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The 2-Day Aswan and Abu Simbel Tour offers a unique blend of Egypt’s ancient wonders and natural beauty, inviting travelers to witness the awe-inspiring temples of Abu Simbel and the cultural richness of Aswan. Located in southern Egypt, this short yet power-packed tour reveals the lesser-known gems of the Nile Valley, perfect for those seeking history, serenity, and scenic landscapes.
Whether you’re sailing the Nile in a felucca, marveling at the High Dam, or standing before the colossal statues of Ramses II, this tour is more than a sightseeing trip — it’s a historical and spiritual awakening.
Your 2-Day Aswan and Abu Simbel Tour begins with a morning arrival in Aswan, a city steeped in ancient and modern charm. After checking into your hotel or being met by your guide, the first stop is the breathtaking Philae Temple. Located on Agilkia Island, this temple is dedicated to the goddess Isis and is one of the most picturesque monuments in Egypt. You’ll reach it via a short boat ride on the Nile, adding a tranquil element to your historical adventure.
Walking through the temple’s detailed columns and hieroglyphics, you’ll feel transported back to Egypt’s Ptolemaic era. The temple’s well-preserved reliefs make it a favorite for photographers and history enthusiasts alike.
Next, your tour takes you to the Aswan High Dam, a marvel of 20th-century engineering that controls the Nile’s flooding and generates hydroelectric power. From the top, you can view Lake Nasser, one of the largest man-made lakes in the world.
Just a short ride away is the Unfinished Obelisk, an enormous granite structure that gives insight into ancient Egyptian stone-cutting techniques. Left abandoned due to a crack, it remains in its original quarry and would have been the largest obelisk ever erected had it been completed.
To end your first day, enjoy a relaxing felucca ride on the Nile. As the sun sets over the desert dunes and Elephantine Island, you’ll experience the timeless beauty of Egypt in its purest form. Some tours include a stop at the Botanical Gardens or a Nubian village for a taste of local culture and hospitality.
The highlight of the 2-Day Aswan and Abu Simbel Tour begins with an early morning drive (approx. 3.5 hours) to Abu Simbel. Although the journey through the desert is long, it is filled with anticipation for what awaits — a site that leaves nearly every visitor speechless.
Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by the monumental Great Temple of Ramses II and the Temple of Queen Nefertari. Carved directly into the mountainside in the 13th century BC, these temples are one of ancient Egypt’s most awe-inspiring feats. The four seated statues of Ramses II guard the entrance, each standing at over 20 meters tall.
Read our full guide to Abu Simbel Temples
Inside the temple, intricate reliefs depict Ramses II’s military victories, his relationship with the gods, and his divine status. A remarkable feature of the temple is its solar alignment — twice a year, sunlight penetrates the inner sanctum to illuminate the statues of the gods seated beside Ramses.
Across the plaza is the Temple of Hathor and Nefertari, one of the rare temples in Egypt dedicated to a queen. Nefertari is depicted as equal in size and status to the pharaoh, a rare honor in ancient Egypt.
The temples were famously relocated in the 1960s to save them from the rising waters of Lake Nasser after the construction of the Aswan High Dam. The effort, led by UNESCO, remains one of the most ambitious archaeological rescue projects in history.
After your tour of Abu Simbel, you’ll head back to Aswan by early afternoon. Depending on your travel arrangements, you can either continue exploring Aswan or transfer to the airport or train station for your onward journey.
This short excursion packs centuries of history and jaw-dropping sights into just two days. Here’s why it’s a must-add to your Egyptian itinerary:
Perfect for travelers with limited time
See two UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Enjoy authentic experiences like felucca rides
Stunning photo opportunities
Learn from expert Egyptologist guides
Whether you’re an adventure seeker, history lover, or cultural enthusiast, the 2-Day Aswan and Abu Simbel Tour will leave you with unforgettable memories.
