2 days 1 night Luxor,Aswan & Abu simbel by flight from Cairo

Experience Review: 2 Days, 1 Night Luxor, Aswan & Abu Simbel by Flight from Cairo

Traveling through Egypt’s ancient monuments in just a couple of days sounds ambitious—and with this tour, it’s surprisingly doable. While it’s designed to maximize sightseeing with minimal fuss, the real charm lies in the seamless organization and expert guides guiding you through some of Egypt’s most breathtaking sites. This tour promises a fast-paced but thorough adventure, perfect for those short on time but eager to see key highlights.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the private flight transfers cut down travel time significantly, allowing you to cover Luxor, Aswan, and Abu Simbel in just a weekend. Second, the expert guides help unravel the stories behind the monuments, making history come alive. Third, the hotel pickups and drop-offs ensure hassle-free transfers, so you can focus solely on the sights. The only notable caveat is the tight schedule, which might feel rushed if you’re a slow traveler or prefer a more relaxed pace.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive snapshot of Egypt’s most iconic sites without sacrificing too much time or comfort. It’s ideal for those with limited days but a solid interest in ancient Egypt. However, if you’re looking to linger and explore at your own pace, this might feel a little fast-paced.

Key Points

• Efficient itinerary combines major sites in just 2 days.
• Private flights and transfers streamline travel, saving hours.
• Expert guides enrich the experience with knowledgeable commentary.
• Hotel pickup/drop-off adds convenience, especially after long flights.
• All entrance fees and lunch are included, providing good value.
• Reviews highlight friendly guides and breathtaking temples, though some note the schedule can be tight.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Tour in Detail

Day 1: Cairo to Aswan and Abu Simbel

The adventure kicks off early—at 4:00 am, a driver will collect you from your Cairo or Giza hotel, setting the tone for an itinerary that’s packed with highlights. Once in the lobby, your guide—likely someone like Abdelwehab, who received praise for being especially helpful—is waiting with a sign bearing your name, adding a personal touch from the start.

From there, it’s a private A/C transfer to Cairo Airport for your flight to Aswan. The flight is a vital part of this trip, slicing hours off a road journey and ensuring you arrive in time to beat the heat and the crowds at Abu Simbel. Expect the flight to be smooth—reviews confirm excellent communication beforehand and punctual departures.

Upon arriving in Aswan, your guide will meet you again, ready to start the sightseeing. First stop: Abu Simbel, a marvel of ancient engineering built by Ramses II. This UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for its massive statues and impressive facades. It’s a highlight for many travelers, and the guides excel at sharing stories about its construction and significance.

Next, you’ll visit the second temple dedicated to Queen Nefertari, which offers a different perspective on the ancient Egyptian divine royal family. Following this, the Unfinished Obelisk presents a fascinating glimpse into ancient quarrying techniques—a favorite among travelers who appreciate hands-on history.

The tour then continues with visits to the High Dam, a modern marvel that transformed Egypt’s landscape, and Philae Temple, known for its beautifully preserved hieroglyphs and island setting. The day concludes with a transfer back to your 4-star Basma Aswan Hotel, where reviews note the hotel was appreciated, though some found the Luxor accommodation less impressive.

Day 2: Luxor’s West and East Banks

Early morning, your driver picks you up from the hotel for the approximately 3-hour drive to Luxor. This day is dedicated to exploring the West Bank’s ancient tombs and temples and then moving to the lively East Bank.

Your first stop: Valley of the Kings, where over a dozen tombs of pharaohs, including Tutankhamun, are hidden beneath the rugged hills. The tombs are awe-inspiring, with intricate wall carvings and a sense of mystery—some travelers find the experience of walking through these narrow corridors to be quite powerful. As one reviewer expressed, “We saw incredible monuments with very good tour guides,” emphasizing the value of knowledgeable guides like Abdelwehab.

Next, the Temple of Hatshepsut offers a rare look at the only female pharaoh’s mortuary temple. Its unique terraced design and the story of Queen Hatshepsut’s reign captivate many visitors. I’d recommend taking your time here, as the site provides excellent photo opportunities and insights into a ruler who defied gender norms.

The Colossi of Memnon are next—a pair of enormous statues that once guarded an even larger temple, now mostly in ruins but still impressive. As one reviewer puts it, “The remains of the mortuary temple of Amenhotep III are worth a quick stop for the scale and history,” highlighting how these giant figures stand as silent witnesses to Egypt’s grandeur.

