On Day 2, your day starts early with a 4:00 AM pick-up from your hotel in Aswan. A comfortable 3-hour drive will take you to Abu Simbel, one of Egypt’s most iconic and awe-inspiring archaeological sites. The Abu Simbel Temples were built by Pharaoh Ramses II in the 13th century BC and are famous for their enormous statues and remarkable relocation in the 1960s to save them from the rising waters of Lake Nasser.

Upon arrival at Abu Simbel, you will first visit the Great Temple of Ramses II, dedicated to the gods Amun-Ra, Ra-Horakhty, and Ptah, as well as to Ramses II himself. The temple façade features four colossal statues of Ramses II, each towering over 20 meters tall. These monumental statues symbolize the pharaoh’s divine authority. The temple’s solar alignment, which illuminates the inner sanctum twice a year, highlights Ramses II and the gods, showcasing the ancient Egyptians’ advanced astronomical knowledge and engineering.

Next, you’ll explore the Temple of Nefertari, dedicated to Ramses II’s queen, Nefertari. This smaller but equally impressive temple features detailed reliefs of the royal couple, with Nefertari depicted as equal to her husband in size, a rare depiction in ancient Egyptian art. The temple is dedicated to the goddess Hathor, symbolizing love and motherhood, and the carvings inside showcase her high status in the royal court.

After visiting the temples, you’ll enjoy a traditional Egyptian lunch at a nearby restaurant, offering more of Egypt’s flavorful dishes, such as grilled fish, stuffed pigeon, and a variety of meze appetizers.

Following lunch, you’ll return to Aswan for a brief relaxation before beginning the return drive to Marsa Alam, a journey that will take approximately 5-6 hours. Along the way, you’ll have time to reflect on the remarkable sights and experiences of the last two days. Upon your arrival in Marsa Alam, you’ll be dropped off at your hotel, concluding your unforgettable adventure through the ancient wonders of Egypt.

Begin your adventure early with a scenic drive from Marsa Alam 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.

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.

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.