On Monday 2 August 2027, a total solar eclipse will cross southern Egypt, and Luxor sits close to the point of longest totality anywhere on land. For about six and a quarter minutes around 1:00 PM local time, the Moon will cover the Sun completely above the temples of ancient Thebes, the city of the sun god Amun-Ra. It is being called the eclipse of the century, and it is the best reason in decades to plan a summer trip to Egypt.
Why Luxor?
Three things make Luxor special. The length of totality is among the longest of the century. August skies over Upper Egypt are almost always clear, so the chance of clouds is very low. And there is no other place where you can watch a total eclipse with the Karnak temples and the Valley of the Kings around you.
What to expect on the day
The partial phase begins a little after noon, as the Moon starts to bite into the Sun, and lasts more than an hour. As totality approaches, the light turns strange and silvery, the temperature drops and shadows sharpen. Then the Sun disappears: the sky darkens, stars and planets appear, and the Sun’s corona glows around the black disc. After about six minutes the light returns, and the partial phases play out in reverse.
Safety
Look at the Sun only through certified eclipse glasses (ISO 12312-2) during the partial phases. During totality itself, and only then, it is safe to look directly. Cameras and binoculars need proper solar filters. August in Luxor is very hot, often above 40°C (104°F), so plan for shade, water and sun protection.
Planning your trip
Hotels and flights in Luxor will fill up long before August 2027, and Nile cruise boats will be in heavy demand. Book as early as you can. Our 2027 eclipse tours include viewing places in Luxor, flights, 5-star hotels or cruises, and eclipse glasses, combined with Cairo, Aswan or the Red Sea.
