Abu Simbel Sun Festival
Take part in this special biannual event
Price: USD 170
Twice a year, February and October 22nd, a magical alignment happens in Abu Simbel temple. The sun’s rays will fall upon the front corridor of the entrance to the temple. These rays will have a length of 200 meters, and on those days, they reach the Holy of Holies. The Holy of Holies is a famous platform of statues; King Ramses II, Ra-Hor, Amun and Ptah, who are famous Egyptian gods and pharaohs. It is believed that this location for the temple of Abu Simbel was chosen in ancient times, so that the sun would pass over Ramses’ face to mark the start of the harvest season (in February), and the start of flooding season (October).
Thousands of people from all over the world travel to the area to celebrate this event. Many festivities are planned to mark the occasion, celebrated by locals and tourists, as well as government officials. Oftentimes, live music is also played.
Day 1 • Aswan - Abu Simbel - Aswan
Leave your hotel in the middle of the night (around 1-2am), sleeping on the bus that will takes you to the great temple. You arrive around 4-5am - just in time for sunrise! Get the treat of seeing the sky fade from dark blue to orange and pale pink, as everyone gathers to celebrates the sun festival, before the gentle rays hit the statues’ faces. After this special moment, enjoy the celebrations with everyone around you.
Return to Aswan for a free afternoon.
Meals included: Breakfast
Transportation: Private Bus (5:00h)
