One Package Abu Simbel Temples with Philae Temple and High Dam From Aswan

A Complete Day Exploring Egyptian Landmarks from Aswan

Traveling to Egypt often involves dreaming of iconic sites like Abu Simbel, the High Dam, and the temples of Philae. While some travelers might consider these attractions separate adventures, this tour combines them into a single, well-organized day — perfect for those who want to maximize their time and get a rundown. We haven’t personally taken this exact trip, but based on detailed reviews and the itinerary, it sounds like a thoughtfully planned experience.

What we love about this tour? First, the early morning pickup ensures you beat the crowds and enjoy the sites with a bit more serenity. Second, the knowledgeable guides bring history to life and help you understand the intricate stories behind each monument. Third, the door-to-door transfer in air-conditioned comfort makes the long day much more manageable. The one potential drawback? The entrance fees are not included, meaning you’ll need cash or card on hand to explore the sites fully.

This tour suits visitors who love history, want a hassle-free experience, and are comfortable with a full-day commitment. If you’re eager to see Abu Simbel without the stress of organizing transport or guides independently, this could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Itinerary: Combines Abu Simbel, Philae Temple, and the High Dam in one day.
• Expert Guidance: Led by a knowledgeable Egyptologist who enriches the experience.
• Comfort & Convenience: Door-to-door pickup and air-conditioned transport make the trip smooth.
• Flexible Options: Additional transfers available to/from West Bank hotels for a fee.
• Timing is Key: Starts early at around 4 am, perfect for avoiding crowds and catching sunrise views.
• Value for Money: At $180 per person, the price covers transportation, a guide, and a full day’s sightseeing, making it good value considering the sites visited.

The Full Experience: What to Expect

Early Start and Long Drive to Abu Simbel

The day begins with a pick-up from your hotel or Nile cruise between 4 and 4:30 am. Yes, that’s early, but it’s necessary to make the most of this full-day adventure. The journey to Abu Simbel is about 280 kilometers — roughly a three-hour drive through Egypt’s desert landscape. Expect to see the sunrise over rugged mountains, a breathtaking start that sets the tone for the day.

Traveling in a private, air-conditioned vehicle means you can relax and enjoy the scenery, or catch up on a nap if you’re not a morning person. The drive is also an opportunity to chat with your Egyptologist guide, who is likely to be both knowledgeable and engaging, ready to share tidbits about the landscape and history.

The Magnificent Abu Simbel Temples

Arriving at Abu Simbel, your guide will explain the remarkable story behind these twin temples, carved into the cliff face by Ramses II. Interestingly, the entire complex was relocated in the 1960s to prevent flooding from Lake Nasser after the construction of the High Dam. This UNESCO-led operation was a massive engineering feat.

While guides are not permitted inside the Great Temple of Ramses II or the smaller Hathor Temple due to crowd control, they’ll use photos and drawings to help you visualize the interiors. You’ll get a sense of the imposing statues and detailed carvings that depict Ramses’ power and divine status.

The location, perched on the edge of Lake Nasser, makes for stunning photos, especially with the desert sands and mountains as a backdrop. Reviewers like Regina, who called it “a trip in a lifetime,” mention the guide’s entertaining and informative commentary, which helped bring the site’s history to life despite the restrictions on inside visits.

Back to Aswan and Lunch

After about two hours exploring Abu Simbel, you’ll head back toward Aswan. The drive allows some downtime, and many travelers choose to grab lunch at a local restaurant (optional but recommended) before continuing with the sightseeing.

Discovering Aswan’s Icons: Philae Temple and High Dam

In the afternoon, your guide takes you on a short boat ride to Philae Temple, another UNESCO relocation project. The temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis, was carefully relocated to its current island home to avoid flooding from Lake Nasser. Walking around the island, you’ll appreciate the beautiful setting and intricate hieroglyphics.

Next, you’ll visit the Aswan High Dam, a true engineering marvel completed in 1960. Standing beside this massive structure, you’ll understand its importance in controlling the Nile’s flow, preventing floods, and generating electricity. You’ll see the huge hydro-power stations that supply around 10% of Egypt’s electricity, which highlights its significance for the country.

Final Moments and Return

The tour wraps up with a short drive back to your hotel or Nile cruise. The entire experience, from early morning departure to late afternoon return, provides a comprehensive snapshot of Egypt’s monumental achievements in a single day.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

Considering the $180 price tag, this tour covers the transportation, professional guide, and the access to the main sites (excluding entrance fees). Given that private guides can be expensive on their own, and arranging transport can be complicated, this all-in-one package saves time, effort, and potential stress.

The reviews emphasize the quality of the guides, with Regina praising Mina’s knowledge and entertainment and the guide’s responsiveness in organizing pickups and drop-offs. This personalized touch makes the long day more enjoyable and educational.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Be prepared for an early start; bring snacks or breakfast boxes (some hotels are asked to prepare these).
• Carry cash or card for the entrance fees, as they are not included.
• Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the temples and sites.
• Bring water and sun protection; the desert sun can be strong, especially at Abu Simbel.
• Consider the optional transfer extra fee if staying on the West Bank — it’s worth it for convenience.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided day trip and value expert insights. It’s perfect if you prefer to avoid the hassle of planning transport and managing multiple site visits independently.

It suits those with limited time in Aswan but a keen interest in Egypt’s most iconic sites. Since it’s a full-day commitment, it’s best for those comfortable with early mornings and long drives but interested in maximizing their sightseeing.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your hotel or Nile cruise, with door-to-door service in an air-conditioned vehicle.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 13 hours, starting early in the morning and returning by early afternoon.

Are entrance fees included?
No, the entrance fees to Abu Simbel, Philae Temple, and the High Dam are not included; you will need to pay these separately.

Can I participate if I’m staying on the West Bank?
Yes, there’s an additional fee of $15 USD per person for pickup or transfer from West Bank hotels.

What language options are available?
The guide speaks English, and other languages are available upon request for an extra charge.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, only your group will participate, making it personalized and flexible.

What should I bring?
Bring cash or card for entrance fees, sun protection, water, and possibly snacks. Hotel breakfast boxes can be arranged if requested.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but be mindful of the early start and the long drive.

What if the weather is bad?
The experience is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This One Package Abu Simbel Temples with Philae Temple and High Dam tour offers a well-rounded, comfortably paced day through some of Egypt’s most significant sites. It’s especially useful for travelers who want a guided, hassle-free experience that combines history, engineering marvels, and stunning scenery in a single day.

The presence of expert guides and door-to-door service makes this an appealing option for those wanting to learn without the stress of logistics. While the cost isn’t inclusive of entrance fees, the overall value, convenience, and immersive experience make it a compelling choice for visitors eager to make the most of their time in Egypt.

If you’re looking for a balanced, informative, and well-organized day trip that unveils Egypt’s grandeur, this tour could be just what you need to tick off some of the country’s top highlights comfortably and confidently.