Exploring the ancient wonders of Abu Simbel is a captivating experience, and a private day trip from Aswan is the ideal way to uncover this architectural marvel. Travelers can embark on a journey through history, marveling at the colossal temples of Ramses II and Hathor, while learning about the remarkable engineering feat that saved these sites from the rising waters of Lake Nasser. With private, air-conditioned transportation and an Egyptologist guide, this tour promises an immersive and convenient exploration of one of Egypt’s most iconic archaeological treasures. What makes this experience truly unique, however, is the opportunity to delve deeper into the stories…
Key Points
- Private air-conditioned minibus transportation from Aswan to the UNESCO-preserved Abu Simbel temples, including the Great Temple of Ramses II and the Temple of Hathor.
- Guided tour by an Egyptologist, providing commentary on the historical significance and architectural wonders of the 13th-century BC temples.
- Opportunity to explore the intricate murals, hieroglyphics, and colossal statues that showcase ancient Egyptian engineering and cultural legacy.
- Visit the temples’ higher artificial hill location, a testament to the UNESCO-led relocation project that saved them from submersion due to the Aswan High Dam.
- Flexible itinerary with free time to explore the temple interiors at your own pace and potentially visit the visitor center, if time permits.
Overview and Description
This private day trip from Aswan to Abu Simbel allows visitors to explore two iconic temples built in the 13th century BC, which were relocated in the 1960s to save them from flooding.
The tour features the massive Great Temple of Ramses II and the smaller Temple of Hathor, both of which boast impressive architecture and intricate carvings.
Travelers will be picked up from their Aswan hotels or the port and transported by private, air-conditioned minibus. Along the way, a knowledgeable Egyptologist guide will provide commentary.
At Abu Simbel, visitors can wander the temple interiors and marvel at the colossal statues of Ramses II. If time permits, the tour may also include a visit to the visitor center documenting the temples’ relocation.
Tour Details
The tour includes pickup from Aswan hotels or the port, and private air-conditioned minibus transportation to and from Abu Simbel. Along the way, a private Egyptologist guide will provide commentary about the sites.
Once at the temple complex, visitors will have free time to explore the interiors of the Great Temple of Ramses II and the smaller Temple of Hathor.
Key features of the visit include:
- Admiring the colossal rock statues of Ramses II at the Great Temple.
- Seeing the intricate murals and pillars engraved with images of Hathor and Nefertari.
- Visiting the visitor center, if time permits, to learn about the temples’ relocation.
- Enjoying the early morning departure to avoid crowds at the site.
Highlights
Visitors behold the colossal rock statues of Ramses II at the Great Temple, marveling at the pharaoh’s imposing presence carved into the cliffsides.
The smaller Temple of Hathor offers a glimpse into the ancient world, with its vibrant murals and pillars engraved with images of the goddess Hathor and Queen Nefertari.
If time permits, guests can explore the visitor center, which documents the remarkable UNESCO project that relocated the temples in the 1960s to save them from the rising waters of Lake Nasser.
These highlights provide a glimpse into the grandeur and significance of these ancient structures, allowing visitors to connect with Egypt’s rich cultural heritage.
Duration and Logistics
The tour typically involves an approximately 3-hour drive each way between Aswan and the Abu Simbel temples. An early morning departure is recommended to avoid crowds at the site, with guests then returning to Aswan for hotel or port drop-off later in the day.
This private minibus excursion offers the following benefits:
- Private air-conditioned transportation for the round-trip journey
- A private Egyptologist guide providing commentary during the drive
- Free time to explore the temple interiors at your own pace
- The opportunity to visit the visitor center, if time permits, to learn about the temples’ relocation.
Reviews
Overall, reviewers have provided a largely positive assessment of the Abu Simbel tour from Aswan, though some have raised concerns about guide knowledge and time constraints at the site.
Based on 42 reviews, the tour seems to offer an engaging and worthwhile experience for visitors. Many praise the knowledgeable Egyptologist guides who provide insightful commentary during the drive.
