On 2 August 2027, the Moon will cover the Sun completely over southern Egypt. In Luxor, day will turn to night for about 6 minutes and 19 seconds, one of the longest periods of totality anywhere on the path. It is the longest total eclipse seen from land this century, and Luxor, with its clear desert skies and 4,000-year-old temples, is one of the best places on Earth to watch it.
If you have ever wanted to see a total eclipse, this is the one.
Key facts
| Date | Monday, 2 August 2027 |
| Totality in Luxor | about 6 min 19 s |
| Time of totality in Luxor | around 1:02 pm local time |
| Longest totality on the path | about 6 min 23 s |
| Countries on the path | Spain, Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, Egypt, Sudan, Saudi Arabia, Yemen, Somalia |
Times are from Space.com. Exact times vary by a few seconds across the city.
Why Luxor is the best place to watch
- Clear skies: August in Upper Egypt is almost always cloudless, so the chance of a clear view is very high. Coastal sites elsewhere on the path have a greater risk of haze or cloud.
- Long totality: Luxor sits close to the centre line, so totality lasts over six minutes.
- Unforgettable setting: watch the sky go dark over the Valley of the Kings, Karnak or the Nile itself, the same sky the ancient Egyptians worshipped as the realm of the sun god Ra.
Where to watch in Luxor
Popular choices include the West Bank near the Theban hills, the deck of a Nile cruise moored in Luxor, and hotel rooftops facing south. Officials may organise viewing at some archaeological sites. We will confirm the best locations for our groups closer to the date.
Plan for the heat
August in Luxor is hot, often 40°C or more at midday, and the eclipse happens in the early afternoon. Wear a wide-brimmed hat and light clothing, drink plenty of water and plan shaded rest. Our eclipse tours schedule sightseeing for early mornings and evenings, with the afternoon free for the main event.
Eye safety
Never look at the partial phases of the eclipse without proper protection. Use certified eclipse glasses that meet the ISO 12312-2 standard, and use solar filters on cameras and binoculars. Only during totality itself, when the Sun is completely covered, is it safe to look with the naked eye. Put your glasses back on as soon as the first light returns.
Book early
Luxor has a limited number of hotel rooms and Nile cruise cabins, and eclipse travellers from around the world are already booking. Prices for the eclipse week will rise as the date gets closer. We recommend booking at least 6 to 9 months ahead, and sooner for luxury hotels and cruises.
Combine the eclipse with a full Egypt trip
Make the most of your journey with a complete itinerary: the Pyramids and the Grand Egyptian Museum in Cairo, a Nile cruise timed to be in Luxor on 2 August, and a few relaxing days on the Red Sea to finish. See our solar eclipse tours, or design your own eclipse holiday on our Tailor-Made page.
Travelling in summer? Read our tips in the guide to the best time to visit Egypt.
