Begin your journey with a convenient pickup from your hotel or Nile cruise boat in Aswan. Enjoy a scenic private car ride of approximately three hours to the legendary temples of Abu Simbel.
Upon arrival, explore the world-famous twin temples, originally carved into the mountainside in the 13th century BC during the reign of Pharaoh Ramesses II of the 19th Dynasty.
The Great Temple of Ramesses II is widely regarded as the grandest and most magnificent of the temples built during his reign. Marvel at the four colossal statues of Ramesses II, each over 20 meters high, standing proudly at the temple entrance. Your private guide will provide an insightful lecture about the temple’s history, architecture, and significance before you enjoy time to explore the interior, which extends 60 meters into the mountain. Admire the intricate carvings and statues depicting Ramesses II’s military victories and tributes to the gods Amun, Ra-Horakhty, Ptah, and the deified Pharaoh himself.
Next, visit the Temple of Hathor, dedicated to the cow-headed goddess of love, joy, and music, built in honor of Ramesses II’s favorite wife, Queen Nefertari. Six impressive statues, each 10 meters tall, guard the temple’s entrance.
Between 1964 and 1968, the entire site was carefully relocated to save it from the rising waters of Lake Nasser. The temples were meticulously cut into large blocks, some weighing up to 30 tons, and reconstructed 65 meters higher and 200 meters back from the river—a remarkable feat of modern engineering.
After fully experiencing this extraordinary archaeological site, return to Aswan in the comfort of your private vehicle, concluding your tour with drop-off at your hotel or cruise ship.
