Colossi of Memnon Travel Guide
The Colossi of Memnon are two giant statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III that sit near Luxor, Egypt. There’s some fascinating history behind these impressive monuments, and they’re incredibly easy to combine with nearby tourist sites like the Valley of the Queens or Hatshepsut Temple. This travel guide will explore how to get there and everything you need to know before you visit!
Where To Stay
Facts & History – The Colossi Of Memnon
The Colossi of Memnon were two grand statues that were once the guardians of King Amenhotep III’s tomb, situated near the Valley of the Queens. This former temple was considered the largest in the ancient world, even surpassing Karnak.
Constructed in 1350 BC, these statues stand approximately 20 meters (60 feet) tall. Although an earthquake in 1200 BC destroyed the main tomb, the statues continue to stand strong!
Each statue weighs around 650 metric tons, offering excellent photographic opportunities against the backdrop of mountains and desert.
While there may not be extensive sights here, visiting the Colossi of Memnon remains a meaningful experience!
Entrance Fee
The entrance is FREE as of 2024, with no ticket or fee required.
How To Get There
The Colossi of Memnon statues are located on the west bank of the Nile River, on the outskirts of Luxor, Egypt. You can take a flight from Cairo International Airport (CAI) to Luxor airport (LXR), which takes approximately 1 hour and costs around $90 USD or less. Alternatively, consider the scenic option of a 9-hour train ride for about $10.
After arriving in Luxor, finding a driver to transport you to the Colossi and nearby attractions is easy, or your hotel can typically arrange this service for you.
Best Colossi Of Memnon Tours
If you prefer the convenience of a guided tour, several reputable companies offer excursions to the Colossi and other notable Luxor sites. For instance, you can check out this Luxor day tour package, which covers either the West Bank or East Bank and includes popular attractions like the Colossi of Memnon, Luxor Temple, Valley of the Kings/Queens, Karnak Temple, and more.
We’ve utilized this company for numerous tours globally, and they have proven to be excellent. They come highly recommended!
More Egypt Travel Tips
Thank you for exploring this guide! We hope these travel tips for visiting the Colossi of Memnon in Luxor, Egypt, have been helpful.
Be sure to check out the Egypt Travel Guide and a comprehensive list of the best things to do in Egypt!