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- Duration
- 11 Days
- Activity Level
- Moderate
- Group Size
- 22
Abu Simbel
Widen the "wow" of your Egypt experience with this opportunity to discover more of the land's rich past and compelling present with a visit to Abu Simbel and additional time in Aswan. Tour the magnificent temples of Ramses II and his queen Nefertari at Abu Simbel—widely regarded as a must see for their awe-inspiring colossal beauty and illustration of engineering might. Built in the 13th century B.C., the imposing 65-foot tall figures of Ramses II flank the entrance to his temple. Explore the series of halls and rooms of the interior depicting vibrant hieroglyphics and history. In Aswan, learn how an international UNESCO team banded together in the 1960s to painstakingly dismantle and relocate the complex piece-by-piece to preserve it from being flooded by the Aswan High Dam.
Itinerary
Day 10: Aswan | Flight to Abu Simbel | Flight to Aswan
Begin with an early morning departure to the airport for a brief, 45-minute flight to Abu Simbel.
Today, on the west bank of Lake Nasser, tour another World Heritage Site—an outstanding archaeological area containing two impressive rock temples guarded by statues of Ramses II and his wife Nefertari in Abu Simbel. Originally carved into a mountainside between 1264-1244 B.C., the temples were moved stone by stone to their current location in 1968 to prevent being flooded and submerged by Lake Nasser. Learn how restoration crews transported over a thousand pieces, some weighing as much as 30 tons, and raised them over 200 feet to reassemble on an artificial hill. Step back in time exploring the paths and rooms of the temples and admiring well-preserved murals depicting military victories, personal life, and portrayals of ancient Egyptian gods.
Afterwards, return to the airport for the flight back to Aswan and a boxed lunch. The rest of the day is at leisure for discovering Aswan independently or enjoying the premier accommodations' amenities, including a luxurious spa, adult-only indoor pool, Jacuzzi, well-equipped gym, and cozy library.
Overnight: Sofitel Legend Cataract Aswan (L)
Day 11: Aswan
Enjoy breakfast and a full day at leisure. Take additional time to indulge at the Cataract, or perhaps venture out to explore the Nubian Museum and learn more about this fascinating ancient civilization.
Overnight: Sofitel Legend Cataract Aswan (B)
Day 12: Aswan | Flight to Cairo
The morning is yours for savoring breakfast and spending as you wish before flying to Cairo to begin the journey home. A room is available for your comfort and convenience until departure.
Overnight: Le Meridien Cairo Airport (B)
Day 13: Cairo | Depart for U.S.
Flights to the U.S. depart this morning.
B = Breakfast, L = Lunch
Post-tour space is limited. We recommend reserving early for best availability.
Activity Level
Moderate
Activities are generally not very strenuous, but there is a considerable amount of walking—on uneven surfaces such as gravel, sand, and stone—climbing stairways, and standing for long periods of time. Guests should be able to walk miles over uneven surfaces to be able to fully enjoy this program. Due to the nature of some structures, handrails may not be present, and facilities for people with disabilities are limited. Participation in itinerary activities is up to the individual.
Accommodations
Sofitel Legend Cataract – Aswan
Step back to the time of the pharaohs, surrounded by grandeur and opulence of this five-star property—with the Nubian Desert and Elephantine Island within your sights. Walk the ravishing grounds, and feel a part of royalty that once frequented the hotel, where King Fouad once entertained Agatha Christie.
During free time, perhaps take a pleasant stroll to Aswan's city center or relax poolside with a hibiscus tea. A fully equipped gym awaits those guests seeking to energize with a workout, and a full-service spa is available for blissful indulgence (additional fees apply).
Dine at one of the hotel's four restaurants, each providing gourmet fare, featuring French, Mediterranean or regional cuisine.
Room Amenities: Individual climate control, Nile River views, Sofitel My Bed, writing desk, LCD TV, complimentary Wi-Fi, minibar, complimentary mineral water, coffee maker, safe, and en suite marble bathroom with sundries and hair dryer.
Le Méridien Cairo Airport
This fully soundproofed luxury hotel is conveniently linked to Terminal 3 of Cairo International Airport by a pedestrian bridge. The property features an impressive sports bar, three restaurants (serving Chinese, Lebanese or Mediterranean cuisine), a fitness center, and a heated outdoor pool.
Room Amenities: Individual climate control, floor-to-ceiling soundproofed windows, writing desk, cable/satellite LED TV, complimentary Wi-Fi, minibar, bathrobes and slippers, coffee maker, safe, iron and ironing board, and en suite bathroom with premium sundries and hair dryer.
Post-Tour Rate***
Classic: $1,899
Deluxe: $2,099
Single Classic: $3,199
Single Deluxe: $3,499
Post-tour rate is per person based on double occupancy except where noted as Single, in U.S. dollars. Single availability limited. Internal airfare between Aswan, Abu Simble, and Cairo is included. Airfare otherwise not included.
What's Included
- Round-trip internal airfare between Aswan and Abu Simbel
- Internal airfare from Aswan to Cairo
- 2 nights luxury accommodations plus a day room on departure day
- 2 breakfasts and 1 lunch
- Admission to all sites listed in the 4-day itinerary
- Touring by an English-speaking guide
- All gratuities and porterage
- Airport transfers for guests departing during the suggested times