Day Tours
Nefertari and Abu Simbel temples From Aswan by Vehicles
1 days$0/ per person
- Abu Simbel temples
- Abu Simbel day trip
- Abu Simbel from Aswan
- Ramses II temple Abu Simbel
- Queen Nefertari temple Abu Simbel
- Ancient Egyptian temples
- Abu Simbel road trip
Abu Simbel day trips from Aswan as an early start, about 3 hours each way by road, and around 3 hours at the temples.
Experience one of Egypt’s most unforgettable archaeological day trips with a private vehicle transfer from Aswan to the magnificent Abu Simbel Temples. This full-day excursion combines comfort, flexibility, and expert guidance as you travel through the Nubian Desert to see the monumental temples of Ramses II and Queen Nefertari.
Travel south from Aswan in a private vehicle and discover Abu Simbel, one of Egypt’s most iconic UNESCO treasures. With hotel pickup, a smooth desert drive, and plenty of time to explore the temples, this trip offers an easy and rewarding way to experience the grandeur of ancient Nubia.
Tour Overview
Country
Egypt
Duration
1 days
Starts
Nile Cruise
Ends
Nile Cruise
Age Range
6 – 99
Arrival Transfer
Yes
Departure Transfer
Yes
Tour Guide
English speaking Guide
Hotel Rating
Meals Included
Optional Lunch
Tour Style
Tour Style
History
Trip Type
Private
Guiding Style
Fully Guided
Tour Pace2/5
Physical Rating3/5
Trip Map
Tour Highlights
Abu Simbel Temple Complex a UNESCO-listed masterpiece rescued from the rising waters of Lake Nasser. [waylesstravelers](https://waylesstravelers.com/how-to-visit-abu-simbel/)
Travel comfortably by van with hotel or cruise pickup and drop-off in Aswan.
Explore both the Great Temple of Ramses II and the smaller Temple of Queen Nefertari Abu Simbel is a must-see for history enthusiasts, cultural travelers, and anyone seeking to experience the majestic legacy of ancient Egypt in a breathtaking setting.
Enjoy a scenic desert drive and an early arrival to help avoid the worst heat and crowds
Itinerary
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Nefertari and Abu Simbel temples in One Day — Abu Simbel temple From Aswan
Detailed Itinerary DurationApproximately 9 to 10 hours. Published listings commonly describe pickup around 4:30 AM to 8:00 AM, a three-hour drive to Abu Simbel, about three hours on site, and return to Aswan later in the day. 04:00–05:00 | Pickup in AswanEarly morning pickup from your hotel or Nile cruise ship in Aswan. Departure is typically scheduled before sunrise to maximize time at the site and avoid midday temperatures. 05:00–08:30 | Drive to Abu SimbelTravel south through the desert by van, with a short rest stop and any required checkpoint procedures along the route. The drive usually takes around 3.5 to 4 hours. 08:30–10:30 | Guided visit at the templesArrive at the Abu Simbel Temple Complex and explore the site with your guide. Most tours allow about 1 to 2 hours on site, enough to see the Great Temple, the Temple of Nefertari, and the visitor area. 10:30–11:00 | Free time for photosEnjoy time for photography and independent exploration around the exterior façades and lakeside views. The early morning light is ideal for capturing the statues and temple front. 11:00–14:30 | Return to AswanAfter the visit, relax on the drive back to Aswan, arriving in the early afternoon depending on traffic, checkpoint timing, and the group schedule.Note: If departing later (e.g., 7:00 AM), the convoy requirement is often lifted and you may encounter fewer crowds. However, an early departure is strongly recommended during summer months (May–September) when temperatures can exceed 40°C. 1. Early hotel pickup in Aswan Your driver meets you at your hotel and departs in a private air-conditioned vehicle for the southbound journey to Abu Simbel. 2. Scenic drive through the desert Relax during the approximately 3-hour drive through the Nubian landscape toward Lake Nasser and the Sudanese frontier region. 3. Arrival at Abu Simbel Meet your local guide, if included, and begin your visit at the Great Temple of Ramses II and the smaller Temple of Nefertari. 