Abu Simbel Tours by Vehicle
Active
8h - 10h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This isn’t just a transfer — it’s a thoughtfully guided journey into one of Egypt’s most astonishing ancient feats. Traveling by private vehicle means you set the pace, skip the airport hassle, and enjoy quiet moments in the desert landscape that most visitors miss. Your expert Egyptologist guide adds layers of context to every carving, every corridor, and every story etched into Abu Simbel’s sacred stone. With early hotel pickup, smooth round-trip transport, and unhurried time at both temples, this tour blends comfort, depth, and a touch of adventure — perfect for curious travelers who want more than just a photo stop.
Available options
car + Guide
car + Guide<br/>Pickup included
car + Guide + Entry Fees
Pickup included
Only Car with driver
Only Car with driver <br/>Pickup included
What's included
Sightseeing Entrance fees (Depending on the Selected Tour option)
Transfer back to your hotel in Aswan once your tour concluded
Lunch meal at Quality local restaurant (Depending on the Selected Tour option)
Service charges and all taxes
English speaking guide (Depending on the Selected Tour option)
A Bottle of Mineral Water to Each person
Pick up from your hotel or Nile Cruise port in Aswan by private A/C vehicle
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
our day begins in the early morning with a prompt hotel or Nile cruise pickup in Aswan, typically between 4:00 AM and 5:00 AM. A professional driver and expert guide will greet you at your accommodation and escort you to a private, air-conditioned vehicle. You’ll set out before sunrise, ensuring cooler travel conditions and early arrival at the temples before large crowds gather.
2
Towering over the desert sands near the Sudanese border, the Great Temple of Ramses II is a true marvel of ancient engineering and ego. Carved directly into the rock face, four colossal statues of the pharaoh greet you at the entrance, each over 60 feet tall. Inside, a series of intricately decorated halls reveal scenes of battle victories, divine tributes, and celestial alignments — all designed to glorify Ramses’ reign. The temple is positioned so that twice a year, the sun illuminates the inner sanctuary — a feat that continues to astonish visitors and scholars alike.
3
Just a few steps away lies the smaller but equally impressive Temple of Nefertari, dedicated to Ramses’ beloved queen. It’s rare in Egyptian temple architecture to see a queen depicted at the same scale as a king, but here, Nefertari stands as Ramses’ equal. The richly painted interior celebrates her beauty, grace, and divine association with Hathor, the goddess of love and music. Wandering through this sacred space, you’ll feel the reverence and affection the great pharaoh held for his queen.
4
Stop 4
After exploring the temples at your own pace — with ample time for photos and insights from your guide — you'll begin the scenic 3 to 4-hour drive back through the Nubian desert. Along the way, your guide may share stories about the historic 1960s UNESCO relocation effort that saved the temples from flooding. Upon arrival in Aswan, you’ll be dropped off directly at your hotel or cruise ship, typically in the early afternoon, with a heart full of memories and a camera full of unforgettable shots.
What's not included
Any Optional Tours
Tipping
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
2 reviews
5★
2
4★
0
3★
0
2★
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1★
0
Important information
Specialized infant seats are available
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Children must be accompanied by an adult
About Aswan
Aswan is a charming city on the Nile River, known for its rich history, ancient temples, and stunning Nile landscapes. It offers a more relaxed and authentic Egyptian experience compared to the bustling cities of Cairo and Luxor.
Top Attractions
Philae Temple
A stunning temple complex dedicated to the goddess Isis, relocated to Agilkia Island due to the Aswan High Dam.
Historical
2-3 hours
EGP 180
Aswan High Dam
A massive dam on the Nile River, built to control flooding and generate hydroelectric power.
Historical
1-2 hours
EGP 10
Abu Simbel
A magnificent temple complex built by Ramses II, featuring colossal statues of the pharaoh.
Historical
Full day
EGP 300 (including transport)
Elephantine Island
An island in the Nile River with ancient ruins and a rich history dating back to the Old Kingdom.
Historical
2-3 hours
EGP 100
Nubian Museum
A museum dedicated to the history and culture of the Nubian people, featuring artifacts and exhibits.
Museum
1-2 hours
EGP 100
Must-Try Local Dishes
Ful Medames
A traditional fava bean dish, often served with falafel and tahini.
Breakfast
Vegetarian
Grilled Nile Fish
Fresh Nile fish grilled and served with garlic sauce and vegetables.
Dinner
Gluten-free
Koshari
A popular street food made with rice, lentils, pasta, and crispy onions, topped with tomato sauce.
Lunch
Vegetarian
Basbousa
A sweet semolina cake soaked in syrup, often flavored with coconut or rosewater.
Dessert
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Nile cruises
Fishing on Lake Nasser
Quad biking in the desert
Boat trips on the Nile
Spa treatments
Sunset cruises
Visiting Philae Temple
Exploring the Nubian Museum
Best Time to Visit
October to April
This period offers pleasant weather with cooler temperatures, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
18°C to 30°C
64°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Arabic
- Widely spoken: English, French
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Egyptian Pound (EGP)
Time Zone
EET (GMT+2)
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Aswan is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken to avoid scams and petty theft.
Important Precautions:
- • Bargain for prices in markets and taxis.
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or tours.
- • Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings.
Getting there
By air
- Aswan International Airport • 10 km from city center
By train
Aswan Railway Station
By bus
Aswan Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common form of public transport, connecting major areas within the city.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Careem
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Corniche El-Nil
Souq Area
West Aswan
Day trips
Abu Simbel
280 km • Full day
A stunning temple complex built by Ramses II, featuring colossal statues of the pharaoh.
Lake Nasser
50 km • Half day to full day
A vast artificial lake created by the Aswan High Dam, offering scenic views and water activities.
Kom Ombo
50 km • Half day
A temple complex dedicated to the crocodile god Sobek, offering insights into ancient Egyptian history.
Festivals
Aswan International Festival of Nubian Arts • February
Aswan Film Festival for Nubian Arts • October
Ramadan • Varies (Islamic calendar)
Pro tips
- Visit the Nubian villages for an authentic cultural experience.
- Take a felucca sailboat ride on the Nile at sunset for stunning views.
- Bargain for prices in markets and taxis to get the best deals.
- Carry small denominations of Egyptian pounds for tips and small purchases.
- Dress modestly and respect local customs, especially in religious sites.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
