Day Tour to Abu Simbel Temples from Aswan

From $90 Per Person

Property ID:

None

Duration

APX 08 Hours

Location

Abu Simbel

Availability

Everyday

Pickup & Drop off

Hotel or Cruise

Type

Private

Additional Details

Pickup Time: 05:00 flexible
Hotel Return: flexible
Tour Guide: Yes, escorted by a tour guide
Meals: Lunch Break

Overview

Embark on a remarkable journey to explore the grandeur of the Abu Simbel Temples, one of Egypt’s most impressive and well-preserved ancient sites. This day tour will take you from Aswan to Abu Simbel, offering a unique opportunity to witness the monumental achievements of Pharaoh Ramses II. The temples, carved out of a mountainside, are renowned for their stunning architecture, colossal statues, and intricate reliefs. This detailed itinerary ensures you experience the historical and cultural significance of these awe-inspiring structures.

Hotel Pick-Up

Start your day early with a convenient pick-up from your Aswan hotel. Your private guide and driver will ensure a comfortable journey throughout the day. Given the early start, it’s advisable to prepare a light breakfast or snacks to take along. Dress comfortably, and bring essentials such as a camera, sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water.

Depart for Abu Simbel

The drive to Abu Simbel takes approximately 3.5 to 4 hours, covering a distance of around 280 kilometers through the desert. This early departure is timed to allow you to arrive at the temples before the heat of the day and to avoid the crowds.

Destination: Abu Simbel Temples

Upon arrival, you will be greeted by the sight of the colossal statues of Ramses II, standing guard over the entrance to the Great Temple. The Abu Simbel Temples consist of two main structures: the Great Temple dedicated to Ramses II and the Small Temple dedicated to his wife, Queen Nefertari. These temples were relocated in the 1960s to avoid submersion by the rising waters of Lake Nasser, following the construction of the Aswan High Dam.

Explore the Great Temple of Ramses II

Key Highlights:

Facade and Colossal Statues: The facade of the Great Temple is dominated by four colossal statues of Ramses II, each standing at 20 meters tall. These statues are a testament to the pharaoh’s power and grandeur.
Entrance and Inner Halls: Enter through the grand doorway into a series of halls and chambers. The first hall, known as the Hypostyle Hall, features eight large Osirid statues of Ramses II, with walls adorned with battle scenes and depictions of the king’s accomplishments.
Sanctuary: At the innermost part of the temple lies the sanctuary, where statues of Ramses II, Amun-Ra, Ra-Horakhty, and Ptah are seated. On two specific days each year (February 22 and October 22), the rising sun aligns to illuminate these statues, highlighting the architectural precision.
Reliefs and Inscriptions: The walls are covered with detailed reliefs and inscriptions depicting Ramses II’s military victories, religious rituals, and offerings to the gods.

Your guide will provide detailed explanations of the architectural features, historical context, and religious significance of the Great Temple. You will have ample time to explore, take photographs, and immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring atmosphere.

Explore the Small Temple of Nefertari

Key Highlights:

Facade and Statues: The facade of the Small Temple features six statues—four of Ramses II and two of Queen Nefertari—each standing at about 10 meters tall. This temple is unique as it is one of the few dedicated to a queen.
Entrance and Inner Halls: Enter through the main doorway into the Hypostyle Hall, which features six pillars adorned with images of the goddess Hathor. The walls are decorated with scenes depicting Nefertari making offerings to the gods and participating in religious rituals alongside Ramses II.
Sanctuary: The innermost sanctuary houses a statue of Hathor, depicted as a cow protecting Queen Nefertari. The reliefs and decorations emphasize the queen’s divine status and her special relationship with the goddess.

Your guide will continue to provide insights into the historical and cultural significance of the Small Temple, highlighting the role of Queen Nefertari in ancient Egyptian society and her depiction as a goddess.

Free Time to Explore and Photograph

After the guided tour, you will have some free time to explore the temple complex at your own pace. Take this opportunity to capture the stunning architecture and landscapes with your camera. The serene surroundings of Lake Nasser provide a beautiful backdrop for your photos.

Depart for Aswan

After thoroughly exploring the Abu Simbel Temples, begin your journey back to Aswan. The drive offers a chance to relax, enjoy the desert scenery, and reflect on the incredible experiences of the morning.

Optional Aswan Sightseeing

If time permits and you’re interested, consider adding an optional sightseeing tour in Aswan to your itinerary. Options include:

Aswan High Dam: Learn about the construction and significance of this monumental engineering project.
Philae Temple: Visit the beautiful island temple dedicated to the goddess Isis.
Unfinished Obelisk: Explore the ancient quarries and see the largest known unfinished obelisk.

Your guide can arrange for transportation and provide detailed information about each site, ensuring a seamless continuation of your day.

Return to Hotel

Conclude your day tour with a return to your hotel in Aswan. Your private vehicle will ensure a comfortable and relaxing trip back, allowing you to reflect on the day’s adventures and the incredible history you’ve witnessed.

Additional Tips for Your Tour:

Hydration and Snacks: Bring water and some light snacks to keep your energy up throughout the day.
Comfortable Clothing: Dress in light, breathable fabrics to stay cool. A hat and sunglasses are also recommended.
Cash and Tipping: Carry some local currency (Egyptian Pounds) for any incidental expenses and tips for your guide and driver.
Respect the Sites: While taking photos is encouraged, remember to respect the sanctity and preservation efforts of these historic sites. Follow all guidelines provided by your guide.

Conclusion

This day tour to the Abu Simbel Temples offers a comprehensive and immersive experience into one of Egypt’s most spectacular archaeological sites. From the monumental statues of Ramses II to the intricately decorated halls of the temples, each aspect of Abu Simbel reveals a different facet of ancient Egypt’s architectural and religious heritage. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a culture lover, or a curious traveler, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through one of the world’s most iconic ancient sites.

By the end of this day, you’ll have gained a deeper appreciation for the achievements of ancient Egyptian civilization, and created lasting memories of your visit to Abu Simbel. This itinerary not only covers the highlights of the temples but also allows you to explore and experience the cultural richness of Aswan, making it a perfect day for anyone looking to understand and appreciate the grandeur of Egypt’s historical legacy.