Day 1: Fly from Cairo to Aswan and Visit the Abu Simbel Temple
We will pick you up early in the morning and take you to Cairo Airport for your flight to Aswan. Upon arrival, you will meet your Egyptologist tour guide and transfer to the magnificent Abu Simbel Temples.
Temples of Abu Simbel
The two temples of Abu Simbel are regarded as marvels of ancient Egypt due to their distinctive design. Crafted during King Ramses II’s reign around 1200 B.C., artisans created these rock-cut temples. One temple honors King Ramses II, while the other honors his beloved wife, Queen Nefertari. Both temples feature magnificent sculptures and artwork, making this a must-see destination. You will marvel at the hand-carved pillars, wall paintings, sculptures, statues, and much more.
After your day tour in Abu Simbel, your private air-conditioned vehicle will take you to Aswan. Here, you will enjoy lunch at a traditional Middle Eastern restaurant before checking into your hotel for the night.
Day 2: Travel from Aswan to Luxor and Fly Back to Cairo
Start your day with breakfast at the hotel. Then, accompany your tour guide to the Aswan train station to board a first-class train to Luxor. Upon arrival, you will transfer by private vehicle to explore the stunning temples and tombs of Luxor, beginning with:
The Valley of the Kings
In this historic site, you will find the tombs of Egypt’s monarchs from the 18th to the 20th dynasties, including the great pharaoh Ramses II and the young pharaoh Tutankhamun. These tombs were well-stocked with everything a monarch needed in the afterlife, and the majority of their interior décor has been beautifully preserved.
Temple of Hatshepsut
Next, visit the Temple of Hatshepsut, one of the most stunning and well-preserved ancient Egyptian temples. This temple features three levels connected by two large ramps in the center.
Memnon’s Colossi
Continue your exploration at Memnon’s Colossi, which are the sole remnants of a full funerary temple. These enormous stone sculptures of King Amenhotep III were crafted from quartzite sandstone blocks, which artisans transported 700 kilometers from Cairo to Luxor. After your visits, lunch will be provided at a traditional Egyptian restaurant with a view of the Nile River. Following lunch, you will join your private guide to enjoy:
Karnak Temple
The Karnak Temple is Egypt’s most spectacular structure and the world’s largest temple complex. It results from the collaborative efforts of several generations of ancient builders and pharaohs. The Temple of Karnak consists of three separate temples spread over 247 acres.
Finally, you will transfer to Luxor Airport for your flight back to Cairo. Feel free to share your thoughts about which trips to include or remove from your tour schedule to meet your needs.
