Travel through the heart of the Nubian Desert and witness the first light of dawn spreading across golden dunes. Your guide may share cultural and historical insights about Nubian heritage, ancient trade routes, and the southern frontier of Pharaonic Egypt. A short stop will be made for stretching and refreshments.

The Great Temple of Ramses II: Behold the massive statues of the king seated on his throne, each about 20 meters tall. Inside, wander through the hypostyle hall and sanctuary, where beautifully preserved scenes depict Ramses’ military triumphs and divine connection with the gods.

The Temple of Hathor and Nefertari: Just north of the Great Temple, this smaller yet equally remarkable shrine is dedicated to Queen Nefertari and the goddess Hathor. The façade features six statues, uniquely including both Ramses and Nefertari—a rare gesture of royal equality.

Photography is permitted in most areas, so make sure to bring your camera or fully charged phone.

Take some free time to admire the temples from different angles, rest by the panoramic Lake Nasser, or shop for handmade local souvenirs at the nearby stalls.

You may choose to enjoy a quick lunch at a local Nubian restaurant before returning, or bring your own packed meal to enjoy en route.

Relax during the drive back through the serene desert landscape. Reflect on your journey to one of Egypt’s most iconic landmarks. Arrival in Aswan is expected around 2:00 PM.

The temples of Abu Simbel are not just architectural marvels—they are monuments of political propaganda, religious devotion, and cultural pride. Built during the reign of Ramses II (1279–1213 BC), the complex was intended to demonstrate the pharaoh’s divine authority and power over Egypt’s southern territories.

This temple is dedicated to the gods Amun-Ra, Ra-Horakhty, Ptah, and the deified Ramses II himself. The inner sanctuary is aligned so that twice a year—on February 22 and October 22—the sun's rays illuminate the statues of the gods, a phenomenon that continues to attract thousands of visitors during the so-called Sun Festival.

The reliefs within the temple depict Ramses’ victory at the Battle of Kadesh, scenes of ritual offerings, and processions emphasizing his divine favor. The hypostyle hall features eight massive Osiride statues of Ramses, reinforcing his identity with the god of the underworld...

The Temple of Hathor and Nefertari

Dedicated to Hathor, goddess of love and motherhood, and Queen Nefertari, this temple is unique in its balanced portrayal of king and queen. The decoration showcases Nefertari performing sacred rituals, being crowned by Hathor, and standing equally with Ramses—unusual in a culture where queens were often depicted in the background.

This shrine also holds religious significance, connecting the royal couple to Hathor’s attributes of fertility, protection, and joy.

A Monument Saved: UNESCO Relocation

In the 1960s, the construction of the Aswan High Dam threatened to flood Abu Simbel under the rising waters of Lake Nasser. In one of the most ambitious archaeological rescue missions in history, an international team led by UNESCO cut the temples into over 1,000 blocks and reassembled them on higher ground, preserving not only the structures but also their astronomical alignment.

Today, Abu Simbel is not just a symbol of ancient Egyptian greatness—it is a global icon of heritage preservation, admired for both its ancient majesty and its modern salvation.

Why Choose This Trip?

An Abu Simbel day trip from Aswan by road is ideal for those seeking a deeper, more immersive experience. Unlike quick flights, the scenic drive offers moments of reflection, stunning desert views, and opportunities to witness the changing landscape of southern Egypt. Whether in a private car or a shared coach, this journey offers unparalleled access to one of Egypt’s greatest treasures—with expert guidance and comfort.