How to plan your Luxor trip to Abu Simbel & Aswan from Luxor
Are you planning a trip to Luxor and looking for a unique experience? Look no further than the opportunity to visit Abu Simbel and Aswan with GetYourGuide’s Luxor to Aswan Sightseeing Tours.
This two-day tour takes you on a journey from Luxor to Aswan with multiple stops at some of Egypt’s most famous landmarks. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your trip.
Day 1: Luxor to Aswan Sightseeing Tours
On the first day of the tour, you’ll be picked up from your hotel in Luxor at 7:00 AM and transferred to Aswan. The first stop will be the Philae Temple, built in honor of the goddess Isis. After exploring the temple, you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant in Aswan (included in the tour).
Next up, you’ll take a felucca ride to the Nubian Village on the bottom of Elephantine Island to experience the simple and natural life of the very kind and hospitable Nubian people. Finally, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in Aswan for check-in with free time at leisure and an overnight stay.
Meals: Lunch
Day 2: Abu Simbel Trip from Aswan
On day two, you’ll wake up bright and early at 3:30 AM and receive a box-breakfast from your hotel in Aswan before departing for the famous Abu Simbel temples. These temples, built over 3,000 years ago, were constructed by Pharaoh Ramses II in honor of himself, his beloved queen Nefertari, and their gods.
After exploring the temples, you’ll return to Aswan to visit the Unfinished Obelisk and see the High Dam in the area. Finally, you’ll be transferred back to your hotel in Luxor.
Meals: Breakfast
What’s included in the tour?
- Round-trip private transfer
- Meals as per itinerary (1 lunch, 1 breakfast)
- Box breakfast on the second day
- Entrance fees to all above-mentioned sites
- Professional guide throughout the tour
- Accommodation for 1 night in Aswan
How to book the tour
Ready to book your tour from Luxor to Abu Simbel & Aswan? Simply visit this link and follow the instructions to book your tour with GetYourGuide.
Final thoughts
The Luxor to Aswan Sightseeing Tours from GetYourGuide is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore some of Egypt’s most famous landmarks. With professional guides, private transfers, and delicious meals included, all you need to do is sit back, relax, and enjoy the experience. Book your tour today and get ready for an unforgettable journey!
An Insider’s Guide to Luxor: Must-Visit Attractions, Dining Spots, Cultural Experiences, Local History, and Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions
The city of Luxor is located in the south of Egypt’s Nile River Valley and is often referred to as the world’s “biggest open-air museum.” The city’s awe-inspiring temples, tombs, and ruins offer a glimpse into Egypt’s storied ancient past. Apart from its historical sites, Luxor is also famous for its lively markets, mouth-watering cuisine, and vibrant culture which make it a must-visit destination in Egypt. Here is a comprehensive guide to the top attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions to help you plan your Luxor trip.
Top Attractions in Luxor
1. Temple of Karnak: This UNESCO world heritage site is the largest temple complex in Egypt and covers an area of 247 acres. The temple dates back to around 2055 BC and is dedicated to the god Amun. Its grandeur and sheer scale make it one of the most impressive temples in Egypt.
2. Valley of the Kings: This famous burial ground of ancient pharaohs is located on the west bank of the Nile River in Luxor and is home to over 60 tombs. Notable tombs include that of Tutankhamun and Ramses III.
3. Luxor Temple: This temple is a must-visit site and is located in the heart of Luxor. The temple’s construction started during the reign of Amenhotep III and was completed by Tutankhamun. Its grand colonnades, statues, and obelisks are sure to leave you in awe.
4. Colossi of Memnon: These colossal statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III are over 3,000 years old and are located on the west bank of the Nile River. They are a popular stop for tourists visiting the area.
Dining Spots in Luxor
1. Sofra Restaurant: This restaurant serves authentic Egyptian cuisine and boasts a traditional setting with floor seating and a live music performance.
2. El Hussein: This local restaurant serves delicious Egyptian street food including grilled meats, kofta, and falafel. It has been around for over 60 years and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
3. Amoun Restaurant: This restaurant offers a stunning view of Luxor Temple and serves a mix of international and Egyptian cuisine. They have a beautiful rooftop terrace where you can enjoy your meal with a view.
4. Tutankhamun Restaurant: This restaurant’s ambiance is inspired by the famous pharaoh Tutankhamun, and it serves traditional Egyptian dishes with a contemporary twist.
Cultural Experiences in Luxor
1. Sound and Light Show at Karnak Temple: This nighttime show tells the story of Karnak Temple through an enchanting mix of lights and sound.
2. Felucca Ride on the Nile River: A felucca ride on the Nile is an ideal way to experience the river’s beauty while enjoying the area’s stunning scenery.
3. Hot Air Balloon Ride: A hot air balloon ride over the Valley of the Kings is a fantastic experience that offers a bird’s-eye view of the temples, tombs, and the surrounding desert landscape.
Local History of Luxor
Luxor was once the ancient city of Thebes, which was the capital of Egypt during the pharaonic era. The city is home to some of the most remarkable examples of ancient Egyptian architecture and art, with temples, tombs, and ruins dating back over 5,000 years. Luxor’s history is closely tied to that of ancient Egypt, and exploring the city is like taking a journey back in time.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions in Luxor
1. Habu Temple: Often overlooked by tourists, this temple is a hidden gem that offers a unique glimpse into ancient Egyptian architecture.
2. Luxor Museum: This museum houses a collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts and is an excellent place to learn about the history of Luxor and ancient Egypt.
3. Dendera Temple: This temple is located about 60 km north of Luxor and is well worth the trip. It dates back to the Ptolemaic period and is one of the best-preserved temples in Egypt.
4. Luxor Souq: This market is filled with vendors selling spices, textiles, jewelry, and more. It’s an excellent place to experience the local culture and pick up some souvenirs.
In conclusion, Luxor is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in ancient Egypt’s history and culture. Whether you’re interested in exploring the tombs, temples, and ruins that Luxor is famous for or you want to experience the city’s lively culture and cuisine, there’s something for everyone in Luxor. Follow this insider’s guide to plan your trip to Luxor and make your visit an unforgettable experience!
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