Avenue of Sphinxes

Overview

The Avenue of Sphinxes in Luxor is a historic pathway lined with over 1,350 sphinx statues, connecting the Luxor Temple and the Karnak Temple. This ancient road, originally built during the reign of Nectanebo I, is a testament to the grandeur of ancient Thebes.

The Avenue of Sphinxes is a significant archaeological site that offers insights into the religious and cultural practices of ancient Egypt. It served as a ceremonial route for major religious festivals and processions.

Historical Archaeological

Location

Address

Luxor City, Luxor

Neighborhood: East Bank

Coordinates

25.698400, 32.638900

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM

tuesday 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM

wednesday 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM

thursday 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM

friday 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM

saturday 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM

sunday 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Admission

Adults

EGP 140

Children

EGP 70

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

October-May

Best Time of Day

Early morning

Less crowded, cooler temperatures, and better lighting for photography

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1 hour

Recommended

2-3 hours

Full Experience

Half day with Karnak and Luxor Temples

Seasonal Highlights

spring

Mild to warm

• Spring festivals
• Blooming flowers

summer

Hot and dry

• Extended evening hours

autumn

Warm to mild

• Cooling temperatures
• Harvest season

winter

Cool to mild

• Winter tourist season

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book tickets in advance
Dress modestly
Bring plenty of water and sunscreen

What to Bring

essential

Passport or ID Water bottle Tickets Comfortable shoes

seasonal

Light jacket (winter) Umbrella (rarely needed) Sunglasses

not allowed

Large bags or backpacks Drones

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Moderate (walking on uneven surfaces)

• Stay hydrated
• Protect yourself from the sun

Medical facilities: Basic first aid available at the site

Payment Information

Accepted

Cash (Egyptian pounds), Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard)

Currency

Egyptian Pound (EGP)

Typical Costs

entry EGP 140

parking EGP 20

food EGP 50-100

souvenirs EGP 20-500

Dress Code

Modest clothing (shoulders and knees covered), Comfortable walking shoes and breathable clothing, Sandals or walking shoes, Revealing clothing

Booking Tips

• At least 1-2 days in advance
• Official website or authorized tour operators
• 48 hours in advance for a full refund
• Available for online ticket purchases

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Luxor Guide

Size: 45 MB

Features: Interactive map, Audio guide, Ticket booking, Historical information

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafes

Charging Stations: Visitor center, Cafes

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Luxor International Airport

Distance: 10 km

Travel Time: 20 minutes

taxi

EGP 100-150 20 min

public_transport

EGP 20 30 min

From City Center

Distance: 2 km

taxi

EGP 30-50 10 min

bus

EGP 10 15 min

walking

25 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: The Avenue of Sphinxes is a symbol of Luxor's rich history and cultural heritage. It's a source of pride for locals and a reminder of the city's ancient past.

Historical Significance: The avenue was a ceremonial route used for major religious festivals and processions in ancient Thebes. It connected the major temples of Luxor and Karnak, symbolizing the unity of the city's religious and political centers.

Insider Tips

Visit the avenue early in the morning for a peaceful experience before the crowds arrive
The best local food can be found in small cafes and street stalls near the avenue
Local guides often share fascinating stories and insights that you won't find in guidebooks

Local Recommendations

• Try local street food like koshari
• Visit the local market for unique souvenirs
• Ask for a local guide who speaks English

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Marhaba

thank_you Shukran

where_is Wayn

how_much Kam

beautiful Helwa

ticket Tikyet

Guide Languages: Arabic, English, French, German

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Main entrance near Luxor Temple

Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon

Tips: Capture the sphinxes lining the avenue with the temple in the background

Result: Iconic shots of the avenue with historical context

#Luxor #AvenueOfSphinxes #Egypt #AncientEgypt #TravelEgypt

Photography Rules

allowed areas All outdoor areas

prohibited areas Restricted archaeological sections

flash photography Allowed in outdoor areas, restricted indoors

commercial photography Permit required for commercial use

drone policy Not allowed without special permission

tripod policy Allowed in designated areas

selfie sticks Allowed

Nearby Attractions

Luxor Temple

Distance: 500m

Walking: 7 min

Type: Temple

Karnak Temple

Distance: 3km

Walking: 40 min

Type: Temple

Luxor Museum

Distance: 1km

Walking: 15 min

Type: Museum

Mummification Museum

Distance: 2km

Walking: 30 min

Type: Museum

Reviews

4.7

Based on 5,000 reviews

Recent Visitor Tips

"Visit early to avoid crowds"
"Hire a local guide for a better experience"
"Bring plenty of water and sunscreen"
"Wear comfortable shoes"

Contact Information

+20 95 227 7547

info@luxortourism.gov.eg

www.luxortourism.gov.eg

Social Media

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