The Louvre's Egypt: Pharaohs, Scribes & the Afterlife

Two quiet hours on the Nile, inside the busiest museum in the world.

Quick Overview

• Your group only (up to 6 people)
• Duration: About 2 hours
• What we see: The Great Sphinx in its crypt, a real tomb chapel, the Seated Scribe and Akhenaten
• What's special: The calmest wing of the Louvre, and the stories that make 4,000-year-old objects feel personal
• Days: Wednesday to Monday, except Fridays (the themed rooms close on Fridays; the Louvre closes on Tuesdays)
• Pace: Unhurried, and shaped around what you love
• Languages: English; ask if you need another language
• Best for: Curious minds, repeat Louvre visitors, families with 8–14-year-olds
• Your guide: Me, a state-licensed guide-conférencier with a background in French art history

The Experience

Most visitors rush past the Egyptian collection on their way to the Mona Lisa. I think that's the best thing about it: it's calmer, and it's one of the finest collections of its kind anywhere.

We start in the crypt with the Great Sphinx of Tanis, then follow life along the Nile: the food, the music, the toys, the writing and the long journey to the afterlife. By the time we reach the Seated Scribe and Akhenaten, you'll know how to read them, not just look at them.

Since it's just your group, the route bends to you. If the hieroglyphs grab you, we'll linger; if it's the mummies, we'll go there. You'll leave able to spot a pharaoh's name in a cartouche, which is a surprisingly satisfying party trick.

Route & Walking Info

• Distance: 1.5 to 2 km inside the museum
• Terrain: Flat floors with some stairs (lifts available)
• Pace: Whatever feels good to you. We take breaks when we need them.
• Accessibility: If you need to avoid stairs or long walks, tell me before booking and I'll adapt the route.

Good to Know

• Meeting Point: Louis XIV statue in front of the Louvre Glass Pyramid. I'll send a map link and very clear instructions once you book.
• Timing: Try to be there 10 minutes early so we can start smoothly.
• Tickets: I book the group entry and send you the details. The fees are billed at cost, separately from my fee.
• Weather: Rain doesn't matter since we're inside.
• Shoes: Wear your most comfortable ones. Really.
• Bags: Keep them small; many sites have security checks.
• Late Arrivals: If you're late, it cuts into our time, but I'll make sure you still see the essentials.

Optional Add-Ons

• Family quest version (clue cards for the kids)
• The "Extra Hour" (Greek or Near Eastern antiquities next door)
• Afternoon Planning (Egypt in Paris: the Concorde obelisk and rue du Caire)
• Other Languages (Ask me about availability)

After You Book

• A personal confirmation once I've checked the date. I confirm every booking myself.
• My meeting instructions, clear and simple.
• I'll ask what you're most curious about (or what you'd rather skip), and shape the visit around it.
• Mobility needs or children in the group? Tell me early and I'll plan for it.
• Want lunch or dinner afterwards? I'll suggest a table I'd book myself nearby.

FAQ

Is it really private? Yes. Just you, your group, and me.

Is it suitable for children? Yes. Kids love the mummies and the hieroglyphs. Tell me their ages and I'll adapt the stories.

Why not on Fridays? The themed Egyptian rooms close on Fridays, and they're the heart of this tour.

Send me your dates and what you love most, and I'll shape the day around you.