Did you know that the entire Abu Simbel temple complex was completely dismantled and relocated to higher ground in the 1960s? This monumental engineering feat saved these 3,000-year-old temples from being submerged under Lake Nasser after the construction of the Aswan High Dam. Over 50 countries collaborated for 5 years to move these massive structures 65 meters (213 feet) higher and 200 meters (656 feet) back from their original location—with such precision that twice a year, the sun still illuminates the inner sanctuary exactly as it did thousands of years ago.
Getting There & Planning Your Journey
Located 280 kilometers (174 miles) south of Aswan near the Sudanese border, Abu Simbel sits on the western bank of Lake Nasser in the Nubia region. Despite its remote location, several transportation options make this UNESCO World Heritage Site accessible to visitors.
Transportation Options
- By Air: The fastest option is flying from Aswan to Abu Simbel. EgyptAir operates daily 45-minute flights, typically departing early morning. Round-trip flights cost approximately $150-250 per person, depending on the season.
- By Road: A popular and more affordable option is traveling by road from Aswan. The journey takes 3-4 hours each way through the desert. Most visitors join an organized tour that departs very early (around 4:00-5:00 am) to arrive at Abu Simbel before the midday heat.
- By Lake Nasser Cruise: For a unique experience, some travelers opt for a cruise on Lake Nasser that includes a stop at Abu Simbel. These cruises typically last 3-4 nights and offer a more leisurely approach to visiting the temples.
Closest Airports
The two closest airports to Abu Simbel are:
- Abu Simbel Airport (ABS): A small regional airport just 5 minutes from the temple complex.
- Aswan International Airport (ASW): The main gateway for most visitors, located about 280 kilometers (174 miles) north of Abu Simbel.
Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips
Abu Simbel experiences a desert climate with extreme temperature variations throughout the year. Planning your visit during the right season can make a significant difference in your experience.
Recommended Months
- October to April: The ideal time to visit Abu Simbel. Daytime temperatures range from 23°C to 30°C (73°F to 86°F), making exploration comfortable.
- February 22 and October 22: Special dates when the sun aligns perfectly to illuminate the inner sanctuary of the Great Temple. The phenomenon occurs around 6:00 am, and tickets are more expensive on these dates due to high demand.
Months to Avoid
- May to September: Summer months bring extreme heat with temperatures regularly exceeding 40°C (104°F). If you must visit during this period, plan to arrive very early in the morning.
Weather Preparation Tips
- Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated in the desert climate
- Wear lightweight, breathable clothing that covers your shoulders and knees
- Apply high-factor sunscreen, wear a hat, and bring sunglasses
- Consider bringing a light jacket if visiting in winter months, as early mornings can be cool
Getting Around Locally
Once you arrive at Abu Simbel, getting around is relatively straightforward. The temple complex is compact and easily explored on foot.
From Abu Simbel Airport
If you arrive by air, a free shuttle bus (labeled “Happy Year Transport”) takes visitors from the airport to the temple complex. The journey takes about 5 minutes. Alternatively, taxis are available, though the shuttle is included in your airfare.
At the Temple Complex
The entire Abu Simbel archaeological site can be explored in 2-4 hours. A paved path connects the visitor center to the temples, and another path leads you back to the exit through a series of souvenir shops. The walking is easy, though the desert heat can make it feel more strenuous.
Where to Stay
Most visitors experience Abu Simbel as a day trip from Aswan, but staying overnight allows you to experience the temples at sunrise or during the evening sound and light show. The small village of Abu Simbel offers a few accommodation options:
Lodging Options
- Nubian-Style Guesthouses: Several family-run guesthouses offer authentic Nubian hospitality with simple but comfortable rooms. These often feature traditional architecture and decor.
- Mid-Range Hotels: A handful of hotels cater to tourists with standard amenities including air conditioning, restaurants, and sometimes swimming pools.
- Lake Nasser Cruises: Some cruises dock overnight at Abu Simbel, allowing passengers to stay on board while visiting the temples.
If you’re planning to stay overnight, booking in advance is essential as accommodation options are limited and can fill up quickly during peak season.
Dining & Local Cuisine
Dining options in Abu Simbel village are limited but offer a taste of authentic Nubian cuisine. Most restaurants cater to tourists and serve a mix of Egyptian, Nubian, and international dishes.
Where to Eat
- Hotel Restaurants: Most hotels in Abu Simbel have on-site restaurants serving buffet-style meals that cater to international tastes.
