Aswan & Abu Simbel Trip from Marsa Alam

Please note that this tour typically runs for two days. Accommodation in Aswan for the overnight stay is not included and should be arranged by the customer independently, allowing for personalized choice and flexibility.

Overview

Embark on a spectacular 2-day journey to Aswan and the majestic Abu Simbel temples from Marsa Alam.

This comprehensive private tour allows you to delve deep into the rich history and architectural wonders of Upper Egypt. Experience the serene beauty of the Nile in Aswan and marvel at the incredible rock-cut temples of Abu Simbel, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Travel Details: The journey from Marsa Alam to Aswan is approximately **8 to 9 hours** (600-650km). The transfer to Abu Simbel from Aswan takes roughly 3 hours (280 km) each way. You will travel in a modern, air-conditioned private vehicle with comfortable seating, including rest stops. This is a 2-day tour, with an overnight stay in Aswan.

Day 1: Edfu Temple & Aswan's Timeless Treasures
Your first day focuses on a key stop along the Nile and Aswan's iconic landmarks. You will first visit the impressive **Temple of Horus at Edfu**, one of Egypt's best-preserved ancient temples. Continue to Aswan to see the monumental **Aswan High Dam**, a marvel of modern engineering that reshaped Egypt's landscape and economy. Explore the ancient granite quarries to see the colossal **Unfinished Obelisk**, offering fascinating insights into ancient Egyptian stone-working techniques. Conclude your day with a magical motorboat ride to Agilkia Island to discover the exquisite **Philae Temple**, dedicated to the goddess Isis, beautifully relocated to save it from the rising waters of Lake Nasser. After a day of exploration, you will enjoy dinner and an overnight stay in Aswan (accommodation arranged by the customer).

Day 2: The Grandeur of Abu Simbel
An early morning start on day two takes you through the desert to the magnificent Abu Simbel temples. These colossal rock-cut temples, built by Pharaoh Ramesses II and his queen Nefertari, are among the most impressive ancient Egyptian sites. Witness the grandiosity of the Great Temple, dedicated to Ramesses II, and the smaller Temple of Hathor, dedicated to Nefertari. Learn about their intricate history and the incredible UNESCO effort to relocate them during the construction of the Aswan High Dam. After soaking in the grandeur, you'll return to Aswan for lunch before commencing your journey back to Marsa Alam.

This immersive tour promises unforgettable memories of Egypt's most iconic ancient sites, combining the charm of Aswan with the awe-inspiring majesty of Abu Simbel.

Tour Plan (2 Days)

Day 1 Morning

Hotel Pickup & Travel to Aswan

Your adventure begins with pickup from your hotel in Marsa Alam. Travel in comfort by air-conditioned private vehicle to Aswan, approximately an **8 to 9-hour journey**. Enjoy the desert landscapes and rest stops along the way.

Day 1 Mid-Day

Edfu Temple

Upon arrival in Upper Egypt, you will visit the magnificent Temple of Horus at Edfu, one of the most complete and well-preserved ancient Egyptian temples, dedicated to the falcon god Horus. Explore its grand pylons, courtyards, and sanctuaries.

Day 1 Afternoon

Aswan High Dam & Unfinished Obelisk

Continue your journey to Aswan, where you'll meet your expert Egyptologist guide. Your stops are the impressive Aswan High Dam, offering panoramic views of Lake Nasser, and the ancient granite quarries to see the colossal Unfinished Obelisk.

Day 1 Late Afternoon/Evening

Philae Temple & Dinner

Take a motorboat to Agilkia Island to explore the magnificent Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis. Afterwards, enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant in Aswan. You will then be transferred to your pre-booked accommodation in Aswan for the overnight stay.

Day 2 Early Morning

Early Departure to Abu Simbel

An early start (typically 4:00 AM - 5:00 AM) to join the convoy or travel directly to Abu Simbel. The journey across the desert takes approximately 3 hours. Witness the stunning desert sunrise as you head south.

Day 2 Morning

Explore Abu Simbel Temples

Arrive at Abu Simbel and spend ample time exploring the two grand temples built by Ramesses II. Marvel at the Great Temple of Ramesses II and the smaller Temple of Hathor and Nefertari, learning about their history and the incredible engineering feat of their relocation.

Day 2 Mid-Day

Return to Aswan & Lunch

After your visit to Abu Simbel, you'll begin the 3-hour return journey to Aswan. Upon arrival, enjoy a satisfying lunch at a local restaurant.

