Itinerary:
3:30 AM – 4:30 AM: Your journey begins early in the morning with a pick-up from your hotel or a designated meeting point in Aswan. Early departure ensures that you reach Abu Simbel at a comfortable time to explore and beat the midday heat.
You can choose between a private car, which allows for a more personalized and flexible experience, or a shared bus, which provides a cost-effective option with other travelers. The journey takes approximately 3.5 to 4 hours each way.
Scenic Drive Through the Nubian Desert
As you head south, you’ll travel through the vast, golden Nubian desert. Along the way, you can enjoy the beautiful sunrise over the landscape. Your guide may share fascinating insights about the region’s history, culture, and geography during the drive.
There will be short stops during the journey where you can stretch, refresh, and grab a quick snack or drink.
Arrival at Abu Simbel
Upon arrival, you will have some time to relax and prepare for the visit. Your guide will handle the entrance tickets and provide a brief orientation.
You’ll find restrooms and a few shops where you can purchase water, snacks, and souvenirs.
Guided Tour of the Abu Simbel Temples
Explore the Great Temple of Ramses II and the Small Temple of Hathor and Nefertari.
Marvel at the four colossal statues of Ramses II that guard the entrance. Inside, you’ll find impressive halls filled with statues, intricate carvings, and detailed reliefs depicting the pharaoh’s achievements, deities, and scenes from his life.
Dedicated to Queen Nefertari and the goddess Hathor, this temple is smaller yet equally stunning. The facade is adorned with statues of Ramses II and Nefertari, and the interior is decorated with captivating scenes showcasing the queen and deities.
Be sure to bring your camera, as the temples offer stunning photo opportunities, both inside and out.
Free Time to Explore
After the guided tour, you’ll have some free time to wander around, take more photos, or relax while taking in the breathtaking views of Lake Nasser, which is visible from the site.
Lunch Stop (Optional)
Before heading back to Aswan, you may have the option to stop at a nearby local restaurant or a café for a quick lunch. Alternatively, you can bring packed meals to enjoy on the return trip.
Return Journey to Aswan
Begin the drive back to Aswan. This is a great time to relax, reflect on your visit, and perhaps nap after an exciting day.
You’ll arrive in Aswan in the mid-afternoon, around 2:00 PM. The driver will drop you off at your hotel or the original pick-up location.
Pick-up and drop-off from your hotel in Aswan
Private air-conditioned vehicle or shared bus
Entrance fees to Abu Simbel Temples
Professional Egyptologist guide
Bottled water during the journey
Meals (lunch can be arranged but is typically not included)
Personal expenses (souvenirs, additional refreshments)
Gratuities (optional)
Tips for the Trip:
Light, breathable clothing is recommended, along with a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
While there are stops and shops, it’s a good idea to carry your own refreshments.
Make sure your camera or phone is fully charged for photos.
Why Choose Abu Simbel by Road?
Traveling to Abu Simbel by road is an excellent way to see more of Egypt’s scenic landscape. Although flights are available, the drive offers a more immersive experience, allowing you to appreciate the vast desert, sunrise, and local culture along the way. Whether in a private car or a shared bus, this journey provides comfort, flexibility, and a memorable day trip from Aswan.
Here's a typical itinerary for a day trip covering the Philae Temple, High Dam, and Unfinished Obelisk in Aswan, Egypt:
- Pick-up from Hotel: Early morning pick-up from your hotel or cruise ship in Aswan.
- Visit Philae Temple:
Travel to Philae Temple: Take a short drive to the dock, followed by a boat ride to Agilkia Island, where the temple is located.
Explore the Temple: Spend around 1-1.5 hours exploring the Temple of Isis, the various sanctuaries, and the beautiful surroundings.
Highlights: Temple of Isis, Trajan’s Kiosk, and the various colonnades.
- Visit the High Dam:
Travel to the High Dam: A short drive from Philae Temple.
Explore the High Dam: Spend about 30-45 minutes learning about its construction, significance, and how it changed the landscape of Egypt.
Highlights: Panoramic views of Lake Nasser, and the dam structure itself.
- Visit the Unfinished Obelisk:
Travel to the Quarry: Drive to the ancient granite quarries.
Explore the Unfinished Obelisk: Spend around 30-45 minutes viewing the largest known ancient obelisk, which was left incomplete due to cracks.
Highlights: The massive scale of the obelisk, insights into ancient stone-carving techniques.
- Lunch and Return:
Lunch: Optional lunch at a local restaurant or back on your cruise ship/hotel.
Drop-off: Return to your starting point in Aswan.
The itinerary can be adjusted based on timings and personal preferences. Let me know if you need more details or if there’s anything you would like to add or change!
