Discover Kom Ombo & Edfu Temples in a Full Day Tour from Aswan

A day tour to Kom Ombo and Edfu Temples from Aswan is an incredible journey through the heart of Ancient Egypt, offering a glimpse into the fascinating world of pharaohs, gods, and ancient architecture. The tour takes you along the banks of the Nile River, providing stunning views of Egypt’s lush landscapes and rural villages. You will experience two of Egypt’s most significant and uniquely designed temples—Kom Ombo and Edfu—both rich in history and mythology.

Morning: Departure from Aswan

Your day begins early in Aswan, a city known for its tranquil beauty and significant landmarks such as the High Dam and Philae Temple. After an energizing breakfast, you will be picked up from your hotel or cruise ship at around 7:00 AM by your guide, a certified Egyptologist who will accompany you throughout the tour. The drive to Kom Ombo, the first stop, is approximately 50 kilometers (31 miles) north of Aswan and takes about an hour by car. During the ride, your guide will provide a brief introduction to the history of the two temples you’ll be visiting and how they fit into Egypt’s ancient religious landscape.

Kom Ombo Temple: The Double Temple of Sobek and Horus

Arriving at Kom Ombo, you’ll be greeted by the remarkable sight of the temple standing right on the east bank of the Nile. Built during the Ptolemaic dynasty (around 180–47 BC), Kom Ombo Temple is unique for being dedicated to two gods: Sobek, the crocodile god, and Horus, the falcon-headed god. This unusual duality is evident in the temple’s architecture, as it is essentially split into two symmetrical halves—one for each deity.

As you enter the temple, your guide will point out the first of many fascinating reliefs and inscriptions that line the walls. One of the highlights is the vivid carvings that depict ancient surgical tools, believed to be among the earliest medical illustrations in history. The temple also features stunning columns, intricately carved with floral and geometric designs, and a hypostyle hall where the roof was supported by massive columns bearing the forms of lotus and palm leaves.

Walking through the temple, you’ll notice the importance of the Nile in the Egyptians’ lives. Sobek, as the god of the Nile and fertility, was worshiped here in hopes of ensuring a bountiful flood. Meanwhile, Horus was revered as the god of kingship and protection, symbolizing the eternal struggle between good and evil.

Your guide will take you to the small museum next to the temple, the Crocodile Museum, which houses a collection of mummified crocodiles that were once sacred to Sobek. These mummies are a reminder of how the ancient Egyptians revered even the most fearsome of creatures, believing that their power could protect and sustain life.

Edfu Temple: The Temple of Horus

Upon arriving in Edfu,  head to the Temple of Horus, one of the best-preserved temples in all of Egypt. Edfu Temple, constructed during the Ptolemaic period between 237 and 57 BC, is dedicated to Horus, the falcon-headed god of the sky. It is here that Horus is said to have avenged his father Osiris by defeating his uncle Seth in a mythical battle that represented the eternal struggle between good and evil.

Edfu Temple is monumental in scale, with its towering pylons (massive entrance gates) standing at 37 meters (121 feet) high. As you walk through the massive gateway into the temple’s courtyard, you’ll be struck by the grandeur of the structure. The inner sanctuary houses the sacred statue of Horus and the sacred barque, or boat, that was used in the temple’s processions.

Your guide will lead you through the various chambers of the temple, explaining their significance. One of the most captivating areas is the hall of offerings, where priests once made daily offerings to Horus. The walls here are adorned with detailed carvings depicting scenes from the divine struggle between Horus and Seth. These carvings are not only artistically impressive but also provide insight into the beliefs and rituals of ancient Egypt.

Another fascinating feature of Edfu Temple is the Nilometer, an ancient tool used to measure the level of the Nile and predict the success of the harvest. This was crucial for the Egyptians, as the flooding of the Nile determined the fertility of their lands. Standing beside the Nilometer, your guide will explain how the measurements were taken and how they influenced the religious and agricultural practices of the time.

As you explore the temple, your guide will also recount the story of the annual festival of the Sacred Barque, a grand procession in which the statue of Horus would be carried from Edfu to Dendera, the temple of his consort Hathor. This festival was one of the most important events in the ancient Egyptian calendar, symbolizing the union of the gods and ensuring the prosperity of the land.

Lunch: A Taste of Egyptian Cuisine

After your visit to Edfu Temple, it’s time for a well-deserved break. You’ll be taken to a local restaurant in Edfu, where you’ll enjoy a traditional Egyptian lunch. Depending on your preferences, you can indulge in dishes such as grilled meats, kofta (minced meat kebabs), molokhia (a traditional green soup), and a variety of fresh salads and mezze. This meal is a perfect opportunity to experience the flavors of Upper Egypt and recharge before continuing your journey.

Afternoon: Return to Aswan

Following lunch, you will begin your return journey to Aswan. The drive takes approximately two hours, and the scenic route offers another chance to take in the picturesque views of the Nile Valley. Your guide will continue to share interesting facts about life in ancient and modern Egypt, providing a deeper understanding of the culture and history of this incredible region.

As you near Aswan, you may pass by local markets or see farmers tending their crops in the fertile soil along the Nile. The contrast between the green fields and the golden desert beyond is a reminder of the life-giving power of the river, just as it was for the ancient Egyptians.

Optional Stops: Nubian Villages or Aswan Markets

If time permits, and depending on your interests, you may have the option to make a brief stop at a Nubian village or one of Aswan’s bustling markets. Nubian villages, with their colorful houses and rich traditions, offer a unique glimpse into a culture distinct from the Arab majority of Egypt. The Nubians have their own language, customs, and crafts, and a visit to their village can provide insight into their way of life.

Alternatively, you can stop by one of Aswan’s local markets, known for their vibrant atmosphere and wide variety of goods. Here, you can browse stalls selling spices, textiles, handicrafts, and souvenirs. If you’re feeling adventurous, this is also a great place to practice your bargaining skills, a common practice in Egyptian markets.

Evening: Arrival Back in Aswan

You will arrive back in Aswan in the late afternoon, typically around 5:00 or 6:00 PM. Your guide will drop you off at your hotel or cruise ship, bringing your day tour to a close. As you reflect on the day, you’ll likely feel a deep sense of awe at the beauty and history you’ve experienced, from the towering columns of Kom Ombo to the grand pylons of Edfu. Both temples, though different in design and purpose, stand as testaments to the incredible skill and devotion of ancient Egyptian architects, priests, and worshipers.

Whether you are a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply someone who enjoys exploring new cultures, this day tour to Kom Ombo and Edfu Temples from Aswan is sure to be a highlight of your trip to Egypt. The combination of expert guidance, stunning ancient monuments, and the serene backdrop of the Nile River creates an unforgettable experience that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for Egypt’s rich cultural heritage.

Price Inclusions:

• Assistance of our guest relations during your stay
• All transfers to/from hotel by a private air-conditioned vehicle:
• All sightseeing tours (Private Tours)
• All Sightseeing tours as in the itinerary.
• English speaking Tour guide during your trips
• Bottled water during the trip
• All service charges and taxes

Price Exclusions:

• International airfare
• Entry visa to Egypt(your visa stamp at the bank desk before you queue for passport control and you need $25 cash for it!).
• Accommodation in Cairo
• All Entrance fees : Tickets to all sites as indicated in the itinerary.
• All Extra entrance fees
• Drinks and any personal expenses.
• Meals during the Tours
• Optional tours
• Tipping