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Exploring the Ramesseum ruins in Egypt

Not yet published by Vanessa Boiser

Country: Egypt

The Experience

The Ramesseum Ruins in Egypt, located in the Valley of Kings, is the burial place of King Ramses II, who ruled for 67 years. Under Ramses II's rule, Egypt experienced prosperity and opulence and it is no wonder that The Ramesseum ruins in Egypt was one of the grandest burial sites in the area. Unfortunately, the place where the Pharoah's tomb is constructed is most vulnerable to flooding and looting so that presently, the tomb is mostly damaged. Efforts are being done to restore it back to its original grandeur. Just recently, there was a report of forestalled thievery in the Ramesseum ruins in Egypt which includes a granite bust of the much-loved Pharoah. The Ramesseum ruins in Egypt can be easily identified for the 17-meter statue of the Pharoah. It was said that it took 20 years to build the grand tomb since Ramses II was installed as the ruler of the land.

When to Go

The best time to visit the Ramesseum ruins in Egypt is during winter, preferably in November to January when the temperature is not very hot and it is less uncomfortable to explore the tomb. The advantage of going to the Ramesseum ruins in Egypt, especially in the early morning is there are less people who explore the area because there is little to see inside the tomb since most of it is harmed by the looters and the flooding. But the good news is it offers a respite from the herd of tourists because less people come to explore the tomb. Moreover, you will still be able to marvel at the architectural feat done outside the tomb because everything was done in the grandest scale. Also, it is likely that you will visit a few more tombs instead of just exploring the Ramesseum ruins in Egypt. This is usually because a pre-arranged tour to the Valley of the Kings is given as a package of at least three burial sites. A pre-planned tour to the Ramesseum ruins in Egypt is more advisable than going on your own so you will not fall prey to people who just show up and give you an unsolicited tour in exchange for baksheesh (tip).

Odds n' Ends

To prepare you for your visit to the Ramesseum ruins in Egypt, you must first ensure that it is safe to travel to Egypt. Presently, the atmosphere in the Valley of the Kings is relatively peaceful. However, check with your embassy for a travel review against going to Cairo. If the atmosphere is found to be pleasant and fit for travel, book a hotel in Cairo and don’t forget to ask about pre-arranged tours with a guide or just a car to the Ramesseum ruins. Hotels in Cairo provide excellent service at more affordable prices compared to other popular tourist destinations. Going in the winter or at peak season will be a bit more expensive but truly worth it. Men and women should dress conservatively to prevent offending Egyptians. Leave your shorts and sleeveless at home, unless you are going to visit a beach or a resort and wear comfortable shoes that won’t melt on the hot asphalt and sand. If you are going to bring a camera, ask your tour operator to avail a permit for you to take pictures along with the tickets to the Ramesseum ruins in Egypt. Don’t forget to bring a flashlight to help you see inside the tomb. Make sure to bring Egyptian pounds for tipping. 5E£ is a fair enough tip for people who are extra helpful. ATMs and credit cards are widely accepted in Cairo and if you are going to the Ramesseum ruins in Egypt on a Friday, withdraw money beforehand since most of the banks and other establishments will be closed. Do not forget to rehydrate to prevent yourself from getting exhausted. Finally, have fun and enjoy your trip! Here is a nice hotel where you can spend your holiday in Egypt:

Four Seasons Hotel Cairo (Nile Plaza)
Maglis El Shaab, Garden City, Cairo 11519, Egypt
Tel.: 20(2)2791-6900
Website: http://www.fourseasons.com/cairo/?source=tacairoblhotel

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Language Guides

Arabic , Italian are some of the languages spoken in Egypt. If you know of a freely available phrase book or podcast for one of the missing languages, let us know!

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