Experience the grandeur of Ancient Egypt at Abu Simbel's temples of Ramses II and Nefertari. Built to celebrate Ramses II's victory in 1274 BC, these masterpieces honor gods like Ra-Horakhty, Ptah, and Amon. Marvel at the intricate carvings and colossal statues that stand as a testament to the remarkable craftsmanship of ancient times.
- Abu Simbel Temple
Your private tour starts with a 3.5-hour ride from your Aswan hotel to Abu Simbel. Upon arrival, your tour guide will lead you through the temple, sharing fascinating stories of Ramses II and Nefertari. After your tour, you'll be transported back to your accommodation in Aswan.
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.
FAQs
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.
What is included in the tour
- Transfers to/from Abu Simbel in a private air-conditioned vehicle
- Private local English-speaking tour guide
- Entrance fee
What is NOT included in the tour
- Meals
- Beverages
- Personal expenses
- Tipping
Packing List
Comfortable Clothing
Comfortable Shoes
Sun Protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses)
Water Bottle
Snacks (nuts, energy bars, fruit)
Power Bank
Camera (if available)
Electrolytes (if available)
Tipping
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.