Visiting Luxor responsibly

Before you go

Look closely without touching. Painted plaster, carved stone and mud brick can all be damaged by contact, climbing or repeated wear. Keep bags and clothing clear of walls, stay behind barriers and follow instructions about photography.

Conservation is more complex than a single cause. At Nefertari’s tomb, salt crystallisation and changes in moisture have damaged plaster and paint over a long period. Visitor activity can add pressure, but not every loss is recent or caused by tourists. Nor should an extra admission charge be treated as proof of a particular conservation policy.

Do not buy or accept objects offered as genuine antiquities. Choose clearly modern work instead, ask where it was made and keep receipts. If you need legal guidance about an object, obtain it from the relevant authorities before buying or travelling with it.

Respect the city’s everyday life. Ask before photographing people, dress respectfully at places of worship and stay out of private fields and homes unless invited. These courtesies apply to everyone.

You are free to decline a sales offer or service. Agree a price and scope before accepting, and leave a situation if you feel uncomfortable. Respect for local livelihoods does not require accepting pressure or unwanted attention.

Where possible, choose businesses and craftspeople whose work you want to support. Responsible travel is a series of small, practical choices, not a test of whether you have followed one perfect itinerary.