2 Days Trip to Aswan and Abu Simbel from Soma Bay
- 2 Days
- Pricing Varies by Individual, Couple, or Group
Adult
Child
From
350,00 $
Per Adult
From
175,00 $
Per Child
Description
Private 2-Day Trip to Aswan and Abu Simbel with a Private Car from Soma Bay
D/1
Soma Bay to Aswan
Your adventure begins with an early pick-up from your hotel in Soma Bay at 5:00 AM. You will travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned private car for about 5-6 hours, heading through the desert landscapes to the historic city of Aswan. On the way, enjoy the mesmerizing views of the vast desert and the tranquil beauty of the Nile Valley, witnessing the stunning contrasts between the arid land and the lush riverbanks. Upon arrival in Aswan, you will be taken directly to your first stop: the Aswan High Dam.
The Aswan High Dam is one of the most important modern engineering feats in Egypt, completed in 1970. The dam regulates the flow of the Nile River, preventing flooding and providing hydroelectric power to the country. It also created Lake Nasser, one of the largest artificial lakes in the world, which stretches across both Egypt and Sudan. During your visit, you’ll learn about the dam’s significance to Egypt’s economy and its role in agriculture, irrigation, and energy production. It’s a marvel of modern engineering and an essential part of Egypt’s development.
Afterward, you will head to the Temple of Philae, dedicated to the goddess Isis. The temple, originally built on Philae Island, was moved to Agilkia Island in the 1960s to protect it from the rising waters of Lake Nasser caused by the construction of the dam. The Temple of Philae is known for its incredible preservation and stunning architectural details, with columns, reliefs, and hieroglyphs depicting scenes from Egyptian mythology. The site also boasts a breathtaking setting, with crystal-clear waters surrounding the island, providing a tranquil atmosphere for exploring.
Next, you will visit the Unfinished Obelisk, located in the Aswan Quarries. This massive stone obelisk, left incomplete, gives valuable insight into the ancient Egyptian technique of quarrying and stone-carving. The obelisk was meant to stand over 40 meters tall, but due to a crack in the stone, it was never completed. The sheer size and weight of the obelisk—around 1,100 tons—demonstrates the incredible skills and precision of the ancient Egyptian workers, offering a glimpse into their monumental construction projects.
For lunch, enjoy a delicious meal at a local Egyptian restaurant, where you’ll have the opportunity to taste traditional dishes like koshari (a mix of rice, lentils, and pasta), molokhia (a green leafy stew), and freshly grilled meats. After lunch, you will embark on a felucca sailboat ride on the Nile River. This serene boat ride allows you to unwind and take in the beautiful scenery, gliding past Aswan’s islands, palm trees, and lush riverbanks, with a gentle breeze and a peaceful ambiance. This part of the journey is a perfect way to enjoy the scenic beauty of Aswan and relax after a day of exploration.
In the evening, you’ll check in to your hotel in Aswan, where you can rest and unwind, preparing for the next day’s exciting adventure.
D/2
Aswan to Abu Simbel
On Day 2, your journey begins early with a 4:00 AM pick-up from your hotel in Aswan. After a 3-hour drive, you will arrive at the remarkable site of Abu Simbel, located near Egypt’s southern border with Sudan. The Abu Simbel Temples are two massive rock temples built by Pharaoh Ramses II in the 13th century BC. These temples were originally carved into the mountainside, but they were relocated in the 1960s to prevent them from being submerged by the rising waters of Lake Nasser, following the construction of the Aswan High Dam.
The Great Temple of Ramses II is dedicated to the gods Amun-Ra, Ra-Horakhty, and Ptah, as well as Ramses II himself. This iconic temple is known for its stunning facade featuring four colossal statues of Ramses II seated on his throne, each statue standing around 20 meters tall. These statues are an extraordinary representation of Ramses II’s divine authority. The temple’s design is also famous for its solar alignment, which causes the sunlight to illuminate the inner sanctum twice a year, highlighting the statues of Ramses II and the gods, an impressive feat of ancient engineering.
After exploring the Great Temple, you will visit the Temple of Nefertari, dedicated to Ramses II’s queen, Nefertari. This smaller but equally impressive temple features beautiful carvings of the royal couple, with Nefertari depicted as equal to her husband in size and stature, a rare depiction in ancient Egyptian art. The temple honors the goddess Hathor, associated with love and motherhood, and the reliefs inside depict the queen in scenes of worship, providing a glimpse into her high status in the pharaoh’s court.
After a full exploration of both temples, you’ll enjoy a traditional Egyptian lunch at a nearby restaurant. Here, you can sample more of Egypt’s rich and flavorful cuisine, such as stuffed pigeon, grilled fish, and a variety of local appetizers.
Following lunch, you’ll begin the return journey to Aswan for some brief relaxation. Then, the comfortable drive back to Soma Bay will take approximately 5-6 hours, giving you ample time to reflect on the incredible sights and experiences of the past two days. You’ll be dropped off at your hotel in Soma Bay, completing your remarkable adventure through the heart of ancient Egypt.
Included
- Transportation in an A.C Vehicle.
- Professional Egyptologist Guide.
- Entrance Fees To All Mentioned Sites.
- Meals As Specified
- Wi FI In The Car
- Water Bottles In The Car
- Some Snacks
Excluded
- Optional Activities
- Personal Expenses
- Gratuities For The Guide And Driver.