4. Temple exploration Spend around 2.5 to 3 hours at the site exploring the colossal façade, interior chambers, reliefs, and the story of the temples’ relocation. 5. Return drive to Aswan Reboard your vehicle for the return journey and arrive back in Aswan by late afternoon or early evening, depending on your departure time.Why Visit Abu Simbel? The Abu Simbel temples are among the most extraordinary and awe-inspiring monuments of ancient Egypt, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the grandeur of the New Kingdom period. Architectural Marvel Built by Pharaoh Ramses II in the 13th century BC, these colossal rock-cut temples showcase impressive engineering and artistic mastery. The Great Temple, dedicated to Ramses II himself, features four monumental statues guarding the entrance, while the nearby Temple of Queen Nefertari honors one of Egypt’s most beloved queens. Historical Significance Abu Simbel stands as a powerful symbol of Ramses II’s reign and Egypt’s political and religious strength. The temples were constructed to intimidate neighboring powers and celebrate the divine status of the pharaoh. Their relocation in the 1960s to save them from flooding during the creation of Lake Nasser is a remarkable feat of modern archaeology and engineering. Cultural Experience Visiting Abu Simbel offers an unforgettable cultural journey into ancient Egyptian civilization. It allows travelers to engage with the myth, artistry, and religious beliefs that shaped one of history’s greatest empires. [teal]Scenic Journey The overland dr[/teal]ive or boat trip to Abu Simbel along Lake Nasser offers stunning desert landscapes and a sense of adventure, making the trip as memorable as the destination.- Overnight:
- Your Nile Cruise
- Meals:
- Optional Lunch
- Visit:
- Nefertari, Ramses II temples
- Entrance Fees:
- $40
Arrival flight for Day 1
Book to land in time for the first day of the tour.
TLV → CAI · pick your date
Skyscanner: https://www.skyscanner.net/transport/flights/tlv/cai//?adults=2&cabinclass=economy&rtn=0&sortby=bestKayak: https://www.kayak.com/flights/TLV-CAI/2adults?sort=bestflight_aAdditional Info
Cost Build (per adult, 2026 published rates) Abu Simbel entrance ticket ~$17 EGP 822 Student rate EGP 445.5 if applicableBest Time to Visit November to February, because temperatures are cooler and sightseeing is more comfortable. Good shoulder months October and March, when it’s still relatively manageable but usually less intense than summer.Guest Brief — Confirmation Email- Return: approximately [3:00–3:30 PM], back in Aswan
The Day- 3–4 hours' drive each way (280 km through desert, with a rest stop en route)
- 3 hours at the temples — enough time to see the Great Temple of Ramses II and the Small Temple of Nefertari at an easy pace, plus photos
- Site hours: 6:00 AM–4:00 PM (last entry)
What to Bring- Passport or ID (required for checkpoints)
- Water and snacks — limited food options at the site
- Sun protection: hat, sunscreen, sunglasses
- Modest clothing (shoulders/knees covered)
- A card for any on-site purchases — Abu Simbel ticket counters are card-only, cash isn't accepted
Good to Know- Mobile phone photos are free inside the temples; professional camera/tripod use may need a separate permit — let us know in advance if you're bringing gear
- It's a long day (7–8 hours round trip plus visit time) — we recommend a light breakfast before pickup
What to Pack Because Abu Simbel involves an early departure and a long desert drive, packing light but smart makes the day much easier. The site has very little shade, so sun protection and water matter more than usual.- Comfortable walking shoes for sand, stone, and uneven ground.
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brim hat.
- A light jacket or layer for the early-morning drive in cooler months.
- Refillable water bottle or bottled water.
- Cash for tips, snacks, or small purchases.
