Discover Abu Simbel, the commanding twin temples of Ramses II and his wife, Queen Nefertari. The former’s façade is dominated by four 70-foot-tall statues of the pharaoh. Perhaps even more impressive, this entire site was disassembled and moved here to save it from the floodwaters caused by the Aswan High Dam.
At Abu Simbel, attend the famous Sun festival . One has to leave at 3AM to visit Abu Simbel and secure the front row to get the perfect glimpse of the Sun Rays. Egyptian mythology dictates that Sun God is the most superior God. This festival is celebrated twice in a year, on 22nd February and 22nd October. On these days the sunrays penetrate the Abu Simbel temple, reaching its innermost sanctum, brightening all the Gods like Ra, Amun and Ramses while keeping the Goddess of darkness in the shadows.
At sunrise, the calm turns into excitement as people crowd together to get a good look at the marvelous sight of the three statues bathed in sunlight. Once the sun rises too high and the statues fall back into shadow, everyone eats, drinks, dances, and celebrates. The day is full of fun and excitement. You’ll see traditional singers and dancers showing off their skills. There are artisans of all kinds sharing their trade. There is also plenty of opportunity to try delicious local Egyptian food.
Cruise to Kom Ombo. Disembark at Kom Ombo (hill of gold) to visit the Greco- Roman temple dedicated to Haroeris (the sun god) and Sobek (the crocodile god), whom some ancient Egyptians considered the creator of the world. View the mummified remains of several crocodiles that once basked along the ancient Nile shore, just as their descendants do today. Back on board, Cruise to Edfu.
BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER
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