☀️ Sun Alignment Phenomenon of Abu Simbel Tours & Trips

Overview

Witness one of Ancient Egypt’s most magical events — the biannual sun alignment at the Great Temple of Ramses II in Abu Simbel. On February 22nd (his coronation) and October 22nd (his birthday), the first rays of the rising sun pierce the temple’s interior and illuminate three of the four statues inside the Holy of Holies: Ramses II himself, and the gods Amun-Re and Ra-Horakhty, while Ptah, the god of darkness, remains in shadow. This phenomenon draws visitors worldwide for a rare moment of architectural genius, astronomy, and history coming alive.

Tour details

approx. 9–10 hours

English , Arabic french , Spanish, and more

From your hotel in Luxor

Our Tour

Itinerary

Late Night / Very Early Morning Pick-Up:

Depending on your accommodation, you’ll be transferred (by car or flight + drive, depending on package) toward Abu Simbel, arriving in time before dawn.

 

Arrive at Abu Simbel Temple:

You’ll reach the Great Temple for sunrise — ensure you’re in position in the hypostyle hall or sanctuary before the sun rises.

 

Sun Alignment Event:

As dawn breaks, witness the spectacular alignment — sunrays travel ~60 meters through the temple to illuminate the three statues. This moment lasts about 20 minutes.

 

Tour of Abu Simbel:

After the phenomenon, your Egyptologist guide will take you on a tour of the temple complex — its exterior colossi, interior reliefs, history of relocation, and its architectural marvel.

Return Trip:

After the experience, enjoy sunrise views, possibly breakfast at or near the site, then transfer back to Aswan or wherever your trip schedule continues.

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Tour Details

Dates: February 22 & October 22 of each year

Timing: Dawn (exact time depends on sunrise; the alignment happens shortly after).

Tour Type: Private or small group option.

Transportation: By air (if available), or by road from Aswan. Includes transfers, local transport.

Guide Language: English (other languages available on request).


FAQ / Useful Info

Q: Is this event guaranteed?

A: It happens every year on those two dates (Feb 22 & Oct 22) — weather permitting. If clouds/smog obstruct the sunrise, visibility may be reduced.

 

Q: Can I visit Abu Simbel on other dates?

A: Yes, but you won’t experience the alignment. The temple is open year-round.

 

Q: Do I need to be very early?

A: Yes, you’ll need to arrive well before sunrise to secure your spot inside and see the alignment clearly.

 

Q: How long does the alignment last?

A: Approximately 20 minutes. The exact timing can vary slightly.


Tips & Advice

Bring a tripod and camera with good low-light capability.

Dress warmly: mornings are chilly in the desert.

Carry snacks/coffee if you arrive very early.

Book well in advance — this tour sells out fast.

 

Highlights

📍Experience the awe-inspiring sun alignment event inside Ramses II’s Temple.

📍Gain insight into ancient Egyptian astronomy and the temple’s alignment engineering.

📍Tour the magnificent Abu Simbel complex.

📍Be part of a rare event — occurs only twice annually.

📍Perfect for photography lovers, history buffs, and those seeking profound cultural experiences.

Include

✅Transfer to/from Abu Simbel (as per your package: flight or road)

✅Entrance fees to Great Temple of Abu Simbel

✅Egyptologist guide for the event & temple tour

✅Early access or timed entry to witness the sun alignment

✅Bottled water & light snacks

✅Hotel pick-up and drop-off

Exclude

❌Flights (unless specified in your package)
❌Meals (unless specified)
❌Personal expenses
❌Tips & gratuities

Cancelation Policy

Free cancellation up to 48 hours before the tour

50% charge if canceled less than 48 hours before

Full charge for no-shows

why to book this tour with raymira

🏆 Exclusive Access: Our private early-morning transfer ensures you arrive at Abu Simbel before the crowds to capture the perfect sunrise moment.

 

💬 Expert Egyptologists: Knowledgeable guides share fascinating insights about the solar alignment, Ramses II’s legacy, and the incredible temple relocation project by UNESCO.

 

🚗 Comfort & Safety: Travel in a modern, air-conditioned private vehicle with an experienced driver for a smooth journey through the desert.

 

📸 Tailored Experience: We help you find the best viewing spots and assist with photography to immortalize your sunrise memories.

 

💎 Premium Service by Raymira: From hotel pick-up to personalized care, every detail of your trip is handled professionally — so you can focus on the wonder of the

moment.

 

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