Abu Simbel Tours

About Abu Simbel

Abu Simbel stands on the shore of Lake Nasser in the far south of Egypt, close to the Sudanese border. Ramses II built two temples here: the Great Temple, with its four seated colossi of the king, and the Small Temple dedicated to Queen Nefertari and the goddess Hathor.

In the 1960s both temples were cut into blocks and rebuilt on higher ground to save them from the rising waters of the lake, in an international campaign led by UNESCO.

By road or by flight

• By road from Aswan: the drive is about 280 km each way, roughly three and a half hours, so tours leave Aswan very early in the morning and return in the early afternoon.
• By flight from Aswan: a short flight each way leaves more energy for the temples and suits travellers who prefer not to spend the day on the road.
• From Cairo: our two-day tour flies to Aswan and combines Abu Simbel with the sights of Aswan.
• By cruise: Lake Nasser cruises between Aswan and Abu Simbel visit the temples as part of the voyage.

The Sun Festival

Twice a year, around 22 February and 22 October, the rising sun reaches the inner sanctuary of the Great Temple and lights the statues of the gods seated there. These days are very busy, so plan well ahead if you want to be there.

Practical tips

• Bring a hat, sun protection and water; the site is open to the sun and hot for much of the year.
• Allow time for both temples; the Small Temple of Nefertari is often quieter.

Tours on this page

• Private Abu Simbel Tour from Aswan by Car
• Private Abu Simbel Tour from Aswan by Flight
• 2-Day Aswan & Abu Simbel Tour from Cairo by Flight

Plan your visit

• Abu Simbel guide: visiting Ramses II's masterpiece
• Aswan to Abu Simbel: road time and departure planning
• Aswan travel guide
• Lake Nasser cruises to Abu Simbel