Private Day Trip to Abu Simbel from Luxor by vehicle
Active
14h - 16h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
We depart Luxor in the morning around 5.15 AM, then have a guided tour with one of our Egyptologists and some free time before we drive back to Aswan (approx. 3 hours drive each way, with around 2 hours at the temples).
All transfers and guide are included.
The temples built by Ramses II at Abu Simbel, are one of Egypt’s highlights, and have a fascinating story behind them to go with their impressive size. When Lake Nasser was flooded, the final water level was going to submerge several temples, the most important of which being Abu Simbel. The temple was therefore dismantled completely and rebuilt further up the hillside where it sits today. The temple stands today as a testament to Ramses II and the great building prowess of the ancient Egyptians, as well as to modern engineering.
Available options
Private Day Trip to Abu Simbel from Luxor by vehicle
Pickup included
What's included
Transport by air-conditioned vehicle.
Parking fees, Fuel surcharge and Driver.
Hotel pickup and drop off.
All service charges and taxes.
Qualified Egyptologist English guide.
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
See the magnificent temples of Abu Simbel on a vehicle tour from Aswan. With a qualified Egyptologist as your guide, you'll enjoy a personalized visit to Abu Simbel on this private tour. With its four rock-hewn pharaohs, you'll agree that the Great Temple is one of the most impressive sites in Egypt, and the highlight of any trip to Egypt. On the short walk to the temple entrances, your guide will explain the history of the site, including details of the UNESCO-led relocation of the entire cliff face to higher ground, and how the temples were discovered by accident in 1813. Due to the large number of visitors to Abu Simbel, guides are not permitted inside either the Great Temple of Ramses II or the smaller Temple of Hathor. However, by using photos and illustrations, your guide will explain to you the structures and their interior artworks. You will then have free time to enter the temples and explore them at your leisure.
As one of the few ancient Egyptian sites which largely escaped damage by past invaders, the interiors of Abu Simbel's temples are astounding. The scale of the buildings and their detailed decoration leaves most visitors in awe. The temples' attraction is further enhanced by their scenic location on the edge of Lake Nasser in the orange sands of the desert. The drive is approximately three hours each way.
Then back to Aswan upon arrival transfer to Train station to ahead to Luxor or Aswan Airport to reach Cairo.
What's not included
Food and drinks, unless specified.
Entrance fees to all sites.
Personal expenses, drinks, items of a personal nature and any other expenses not mentioned.
Gratuities (recommended).
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
FR
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
1 reviews
5★
1
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
5 reviews
5★
5
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Luxor
Luxor, once the ancient city of Thebes, is a treasure trove of ancient Egyptian history and architecture. Known for its magnificent temples, tombs, and monuments, it offers an unparalleled glimpse into the past. The city is often referred to as the world's greatest open-air museum, with landmarks like the Valley of the Kings and Karnak Temple attracting visitors from around the globe.
Top Attractions
Karnak Temple Complex
The Karnak Temple Complex is a massive temple complex dedicated to the god Amun-Ra. It is one of the largest religious buildings ever constructed and a must-visit for its grandeur and historical significance.
Historical/Architecture
2-3 hours
Egyptian Pounds 160
Valley of the Kings
The Valley of the Kings is a burial site for pharaohs and nobles from the New Kingdom period. It contains over 60 tombs, including the famous tomb of Tutankhamun.
Historical/Architecture
3-4 hours
Egyptian Pounds 240 (includes entry to 3 tombs)
Luxor Temple
Luxor Temple is a large ancient Egyptian temple complex located on the east bank of the Nile. It was constructed around 1400 BCE and dedicated to the god Amun-Ra.
Historical/Architecture
1-2 hours
Egyptian Pounds 160
Hatshepsut Temple
The Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut is a stunning temple dedicated to the female pharaoh Hatshepsut. It is uniquely designed and set against the cliffs of Deir el-Bahari.
Historical/Architecture
1-2 hours
Egyptian Pounds 120
Luxor Museum
The Luxor Museum is a small but impressive museum showcasing artifacts from the Theban Necropolis and the surrounding area. It provides a great overview of Luxor's rich history.
Museum
1 hour
Egyptian Pounds 100
Must-Try Local Dishes
Kushari
A popular Egyptian dish made with rice, lentils, pasta, and fried onions, topped with tomato sauce and garlic vinegar.
Main Dish
Vegetarian
Ful Medames
A traditional Egyptian breakfast dish made from slow-cooked fava beans, often served with eggs, falafel, and tahini.
Breakfast
Vegan
Grilled Kebab
Marinated and grilled skewers of lamb or chicken, often served with rice and salad.
Main Dish
Contains meat
Baklava
A sweet pastry made with layers of filo dough, nuts, and honey syrup.
Dessert
Vegetarian, contains nuts
Popular Activities
Hot air balloon ride
Felucca sailing
Horseback riding
Nile River cruise
Spa treatments
Café hopping
Temple visits
Museum tours
Best Time to Visit
October to April
This period offers the most comfortable weather for sightseeing and exploring the ancient sites. The cooler temperatures make it ideal for outdoor activities.
15°C to 30°C
59°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Arabic
- Widely spoken: English, French
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas
Currency
Egyptian Pound (EGP)
Time Zone
GMT+2
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Luxor is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and tourist sites.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas
- • Use reputable tour companies and guides
- • Negotiate prices in advance for taxis and services
Getting there
By air
- Luxor International Airport • 6 km from city center
By train
Luxor Train Station
By bus
Luxor Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Local buses are a cheap and common way to get around Luxor. They can be crowded and may not be the most comfortable option for tourists.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Careem
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
East Bank
West Bank
Day trips
Valley of the Queens
3 km from Luxor • Half day
The Valley of the Queens is a burial site for the wives and children of pharaohs. It contains over 70 tombs, including the famous tomb of Nefertari.
Dendera Temple Complex
60 km from Luxor • Full day
The Dendera Temple Complex is a well-preserved temple dedicated to the goddess Hathor. It is known for its beautiful reliefs and the famous Dendera zodiac.
Abydos Temple
140 km from Luxor • Full day
The Abydos Temple is a significant archaeological site dedicated to the god Osiris. It is known for its well-preserved reliefs and the famous Abydos King List.
Festivals
Luxor African Film Festival • Late March to early April
Luxor International Folk Festival • Late October to early November
Eid al-Fitr • Varies (end of Ramadan)
Pro tips
- Visit major attractions early in the morning to avoid crowds and the heat.
- Hire a knowledgeable local guide to fully appreciate the history and significance of the ancient sites.
- Stay hydrated and wear sun protection, as the sun can be intense, especially during the summer months.
- Bargain politely in markets and with street vendors, as prices are often inflated for tourists.
- Try local dishes like Kushari and Ful Medames for an authentic culinary experience.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
