This isn’t just a transfer — it’s a thoughtfully guided journey into one of Egypt’s most astonishing ancient feats. Traveling by private vehicle means you set the pace, skip the airport hassle, and enjoy quiet moments in the desert landscape that most visitors miss. Your expert Egyptologist guide adds layers of context to every carving, every corridor, and every story etched into Abu Simbel’s sacred stone. With early hotel pickup, smooth round-trip transport, and unhurried time at both temples, this tour blends comfort, depth, and a touch of adventure — perfect for curious travelers who want more than just a photo stop.
car + Guide
Pickup included
our day begins in the early morning with a prompt hotel or Nile cruise pickup in Aswan, typically between 4:00 AM and 5:00 AM. A professional driver and expert guide will greet you at your accommodation and escort you to a private, air-conditioned vehicle. You’ll set out before sunrise, ensuring cooler travel conditions and early arrival at the temples before large crowds gather.
Towering over the desert sands near the Sudanese border, the Great Temple of Ramses II is a true marvel of ancient engineering and ego. Carved directly into the rock face, four colossal statues of the pharaoh greet you at the entrance, each over 60 feet tall. Inside, a series of intricately decorated halls reveal scenes of battle victories, divine tributes, and celestial alignments — all designed to glorify Ramses’ reign. The temple is positioned so that twice a year, the sun illuminates the inner sanctuary — a feat that continues to astonish visitors and scholars alike.
Just a few steps away lies the smaller but equally impressive Temple of Nefertari, dedicated to Ramses’ beloved queen. It’s rare in Egyptian temple architecture to see a queen depicted at the same scale as a king, but here, Nefertari stands as Ramses’ equal. The richly painted interior celebrates her beauty, grace, and divine association with Hathor, the goddess of love and music. Wandering through this sacred space, you’ll feel the reverence and affection the great pharaoh held for his queen.
Choose to be picked up from a list of locations
Please arrive at the pick up point 15 minutes before departure time.
Begin your day with a seamless pickup from your Aswan hotel or Nile cruise ship between 4:00 AM and 5:00 AM, ensuring an early start to beat the desert heat and crowds. Settle into a comfortable, air-conditioned private vehicle for the journey southward. As you traverse the 280 km stretch to Abu Simbel, enjoy the changing desert landscapes and occasional glimpses of the Nile. Your knowledgeable guide will provide insights and answer any questions, making the drive both informative and enjoyable.