Overnight Trip to Aswan From Luxor Visiting Abu Simbel Temple

Experience the magic of Egypt with a two-day guided tour from Luxor to Aswan, visiting iconic sites like Abu Simbel, Edfu, and Kom Ombo. This tour promises a mix of historical wonder, comfortable travel, and authentic insights, all wrapped into a compact adventure.

What we love about this experience are the seamless door-to-door transportation, the chance to see multiple extraordinary temples in just two days, and the knowledgeable guides who bring ancient stories to life. A possible consideration is the early start—particularly the 3:30 am pickup for Abu Simbel—which might not suit everyone.

This trip is ideal for travelers with limited time who want a thorough taste of southern Egypt’s highlights without sacrificing comfort. It’s perfect for history buffs, first-time visitors, or anyone eager to tick off key archaeological sites with expert guidance.

Key Points

  • All-inclusive convenience with private A/C transport, hotel stays, and some meals
  • Visit major landmarks like Abu Simbel, Edfu, Kom Ombo, and the Aswan High Dam in just two days
  • Expert guides enhance understanding of Egypt’s history and mythology
  • Flexible pickup and drop-off from Luxor and Aswan makes planning easier
  • Value for money considering hotel, transport, and guide services included
  • Early start for Abu Simbel means an early morning wake-up but offers fewer crowds

A Practical Guide to the Luxor-Aswan Abu Simbel Tour

Booking and Price Considerations

At $350 per person, this tour offers a decent package considering the hotel, transportation, and guides. You won’t need to worry about arranging logistics yourself, which can be a huge relief when navigating Egypt’s busy tourist spots. The price doesn’t include entrance fees, so budget for those separately—something worth noting, as some travelers find that adding entrance tickets can increase the overall cost.

The tour is operated by Emo Tours Egypt, a reputable provider with positive reviews and excellent service standards. The tour’s flexibility with mobile tickets and group discounts might make it more appealing for families or groups seeking a shared adventure.

Transportation and Comfort

All transfers are by private, newest-model A/C vehicles, which makes traveling between sites comfortable and climate-controlled—crucial in Egypt’s heat. The pickup and drop-off at your Luxor hotel or Aswan hotel make logistics straightforward, especially if you’re already staying in these cities.

Accommodation and Meals

Overnighting at the Pyramisa Isis Aswan Hotel, a 4-star property, adds comfort and convenience. The hotel’s location along the Nile provides scenic views, plus a restful night after a busy day of sightseeing. The tour includes two lunches and breakfast, covering your major meals, which saves time and hassle. However, costs for entrance fees and personal expenses are not included, so travelers should plan accordingly.

Day 1 — From Luxor to Aswan: Temples and Dams

The day begins with a visit to the Temple of Horus at Edfu, one of Egypt’s best-preserved temples dedicated to the falcon-headed god. While the admission ticket isn’t included, the temple’s impressive size and intricate carvings make it a worthwhile stop. Expect to spend around two hours here—a good amount of time to explore without feeling rushed.

Next is the Temple of Kom Ombo, notable for its double design—a unique feature where two sets of sanctuaries and halls are built side by side, dedicated to Sobek and Horus. Reviewers mention this site as “unusual” and highlight its architectural quirkiness, offering a different perspective on Egyptian temple design.

The day wraps up with a visit to the Aswan High Dam, a symbol of modern Egyptian engineering. Built in 1961, it’s a striking contrast to the ancient temples, and the 30-minute stop provides an opportunity to appreciate Egypt’s efforts to control the Nile’s flow.

In the evening, you check into the Pyramisa Isis Aswan Hotel, where you can relax and prepare for the early start the next day.

Day 2 — The Majestic Abu Simbel

The early morning pickup at 3:30 am might seem daunting, but it’s necessary to beat the crowds and enjoy the cooler morning air. The three-hour drive south to Abu Simbel is part of the adventure, offering scenic views along the Nile and the desert landscape.

Arriving at Abu Simbel, you’ll marvel at Ramses II’s colossal temples, carved out of sandstone cliff faces. The sight of these massive statues and the detailed carvings of gods and pharaohs is genuinely breathtaking. Reviewers like Winiwang1 mention having an “excellent guide,” which highlights how knowledgeable guides can elevate the experience, providing context and stories about the gods and the temples’ history.

Adjacent to the main temple is the smaller Nefertari Temple, dedicated to Ramses’ wife, which adds a personal touch to the monument complex. You’ll spend around three hours here, exploring at a relaxed pace.

The return journey to Aswan typically occurs around midday, giving you some free time in the city or the option to head to the airport.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Many reviewers praise the organization and guide expertise. Winiwang1 highlighted their guide, Hani, as “well organized and arranged,” noting that he managed the schedule perfectly and even dropped them off at the airport on time. This kind of attentiveness really enhances the experience, especially given the early start and long travel times.

Travelers also appreciated the value of included meals and hotel stay, which made it easier to focus on sightseeing without worrying about meal planning. The hotel was described as a comfortable, 4-star option, ensuring a restful night after the busy day.

Who This Tour Suits Best

If you’re a traveler with a moderate budget eager for a comprehensive tour covering major sites in southern Egypt, this package is a good pick. It’s especially suited for those who don’t want to spend hours organizing transport, tickets, and accommodations, as everything is handled for you. History lovers and first-timers will value the detailed guides and the chance to see Egypt’s most famous monuments in a short span.

However, a very early start and the inclusion of only some entrance fees might require some planning, especially if you want to visit all the sites at your own pace or see additional attractions.

Final Thoughts

This two-day tour offers a well-rounded snapshot of Egyptian history, combining ancient temples, engineering marvels, and iconic monuments. The logistics are streamlined, and the inclusion of hotel and meals makes it a practical choice for travelers seeking convenience.

While the early morning Abu Simbel excursion might be tiring, it pays off with fewer crowds and cooler temperatures—an ideal way to truly appreciate these monumental structures. The knowledgeable guides bring Egypt’s stories to life, making history memorable and engaging.

This tour is a solid value for those wanting a guided, hassle-free experience that hits all the main highlights of southern Egypt in just two days.

Who should consider this tour?

Travelers eager to see major landmarks without extensive planning. Those short on time but craving an authentic experience. Anyone interested in Egypt’s ancient history complemented by modern engineering feats. And lovers of comfortable, organized travel with knowledgeable guides.

FAQ

Is pickup and drop-off provided?
Yes, the tour includes door-to-door transfers from your Luxor or Aswan hotel, making logistics simple and stress-free.

Does the tour include entrance fees?
No, entrance fees are not included in the price. You should budget separately for entry to sites like Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Abu Simbel.

What is the accommodation like?
Guests stay overnight at the Pyramisa Isis Aswan Hotel, a 4-star property that offers comfort and scenic views along the Nile.

Are meals included?
Two lunches and breakfast are included, helping you stay energized throughout the busy days.

How early do I need to wake up for Abu Simbel?
Be prepared for an early pickup around 3:30 am, which is necessary to beat the crowds and enjoy cooler weather.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, it’s a private tour with a flexible schedule, making it suitable for families or groups looking for an organized experience.

Can I customize this tour?
Since it’s a private tour, you may be able to discuss specific interests or adjustments directly with Emo Tours Egypt, though entrance fees are extra.

This guided two-day journey from Luxor to Aswan offers a fantastic way to see some of Egypt’s most famous sites efficiently and comfortably. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a curious traveler, this trip balances education, adventure, and relaxation in a way that makes it worthwhile.