Explore the temple of Abu Simbel, dedicated to Ramses II and Nefertari, and view the impressive statues and carvings that highlight ancient Egyptian artistry and history.
- Explore Abu Simbel temple
Ride for 3.5 hours from your accommodation in Aswan to Abu Simbel. Upon arrival, our local tour guide will lead you through the temple, sharing stories about Ramses II and Nefertari. After the tour, enjoy lunch before heading back to your accommodation in Aswan.
- Explore Abu Simbel temple
Experience Abu Simbel, where towering monuments to Ramses II and Nefertari defy both time and imagination. Carved into the cliffs along the banks of the Nile, these temples stand as unparalleled testaments to the power and ingenuity of ancient Egypt.
But what truly sets Abu Simbel apart is its remarkable alignment with the sun. Twice a year, on February 22nd and October 22nd, sunlight penetrates the temple's inner sanctuary, illuminating the statues of Ramses II and the gods seated within. This awe-inspiring phenomenon, known as the Solar Alignment, symbolizes the pharaoh's divine connection with the sun god Ra and showcases the ancient Egyptians' profound understanding of astronomy and architecture.
The temple's construction was strategically aligned so that on Ramses II's birthday, believed to be on October 22, the sun would illuminate the inner sanctum, honoring the pharaoh in a spectacular display of celestial homage. These dates are also thought to coincide with significant events in Ramses II's life, including his coronation and possibly his death, further emphasizing the temple's importance in commemorating his legacy.
As you marvel at the colossal statues guarding the entrance, each intricately detailed and steeped in symbolism, venture inside to discover breathtaking halls adorned with vibrant hieroglyphs and majestic reliefs. These carvings narrate tales of conquest, devotion, and divine reverence, offering a window into the rich history of ancient Egypt.
What is included in the tour
- All meals as mentioned in the itinerary
- All activities and entrance fees as mentioned in the itinerary
- All transfers in a private air-conditioned vehicle
- Private local tour guide
- All service charges and taxes
What is NOT included in the tour
- Meals other than mentioned in above itinerary
- Beverages
- Optional activities / tours
- Personal expenses
- Tipping
We provide private cars for groups of up to 3 people, Hiace buses for groups of up to 10, and Coaster buses for groups of up to 19.
Visa requirements depend on your nationality.
In Egypt, the power supply is Type C and F, with a standard voltage of 220V and a frequency of 50Hz.
You can expect a reliable network connection throughout the trip.
- Comfortable Clothing
- Comfortable Shoes
- Sun Protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses)
- Camera (if available)
- Power Bank (if available)
- Water Bottle
- Electrolytes (if available)
- Snacks (nuts, energy bars, fruit)
Tipping is an expected, though not compulsory, component of your tour program. While it's not mandatory, it's customary to tip around $5 per day per person for drivers. For other service providers, the amount is at your discretion, but an average of $5 USD is typical.
Remember, tipping directly benefits the local community. Although it may not be customary for you, it is an important source of income for those in the tourism industry. Giving a tip should be a seen as a formal 'thank you', and the action should in no way be awkward.
Does the mentioned duration of the trip include the transfer time from the hotel to Abu Simbel? Yes, it is an estimate of how long it would take to drive from the hotel to Abu Simbel, have a private guided tour, and drive back to the hotel.