However, a few note that some guides may lack specific expertise on the temples’ history and relocation. Plus, some travelers felt rushed and would’ve appreciated more free time to explore the site at their own pace.
Despite these minor issues, the majority of reviewers recommend the tour as an efficient and convenient way to visit the impressive Abu Simbel temples from Aswan.
Temple of Ramses II
The Great Temple of Ramses II, one of the two iconic structures at Abu Simbel, impresses visitors with its colossal rock statues of the pharaoh himself. The temple’s massive façade features four 69-foot tall seated statues of Ramses II, carved directly out of the mountainside.
Inside, the temple’s walls are adorned with intricate murals and hieroglyphics depicting the pharaoh’s victories in battle and his relationship with the gods. Visitors can explore the temple’s cavernous interior, which includes:
- The Grand Hypostyle Hall
- The Vestibule
- The Sanctuary
- The Smaller Hypostyle Hall
This awe-inspiring temple, built in the 13th century BC, stands as a testament to the engineering prowess and cultural legacy of ancient Egypt.
Temple of Hathor
Adjacent to the Great Temple of Ramses II stands the smaller Temple of Hathor, dedicated to the goddess of love, beauty, and music. This temple features intricately carved pillars and murals depicting Hathor and Ramses II’s queen, Nefertari. Visitors can explore the temple’s interior, which includes the main sanctuary, vestibule, and several smaller chambers.
| Interior Highlights | Key Figures | Architecture |
|---|---|---|
| Main sanctuary | Hathor | Carved pillars |
| Vestibule | Nefertari | Ornate murals |
| Smaller chambers | Ramses II | Intimate spaces |
The Temple of Hathor offers a unique glimpse into the cultural and religious significance of this ancient Egyptian goddess, complementing the grandeur of the nearby Great Temple of Ramses II.
Relocation of the Temples
In the late 1960s, the iconic temples of Abu Simbel faced imminent submersion due to the construction of the Aswan High Dam and the subsequent formation of Lake Nasser.
To save these priceless historical treasures, a UNESCO-led project undertook the monumental task of relocating the temples to higher ground.
The relocation process involved:
- Cutting the temples into large blocks, numbering each piece.
- Carefully dismantling and moving the blocks to a new site.
- Reassembling the temples with precision to maintain their original layout and alignment.
- Rebuilding the temples on an artificial hill, 213 feet above their original location, to ensure they remained above the rising waters of Lake Nasser.
This UNESCO project is considered an engineering marvel and a testament to the international community’s commitment to preserving humanity’s cultural heritage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is This a Group Tour or a Private Tour?
This is a private tour, not a group tour. The customer will have a private air-conditioned minibus and a private Egyptologist guide for the trip from Aswan to Abu Simbel.
Is Photography Allowed Inside the Temples?
Photography is generally allowed inside the Abu Simbel temples, but visitors should take care not to use flash as it can damage the ancient murals and carvings. Some restrictions may apply, so it’s best to check with the site staff.
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
There is no strict dress code for visiting the Abu Simbel temples. However, modest attire covering the shoulders and knees is recommended, as the temples are a significant cultural and religious site. Visitors should dress comfortably for the hot, dry climate.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
Yes, participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. Snacks and water are recommended, as there are limited dining options at the Abu Simbel site. Bringing a packed lunch provides flexibility and convenience during the tour.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Tour?
There are generally no age restrictions for this Abu Simbel tour. Children of all ages are welcome, though parents should ensure young children can handle the extended travel time and walking required at the temple site.
Recap
The Abu Simbel temples, built in the 13th century BC, are a marvel of ancient Egyptian engineering.
Visitors can explore the colossal Great Temple of Ramses II and the Temple of Hathor, marveling at their well-preserved murals and hieroglyphics.
The relocation of these temples to save them from the rising waters of Lake Nasser is a testament to the dedication to preserving cultural heritage.