- Passport or ID, especially for road checkpoints.
Return flight after Day 2
Departure flights for the last day of your itinerary.
CAI → TLV · pick your date
Skyscanner: https://www.skyscanner.net/transport/flights/cai/tlv//?adults=2&cabinclass=economy&rtn=0&sortby=bestKayak: https://www.kayak.com/flights/CAI-TLV/2adults?sort=bestflight_a
What's included & what's not
Tap an item to build your own package — remove what you don't need, add the extras you want, then send the summary with your inquiry.
Included (3/3)
Not included (0 added)
Pricing
Essentials
- Group departure
Signature
- Small group (max 8)
Luxury
- Private Guide & Driver
Additional Extras
Sound and light show
in Egypt are night events held at famous historical sites like the Giza Pyramids, Karnak Temple, and Philae Island
A Nile River dinner cruise
in Egypt is a 2 to 3 hour evening excursion featuring an open buffet, live music, cultural performances belly dancing and Tanoura shows
An optional lunch buffet
Usually features local or traditional dishes, side items, and fruits, though specialized diets (like strict vegan or allergen-free)
Good To Know
What does this Aswan to Abu Simbel private car tour include? +
This tour includes round-trip private transportation by air-conditioned vehicle, a dedicated Egyptologist guide, entrance fees to both Abu Simbel temples, and lunch. Hotel pickup and drop-off in Aswan are also included in the price.
What makes this different from other full-day tours from Aswan? +
This is the only full-day Abu Simbel tour from Aswan designed around a private overland drive rather than flying. For travelers seeking a quicker option, we also offer Abu Simbel tours from Aswan by plane.
Is this tour suitable for travelers who want a scenic road trip? +
Yes, this tour is ideal for travelers who prefer the scenic overland journey along Lake Nasser. The desert route is a memorable part of the experience, offering stunning landscapes beyond just transportation.
How long is this tour and when does it start? +
The round-trip tour lasts approximately 8 hours, with an early morning pickup from your hotel in Aswan. You will be dropped off back at your hotel after the return drive from Abu Simbel.
What sites does this tour cover? +
The tour includes visits to the Great Temple of Ramses II and the Temple of Queen Nefertari at Abu Simbel, two of Egypt’s most magnificent ancient monuments.
Is transport and a guide included? +
Yes, the tour features a private air-conditioned vehicle and a professional Egyptologist guide for the entire day. This is a private tour, not combined with other groups, ensuring personalized attention.
Send Inquiry
About this tour
Additional information
Confirmation
You receive written confirmation by email once your booking is accepted, usually within 24 hours.
Documents
A valid passport with at least 6 months' validity is required. We advise on visas for Egypt and Jordan before travel.
Pick-up
Hotel pick-up and drop-off in the tour city is included; we confirm your exact pick-up time the evening before.
Group size
Private departures run for your party only. Small-group departures are capped so everyone hears the guide.
Accessibility
Some archaeological sites involve uneven ground, steps and heat. Tell us about mobility needs and we adapt the pace.
Children
Family friendly. Child rates and car seats are available on request; infants usually travel free.
What to bring
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, water, modest clothing for religious sites and cash for tips.
Insurance
Travel insurance covering medical care and cancellation is strongly recommended and is not included in the tour price.
Cancellation & refund policy
30 days or more before departure
100% refund
15 – 29 days before departure
50% refund
14 days or less before departure
No refund
- • Cancellations must be sent in writing to explore@exploreplus.net; the date we receive your email is the cancellation date.
- • Approved refunds are returned to the original payment method within 14 working days.
- • Third-party costs already paid on your behalf (domestic flights, Nile cruise cabins, special-event tickets, visas) are non-refundable once issued.
- • Date changes requested 15 days or more before departure are free of charge, subject to availability; inside 14 days they are treated as a cancellation.
- • If we have to cancel your tour for reasons within our control, you receive a full refund or a free date change — your choice.
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