Colossi Of Memnon Entrance Fee: Everything You Need to Know

The Colossi of Memnon, towering giants on Luxor’s West Bank, stand as silent witnesses to millennia of history. These magnificent statues are a must-see for any visitor to Luxor, and understanding the practical aspects of your visit, including whether there’s an entrance fee, is essential for effective trip planning.

In a Nutshell:

• Visiting the Colossi of Memnon is FREE!
• Located on Luxor’s West Bank, easily accessible by taxi, felucca, or tour.
• The site is generally accessible during daylight hours and requires about 30-60 minutes to explore.
• Marvel at the sheer size and historical significance of these ancient guardians.
• Combine your visit with other West Bank attractions like Hatshepsut’s Temple and the Valley of the Kings.

Table of Contents

1. The Good News: No Entrance Fee!
2. Understanding the Location and Accessibility
3. Planning Your Visit: What to Expect
4. A Brief History of the Colossi of Memnon
5. Nearby Attractions: Making the Most of Your West Bank Visit
6. Essential Tips for Visiting the Colossi of Memnon
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The Good News: No Entrance Fee!

The Colossi of Memnon are free to visit! This means you can experience these awe-inspiring statues without having to worry about purchasing a ticket.

Why is there no entrance fee? Unlike many other ancient sites in Egypt, the Colossi of Memnon are located in an open area and don’t have extensive facilities or ongoing excavations requiring funding through entrance fees. They stand as roadside attractions, freely accessible to all who wish to see them. While the Colossi of Memnon entrance fee is nonexistent, remember that other sites in Luxor, such as the magnificent Karnak Temple and the mysterious Valley of the Kings, do require entrance fees, so factor those into your budget.

Understanding the Location and Accessibility

The Colossi of Memnon are situated on the West Bank of the Nile River, a short distance from Luxor. This location places them in the heart of ancient Thebes’ necropolis, surrounded by other significant historical sites.

Getting to the Colossi of Memnon is relatively straightforward:

• Taxi: A taxi is a common and convenient option. Expect to pay around 50-100 EGP (Egyptian Pounds) for a round trip from Luxor, but always negotiate the fare beforehand to avoid surprises.
• Felucca (with onward transportation): Enjoy a scenic felucca ride across the Nile to the West Bank (about 50-80 EGP), then hire a taxi or minibus for the short drive to the Colossi (another 30-50 EGP).
• Organized Tours: Many organized tours of the West Bank include transportation to the Colossi of Memnon as part of their itinerary, offering a hassle-free experience. Check out options at GetYourGuide.
• Rental Car/Bike: Renting a car or bike gives you the freedom to explore the West Bank at your own pace. However, be prepared for traffic and parking challenges. Parking near the Colossi is usually available.

Planning Your Visit: What to Expect

The Colossi of Memnon are generally accessible during daylight hours. While there are no official opening or closing times, it’s best to visit between sunrise and sunset.

Plan to spend about 30-60 minutes at the site. This allows enough time to admire the statues, take photos, and soak in the atmosphere.

What to See: The Colossi are truly impressive in size, standing at approximately 18 meters (60 feet) tall. They are made of quartzite sandstone, and while time and earthquakes have taken their toll, you can still observe details in their form.

Photo Opportunities: The best time for photos is early morning or late afternoon when the light is softer and the crowds are smaller. Capture the Colossi against the backdrop of the Theban mountains for a truly stunning shot.

Facilities: There are limited facilities at the site. You’ll find some vendors selling souvenirs, but restrooms and shade are scarce. Be prepared and bring your own water and sun protection.

Souvenir Shopping (Cautionary): Vendors can be persistent. Negotiate prices firmly or politely decline if you’re not interested. Ethical Considerations: Be mindful of the vendors’ livelihoods but don’t feel pressured to buy anything you don’t want.

A Brief History of the Colossi of Memnon

The Colossi of Memnon were built around 1350 BC during the reign of Pharaoh Amenhotep III. They originally stood guard at the entrance to Amenhotep III’s mortuary temple, a vast complex that has since largely disappeared.

Purpose: The statues depicted Amenhotep III seated on his throne and were intended to impress upon visitors the pharaoh’s power and divinity.

Earthquakes and Damage: In 27 BC, a powerful earthquake severely damaged the Colossi. This led to a peculiar phenomenon: the statues began to “sing” at dawn due to the rising temperatures and evaporating moisture within the cracked stone. This “singing” was attributed to the mythical Greek hero Memnon, son of Eos, the goddess of dawn, who was said to greet his mother each morning.

Roman Restoration: The Roman Emperor Septimius Severus attempted to restore the statues, which silenced the “singing” but preserved the Colossi for future generations.

“Memnon” Association: The association with Memnon highlights the blending of Egyptian and Greek cultures during the Roman period. This led to the site being known as the Colossi of Memnon.

Nearby Attractions: Making the Most of Your West Bank Visit

The Colossi of Memnon serve as an excellent starting point for exploring the other wonders of Luxor’s West Bank.

• Hatshepsut’s Temple (Deir el-Bahri): This unique mortuary temple, dedicated to the female pharaoh Hatshepsut, is a breathtaking architectural marvel built into the cliffs. The entrance fee is approximately 160 EGP, and it’s well worth the visit.
• Valley of the Kings: The final resting place of pharaohs like Tutankhamun, the Valley of the Kings is a must-see. Explore elaborately decorated tombs and delve into ancient Egyptian beliefs about the afterlife. Entrance fees vary depending on the number of tombs you visit (around 240 EGP for three tombs).
• Valley of the Queens: Less crowded and often more budget-friendly than the Valley of the Kings, the Valley of the Queens houses the tombs of royal wives and children.
• Medinet Habu (Mortuary Temple of Ramesses III): Another impressive mortuary temple with well-preserved reliefs and vibrant colors.

The Colossi’s location makes it convenient to create a full day of exploration on the West Bank.

Essential Tips for Visiting the Colossi of Memnon

Planning your visit to the Colossi of Memnon will be enhanced with these tips:

• Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon offers the best lighting for photos and avoids the midday heat.
• What to Wear: Wear modest clothing, comfortable shoes (you’ll be doing some walking), a hat, and sunglasses.
• Sun Protection: The Egyptian sun can be intense. Apply sunscreen liberally and reapply throughout the day.
• Water: Bring plenty of water, especially during the warmer months. Staying hydrated is crucial.
• Respectful Behavior: Show respect for the site and the local people.
• Stay Safe: Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against pickpockets.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Q: Is there an entrance fee to see the Colossi of Memnon?
  • A: No, visiting the Colossi of Memnon is free.
• Q: What is the best way to get to the Colossi of Memnon?
  • A: Taxis are a convenient and affordable option. You can also take a felucca to the West Bank and then hire a taxi. Organized tours include transportation.
• Q: What should I wear when visiting the Colossi of Memnon?
  • A: Wear comfortable, modest clothing, a hat, and sunglasses.
• Q: Are there restrooms or other facilities at the site?
  • A: Facilities are limited. There are vendors selling souvenirs, but restrooms and shade are scarce.
• Q: How much time should I spend at the Colossi of Memnon?
  • A: Plan to spend about 30-60 minutes at the site.
• Q: Can I visit the Colossi of Memnon as part of a larger tour?
  • A: Yes, many tours of the West Bank include the Colossi of Memnon.
• Q: Is it safe to visit the Colossi of Memnon?
  • A: Yes, but be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against pickpockets.

The Colossi of Memnon offer a glimpse into the grandeur of ancient Egypt and the reign of Amenhotep III. Free to visit, easily accessible, and steeped in history, they are an essential stop on any Luxor itinerary. So, plan your visit, pack your bags, and prepare to be amazed by these silent giants! Have you visited the Colossi of Memnon? What was your experience like?