5-day cruise from Abu Simbel to Aswan on Lake Nasser

Boarding the SAÏ. We begin our tour of the temples with a captivating guided visit to the remarkable temple of Ramses II and his wife, the magnificent Nefertari. This temple, skilfully carved out of the heart of the mountain, was erected in the 12th century BC to commemorate Ramses II's victory at the famous Battle of Qadesh. It took almost 20 years to build, bearing witness to the importance attached to its construction.

The temple's majestic façade, made of pink sandstone, rises to an imposing height of 30 metres and extends over a width of 40 metres. It is adorned with four colossal statues representing Ramses II, who seem to watch over this emblematic edifice. In addition, the façade is enriched by additional statues, bas-reliefs and friezes, which tell fascinating stories of the period.

After a delicious breakfast, you'll set off to visit Kasr Ibrim and the surrounding tombs. The name Kasr Ibrim means "Ibrim's palace". This palace contains precious evidence of Christian and Muslim times, and was transformed into a fortress in Ottoman times. The site is unique in that it remains on its original site. It bears witness to the different eras and civilizations that have succeeded one another. Unfortunately, the site has suffered a great deal of damage from looting by local smugglers and fishermen.

After the visit, enjoy a well-deserved lunch. We'll then resume our cruise, passing through the Masmas region, once home to several Nubian villages. As you approach, you'll gradually discover the two Abu Simbel temples, rising majestically from the waters. An enchanting sight awaits you.

Once you've reached your final destination in Abu Simbel, you'll have the opportunity to attend the Son et Lumière show in front of the temples, an optional but captivating experience. Afterwards, enjoy a delicious dinner on board and a restful night's sleep.

After a delicious breakfast, you may be lucky enough to admire the migratory birds that stop off on the shores of the lake during the winter months. This natural spectacle offers a unique opportunity to enjoy the beauty of the avian fauna.

Afterwards, you'll head off to visit the temples of Amada, El Derr and the tomb of Penout. The temple of Amada is remarkably well preserved and is one of the most interesting sites in Nubia. Its foundations date back to the times of Thutmosis III and Amenophis II. What makes this temple even more impressive is that it was moved from a single block over a distance of two and a half kilometers, a technical feat achieved by building a triple railroad track especially for this transfer. The work was carried out by French companies, demonstrating their expertise in this field.

Back on board, you'll enjoy a tasty lunch before a pleasant sail to Kasr Ibrim. On arrival at Kasr Ibrim, you'll have the opportunity to discover this emblematic site.

In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner on board, followed by a peaceful night in this magnificent region.

After a delicious breakfast on board, you'll set sail for the Wadi El Seboua site. Once there, you'll have the chance to walk through the Nubian desert and discover its wonders. You'll be able to admire the different groups of birds that populate the region's small lagoons, offering an enchanting natural spectacle.

The Wadi El Seboua, Dakka and Meharraqa temples on this site were relocated thanks to the collaboration of UNESCO and several international organizations. These temples are remarkable for their unique carvings and colors, testifying to their beauty and artistic finesse.

After this enriching visit, you'll return on board for lunch. Sailing continues for around an hour and a half, with a stop near the fine sand dunes of Wadi Al Arab. You'll have the opportunity to walk and relax in these peaceful surroundings. You'll then continue your journey towards Amada.

Before sunset, you'll make one last stop to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Afterwards, you'll enjoy a delicious dinner on board and a restful night's sleep.

We have breakfast. We begin our day with a visit to Kalabsha and Beit el Wali. Kalabsha was once a village where this temple, known as Mandoulis, dates back to Roman times. As for Beit El Wali, which means "the house of the Holy One", it was carved out of the mountain in the time of Ramses II and comprises two chambers: the sanctuary and its vestibule.

After this fascinating visit, we return on board for lunch. We'll then head south, offering a cruise off the beaten track, where you can enjoy moments of rest, calm and serenity. We pass the original site of the Kalabsha temple, which still bears the name of the Nubian village it was home to before the waters rose. We'll then head for Khour El Ghazal, where we'll spend the night in the Khour El Ghazal cove.

Dinner will be served at this stop, allowing you to enjoy the unique atmosphere.

You will leave the boat for a final departure.