Trip to Abu simbel and Aswan from Marsa alam : 2 days private guided tour

Traveling through Egypt often means diving into a tapestry of history, culture, and awe-inspiring monuments. This 2-day private guided tour from Marsa Alam to Aswan and Abu Simbel promises a well-curated journey, balancing iconic sights with authentic experiences. It’s a popular choice for travelers wanting a deep dive into Egypt’s legendary sites, especially since it’s designed to maximize time and comfort.

What we love about this trip are the expert guides who bring history alive, the stunning views along the Nile River during the drive, and the chance to explore monumental temples like Ramses II’s Abu Simbel, famous for its dramatic setting and astronomical alignment. The convenient logistics, including hotel pickup, air-conditioned transport, and all fees included, make it a seamless experience.

A potential consideration is the early start on Day 2, with a departure at 4:00 am to reach Abu Simbel. For some, this might mean a very early wake-up, but it’s essential for catching the sights in the best light and avoiding the daytime heat. This tour is best suited for history buffs, those comfortable with long drives, and anyone eager to see Egypt’s most famous monuments without the hassle of planning every detail.

Overall, if you’re after an authentic, well-organized experience that balances sightseeing and comfort, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially ideal for travelers who appreciate knowledgeable guides and want in-depth insights into Egypt’s most celebrated temples.

Key Points

• Expert Local Guides: The guides are highly knowledgeable, with reviews mentioning specific guides like Hany and Amro, who share in-depth stories and enthusiastic explanations.
• Iconic Sights: The trip covers major landmarks, including Abu Simbel, Aswan High Dam, and the Temple of Isis at Philae.
• Comfort and Convenience: Air-conditioned vehicles, hotel pickup, all fees included, and hotel accommodation in Aswan make it stress-free.
• Authentic Experiences: Visiting temples built during Ptolemaic and Roman times offers genuine insight into Egypt’s layered history.
• Early Start for Abu Simbel: The 4:00 am departure ensures optimal viewing time at Abu Simbel but requires an early wake-up.
• Value for Money: At $490 per person, considering all entrances, guides, transport, and overnight stay, this package offers solid value.

Overview of the Itinerary

Day 1: From Marsa Alam to Aswan

The journey begins with a roughly four-hour drive from Marsa Alam, giving you ample time to settle into the landscape, which shifts from desert to more lush, Nile-adjacent scenery. Travelers often comment on how smooth the trip is, thanks to a comfortable and air-conditioned vehicle.

Once in Aswan, the focus shifts to Egypt’s modern engineering marvel — the Aswan High Dam. This colossal structure, built with enough material to outdo the Great Pyramid of Cheops eighteen times over, is a testament to Egypt’s development in the last century. As one reviewer put it, standing before it, “it contains 18 times the material used in the great pyramid,” which truly highlights its scale.

Next, you’ll visit the Temple of Isis at Philae, a site with a history dating back to Ptolemaic times and Roman emperors. It’s located on an island, accessible by boat, offering a scenic backdrop to ancient worship. The temple’s detailed carvings and colorful hieroglyphs are remarkably well-preserved, making it a favorite among visitors who describe it as “stunning,” with “beautiful, still-intact details.”

Day 2: The Marvel of Abu Simbel

The second day begins very early — 4:00 am departure — to beat the crowds and catch Abu Simbel in the morning light. The route is filled with breathtaking desert views and the anticipation of seeing one of Egypt’s most famous sites. The drive itself is frequently highlighted as a memorable part of the journey, with some reviewers noting the “breathtaking views” that made the long hours feel worthwhile.

Arriving at Abu Simbel, you’ll explore the Great and Small Temples of Ramses II and Queen Nefertari. These colossal structures, carved directly into the mountainside, are renowned for their gigantic statues of Ramses II and the precision of their construction. The temples are famous for their solar alignment, where sunlight on October 22 and February 22 illuminates the inner sanctuaries — a feat of ancient engineering.

Many visitors mention the enormity of the statues and the intricate carvings, which still impress after thousands of years. Guides like Hany make history come alive, sharing stories about Ramses II’s reign and the temple’s purpose. One reviewer even described the experience as “a complete success,” thanks to Hany’s enthusiasm and in-depth knowledge.

After exploring Abu Simbel, you’ll head back to Aswan for a relaxed evening and overnight stay, with plenty of time to enjoy the city’s ambiance or stroll along the Nile.

What You Can Expect from the Experience

Transportation and Comfort

The entire trip is facilitated by air-conditioned vehicles, ensuring you remain comfortable during the long drives. The private nature of the tour means only your group participates, allowing for personalized attention and flexibility. Hotel pickup and drop-off streamline your experience, so you don’t need to worry about logistics.

Guided Insights

Having a professional Egyptologist guide makes a significant difference. As reviews highlight, guides like Amro and Hany deliver engaging narratives, sharing not just facts but stories that make the sites resonate with meaning. Their insights elevate the experience from mere sightseeing to understanding the stories behind Egypt’s monuments.

Site Visits and Timing

The visit to the Aswan High Dam is quick but impactful, offering a chance to see a modern feat of engineering. The Temple of Isis at Philae provides a peaceful, scenic contrast with its island setting. The early start at Abu Simbel is critical for capturing the best light and avoiding daytime heat or crowds.

Authentic and Well-Organized

Reviews repeatedly mention the organization and seamless coordination. From the early morning start to the hotel stay in Aswan, everything seems designed to provide a stress-free experience. The inclusion of lunch on both days adds value, giving you time to relax and refuel.

The Early Wake-Up

The 4:00 am start is a common concern, but many agree it’s worthwhile for the spectacular views and avoiding the heat and crowds. It’s a trade-off, but for dedicated sightseeing, it’s generally seen as part of the adventure.

Analyzing the Value

At $490 per person, this tour includes all entrance fees, a professional guide, transportation, and accommodation in Aswan, which in itself is a significant convenience. When you factor in the effort saved by having logistics handled, guided insights, and a carefully curated itinerary, the cost is quite reasonable.

It’s a good investment for those who want to maximize their time and see Egypt’s highlights without the stress of planning logistics or navigating alone. The inclusion of hotel B&B accommodation ensures you get a good night’s rest after a full day of sightseeing, which is often overlooked in shorter trips.

Additional considerations

While the early start can be demanding, it’s a small price for the opportunity to witness Abu Simbel in the best conditions. The tour’s flexibility and professionalism seem to resonate well with travelers, especially those who value knowledgeable guides and seamless transport.

The Sum Up

This 2-day private guided tour from Marsa Alam to Aswan and Abu Simbel offers an immersive experience, combining Egypt’s most iconic ancient monuments with modern comforts. It’s perfect for travelers who want an efficient, well-organized way to see the highlights without sacrificing depth or authenticity.

The expert guides and stunning scenery truly enhance the experience, turning sightseeing into storytelling. The logistical convenience and included accommodation make it a practical choice, especially for those who prefer to travel without the hassle of planning every step.

While the early start is demanding, it’s a small trade-off for the chance to see Abu Simbel at its best and learn from guides passionate about Egypt’s history. If you’re after a comprehensive, meaningful journey that balances comfort with culture, this tour is an excellent option.

This tour suits history enthusiasts, first-time visitors, and anyone eager to tick Egypt’s most famous temples off their bucket list with expert guidance and minimal stress.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup is offered, making the start of your journey smooth and convenient.

What is the best time to visit Abu Simbel during this tour?
The early morning departure at 4:00 am allows you to experience Abu Simbel with fewer crowds and in the most favorable light.

Are all entrance fees included?
Yes, all fees and taxes are included in the tour price, so there are no surprise costs at the sites.

How comfortable are the transportation arrangements?
Transportation is via air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a comfortable ride through the desert landscapes and cityscapes.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, this is a private experience for your group only, offering flexibility and personalized attention from guides.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 3 days in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind if your plans shift.

This detailed review highlights what makes this tour a solid choice for experiencing Egypt’s legendary sights, with honest insights into both the highlights and practical considerations.