Aswan Day Tour: Discover Philae’s Magic, Obelisk Mystery & High Dam
Embarking on a day tour to explore the ancient and…
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Egypt Trip Planner
Egypt Trip Planner
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Abu Simbel is a magnificent temple complex located in the Nubian Desert of southern Egypt, near the border with Sudan. It is one of the most iconic tourist destinations in the country, attracting visitors from all over the world. The temples were built during the reign of Pharaoh Ramesses II in the 13th century BC and were rediscovered in the 19th century.
If you are visiting Aswan, taking a day tour to Abu Simbel should definitely be on your itinerary. In this article, we will guide you through everything you need to know to plan your visit to the temples of Abu Simbel from Aswan.
Getting to Abu Simbel from Aswan
The temples of Abu Simbel are located about 280 kilometers south of Aswan. The easiest and most common way to get there is by road, either by private car or by joining a group tour. The journey takes about 3-4 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. Most tours depart early in the morning, around 4:00-5:00 am, to arrive at Abu Simbel in time for the sunrise.
Alternatively, you can take a flight from Aswan to Abu Simbel, which takes only about 30-45 minutes. There are several airlines that operate daily flights, including EgyptAir and Nesma Airlines. However, flights can be more expensive than road transport, and you will miss the scenic views of the Nile Valley.
Visiting the Temples
The temples of Abu Simbel consist of two main structures: the Great Temple of Ramses II and the smaller Temple of Hathor. The Great Temple is the most impressive of the two, with four colossal statues of Ramses II at the entrance, each standing 20 meters tall. The temple is dedicated to the gods Amun, Ra-Horakhty, and Ptah, as well as to Ramses II himself.
Inside the temple, you can admire the intricate carvings on the walls and columns, depicting scenes from the life of Ramses II and various gods and goddesses. One of the most famous scenes is the Battle of Kadesh, a military campaign in which Ramses II fought against the Hittites.
The smaller Temple of Hathor is dedicated to Ramses II’s beloved wife, Queen Nefertari, and the goddess Hathor. The temple is adorned with stunning reliefs and colorful paintings, depicting the royal couple and various deities. The façade of the temple features six statues: four of Ramses II and two of Nefertari.
Tips for Visiting Abu Simbel
Conclusion
A day tour to Abu Simbel from Aswan is an unforgettable experience, offering a glimpse into the ancient world of pharaohs and gods. Whether you choose to travel by road or air, visiting the temples of Abu Simbel is a must-do activity for any traveler to Egypt. With careful planning and a sense of adventure, you can make the most of your visit to this remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Embarking on a day tour to explore the ancient and…
Price On Call