Eclipso Brings Horizon of Khufu to Life

Step into the wonders of ancient Egypt without leaving New York City through the ultimate VR experience at Horizon of Khufu. This newly opened, free-roaming, VR experience is the first-of-its-kind in NYC. The experience transports families 4,500 years back in time to explore the enchanting world of pyramids, mummification, and the legendary King Khufu himself.

I absolutely loved experiencing this VR adventure with my family—read on to discover what it’s like to traverse time and space in the heart of NYC. For more virtual reality experiences in NYC check out our roundup of the best virtual reality experiences in NYC.

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Horizon of Khufu: An Immersive Trip to Egypt

While it took me a few moments to acclimate to the VR world—donning the goggles, trusting the space, and getting used to the new perspectives—Horizon of Khufu is completely engrossing. Located in Eclipso, a new dedicated VR destination on West 57th Street, it is an educational and entertaining experience that’s a must-do in NYC.

Explore the wonders of the Giza Plateau in virtual reality!

Prepare for a VR Trip to Ancient Egypt and Beyond

Visitors step into a 45-minute exploration of the largest and oldest pyramid on the Giza Plateau: Khufu. Your journey is led by Mona, a chatty VR Egyptologist. Guests discover areas previously closed to the public, such as the Queen’s Chamber. The magic of VR allows you to visit vistas that would be difficult to achieve in the real world, including a breathtaking view of the Giza Plateau. Will there be magic to this experience? Yes!

Upon arrival in the spacious 10,000-square-foot Eclipso VR venue, families set up names that only others in their group can see. Friendly staff members assist with headset fittings, ensuring everyone is comfortable and ready to explore.

Once immersed in the VR realm, visual and audio cues help guests get acclimated. If anyone in your group feels nervous, it helps to follow the virtual tour guide and hold onto each other for reassurance. Each visitor can see their group’s outlines with their names over their heads. You will also be able to see the outlines of other people if they enter your space, so you won’t bump into anyone. The boundaries are clearly marked in red, and there’s always the option to lift up visors or raise hands for assistance if you feel overwhelmed.

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Take a solar boat ride on the majestic Nile. 

King Khufu Comes to New York

Once you’re comfortable in this new reality, you’ll become an Egyptologist by exploring the intricate tombs of Pharaoh Khufu, visit the Giza Necropolis (home to the three Great Pyramids), take a boat ride down the Nile River, see mummification ceremonies, and attend the funeral of King Khufu.

As you journey through the this ancient marvel, you’ll need to walk, crawl, and jump onto a platform or two. Keep your eyes open for the cat who joins your tour group and her magical transformation.

More Fun at Eclipso

While King of Khufu is the first VR exhibition at Eclipso, more are in the works. The well-known French entertainment company has recently opened a space in Atlanta as well as this NYC location. Plans are in the works to bring an immersive dinosaur exhibit to the space, plus one on impressionist painters. Keep an eye on our Family Activity Calendar to see what’s playing.

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Visitors get a breathtaking view of Giza.

Horizon of Khufu: Know Before You Go

• The experience is designed for ages 8 and older who are at least 4-foot-6 inches tall. Access is strictly prohibited for children under 8.
• Run time is 45 minutes. 
• Tickets can be booked online in advance and start at $30.
• People who wear glasses can easily still use the headset; however, avoid hats and high ponytails as they can get in the way of a proper headset fit. Wear comfy clothes and sneakers since you walk the entire time.
• While the venue is ADA-compliant, the experience requires a 45-minute walking expedition in virtual reality. It is not recommended for individuals with limited balance stability. Walkers and canes are not allowed.
• Store belongings in the free, on-site lockers so you can have your hands free to truly immerse yourself in the VR experience.
• Bathrooms are available.

Photos courtesy of the Horizon of Khufu Experience