Colossi of Memnon: Your Complete Luxor Travel Guide

A Complete Guide to Visiting the Colossi of Memnon in Luxor: History, Accommodation, Tours, and Travel Tips for an Unforgettable Experience.

When I first saw them, the two giant statues stood tall amidst the desert expanse of Luxor, Egypt. The whispering wind seemed to carry echoes of ancient stories from thousands of years ago. That was my experience visiting the Colossi of Memnon—two massive stone statues that captivate the imagination and are silent witnesses to Ancient Egypt’s grandeur.

The Colossi of Memnon are a pair of colossal stone statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III, built around 1350 BCE. These statues once marked the entrance to the grand mortuary temple of the pharaoh, which now lies mostly in ruins. What makes them unique is their colossal size and the “singing” phenomenon once reported in the past. In this guide, I’ll share detailed information about their history, travel logistics, valuable tips, and my personal experiences to help you make your visit to one of Luxor’s most fascinating historical sites truly unforgettable. Let’s dive into the majesty of the past and feel the mysterious aura of the Colossi of Memnon.

Accommodation Options Near Luxor

Finding the right place to stay is key to enjoying your trip to Luxor, especially if you plan to explore West Bank sites like the Colossi of Memnon. There’s a wide range of accommodations—from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses—each with charm. During my trip, I learned how important it was to choose a strategically located hotel to make it easier to access the main attractions.

I stayed at various types of hotels in Luxor, from upscale to modest lodgings, to experience different atmospheres. The hotel’s proximity to historical sites like the Colossi of Memnon and the availability of local amenities were my top priorities.

Luxury Hotels

Luxor offers some outstanding options if you’re looking for a memorable stay with a touch of luxury.

• Sofitel Winter Palace: This colonial-style historic hotel symbolises luxury in Luxor. With breathtaking views of the Nile River and lush gardens, staying here feels like stepping back into a glorious past. I remember enjoying afternoon tea on the terrace overlooking the Nile, feeling the gentle breeze and seeing the city lights twinkling across the river.
• Al Moudira Hotel: This boutique hotel features authentic Arabian architecture and a tranquil atmosphere on the West Bank. Far from the city’s hustle and bustle, it’s the perfect place to relax after exploring ancient sites. I loved the intricate interior design and the refreshing swimming pool.

Mid-Range Hotels

There are plenty of great mid-range hotel options for modern comfort at more affordable rates.

• Steigenberger Achti: This hotel is located along the Nile River and offers modern conveniences with beautiful views. I enjoyed having breakfast at their riverside restaurant—it was a perfect way to start a day of adventure.
• Pyramisa Hotel: Conveniently located in the heart of Luxor, this hotel offers easy access to local markets and the Luxor Temple. It features full facilities and is an excellent choice for families.

Budget-Friendly Options

Luxor’s West Bank hides some hidden gems that offer an authentic experience for travellers on a tight budget.

New Memnon Hotel: Located just a short walk from the Colossi of Memnon, this hotel is convenient. The rooms are simple but clean, and the friendly staff made my stay enjoyable. I often walked to the colossal statues in the early morning to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere without the crowds.

Marsam Hotel Luxor: This historic inn offers an authentic Egyptian countryside vibe. The owner is incredibly welcoming, and staying there felt like visiting a family home.

Habu Hotel Ecolodge: This eco-conscious option offers a unique stay in the middle of the countryside. I loved the serenity and closeness to nature—such a refreshing contrast to the hustle and bustle of the city.

Nour El Gourna: Located in the village of Gourna, this place offers a chance to experience local life and interact with the residents. My stay here gave me a new perspective on everyday life in Egypt.

Choosing the right accommodation can significantly impact your travel experience in Luxor. Be sure to consider location, amenities, and your budget before deciding. Luxor has something for every traveller, from luxury hotels overlooking the Nile to humble guesthouses near historic sites like the Colossi of Memnon.

Facts & History of the Colossi of Memnon

Seeing the Colossi of Memnon up close is an awe-inspiring experience. I still remember how small I felt standing at the feet of these massive statues, trying to imagine what life was like during the reign of Pharaoh Amenhotep III. These statues aren’t just ancient stone monuments—they’re windows into a mysterious and wondrous past.

The Colossi of Memnon were built around 1350 BCE during the reign of Pharaoh Amenhotep III of the 18th Dynasty. Initially, the two statues stood proudly at the entrance of his grand and magnificent mortuary temple. Unfortunately, the temple was destroyed mainly by floods from the Nile and earthquakes over the millennia. However, the Colossi of Memnon still stand tall today, serving as eternal reminders of the grandeur of ancient Egyptian architecture.

