Luxor: Private 2-Day Tour to Philae & High Dam & Abu Simbel

Exploring Egypt’s Marvels in Two Days

This detailed review covers a popular private tour from Luxor that takes you to some of Egypt’s most iconic sites in just two days. The journey includes visits to Philae Temple, the High Dam, and Abu Simbel, all with the comfort of private transportation and expert guides. Whether you’re a history buff or just eager to see the highlights without the hassle, this tour offers a well-organized way to maximize your time in southern Egypt.

What we particularly appreciate about this experience are the personalized attention, the stunning views along the Nile, and the flexibility to explore at your own pace. The inclusion of private guides and all entrance fees helps make this a seamless adventure.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour spans two days, which means some long travel hours and a busy schedule. It’s best suited for travelers who want a deep dive into Egypt’s most impressive monuments without the fuss of planning each step. If you love customized experiences and are comfortable with early starts and some walking, this tour could be an excellent fit.

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Key Points

Private, guided experience with personalized attention from expert Egyptologists
All-inclusive pricing covering transportation, entrance fees, and lunch
Stunning views of the Nile and awe-inspiring monuments like Abu Simbel
Flexible booking options with pay-later policy and cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
Ideal for travelers who want to see major sites without the hassle of independent planning
Long days, but full of memorable sights and authentic moments

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Why Choose This Tour?

This two-day private tour stands out because it combines convenience with richness of experience. Traveling privately from Luxor to Aswan and Abu Simbel means you’re not stuck with large group schedules or crowded buses. The overall cost of $200 per person, considering all entrance fees, guided commentary, private transport, and included meals, offers excellent value—especially given the level of comfort and personalized service involved.

The tour is designed for travelers who want an in-depth look at Egypt’s history but prefer a relaxed, guided approach rather than navigating solo or in large groups. The guides, like Mido who was praised for her clarity and friendliness, help bring the sites alive with engaging stories and insights.

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Day 1: From Luxor to Aswan – Philae & The High Dam

Your adventure begins early in the morning with a hotel pickup in Luxor. The air-conditioned private vehicle whisks you south along the Nile, offering a comfortable escape from the heat and a chance to enjoy the scenic views. The first stop is Philae Temple, a breathtaking site dedicated to the goddess Isis, famous for its picturesque setting on Agilkia Island.

Philae Temple is particularly special because it remained active until the 6th century A.D., making it one of the last Egyptian temples in use. Visitors often comment on how the motorboat ride to the island enhances the experience, providing a unique perspective of the Nile and the temple’s beautiful surroundings. As one reviewer noted, despite the heat, the guide Mido made the visit clear and engaging, ensuring you don’t miss the details that make this site so captivating.

Next, you’ll head to the High Dam, an engineering marvel stretching 3,600 meters and 111 meters tall. This modern structure not only controls the Nile’s flow but also provides hydroelectric power crucial for Egypt’s development. The dam’s sheer size makes it an impressive sight, and the tour includes plenty of time to appreciate its scale and significance.

After a morning of exploring, you’ll pause for lunch at a local restaurant. Although accommodation isn’t included, this meal provides a chance to relax and discuss the morning’s discoveries. The day wraps up with a drop-off at your hotel in Aswan, giving you the evening to rest or explore on your own.

Day 2: Abu Simbel – The Magnificent Temple

The second day kicks off early again, with a private transfer to Abu Simbel—an absolute highlight of any Egyptian itinerary. The journey takes you through the desert landscape, and the anticipation builds as you approach the site.

Abu Simbel is famous for its four colossal seated statues guarding the entrance, each representing Pharaoh Ramses II. The temple’s impressive facade, carved directly into the mountainside, is a sight that leaves many speechless. Once inside, you’ll have ample time to admire the intricate carvings and the grandeur of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

According to reviews, the guide’s insights help you appreciate the stories behind the carvings and the incredible effort involved in relocating the temple during the construction of the Aswan High Dam, which threatened to submerge it. Visitors often remark on how the stunning views and the monumental scale of Abu Simbel make every minute worthwhile.

Following the temple visit, you’ll enjoy a relaxed lunch back in Aswan, soaking in the city’s vibrant atmosphere. The journey concludes with a transfer back to Luxor, where your tour ends.

Transportation & Logistics

The tour’s private transport makes all the difference in comfort and flexibility. You’ll travel in an air-conditioned vehicle, with the option to stop along the way for photos or brief breaks. The early start times mean long days, but the convenience of private transfers reduces fatigue and maximizes sightseeing.

The tour is designed to be flexible with pay later options and a cancellation policy that allows full refunds if canceled up to 24 hours before. This is ideal for travelers seeking confidence and control over their plans.

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The Experience Guides & Customer Service

The reviews highlight the professionalism of the guides and drivers. Mido’s clarity and friendliness made the history accessible and engaging, even under the intense heat. Reviewers also appreciated the excellent service from the drivers, who provided water during the trips and ensured smooth, stress-free transfers.

Additional touches, like a visit to a perfume and spice shop in Aswan, add a local flavor and help you experience more of the city’s vibrant culture.

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Value for Money & Practical Tips

At $200 per person, this tour covers a lot: transportation, entrances, meals, and guided commentary, making it a cost-effective way to see key sights without the hassle of organizing each detail yourself. The inclusion of all entrance fees means no surprises or hidden costs at sites like Philae or Abu Simbel.

However, be prepared for the long days—early mornings, busy schedules, and a significant amount of walking and sightseeing. Pack water, sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and a hat.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free introduction to southern Egypt’s highlights. If you’re comfortable with early starts and long days, you’ll appreciate the convenience and in-depth guidance. It’s especially appealing to those who prefer private tours over group excursions and value expert insights into Egypt’s history.

The tour suits history enthusiasts, first-time visitors, and anyone wanting a well-rounded overview without the stress of planning each detail.

The Sum Up

This private two-day tour from Luxor to Philae, the High Dam, and Abu Simbel offers a balanced mix of comfort, culture, and stunning visuals. The personalized service, knowledgeable guides, and all-inclusive pricing make it a compelling choice for those seeking an authentic, stress-free experience.

While the days are packed, the opportunity to see some of Egypt’s most celebrated monuments in a relaxed, guided setting is hard to beat. It’s especially valuable for travelers who want to maximize their sightseeing without sacrificing comfort or insights.

This tour provides excellent value, memorable sights, and a true sense of Egypt’s grandeur—perfect for those wanting a deep dive into history with a touch of luxury.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your Luxor hotel in an air-conditioned private vehicle.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees for the sites visited are covered in the tour price.

Can I book this tour with flexible payment options?
Absolutely. You can reserve now and pay later, with full refunds available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

Is lunch provided on both days?
Yes, lunch is included on both Day 1 and Day 2, giving you a chance to relax and refuel.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides are available in Arabic, English, French, German, and Spanish, ensuring clear communication.

How long are the travel days?
Each day involves early starts with long hours on the road, but this allows for a full and immersive experience.

Is accommodation included?
No, accommodation is not included; you will need to arrange your hotel in Luxor and, if applicable, in Aswan.

Who is this tour best suited for?
It’s ideal for travelers seeking a private, guided experience with a focus on major monuments and comfort, especially those who appreciate detailed storytelling and authentic sights.

This well-structured, detailed review hopefully gives you all the insights needed to decide if this 2-day tour matches your Egypt travel plans. Whether you’re after a smooth, guided exploration or just want to tick off Abu Simbel and Philae from your list, this experience offers a memorable way to do it.