Day 2 Afternoon

Journey back to Marsa Alam

After lunch, embark on your comfortable private transfer back to your hotel in Marsa Alam, concluding your unforgettable 2-day Aswan & Abu Simbel adventure.

Location

Aswan & Abu Simbel, Upper Egypt - Ancient Wonders along the Nile

Aswan is located in southern Egypt, approximately 650 kilometers from Marsa Alam, a journey of about **8 to 9 hours**. It sits on the east bank of the Nile River at the first cataract, a strategic point that served as ancient Egypt's southern frontier. Aswan is known for its serene Nile views, Nubian culture, and significant archaeological sites.

Abu Simbel is further south, approximately 280 kilometers (175 miles) from Aswan, near the Sudanese border, on the western bank of Lake Nasser. Its colossal temples are a testament to ancient Egyptian grandeur and the marvel of modern conservation efforts.

Edfu Temple, situated between Luxor and Aswan, is another magnificent site along the Nile, famous for its remarkably preserved Temple of Horus.

Climate: Upper Egypt, including Aswan and Abu Simbel, experiences an arid desert climate. Summers are extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F). The cooler winter months (November-February) offer pleasant daytime temperatures around 20-28°C (68-82°F), making it the ideal time to visit.

Distance from Marsa Alam: The road journey to Aswan from Marsa Alam is approximately 650 km (**8-9 hours**). The round trip including Edfu and Abu Simbel covers significant distances over two days.

5.0

Excellent

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Based on 165 reviews
John Carter Texas, USA Feb 2026
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Incredible Two-Day Adventure!
Visited February 2026

This 2-day trip was the highlight of our Egypt vacation! Abu Simbel is beyond words – simply majestic. Aswan's temples were also fantastic. Our guide was exceptional, making every historical site come alive. The overnight in Aswan allowed us to truly soak it all in. Highly recommend!

Lena Müller Munich, Germany Mar 2026
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A Journey to Remember
Visited March 2026

Everything about this trip was perfectly organized. The private transport was comfortable, and our guide, Amir, was incredibly knowledgeable and passionate. Abu Simbel is an absolute must-see; the scale is breathtaking. Philae Temple by boat was also beautiful. Fantastic experience!

Pierre Dubois Paris, France Jan 2026
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Seamless and Enriching
Visited January 2026

Even though accommodation was separate, the team made sure everything ran smoothly. The early start to Abu Simbel was worth it to see the temples in the morning light. Our guide provided rich historical context for every site. This tour offers deep cultural immersion.

Sophia Chang Seoul, South Korea Dec 2025
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Worth the Travel!
Visited December 2025

The drive from Marsa Alam is long but completely forgotten once you stand before Abu Simbel. It's truly one of the wonders of the world. The Aswan portion was equally fascinating. A well-paced and memorable two days with excellent service.

Omar Hassan Cairo, Egypt Apr 2026
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A True Egyptian Odyssey
Visited April 2026

As an Egyptian, I'm still amazed by the beauty of my country's south. This tour provided an excellent opportunity to revisit Aswan and finally see Abu Simbel up close. The guides' knowledge was impressive, and the comfort of travel was appreciated. Shukran!

What's Included

  • Hotel pick-up and drop-off from Marsa Alam / Porto Ghalib
  • Private air-conditioned vehicle transportation for 2 days
  • Professional Egyptologist tour guide for Aswan & Abu Simbel
  • Entrance fees to all mentioned sites (Aswan High Dam, Unfinished Obelisk, Philae Temple, **Edfu Temple**, Abu Simbel Temples)
  • Lunch on Day 1 & Day 2 at quality local restaurants
  • Motorboat transfer to Philae Temple
  • Bottled water on board during the tour
  • All service charges and taxes

What's Not Included

  • Accommodation in Aswan (for overnight stay) is NOT included and must be booked by the customer.
  • Any extras not mentioned in the itinerary
  • Soft drinks and beverages during meals (other than water)
  • Gratuities (tips) for guide and driver
  • Personal expenses and souvenirs

Important Notes

  • This is a 2-day trip with an overnight stay in Aswan.
  • Please bring your passport or ID card.
  • Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
  • Camera is recommended (additional fees may apply at some sites).
  • Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen) is essential.
  • Light, breathable clothing suitable for temple visits.
  • Very early departures on both days - prepare accordingly.
  • Total trip duration is approximately 2 days (approx. 36-40 hours including transfers).