Abu Simbel Day Tour
10 hours
Overview
Abu Simbel,
One of Egypt's most famous archaeological sites, Abu Simbel is located 280 km south of Aswan (4 hours drive). The temple complex was carved into a mountainside by King Ramses II in the 13th century BC, dedicated to Ramses II and his wife, Queen Nefertari. Known for its colossal statues, the site is a UNESCO World Heritage location.
The temples were relocated in the 1960s due to the construction of the Aswan High Dam and the threat of flooding. The relocation, led by UNESCO, was a major engineering feat, with the temples carefully dismantled and moved to higher ground for preservation.
The reliefs in Abu Simbel depict scenes from Ramses II's reign, showcasing his divine power, military victories, and religious devotion, including the famous Battle of Kadesh against the Hittites.
On February 22 and October 22, sunlight illuminates the statues inside the Great Temple, aligning with the "Sun Festival." This event demonstrates the ancient Egyptians’ advanced knowledge of astronomy and their ability to align temples with celestial events. The sunlight reaches the statues exactly on February 22 (the King’s birthday) and October 22 (his coronation anniversary).
- Tour guide : Egyptologist Tour Guide
- Duration : 10 hours
- Location : Aswan-Egypt
Highlights
- Temples of Abu Simble
Itinerary
Pickup from your hotel in Aswan,
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Your Egyptologist guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel in Aswan. A comfortable air-conditioned car will be provided for the journey to Abu Simbel.
Departure from Aswan,
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After the hotel pickup, you will begin your 3 to 4-hour drive from Aswan to Abu Simbel. The drive covers around 280 km (174 miles) through the desert, and your guide will provide interesting commentary about the history of Egypt and Abu Simbel along the way.
Arrival at Abu Simbel,
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Upon arrival, you'll be guided through the Abu Simbel archaeological site.
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Great Temple of Ramses II: Learn about the colossal temple carved into the mountainside, dedicated to Ramses II, featuring four massive statues of the pharaoh.
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Temple of Hathor and Nefertari: Discover the smaller temple dedicated to Ramses' wife, Nefertari, and the goddess Hathor.
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History and Engineering: Your Egyptologist will explain the relocation of these temples in the 1960s, when they were moved to avoid being submerged by the Aswan High Dam.
Free Time / Photos,
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Enjoy some free time to take photos and soak in the incredible views of the temples and the surrounding desert landscape.
Departure from Abu Simbel,
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After your exploration of Abu Simbel, you will reboard the air-conditioned vehicle and begin your journey back to Aswan.
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After the 3–4-hour drive back, you'll arrive in Aswan, where you will be dropped off at your hotel.
Included / Exclude
- Qualified Egyptologist guide
- Entrance fees to all mentioned sites
- Hotel pickup and drop off
- Air-conditioned vehicle transportation
- Gratuities (recommended)
- Any extras not mentioned in the itinerary
