The Abu Simbel Temples refer to two massive rock-cut temples (the Great Temple of Ramses II
and the smaller Temple of Hathor) in Abu Simbel in Nubia, southern Egypt, on the west bank of
Lake Nasser, approximately 230 km southwest of Aswan.

The complex is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the "Nubian Monuments,"
which stretches from Abu Simbel downstream to Philae (near Aswan). The twin temples were
originally carved out of the mountainside during the reign of Pharaoh Ramses II in the 13th century
BC as a lasting monument to himself and his Queen Nefertari, to commemorate his alleged victory
in the Battle of Kadesh, and to intimidate his Nubian neighbors.

However, in 1968, the complex was completely relocated to an artificial hill consisting of a dome
structure high above the reservoir of the Aswan High Dam. The relocation of the temples was
necessary to prevent them from being submerged during the creation of Lake Nasser, the massive
artificial water reservoir formed after the construction of the Aswan High Dam on the Nile.

Abu Simbel remains one of Egypt's most popular tourist attractions. With a qualified Egyptologist
as your guide, you will enjoy a personalized visit to the temples of Abu Simbel. Your guide will
explain the history behind this magnificent site, including the accidental discovery of the temples in
1813, with its four rock-cut pharaohs. Due to the large number of visitors at Abu Simbel, guides are
not permitted inside the two temples you will visit. After completing your tour, you will return to your hotel.

Here's a breakdown of what's included and not included, along with other important details
for the Abu Simbel Temples Day Tour from Aswan by Bus: