Luxor Aswan and Abu Simbel 3 Days Trip from Soma Bay
Join us for a private 3-day adventure from Soma Bay to the most iconic landmarks of Egypt: Luxor, Aswan, and Abu Simbel. Discover the ancient treasures of Luxor, the stunning temples of Aswan, and the awe-inspiring Abu Simbel temples of Ramses II.
Day 1: Trip to the Temples of Luxor
Start your adventure with an early morning departure from Soma Bay. Enjoy the scenic drive across the Eastern Desert to Luxor, where you’ll witness the stark contrast between the desert landscapes and the lush Nile Valley.
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Your journey begins with a visit to the Karnak Temple, one of the largest and most impressive religious sites in the world. Explore the Great Hypostyle Hall, with its 134 towering columns, and admire the massive statues and intricate reliefs that line the temple walls.
Next, visit the Luxor Temple, located along the Nile. Admire the stunning architecture, the Avenue of Sphinxes, and the statues of Ramesses II. Learn about its historical significance and role in ancient Egyptian ceremonies.
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After exploring these remarkable temples, enjoy a delicious traditional Egyptian lunch at a local restaurant, offering views of the Nile River. Feast on koshari, falafel, and grilled meats.
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In the afternoon, cross to the West Bank of the Nile to explore the Valley of the Kings, where you’ll discover the burial sites of famous pharaohs, including Tutankhamun. Marvel at the vivid murals and hieroglyphs.
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Then, visit the Temple of Hatshepsut at Deir el-Bahari, a stunning temple carved into the cliffs of the Theban Mountains.
End your day with a visit to the Colossi of Memnon, two massive statues of Amenhotep III that have stood for over 3,000 years.
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Return to your hotel in Luxor to rest and reflect on the day’s experiences.
Day 2: Explore Aswan
Start your day early with a scenic drive from Luxor to Aswan, passing through lush agricultural lands and vast desert landscapes, offering a peaceful journey through the heart of Egypt.
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Upon arrival, your first stop is the Aswan High Dam, an extraordinary feat of modern engineering that regulates the flow of the Nile River and provides electricity to much of Egypt.
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From there, take a boat ride to Philae Temple, located on Agilkia Island, dedicated to the goddess Isis. The temple is beautifully preserved and set in a tranquil location, offering a serene and picturesque view of the Nile.
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After exploring the temple, enjoy a traditional Nubian lunch at a local restaurant by the river, where you’ll savor flavorful regional dishes like Nubian chicken, fish, and fatta, all prepared with fresh ingredients and local spices.
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In the afternoon, visit the Unfinished Obelisk, an ancient monument that was abandoned in the middle of its construction. Here, you’ll get a fascinating insight into ancient Egyptian stone-cutting techniques, and you’ll be able to see the massive obelisk still embedded in the bedrock.
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Finally, check into your hotel in Aswan, and spend the evening either relaxing by the Nile River or wandering through Aswan’s local markets, where you can shop for unique souvenirs, including spices, jewelry, and handcrafted goods.
Day 3: Trip to The Abu Simbel Temples
On the final day of your adventure, set off early for a long but rewarding journey to Abu Simbel, located near Egypt’s southern border, near the border with Sudan.
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The highlight of the day is a visit to the Abu Simbel Temples, a stunning archaeological site consisting of two colossal rock-cut temples built by Ramses II.
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Begin with the Great Temple, dedicated to the gods Ra-Horakhty, Amun, and Ptah, where you’ll be amazed by the massive statues of Ramses II guarding the entrance, and the intricate reliefs depicting his military victories and divine relationships.
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Next, explore the Small Temple, dedicated to Ramses II’s beloved wife, Queen Nefertari, and the goddess Hathor. The temple features equally impressive statues and beautiful carvings. After marveling at these ancient wonders, return to Aswan for a relaxing lunch by the Nile River, savoring more traditional Egyptian dishes like fool medames (stewed fava beans), koshari (a rice and lentil dish), and other regional delicacies.
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Finally, begin your scenic drive back to Soma Bay, reflecting on the incredible journey you’ve had through Egypt’s ancient history and breathtaking landscapes.