- Local Cafes: A few small cafes near the temple complex offer simple Egyptian meals, sandwiches, and refreshments.
- Temple Complex Food Stand: There’s a small food stand near the entrance to the temple complex where you can purchase snacks and drinks.
Local Specialties to Try
- Freshwater Fish: Lake Nasser is known for its tilapia and Nile perch, often grilled with Nubian spices.
- Koshari: Egypt’s national dish consisting of rice, lentils, pasta, and tomato sauce topped with fried onions.
- Nubian Bread: Flatbread often served with dips like hummus or baba ganoush.
- Hibiscus Tea (Karkade): A refreshing cold drink made from hibiscus flowers, popular throughout Egypt.
If you’re visiting Abu Simbel as a day trip, consider bringing some snacks and water, especially if you’re traveling during the hotter months.
Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities
The Great Temple of Ramesses II
The main attraction at Abu Simbel is the Great Temple dedicated to Ramesses II. The temple’s facade features four colossal 20-meter (65-foot) statues of the pharaoh seated on a throne. Between and beside his legs are smaller statues of his favorite wife Nefertari, his mother, and some of his children.
Inside the temple, you’ll find a series of halls decorated with intricate reliefs depicting Ramesses II’s military victories, particularly the Battle of Kadesh. The innermost sanctuary contains four seated statues: Ramesses II (deified), Amun-Ra, Ra-Horakhti, and Ptah. Twice a year, on February 22 and October 22, the sun’s rays penetrate the entire temple to illuminate three of these statues (Ptah, associated with the underworld, remains in darkness).
The Temple of Hathor and Nefertari
The smaller temple, dedicated to the goddess Hathor and Queen Nefertari, stands just north of the Great Temple. Its facade features six 10-meter (33-foot) statues: four of Ramesses II and two of Nefertari. This is significant as it’s one of the few instances in ancient Egyptian art where a queen is depicted at the same size as a pharaoh, demonstrating Nefertari’s importance to Ramesses II.
Inside, the hypostyle hall contains pillars adorned with the head of Hathor, the goddess of love, beauty, and motherhood. The walls are decorated with scenes showing Ramesses II and Nefertari making offerings to various deities.
Sound and Light Show
If you stay overnight in Abu Simbel, don’t miss the evening Sound and Light Show. The temples are dramatically illuminated while narration tells the story of Ramesses II and the temples’ construction, as well as their remarkable rescue from the rising waters of Lake Nasser in the 1960s.
Lake Nasser
The vast man-made lake created by the Aswan High Dam offers beautiful views, especially at sunset. Some visitors enjoy a short boat ride on the lake to view the temples from a different perspective.
Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals
Abu Simbel Visitor Center
Before exploring the temples, stop by the Visitor Center to watch a short documentary film explaining the remarkable UNESCO-led project to relocate the temples in the 1960s. The center features photographs, models, and information panels detailing this extraordinary engineering achievement.
Abu Simbel Sun Festival
Twice a year, on February 22 and October 22, hundreds of visitors gather to witness the sun alignment phenomenon inside the Great Temple. These dates have become festivals, with local Nubian music, dance performances, and markets set up near the temple complex. If you can time your visit to coincide with one of these festivals, you’ll experience both an astronomical marvel and cultural celebration.
Nubian Culture
The area around Abu Simbel is part of ancient Nubia, a region with its own distinct culture. Some local Nubian families open their homes to visitors, offering traditional meals and demonstrating crafts like basket weaving and beadwork. This provides insight into the living culture of the region beyond its ancient monuments.
Sports, Nature & Outdoor Experiences
Lake Nasser Activities
Lake Nasser, one of the world’s largest man-made lakes at 5,250 square kilometers (2,030 square miles), offers several outdoor activities:
- Fishing: The lake is famous for its Nile perch, which can grow to enormous sizes. Fishing excursions can be arranged through local hotels.
- Birdwatching: The lake shores attract numerous bird species, making it an excellent spot for birdwatchers, especially during migration seasons.
- Boat Tours: Short boat rides offer unique views of the temples from the water and the chance to see desert meeting lake in a striking landscape.
- Desert Walks: Guided walks in the surrounding desert landscape provide opportunities to experience the stark beauty of the Nubian desert.
When participating in water activities, remember that Lake Nasser can experience sudden winds, so always follow safety guidelines and use life jackets when on boats.
Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs
Safety Considerations
- Heat Protection: The desert climate can be extremely hot, especially between May and September. Always carry water, wear a hat, use sunscreen, and seek shade when possible.
- Health Preparations: There are limited medical facilities in Abu Simbel. Bring any necessary medications and a basic first aid kit.
- Security: The Abu Simbel area is generally safe for tourists. Security checkpoints are common on roads leading to the site.
Cultural Etiquette
- Dress Code: Egypt is a conservative country. While tourist areas are more relaxed, it’s respectful to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees.
- Photography: Standard photography with cell phones is allowed inside the temples. For cameras other than phones or for video recording, you’ll need to purchase a camera ticket.
- Temple Respect: Avoid touching carvings or leaning on walls inside the temples. The oils from human hands can damage ancient artwork.
Local Customs
The Nubian people have their own distinct culture and traditions. If interacting with local Nubians, keep these customs in mind:
- Greetings are important. A simple “As-salamu alaykum” (peace be upon you) is appreciated.
- If invited into a Nubian home, remove your shoes before entering.
- Accept offered tea or coffee as a gesture of hospitality.
- Ask permission before photographing local people.
Visitor Comments About Abu Simbel
“The early morning wake-up was absolutely worth it! Seeing the first rays of sunlight hit those massive statues of Ramesses II is something I’ll never forget. The scale of Abu Simbel is impossible to grasp from photos—you truly have to stand there yourself to appreciate it. Don’t miss the smaller temple dedicated to Nefertari; the equality shown to the queen is remarkable for ancient Egypt.”
“We decided to stay overnight in Abu Simbel rather than rushing back to Aswan, and it was the best decision of our Egypt trip. The evening sound and light show was magical, and we had the temples almost to ourselves early the next morning. The Nubian guesthouse where we stayed offered incredible hospitality and delicious home-cooked meals. If you have the time, I highly recommend the overnight option.”
“Learning about how these massive temples were completely dismantled and rebuilt 65 meters higher to save them from Lake Nasser’s waters made the visit even more impressive. Our guide explained that they cut the temples into blocks weighing up to 30 tons each and precisely reassembled them under the artificial domes. The precision is so exact that the sun still illuminates the inner sanctuary on the same days it did 3,000 years ago. Simply mind-blowing engineering!”
Practical Travel Tips
Essential Items to Bring
- Water: Bring more than you think you’ll need, especially in summer months.
- Sun Protection: Hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen are must-haves.
- Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be walking on uneven surfaces and standing for extended periods.
- Cash: While the ticket office accepts credit cards, small vendors and cafes may only accept Egyptian pounds.
- Camera: Remember that a special photography ticket is required for cameras other than cell phones.
Entrance Information
- Opening Hours: The temple complex is typically open from 6:00 am to 5:00 pm daily.
- Entrance Fee: 750 EGP per person (approximately $15 USD); 375 EGP for students with valid ID. During the sun alignment festivals (February 22 and October 22), prices increase to 1200 EGP.
- Photography: Cell phone photography is included in the entrance fee. For other cameras or video recording, an additional camera ticket is required.
Time Management
Most visitors spend 2-4 hours exploring the Abu Simbel temples. If you’re on a day trip from Aswan, your time at the site will be limited by your transportation schedule. Those staying overnight have the luxury of visiting during the less crowded early morning or late afternoon hours.
Guides
While it’s possible to explore Abu Simbel independently, a knowledgeable guide can significantly enhance your understanding of the temples’ history, symbolism, and the engineering feat of their relocation. Guides are available at the site, or you can book a guided tour in advance that includes transportation from Aswan.
A Monument to Human Ingenuity, Ancient and Modern
Abu Simbel stands as a testament to human achievement across millennia. From Ramesses II’s ambitious vision 3,000 years ago to the international cooperation that saved the temples in the 1960s, these monuments represent the heights of human creativity, engineering, and determination. Despite the challenges of reaching this remote location, the journey to Abu Simbel rewards visitors with an experience that transcends time—a direct connection to ancient Egypt’s grandeur and a reminder of what we can accomplish when preservation of our shared heritage becomes a global priority. Whether you’re marveling at the colossal statues, deciphering ancient hieroglyphics, or simply contemplating the desert meeting Lake Nasser, Abu Simbel offers a profound and unforgettable experience that justifies every effort to reach it.
The above is subject to change.
Check back often to TRAVEL.COM for the latest travel tips and deals.
0 Comments