Private Aswan & Abu Simbel Overnight Tour from Hurghada

Summary

All-Inclusive Overnight Trip: Aswan Highlights & Abu Simbel Temples

You’ll travel deep into southern Egypt to stand beneath ancient temples, walk through lively markets, and hear stories from a real Egyptologist guide—all without worrying about logistics or tickets.

What’s the experience like?

We left Hurghada before sunrise, the air still cool and quiet. Our driver handed out bottled water as we settled in for the long drive south. By late morning, we reached the High Dam of Aswan—honestly, it’s massive up close. You can feel the breeze coming off Lake Nasser and see tiny fishing boats way out on the water. Our Egyptologist guide, Ahmed, pointed out Kalabsha Temple on the far shore and explained how this dam changed Egypt forever. There’s a faint hum from the power station if you listen closely.

Next stop was Philae Island. We took a small boat across—the river smells fresh here, almost sweet. The Temple of Isis stands proud against the sky; I touched the ancient carvings that have survived centuries of floods and sun. Ahmed told us about rituals that happened right where we stood. Afterward, we wandered through Aswan Market (locals call it Sharia el Souk). The scent of spices—cumin and dried hibiscus—hits you first. I grabbed some dates from an old vendor who smiled but didn’t say much.

The granite quarries were up next. The Unfinished Obelisk just lies there, half-carved and cracked—a reminder that even pharaohs had setbacks. Ahmed showed us marks left by workers’ tools thousands of years ago. It’s easy to imagine them pausing for shade under the same sun.

After a night at a simple hotel (clean sheets, hot shower), we set out early for Abu Simbel. The temples are carved straight into the rock face—four giant statues of Ramses II stare down at you like they’re sizing you up. Inside, cool air and painted walls tell stories older than most countries. The second temple is for Queen Nefertari; her face is everywhere inside, softer lines compared to Ramses’ stern look outside. Ahmed explained how UNESCO moved both temples stone by stone when Lake Nasser threatened to drown them—hard to believe until you see it yourself.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Aswan and Abu Simbel Highlights

• Visit High Dam of Aswan
• Explore Temple of Goddess Isis on Phiala Island
• See the Unfinished Obelisk
• Tour Abu Simbel Temples and Lunch in Aswan

Top questions

Is this tour suitable for families with young kids?

Yes! Kids can join easily—there are infant seats available and strollers work fine in most places.

How long is the drive from Hurghada to Aswan?

The drive usually takes around 6–7 hours each way with stops for breaks along the route.

Are meals included during the tour?

Lunch is included in Aswan and bottled water is provided throughout your trip.

Is there wheelchair access at all sites?

Most areas are accessible by wheelchair and transportation is adapted for accessibility needs.

What’s included

Your private transport (air-conditioned), bottled water all day, one night in a 3-star hotel in Aswan (private room), lunch in Aswan, all entry fees and taxes covered, plus your own Egyptologist guide for every stop.