Enjoy full day tour to Abu Simbel from Luxor

Unveiling the Abu Simbel Tour from Luxor: An Honest Look

Taking a full-day trip from Luxor to Abu Simbel is no small feat — it’s a long journey, but the rewards are unforgettable. This tour, offered by Special Trips, promises a private, deeply personalized experience that takes you through some of Egypt’s most iconic sights. With a carefully planned itinerary, expert guides, and all-in-one logistics, it aims to give you a seamless way to see one of the most astonishing temples in the world.

What immediately catches the eye about this experience is the combination of comfort and convenience. The tour includes first-class train tickets, door-to-door transfers, and a private vehicle, reducing the stress of planning. Plus, the expert Egyptologist guide ensures you get meaningful insights, making the trip both educational and awe-inspiring. However, keep in mind that the day is quite long — roughly 16 hours — so it’s best suited for those prepared for a marathon rather than a leisure stroll.

We love the personalized service, the stunning views of the Nile and desert, and the chance to explore the UNESCO-listed Abu Simbel temples without the hassle of self-organizing transportation. The tour’s flexibility is another plus, allowing some adjustments to the itinerary if needed. On the downside, some reviews mention that the journey is tiring and that expectations about train class and food might not always align with reality. It’s best for travelers looking for a full, immersive day and comfortable logistics.

If you’re a history enthusiast, a seasoned traveler craving authentic experiences, or simply eager to tick off a bucket-list site with expert guidance, this tour could be ideal. Just be prepared for a long day — and remember, the memories will be worth every hour.

Key Points

• Comfortable logistics: Private transfers, first-class train tickets, and air-conditioned vehicle make the long drive manageable.
• Expert guidance: Knowledgeable Egyptologist guides add depth to your understanding of the temples’ history and significance.
• All-inclusive experience: Includes hotel pickup, bottled water, lunch, entrance fees, and door-to-door service for a hassle-free trip.
• Flexible itinerary: Can be customized, with options for pickups/drop-offs on either bank of Luxor for extra fee.
• Authentic views: Enjoy the stunning, well-preserved temples with plenty of time for photos and exploration.
• Tiring but rewarding: Expect a very long day, so good stamina and early mornings are recommended.

Why This Tour Stands Out

The Itinerary Explained: The tour departs around 2:30 am, with an early pickup from your Luxor hotel, ensuring you beat the crowds and make the most of your day. After a 3-hour train ride from Luxor to Aswan in the comfort of a first-class carriage, you’ll transfer into a private vehicle for the approximately 3.5-hour drive to Abu Simbel.

This early start is crucial because Abu Simbel is over 100 km from Aswan, and the journey requires a significant time commitment. The drive offers beautiful scenery along the Nile and through desert landscapes, a visual treat that helps pass the time. Reviewers like Sue_T noted that although the day was long, the experience was “very well looked after,” with guides like Omar and Mido providing excellent support.

The Temples Themselves: Ramses II’s grand temple and the Queen Nefertari’s smaller, beautifully decorated temple are the highlights. The UNESCO recognition and the rescue operation that relocated these monuments add to their allure. Reviewers have praised the stunning architecture and well-preserved carvings, which are truly breathtaking up close.

Guided Insights: The key to this experience is the Egyptologist guide, who enhances your understanding of the temples’ symbolism, the story of Ramses II, and how UNESCO’s efforts saved these monuments from flooding. Multiple reviews highlighted guides like Star, Mido, and Omar as knowledgeable and attentive, making the tour engaging with stories and context.

The Logistics Matter: The inclusion of door-to-door transfers, hotel pickup/drop-off, and a lunch box makes this a commendable value considering the long day. The price of $180 per person might seem steep, but when you factor in the train tickets, private transport, guides, and entrance fees, it offers a hassle-free, all-in-one package that could save you money and time.

The Long Day: Expect to be on the move from 2:30 am until late evening. Several reviewers mention it’s tiring but worth it, especially if you’re eager to see Abu Simbel with ease. Be prepared for a very early start, and consider your stamina, especially since the itinerary is flexible — the guide can adjust parts if you prefer more time at certain stops.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Early Morning Pickup: The adventure begins at around 2:30 am, with an organized pickup from your Luxor hotel. This early start might seem daunting, but it’s designed to maximize your time at Abu Simbel and avoid the heat and crowds. The tour operator confirms your pickup time 48 hours in advance, allowing you to plan accordingly.

