Discovering the Grandeur of Abu Simbel on Day Two
On the second day of your captivating journey, you will continue your exploration of the Abu Simbel Temples, one of the most remarkable historical sites in Egypt. After a hearty breakfast box prepared by your Aswan hotel, you will embark on a day tour of this awe-inspiring destination, accompanied by your knowledgeable English-speaking guide and driver.
The two temples of Abu Simbel, commissioned by the mighty Pharaoh Ramesses II, stand as a testament to the majesty and grandeur of the New Kingdom era. These impressive structures were nearly lost to the rising waters behind the Aswan High Dam until an international salvage campaign led by the Egyptian government and UNESCO ensured their preservation.
Nubia held great importance to the ancient Egyptians, as it was a valuable source of gold and other precious trade goods. Ramesses II constructed these grand temples to impress upon the Nubian people the might of the Egyptian Empire and to further integrate the region into the Egyptian cultural sphere.
The larger of the two temples is dedicated to the four universal gods of Ptah, Re-Horakhty, Amun-Re, and Ramesses II himself, who were deified. The smaller temple is a tribute to Ramesses II's beloved wife, Queen Nefertari, and the goddess Hathor, who was the wife of the sun god. In this symbolic way, the two temples unite Ramesses II, Nefertari, Hathor, and the sun god Amun as one.
After you explore these awe-inspiring monuments, you will be transferred back to Aswan, and then continue your journey back to Luxor, having experienced one of the best day tours and activities that this captivating region has to offer.