The tour then transitions to the East Bank, starting with Karnak Temple. This complex is a sprawling collection of sanctuaries, pylons, and obelisks built over centuries. Highlights include the Avenue of Sphinxes, the Hypostyle Hall with its 134 massive columns, and the Obelisks of Queen Hatshepsut and Thutmose III. Walking through Karnak is like stepping into an ancient city of gods—something many travelers find mesmerizing.

Finally, you’ll visit Luxor Temple, where the massive granite statues of Ramses II and the grand courtyard leave an indelible impression. The temple’s proximity to the Nile makes it especially picturesque at sunset, an experience many reviews mention fondly.

After a full day of sightseeing, you’ll catch a flight back to Cairo, concluding a whirlwind tour of Egypt’s most famous sights.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour’s price includes expert guides, hotel pickups and drop-offs, all transfers using a modern private vehicle, flight tickets, entry fees to all sites, bottled water, and lunch on Day 2. This makes it a convenient and cost-effective way to see many highlights without hidden costs.

Not included are tipping and visa entry. Tipping is customary in Egypt and appreciated for guides and drivers who often work long hours. Visa entry isn’t covered—if needed, travelers should secure their visas beforehand.

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The Real-World Traveler Experience

From reviews, it’s clear that the guides are a major asset. Travelers like Martin praise Abdelwehab for being “extremely helpful and making the trip memorable.” The sites are universally described as “breathtaking,” especially Abu Simbel and the Karnak Temple. The value for money is generally positive given the comprehensive itinerary and included flights.

However, some travelers note the schedule can be tight, especially if flights are delayed or if they wish to explore more leisurely. For instance, one reviewer mentions that their 9:00 am flight back from Luxor was delayed, resulting in a late arrival in Cairo—something to keep in mind when planning your flights.

The accommodations in Aswan received mixed reviews—some found the Basma Aswan Hotel comfortable, but others found the Luxor hotel less appealing. If comfort is a priority, consider this when booking or asking for upgrades.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

This 2-day, 1-night package offers remarkable value if you’re eager to see Egypt’s highlights without committing to a longer trip. Its expert guides and organized transport make the experience smooth, even with the packed schedule. It’s particularly suited for history buffs and adventure seekers who want a snapshot of Egypt’s most iconic landmarks, especially if time is limited.

While the pace is brisk, this tour hits most of the must-see sites efficiently. Travelers who don’t mind early mornings, long travel days, and tight schedules will appreciate the convenience and depth of this experience. If you prefer a more relaxed, in-depth exploration, consider a longer stay or customized tour.

Overall, for those wanting a well-organized, value-packed introduction to Egypt’s treasures, this tour delivers in spades.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited time?
Yes, it’s designed to cover key sites in a short period, making it ideal for those on a tight schedule.

Are flights included in the price?
Yes, the tour includes flight tickets from Cairo to Aswan and Luxor back to Cairo, ensuring quick and comfortable transfers.

What sites will I visit on Day 1?
You’ll visit Abu Simbel, Queen Nefertari’s temple, the Unfinished Obelisk, Aswan High Dam, and Philae Temple.

How long is the drive from Aswan to Abu Simbel?
The drive takes approximately 3 hours, but it’s done in a private A/C vehicle with a guide, making the journey comfortable.

Is the accommodation in Aswan comfortable?
Reviews suggest the Basma Aswan Hotel is decent and provides good value, though experiences vary. It is a 4-star hotel.

What does the tour include besides site visits?
It includes a knowledgeable guide, private transfers, all entry fees, bottled water, and lunch on Day 2.

Are there any hidden costs?
No, the tour explicitly states there are no hidden costs.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and a sense of adventure. Tipping guides and drivers is customary but not included.

Can I customize this tour?
This tour is pre-arranged, so customization isn’t typical, but you can inquire about specific needs when booking.

Is it suitable for families or solo travelers?
Yes, the private nature and organized schedule make it suitable for both families and solo travelers, especially those interested in history.

This tour offers a swift but thorough voyage through Egypt’s most memorable sites, balancing expert guidance, convenience, and a taste of ancient splendor. Perfect for travelers who want to tick off the major highlights without the fuss of planning every detail themselves.

You can check availability for your dates here: