb has the best-preserved artwork?
A: KV2 (Ramesses IV) has some of the best-preserved murals, with bright and clear paintings. For the finest reliefs, KV17 (Seti I) is considered the best in the valley.

Q: What is the best time to visit the Valley of the Kings?
A: The best time to visit is early morning at 6:00 AM when the gates open. This helps you beat the crowds, avoid the midday heat, and get the best light for photography.

Q: How many tombs are there in the Valley of the Kings?
A: There are 63 known tombs in the Valley of the Kings, with approximately 18–20 open at any one time.

Q: Do I need a guide to visit the Valley of the Kings?
A: While it's possible to visit independently, a licensed Egyptologist guide transforms the experience. The Valley of the Kings is layered with meaning that is invisible without explanation. For more on guide costs, check out our guide to Luxor tour guide prices .

Q: Is the Valley of the Kings worth visiting?
A: Absolutely. The Valley of the Kings is one of the most extraordinary archaeological sites on Earth. The painted walls inside the tombs are among the finest surviving works of ancient Egyptian civilisation.

Q: Can I take photos inside the Valley of the Kings tombs?
A: Photography is generally banned inside the tombs. No flash photography is permitted. Phone photos without flash may be allowed in some tombs — always check with your guide or site staff.