Luxor to Aswan by Train: The journey from Luxor to Aswan takes approximately 3 hours in a first-class carriage. The review of the train experience suggests that the “1st class is a lot different than in the UK,” offering more space and comfort, which makes this long haul manageable. Bottled water is provided to keep you hydrated.

Aswan to Abu Simbel by Private Vehicle: After arriving in Aswan, you’ll transfer into a private, air-conditioned vehicle for the 3.5-hour drive to Abu Simbel. The scenery along the way is described as picturesque, with views of the Nile and the surrounding desert. This part of the trip may be the most tiring, but the comfort of your vehicle and the opportunity to see Egypt’s landscape up close make it worthwhile.

Arrival at Abu Simbel: Once there, you’ll explore the magnificent temples dedicated to Ramses II and Queen Nefertari. Your guide will share stories about the temples’ construction, their relocation, and their symbolism. Reviewers mention that the temples are “masterpieces of ancient Egypt,” with intricate carvings and a sense of grandeur that’s hard to match.

Time at the Site: You’ll have enough time to walk around, take photos, and appreciate the scale of these monuments. The tour promises a personalized experience, which is a major plus — you won’t be rushed, and guides are eager to share insights.

Return Journey: After a thorough visit, you’ll retrace your steps back to Aswan, then catch the train to Luxor. The entire day is carefully managed to fit in all the highlights while maintaining comfort and safety.

What Reviewers Say About the Experience

While most reviews are positive, highlighting guides like Star, Mido, and Omar for their professionalism, some mention frustrations. One reviewer, Sarina_K, felt that her expectations about the train class and food were not met, noting she had to buy her own tickets and meals. Another pointed out that the long day from 2 am to late evening can be tiring but is ultimately rewarding.

On the upside, travelers frequently mention the knowledgeable guides, stunning vistas, and great value for money. The included logistics reduce stress, with many reviewers feeling it’s a well-organized, hassle-free way to visit Abu Simbel.

Is This Tour Right for You?

This experience is best suited for travelers who:

• Are comfortable with early mornings and long travel days
• Want a guided, hassle-free adventure without worrying about logistics
• Appreciate expert insights into Egypt’s history and architecture
• Don’t mind the physical toll of a 16-hour day, given the reward of seeing Abu Simbel
• Seek a private, personalized experience rather than a large group tour

If you’re looking for a relaxed, all-in-one package with plenty of comfort, this tour offers a balanced blend of convenience, education, and stunning sights.

The Sum Up

This Abu Simbel tour from Luxor is a solid choice for those wanting a comprehensive, guided experience without the hassle of organizing transport and tickets. The private transport, expert guides, and all-inclusive approach make it a worthwhile investment for travelers eager to see one of Egypt’s most celebrated monuments with ease.

While the long day and early start might not suit everyone, the feeling of standing in front of Ramses II’s magnificent temples, knowing you’ve traveled comfortably and learned a lot along the way, makes it all worthwhile. It’s especially well-suited for history buffs, first-time visitors, or anyone seeking a smooth, immersive experience.

For those seeking maximum flexibility, the tour’s customizable nature and door-to-door service add extra appeal. Just be prepared for the adventure — it’s a long, busy day, but one filled with unforgettable sights and stories.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup is included from your Luxor hotel, with options for east or west bank hotels (extra fee for west bank pickups).

How long does the train journey take?
The train from Luxor to Aswan takes around 3 hours in first class, providing a comfortable ride.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the itinerary is flexible, and guides can make adjustments based on your preferences.

What should I bring?
Bring essentials like water, sunscreen, a hat, comfortable shoes, and a camera. The tour provides bottled water and a lunch box.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but the long day might be tiring for very young children or those with limited mobility.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour, receiving a full refund.

This full-day Abu Simbel tour offers a blend of comfort, expertise, and awe-inspiring sights, making it a top choice for travelers eager to see Egypt’s iconic temples with minimal fuss.