Two Days Trip to Abu Simbel and Aswan from Marsa alam

Exploring Egypt’s Ancient Wonders from Marsa Alam: A Two-Day Adventure

If you’re looking to pack a lot of history, culture, and scenery into a short trip directly from Marsa Alam, this two-day tour to Aswan and Abu Simbel might just be your best bet. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, reviews and detailed itineraries paint a clear picture of an experience packed with highlights, expert-guided insights, and scenic moments.

What makes this trip stand out? First, the balance of cultural sites and natural beauty—from touring impressive temples to sailing the Nile. Second, the expert Egyptologist guides who enrich your understanding of the history behind each site. Lastly, the value for money—a well-rounded experience offered at a reasonable cost considering the inclusions.

One potential consideration is the early starts, which can be challenging if you’re not an early riser. It’s best suited for travelers who want to maximize their time and are comfortable with a busy schedule. This tour really suits history enthusiasts, bucket-listers aiming to see Abu Simbel, and those who enjoy scenic boat rides and culture in a short time.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering Aswan highlights and Abu Simbel temples
• Expert-guided tours bring history to life
• Comfortable transportation with private, air-conditioned vehicles
• Authentic cultural experiences, including sailing on the Nile with a Felucca
• Good value with all major tickets, meals, and a night’s accommodation included
• Early starts and long days are part of the adventure

Discovering Egypt’s Gems in Two Days

This two-day journey from Marsa Alam is designed to give you a taste of Egypt’s iconic monuments while blending in scenic Nile moments and local insights. The tour is scheduled meticulously to optimize your experience, starting with early mornings and packed days, but with enough comfort and cultural richness to justify the pace.

Day 1: From Marsa Alam to Aswan

Early Morning Pickup
Starting at 4:30 am, the adventure kicks off with a private vehicle picking you up from your hotel or Port Ghalib. It’s a four-hour drive to Aswan, and while that may sound long, it’s a chance to relax and enjoy the landscape. This early start is crucial to beat the heat and crowd, especially at key sites like the High Dam and Phiala Temple.

Aswan Highlights Tour
Once in Aswan, the tour hits the ground running with visits to the High Dam, a marvel of modern engineering that changed Egypt’s flood control and irrigation landscape. The dam’s vantage offers sweeping views of the Nile, a reminder of how essential this river has been for thousands of years.

Next, you’ll explore Phiala Island, home to the Temple of Goddess Isis, a site that beautifully combines history and nature. The temple’s riverside setting at the island offers a peaceful vibe, contrasting with the grandeur of the temples. The Unfinished Obelisk is a must-see—an enormous stone that reveals the intricacies of ancient quarrying and craftsmanship, providing insights that keep even the most jaded history buffs engaged.

Nile Felucca Sailing
Midway through the day, you’ll hop on a traditional Egyptian Felucca for a relaxing sail along the Nile. It’s a serene moment amid the busy sightseeing, offering a new perspective on the city and a chance to soak in the river’s calming flow. Reviewers highlight this as a highlight—“Enjoy sailing on the Nile with Egyptians Felucca”—and it really gives a taste of everyday life along the river.

Evening Accommodation
After a full day, you’ll stay overnight at the Basma Hotel, a four-star property with comfortable rooms and nice views of the Nile. This adds a touch of relaxation after the busy day of sightseeing.

Day 2: Abu Simbel and Return

Very Early Wake-Up for Abu Simbel
Day two begins at 4:00 am with an early pickup from your hotel in Aswan, followed by a three-hour drive in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. The early start allows you to reach Abu Simbel before the heat of midday, which can make a significant difference in comfort levels.

The Magnificent Temples of Ramses II
Arriving at Abu Simbel, the sight of the two colossal temples carved out of the mountainside during Ramses II’s reign is awe-inspiring. The guide, often noted in reviews as “knowledgeable and friendly,” will explain the history of Ramses II—one of Egypt’s most celebrated pharaohs—and the significance of these temples. The main facade with its four seated statues of Ramses is a picture-perfect moment, often described as “fabulous” by visitors.