Size and Materials

These statues are truly colossal. Each one stands about 18 meters tall (around 59 feet) and is estimated to weigh around 720 tons. Imagine how challenging it must have been to move massive stones without modern technology! They were carved from quartzite sandstone at el-Gabal el-Ahmar, near modern-day Cairo—about 700 kilometres (435 miles) north of Luxor. I often wonder how the ancient engineers transported and erected such gigantic structures with incredible precision. It’s a testament to their remarkable skill and knowledge.

The “Singing” Phenomenon

One of the most fascinating aspects of the Colossi of Memnon is the unique phenomenon reported in ancient times. The northern statue, known as the “Singing Colossus,” was said to emit a “singing” or “moaning” sound at dawn. This story drew the attention of Roman emperors and travellers from across the ancient world. I can only imagine what it must have felt like to hear that mysterious sound in the early morning, perhaps like a whisper from the past.

Experts believe temperature changes and the evaporation of morning dew from cracks in the stone likely caused the sound. As the sun rose, the cool stone would heat up, and the dew would evaporate, creating a unique resonating sound. Although this phenomenon ceased after the statue was repaired by Roman Emperor Septimius Severus in the 3rd century CE (he unintentionally sealed the cracks that caused the sound), the tale of the “Singing Colossus” remains an inseparable part of the Colossi of Memnon’s allure.

Its rich history and rare acoustic phenomenon make it one of Egypt’s most fascinating must-visit sites.

Standing there, I imagined how the ancient people must have heard the statue’s “song.” Was it considered a message from the gods? Or simply a stunning natural marvel? When reflecting on such a deeply historical place, these questions often come to mind. The Colossi of Memnon are more than just statues—they’re guardians of history, telling stories of power, faith, and human brilliance that stand the test of time.

Entrance Fee

One of the best things about visiting the Colossi of Memnon is how easily accessible and completely free it is. As of 2025, there is no entrance fee to visit the Colossi of Memnon. It is excellent news for travellers exploring historic sites without worrying about their budget.

This site is one of the few historical landmarks in Egypt that you can enjoy without spending a dime, allowing you to save money for other attractions or souvenirs. I truly appreciate that the Egyptian government has maintained free access to this site, making it possible for more people to experience the grandeur of these ancient statues. It also means you can take your time admiring the statues, snapping photos, and reflecting on their history without the pressure of time or cost. This freedom creates a more relaxed and enriching experience.

How to Get There

Getting to the Colossi of Memnon is part of the adventure itself. Located on the West Bank of the Nile River in Luxor, there are several ways to reach the site depending on where you’re starting and your travel preferences. Based on my experience, planning your transportation is key to a smooth and efficient visit.

From Cairo to Luxor

If you’re starting your journey in Cairo, there are two main options for getting to Luxor:

• By Air: This is the fastest and most convenient way. Flights from Cairo to Luxor usually take around 1 hour. Several domestic airlines operate this route. I chose this option to save time and maximise my stay in Luxor. As you land in Luxor, the view from the plane is also spectacular, with desert landscapes and the lush green Nile Valley stretching below.
• By Train: An overnight train from Cairo to Luxor is an excellent option for those who want a more authentic travel experience and have more time. The journey takes around 9 hours, and sleeper trains are available, offering a unique travel experience. I’ve tried the night train before, and although it takes longer, I enjoyed watching the Egyptian countryside transform as the sun rose.

Within Luxor

Once you arrive in Luxor, the Colossi of Memnon are located on the West Bank of the Nile River. There are several ways to get to the site from downtown Luxor on the East Bank:

• Hiring a Local Driver: This is one of the most popular and convenient ways to explore the West Bank. You can hire a taxi or a private car for the whole day. These drivers usually offer tour packages to various sites on the West Bank, including the Colossi of Memnon, the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Hatshepsut, and more. I highly recommend this option because local drivers often act as informal guides, sharing interesting insights about the area. Plus, you have the flexibility to set your schedule.
• Arranging Transport Through Your Hotel: Many hotels in Luxor offer transportation services or can help you book a taxi or tour with a driver. It is convenient if you don’t want the hassle of finding transport. Just be sure to confirm the price in advance.
• Including it in a Day Tour: The most efficient option is to include the Colossi of Memnon as part of a full-day organised tour of Luxor’s West Bank. Many tour operators offer packages that include transportation, a guide, and visits to significant sites. More on that in the next section.

I often use a combination of private drivers for flexibility and organised tours for specific sites. It lets me see more without worrying about transport logistics. It’s also noteworthy that bargaining is common in Egypt, so don’t hesitate to negotiate with taxi drivers. With some planning, your trip to the Colossi of Memnon can be smooth and enjoyable.

Best Tours for Visiting the Colossi of Memnon

Visiting the Colossi of Memnon is a fantastic experience, and the best way to make the most of your visit is by joining an organised tour. Tours not only provide convenient transportation but also give you valuable insight from expert guides. A tour is both efficient and informative, especially if you’re looking to explore multiple sites on Luxor’s West Bank in one day.

Benefits of Joining a Guided Tour

There are several significant advantages to choosing a tour for the Colossi of Memnon and the surrounding sites:

• Hassle-Free Transport: Tour guides arrange all your transport—from hotel pickup to shuttles between sites. It eliminates the stress of finding taxis or haggling over prices, letting you focus on the experience.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Licensed Egyptian guides are well-versed in history, culture, and ancient architecture. They provide deep context and can answer your questions, bringing each site to life. I still remember how vividly my guide explained the legend of the Colossi’s “singing” sound, making me feel as if I were there in ancient times.
• Efficient Touring: Tours are designed to maximise your time, ensuring you see all the major sites without feeling rushed. A well-organised itinerary helps you make the most of your day.

Private vs. Group Tours

You can choose between a private or group tour, depending on your budget and preferences:

• Private Tours: Offer a more personal and flexible experience. You can customise your schedule and choose the sites that interest you most. Your guide focuses exclusively on you and your group, allowing deeper interaction. It is my go-to option for a deeper dive into a particular site or when I have specific questions.
• Group Tours are usually more affordable and a good way to meet fellow travellers. While the schedule is more fixed, group tours still provide an educational and enjoyable experience.

Sites Often Combined with the Colossi of Memnon

Most tours to Luxor’s West Bank include the Colossi of Memnon along with other key historical sites, giving you a well-rounded look at ancient Egyptian history and architecture:

• Valley of the Kings: The burial site of pharaohs from the New Kingdom, featuring elaborately decorated tombs—including the famous tomb of Tutankhamun.
• Valley of the Queens: The burial place for queens and royal children, home to the beautifully painted Tomb of Nefertari.
• Karnak Temple: The second-largest temple complex in the world, dedicated to the god Amun. The sheer scale of the place is breathtaking—I could spend hours wandering among its towering columns and ancient carvings.
• Luxor Temple: Located in the city’s heart, this temple is magnificent when lit up at night.
• Temple of Hatshepsut (Deir el-Bahari): A superb mortuary temple carved into the cliffs, dedicated to one of Egypt’s few female pharaohs.

Recommended Tour Providers

Several reputable platforms offer a variety of tours in Luxor, including visits to the Colossi of Memnon:

• Viator: This platform offers a wide range of tours with customer reviews to help you choose the best fit. I often use Viator to find tours that match my interests.
• GetYourGuide: Similar to Viator, GetYourGuide provides various tour options with detailed information and transparent pricing.

Choosing the right tour can significantly enhance your experience in Luxor. Read reviews, compare prices, and select a tour that fits your interests and travel style. Visiting the Colossi of Memnon and other incredible Luxor sites with the right tour will become an unforgettable adventure.

Wrap-up

After exploring every corner of the Colossi of Memnon and the magnificent sites of Luxor, I can confidently say this journey is a life-changing experience. Standing before these towering ancient statues, feeling the desert breeze, and imagining life thousands of years ago truly transported me back to the golden age of Ancient Egypt. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone fascinated by history, architecture, or the mysteries of ancient civilisations.

The Colossi of Memnon aren’t just two statues—they are guardians of time, preserving stories from the reign of Pharaoh Amenhotep III and the fascinating “singing” phenomenon that once captivated travellers. With its strategic location on Luxor’s West Bank and free entry, it’s an ideal stop on any travel itinerary. Pairing your visit to the Colossi with nearby highlights like the Valley of the Kings and Temple of Hatshepsut offers a deep and comprehensive historical experience.

I highly recommend planning your visit carefully—consider suitable accommodations for your budget and joining a guided tour for added convenience and insights. Always bring plenty of water, a hat, and sunscreen, as the Egyptian sun can be intense. In the end, the Colossi of Memnon are a timeless reminder of the brilliance and grandeur of ancient Egypt. Your visit will enrich your understanding and leave a lasting impression that stays with you long after the trip ends. Make your journey to Luxor a magical adventure back in time!