Abu Simbel Temples Tours, Tickets & Visitor Guide
Marvel at the monumental rock-cut temples of Ramesses II and Queen Nefertari on the shores of Lake Nasser, rescued from the waters of the Nile in a triumph of modern engineering.
What to See at Abu Simbel
Great Temple of Ramesses II
Four 20-metre seated colossi of Ramesses II carved into the cliff face, welcoming travelers to the ancient Nubian border.
Small Temple of Queen Nefertari
Dedicated to Hathor and Nefertari, featuring six standing statues where the queen is carved equal in height to the pharaoh.
The Solar Alignment
Twice a year (Feb 22 & Oct 22), the rising sun shines directly through the temple to illuminate the inner sanctuary statues.
Plan Your Visit
Getting There from Aswan
Abu Simbel sits 280km south of Aswan. Private air-conditioned transfers take about 3 hours each way, or take a short 45-minute domestic flight.
Best Time to Visit
Early morning departures (around 4:00am) arrive before midday heat and allow returning to Aswan by lunchtime.
Private Abu Simbel Tours from Aswan
Hand-picked private experiences with licensed Egyptologist guides, tickets handled, and private transfers.
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Abu Simbel FAQ
How far is Abu Simbel from Aswan?+
Abu Simbel is approximately 280 km south of Aswan near the Sudan border. Driving takes about 3 hours each way.
Can I fly to Abu Simbel instead of driving from Aswan?+
Yes. As well as a private air-conditioned road transfer of about three hours each way, there is a short domestic flight of roughly 45 minutes from Aswan. Flying suits travellers on a tight schedule, or anyone who would rather not spend around six hours on the desert road in a single day.
What time do Abu Simbel day trips leave Aswan?+
Road trips normally leave Aswan very early, at around 4:00am. The early departure gets you to the temples before the midday heat, and has you back in Aswan by about lunchtime, which leaves the rest of the day free for Aswan itself.
What are the two temples at Abu Simbel?+
The Great Temple of Ramesses II is fronted by four seated colossi of the pharaoh, each around 20 metres tall, carved straight into the cliff face at Egypt's ancient Nubian border. Beside it stands the Small Temple, dedicated to Hathor and Queen Nefertari, whose six standing statues show the queen carved equal in height to the pharaoh.
When does the sun align with the inner sanctuary at Abu Simbel?+
Twice a year, on 22 February and 22 October, the rising sun shines directly through the Great Temple and illuminates the statues in its inner sanctuary. If you want to witness the alignment, plan your road transfer or flight from Aswan for one of those two dates.
Why were the Abu Simbel temples moved?+
The temples of Ramesses II and Queen Nefertari stand on the shore of Lake Nasser and were rescued from the waters of the Nile in a triumph of modern engineering. That rescue, and the Nubian frontier setting it preserved, is one of the stories a licensed Egyptologist brings to life on site.
Want the full history and background? Read our in-depth guide.