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Abu Simbel's temples will amaze you with their beauty and grandeur. They are among the most impressive monuments in the world.
The temples were relocated in a remarkable feat of engineering in the 1960s. They faced the risk of being submerged in Lake Nasser due to the construction of the High Dam. They were carefully moved to a higher site 60 meters above their original location on the cliff. The larger temple is dedicated to Ramesses II and the smaller one to his beloved wife Nefertari. On two special days of the year, the morning sun shines through the temple and reaches the statues of the four gods at the back of the cave.
Pickup included
Pick up from your accommodation in Luxor and drive to Abu Simbel
The twin temples were originally carved out of the mountainside in the 13th century BC, during the reign of Pharaoh Ramesses II's 19th Dynasty. In the mountain temple, in the great colonnade, were eight columns in the guise of Ramses II, each almost 10 meters high.
In 1960 the construction of the Aswan Dam started, which would create Lake Nasser and the temples would disappear under water. To save the temples, they were sawn into large blocks and rebuilt at a 65-meter elevation. Large concrete domes have been built with natural stone cladding on the outside and the temples placed inside, giving the appearance of being carved out of the rock on the spot.
Drive back from Abu Simbel to 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
A popular Egyptian dish made with rice, lentils, pasta, and fried onions, topped with tomato sauce and garlic vinegar.
A traditional Egyptian breakfast dish made from slow-cooked fava beans, often served with eggs, falafel, and tahini.
Marinated and grilled skewers of lamb or chicken, often served with rice and salad.
A sweet pastry made with layers of filo dough, nuts, and honey syrup.
This period offers the most comfortable weather for sightseeing and exploring the ancient sites. The cooler temperatures make it ideal for outdoor activities.
Egyptian Pound (EGP)
GMT+2
220VV, 50HzHz
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.
Luxor Train Station
Luxor Bus Station
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.
Available • Apps: Uber, Careem
Car, Bike, Scooter
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.
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.
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.
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