On the first day of your unforgettable 2-day journey, we will pick you up from your hotel in Luxor in a private, air-conditioned car for a comfortable drive to Aswan (approx. 3 to 4 hours). Aswan is a beautiful city located along the Nile River, known for its ancient temples, historical sites, and scenic landscapes. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the stunning views of the desert and the river as we head south.
Upon arrival in Aswan, your private tour guide will take you on a boat ride to Philae Island, where you will visit the stunning Philae Temple. This temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis, is considered one of the most beautiful temples in Egypt. The temple’s location on Philae Island is a breathtaking spot, surrounded by crystal-clear waters and lush greenery. Your guide will explain the temple’s history, its connection to the goddess Isis, and its relocation to its current site due to the construction of the Aswan High Dam. The beauty and tranquility of Philae Temple will leave you in awe.
Afterward, you’ll drive to Lake Nasser, where you’ll marvel at the Aswan High Dam, one of the greatest engineering feats of the 20th century. Built in the 1960s, the dam controls the annual flooding of the Nile and provides hydroelectric power to Egypt. It is an important structure that has had a significant impact on Egypt’s development. Additionally, you’ll also visit the Old Aswan Dam, which was built in the 19th century and is another historical landmark in the area. Both dams are essential to understanding Egypt’s modern history and its battle to harness the power of the Nile River.
After exploring these remarkable sites, you will be driven to your hotel in Aswan where you can unwind and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Relax and take in the stunning views of the Nile before the second day of your adventure begins.
On the second day of your trip, we will begin early with a pick-up from your hotel in Aswan for a scenic drive to Abu Simbel (approx. 3 hours). Abu Simbel is home to one of Egypt’s most famous and monumental archaeological sites, the Abu Simbel Temples, which are an absolute must-see for anyone visiting Egypt. These temples were carved directly into the mountainside by Pharaoh Ramses II in the 13th century BCE and are a testament to his power and devotion to the gods.
Upon arrival at Abu Simbel, your private tour guide will take you on a detailed tour of the Temple of Ramses II. The grandeur of this temple is truly awe-inspiring, with its four colossal statues of Ramses II standing proudly at the entrance, each measuring over 20 meters high. Inside the temple, you will find beautifully preserved wall carvings and reliefs that depict the king’s victories and religious devotion. Notably, twice a year, on February 22 and October 22, the first rays of the rising sun illuminate the statues of Ramses II in the sanctuary, creating a spectacular natural phenomenon that has amazed visitors for centuries.
Next, you will visit the Temple of Queen Nefertari, Ramses II’s beloved wife, also known as the Temple of Hathor. Though smaller than the main temple, this temple is just as impressive, carved into the mountainside and dedicated to the goddess Hathor, who was associated with love, beauty, and joy. The interior of the temple features stunning reliefs depicting Ramses II with his queen, illustrating the deep bond between them. The temple’s serene location and its artistic beauty make it an unforgettable part of your visit to Abu Simbel.
After exploring these ancient wonders, you will be driven back to your hotel in Luxor in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. The scenic drive back provides time to reflect on the incredible historical treasures you’ve experienced during this 2-day adventure.