Inside, the detailed carvings and hieroglyphs tell stories of kingship and divine power, making it a highlight for history lovers. The temples’ relocation during the 1960s UNESCO project, to save them from flooding, is often mentioned as an astonishing feat of modern archaeology, adding an extra layer of interest.

Additional Temple of Queen Nefertari
The tour also includes a visit to the Temple of Queen Nefertari, Ramses II’s beloved wife, which adds a personal touch to the grand narrative of Egyptian royalty.

Return to Marsa Alam
After exploring Abu Simbel, you’ll head back to Aswan and then transfer to your vehicle for the four-hour drive back to Marsa Alam, arriving in the evening. The day’s early start and long travel time might be tiring but are justified by the quality of the sites visited and the guided insights.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included

• Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Aswan
• Egyptologist guide who brings history alive with stories and context
• Bottled water to stay hydrated during the long day
• Private, air-conditioned transportation—crucial for comfort on the long drives
• Lunch at a quality restaurant in Aswan, with tasty local dishes
• One night at the Basma Hotel in Aswan, a comfortable base for exploring

Not Included

• Extras beyond what’s specified
• Drinks outside of bottled water

This package offers a solid value considering all major tickets, transportation, guides, and a night’s accommodation are covered. The reviews underscore the professionalism and care of the team, with guests mentioning how “the guides shared a lot of information,” enriching their understanding beyond just sightseeing.

Practical Tips for the Tour

• Early mornings are a must—be prepared for long days, but they’re worth it to avoid the heat and crowds.
• Comfortable clothing and sun protection are essential, especially given the outdoor sites and early start times.
• Bring your camera—the temples and Nile views are spectacular, and the early morning light can make for excellent photos.
• Hydration is key—bottled water is provided, but consider bringing a refillable bottle for the day.
• Patience with the schedule—the days are packed, but the experience is immersive and rewarding.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Book This Tour?

This two-day trip offers a balanced mix of history, scenery, and culture for travelers craving a comprehensive snapshot of Egypt’s highlights from Marsa Alam. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy guided tours led by knowledgeable Egyptologists, as their commentary adds depth and context that really bring the sites to life.

If you’re short on time but eager to see Abu Simbel and explore Aswan’s Nile-side attractions, this tour hits the mark. It’s ideal for history enthusiasts, photographers, and cultural explorers who appreciate comfort but don’t want to miss out on iconic landmarks.

While the early mornings and full days might be tiring, the experience’s quality, guided insights, and scenic moments make it worthwhile. The inclusion of a Nile Felucca sail and comfortable overnight stay in Aswan add a special touch of authenticity and relaxation.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available for this tour?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Marsa Alam and Port Ghalib hotels, making the start and end hassle-free.

How long is the drive from Marsa Alam to Aswan?
It takes approximately four hours by private vehicle, allowing some time for rest or enjoying the scenery.

What sites will I see in Aswan?
You’ll visit the High Dam, Phiala Island with the Temple of Goddess Isis, the Unfinished Obelisk, and enjoy sailing on the Nile with a Felucca.

When does the tour start?
Pickup begins at 4:30 am for the first day, and 4:00 am on the second day specifically for Abu Simbel.

Are tickets for the temples included?
Yes, all admission tickets for the High Dam, Phiala Temple, the Unfinished Obelisk, and Abu Simbel are included.

What accommodation is provided?
You’ll stay overnight at the Basma Hotel in Aswan, a four-star property with comfortable amenities.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour is private for your group, but be prepared for early mornings and long days.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience, providing flexibility.

Is lunch provided?
Yes, a quality restaurant in Aswan serves a tasty lunch during Day 1.

Who is the tour operator?
The experience is organized by Marsa Alam Tours, a professional provider with positive reviews for their organization.

To sum it up, this tour offers a well-rounded, authentic Egyptian experience that’s perfect for travelers eager to see the highlights in a short timeframe. With expert guides, scenic Nile moments, and access to iconic temples, it’s a fantastic way to make the most of your time in Egypt—especially if you’re starting from Marsa Alam. Just be ready for an early, busy schedule, and you’ll leave with unforgettable memories.