- The Drinks In The Restaurant
- Any Extra
Duration
2 Days
Group Size
8
Language
All
Highlights
- Scenic Drive
- Philae Temple
- Unfinished Obelisk
- Nile River
- Abu Simbel Temples
- Unique Nubian Experience
Travel Itinerary
Day 1 / 6:00 AM - Departure from Soma Bay
Begin your adventure early with a scenic drive from Soma Bay to Aswan. This journey covers approximately 300-350 kilometers and takes about 4-6 hours. Enjoy views of the Egyptian desert and Nile Valley as you travel.
11:00 AM - Arrival in Aswan
Upon arrival, check into your hotel in Aswan.
11:30 Am - Visit High Dam
Your first stop will be the Aswan High Dam, a monumental project completed in the 1960s that has had a profound impact on Egypt's agriculture and economy. Learn about its construction, the creation of Lake Nasser, and its role in controlling the Nile's annual floods.
12:30 Pm - Explore Unfinished Obelisk
Visit the Unfinished Obelisk in Aswan’s northern quarry. This site, where a massive obelisk was abandoned due to cracks, provides insight into ancient stone-cutting techniques.
2:30 PM - Visit Philae Temple
Take a boat ride to the Philae Temple, located on an island in Lake Nasser. This temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis, features ancient architecture and detailed hieroglyphics.
3:30 Pm - Lunch
Enjoy a traditional lunch at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of local cuisine.
5:00 PM - Nile River Sunset Cruise
Embark on a relaxing sunset cruise on the Nile River. Enjoy the scenic views and the tranquil beauty of the river,
7:00 PM - Transfer to Hotel
Check-in at your hotel in Aswan.
Day 2 / 4:00 AM - Departure to Abu Simbel
Depart early for the drive to Abu Simbel, covering approximately 230 kilometers in 3-4 hours. Ensure your vehicle is prepared for the journey
8:00 AM - Arrival at Abu Simbel
Explore the colossal temples of Abu Simbel
10:30 AM - Lunch
Enjoy lunch12:00 PM - Return to Aswan
Depart Abu Simbel and drive back to Aswan.
4:00 PM - Departure to Soma Bay
Begin your drive back to Soma Bay , which takes approximately 4-6 hours.
8:00 PM - Arrival in Soma Bay
Arrive back in Soma Bay. Unwind and relax after your journey, enjoying a comfortable evening at your accommodation.
Maps
Frequently Asked Questions
1 / What is the best time to visit Abu Simbel?
It’s best to visit early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds, especially during the summer months.
2 / What should I wear for the trip?
Wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes. Bring sun protection such as hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen, as well as a light jacket for cooler evenings.
3 / How long does the drive from Soma Bayto Aswan take?
The drive typically takes 4-6 hours, covering approximately 300-350 kilometers.
4 / Is it necessary to have a guided tour for this trip?
While not strictly necessary, having a guided tour can enhance your experience with in-depth knowledge about the historical sites and streamline travel logistics.
Tour Terms & Conditions
1. Booking and Confirmation
Reservation: Booking must be made at least 48 hours in advance. Confirmation of the tour is subject to availability and will be sent via email.
Payment: A deposit or full payment may be required at the time of booking. Payment details will be provided upon confirmation.
2. Cancellation and Refund Policy
Cancellation by Customer:
More than 7 days before departure: Full refund.
3-7 days before departure: 50% of the tour price refunded.
Less than 3 days before departure: No refund.
Cancellation by Egypt Tour Magic: Full refund or alternative arrangements will be provided if the tour is canceled due to unforeseen circumstances or operational issues.
3. Changes and Modifications
Changes by Customer: Requests to modify the tour itinerary or date must be made at least 48 hours in advance and are subject to availability. Additional charges may apply.
Changes by Egypt Tour Magic: We reserve the right to alter the itinerary or services due to operational reasons, weather conditions, or other factors. Any changes will be communicated promptly.
4. Included and Excluded
Included: Private transportation, expert guide, entrance fees to specified sites, lunch at a local restaurant.
Excluded: Personal expenses, gratuities, optional activities not listed in the itinerary, visa fees, travel insurance.
5. Responsibilities
Traveler’s Responsibility: Travelers must ensure they have valid travel documents (e.g., passport, visa) and adhere to local customs and regulations. Any costs arising from a failure to comply with these requirements are the traveler’s responsibility.
Health and Safety: Travelers should inform us of any medical conditions or special requirements in advance. Egypt Tour Magic is not liable for any health issues or accidents during the tour.
6. Liability
Tour Liability: Egypt Tour Magic is not liable for any loss, damage, or injury to persons or property during the tour, except where caused by negligence or failure to provide services as described.
Force Majeure: We are not liable for any failure to fulfill our obligations due to circumstances beyond our control, including but not limited to natural disasters, political instability, or strikes.
7. Code of Conduct
Behavior: Travelers are expected to behave respectfully and follow the instructions of the guide. Disruptive or inappropriate behavior may result in termination of the tour without a refund.
8. Dispute Resolution
Complaints: Any complaints or issues should be reported to our customer service team immediately. We will make every effort to resolve concerns amicably.
Legal Jurisdiction: Disputes arising from the tour will be governed by the laws of Egypt.
9. Privacy Policy
Personal Data: Personal information collected during booking will be used solely for tour-related purposes and will be handled according to our privacy policy.
By booking this tour, you agree to these terms and conditions. We look forward to providing you with a memorable and enriching experience .
From175,00 $
Book This Tour
Contact Information
Have a question in mind
Looking for more info? Send a question to the tour agent to find out more.
You might also like
Travel is my life. Since 1999, I have been traveling around the world nonstop. If you also love travel, you are in the right place!