The ideal time to book your tour is during Egypt’s cooler months, from October to April. During this period, temperatures are more manageable for sightseeing, especially in desert locations like Abu Simbel.
Pro tip: Wear layers and bring water and sunblock year-round.
Comfortable walking shoes
Light, breathable clothing
Hat and sunglasses
Refillable water bottle
Passport or ID (for checkpoints)
Camera or smartphone with good storage
A 2-Day Aswan and Abu Simbel Tour is the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in Egypt’s southern treasures. Whether you’re marveling at the colossal temples or floating along the Nile, every moment of this journey blends natural serenity with ancient splendor.
Take a break from the bustling streets of Cairo or the crowds of Luxor and head south for a truly magical experience.
To execute a smooth 2-Day Aswan and Abu Simbel Tour, planning your transport in advance is key. Here’s how to travel effectively between sites:
Private A/C Vehicle (most recommended):
Hiring a private car with a guide ensures comfort, flexibility, and a tailored experience. Tours typically begin around 4:00 AM to arrive early before the heat and crowds.
Group Bus Tours:
Cheaper but less flexible. Group tours are often organized by hotels or travel agencies and follow strict schedules.
Flights (limited availability):
EgyptAir sometimes offers direct flights from Aswan to Abu Simbel, but they are limited and often costly. Great if you’re short on time.
Cruise Tours (luxury option):
A few luxury Nile cruises include Abu Simbel, although these are typically multi-day and may not match the “2-day” timeline.
A successful 2-Day Aswan and Abu Simbel Tour goes beyond the itinerary—it includes respect and understanding of local customs and culture.
Dress modestly, especially in temples and local villages.
Ask permission before photographing people.
Learn a few Arabic words“Shukran” (thank you) and “Salam” (hello) go a long way.
Both Aswan and Abu Simbel are safe for tourists and heavily patrolled by tourism police. You’ll pass a few security checkpoints during your travel to Abu Simbel—just keep your passport handy.
Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in southern Egypt’s unique culinary offerings during your 2-Day Aswan and Abu Simbel Tour.
Fatta: A festive Nubian dish made of rice, bread, meat, and garlic sauce.
Molokhia: A rich green stew served with rice or bread.
Grilled Tilapia: Fresh fish caught from the Nile and seasoned to perfection.
Al Masry Restaurant: Known for authentic Egyptian and Nubian cuisine.
Makani Aswan: Offers both local and international dishes with a great view of the Nile.
Nubian House Restaurant: Combines culture and cuisine in a scenic setting.
Yes. With a well-organized itinerary, two days is enough to experience the main highlights of both destinations, including major temples and a scenic Nile experience.
Highly recommended. A certified Egyptologist adds context and brings ancient history to life, especially at Abu Simbel and Philae.
Yes. You can hire a private car and guide. However, solo travel might require coordination with the police convoy system depending on current regulations.
In Aswan, you’ll find stable mobile and Wi-Fi coverage. Abu Simbel has limited signal, especially inside the temple areas.
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| Day 1 Morning | Arrive in Aswan, visit Philae Temple |
| Day 1 Midday | Tour Aswan High Dam and Unfinished Obelisk |
| Day 1 Evening | Nile felucca ride and local dinner |
| Day 2 Early Morning | Drive to Abu Simbel |
| Day 2 Morning | Visit Ramses II & Nefertari Temples |
| Day 2 Afternoon | Return to Aswan and departure |
There’s no better way to explore Egypt’s southern frontier than by taking a 2-Day Aswan and Abu Simbel Tour. In just 48 hours, you’ll stand before awe-inspiring monuments, sail on the world’s longest river, and gain a deeper appreciation for one of the world’s most enduring civilizations.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Egypt or returning for more, this tour promises both serenity and grandeur. From the gentle ripples of the Nile in Aswan to the colossal temples of Abu Simbel, this adventure is a memory in the making.
Magnifique moment !