Abu Simbel Temples
Monumental 13th-century BC rock-cut temples dedicated to Ramesses II and Queen Nefertari, famously relocated to save them from flooding.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoids morning crowds
Abu Simbel Temples
Best Time
Avoids morning crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Monumental 13th-century BC rock-cut temples dedicated to Ramesses II and Queen Nefertari, famously relocated to save them from flooding.
"Abu Simbel is absolutely inspiring; one of the true highlights of Egypt!"
🎯 Afternoon Visit for Peace
Visit after 1 PM to avoid peak crowds and enjoy a more tranquil experience.
✈️ Consider Flying to Abu Simbel
Flights from Aswan save time on the long journey, making your visit more efficient.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Great Temple of Ramesses II
Main Temple
Four colossal statues of Ramesses II guard this magnificent rock-cut temple, a testament to his power and divinity.
Temple of Nefertari
Smaller Temple
Dedicated to Queen Nefertari, this temple features striking statues of her and Ramses II, showcasing their devotion.
Intricate Wall Carvings
Temple Interiors
Explore detailed reliefs depicting Ramesses II's military victories, particularly the Battle of Kadesh, and religious scenes.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Afternoon is Key
Journey from Aswan: Plan Accordingly
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Afternoon Visit for Peace
Visit after 1 PM to avoid peak crowds and enjoy a more tranquil experience. +1
✈️ Consider Flying to Abu Simbel
Flights from Aswan save time on the long journey, making your visit more efficient.
🚶♂️ Walk or Golf Cart
A short walk from the ticket office, or opt for an extra fee golf cart transfer.
💧 Stay Hydrated Inside
Interiors can be hot and crowded; bring water and a fan.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Afternoon Visit for Peace
Visit after 1 PM to avoid peak crowds and enjoy a more tranquil experience. +1
✈️ Consider Flying to Abu Simbel
Flights from Aswan save time on the long journey, making your visit more efficient.
🚶♂️ Walk or Golf Cart
A short walk from the ticket office, or opt for an extra fee golf cart transfer.
💧 Stay Hydrated Inside
Interiors can be hot and crowded; bring water and a fan.
🛍️ Souvenir Market
A market is available post-visit, but prices can be higher.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Abu Simbel as an awe-inspiring highlight of any Egypt trip, marveling at the scale and detail of the rock-cut temples. The afternoon is recommended to avoid crowds and heat, though the journey from Aswan is long. Some find the interior hot and crowded, and hassle from vendors can be a drawback for some.
"Abu Simbel is absolutely inspirin; one of the true highlights of Egypt! The scale and detail of the temples are breathtaking, and seeing them up close is an unforgettable experience.
We visited in the afternoon, around 2:30–4:00 PM, which was the perfect time. Most of the large tour groups coming from Aswan had already left, so the site was pleasantly quiet and easy to explore at our own pace till 5pm when the temples close.
There’s an optional golf cart transfer from the ticket office area, but it costs extra. The walk however, only takes about 7 minutes and is manageable.
After the visit, there’s a small market area with plenty of stalls selling souvenirs, drinks, ice cream and snacks; even some food options. Prices are on the higher side, but it’s convenient if you need something before heading back."
Marilena K.
"It's a long old journey from Aswan and the insides of the rooms are so hot and crowded. Bring a fan with you. So much hassle from the sellers of trinkets, I would have loved to have bought something but couldn't be doing with the hassle. It's undeniably amazing to see these relics but for me - not worth the journey. Our guide was pretty rubbish and we only got 40 minutes to look around."
sonya
"Abu Simbel is one of Egypt’s most remarkable historic sites, consisting of two massive rock-cut temples located in the village of Abu Simbel in Upper Egypt, near the Sudanese border. The temples stand on the western bank of Lake Nasser, about 230 km south of Aswan, and can be reached most conveniently by a short 45-minute flight from the city. Carved directly into the mountainside during the 13th century BC, under the reign of Pharaoh Ramesses II of the 19th Dynasty, the temples stand side by side in striking grandeur. The Great Temple is dominated by colossal statues of Ramesses II, whose sheer scale and artistry have made them an enduring symbol of ancient Egypt. Inside, wall carvings and sculptures commemorate the pharaoh’s leadership, most notably his victory at the Battle of Kadesh.
Next to it stands the smaller temple, dedicated to Queen Nefertari, Ramesses II’s beloved wife, and to Hathor, the goddess of motherhood, love, fertility, and music. Together, these temples reflect both the pharaoh’s devotion to his queen and his piety toward the gods. A visit to Abu Simbel is unforgettable not only for its ancient splendor but also for its modern history. Between 1960 and 1964, the entire complex was carefully relocated to higher ground in a remarkable UNESCO-led engineering project, saving it from submersion caused by the creation of the Aswan High Dam and the resulting Lake Nasser. A visit to the Abu Simbel temple is definitely a must while visiting Egypt."
Philippe Jacques Kradolfer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way is by road, which takes over 3 hours each way. Many visitors opt for organized tours from Aswan, which often include transportation. Alternatively, you can take a short flight from Aswan to Abu Simbel, which is much quicker but more expensive. +1
While possible, it can be challenging to arrange transport and tickets independently. Many travelers find organized tours more convenient, though they can sometimes be pricey.
For efficiency, flying is recommended. For a more budget-friendly option, consider an organized bus tour.
The road journey from Aswan to Abu Simbel typically takes around 3 to 4 hours one way. Flights are much faster, around 45 minutes.
Yes, numerous tours are available from Aswan, ranging from group excursions to private tours. Booking in advance is often recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for Abu Simbel is approximately 12 Euros. Prices can vary, so it's always good to check current rates.
The temples are generally open from early morning until around 5 PM. It's advisable to check the exact closing time closer to your visit.
While not always strictly necessary, booking tickets in advance, especially if you're part of a tour, can save time and ensure entry.
Typically, there is a general entrance ticket. Some tours might include specific access or guided experiences.
Yes, the golf cart transfer from the ticket office to the temples is an optional service that incurs an additional fee.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find stunning wall carvings depicting historical events like the Battle of Kadesh, as well as religious imagery. The sheer scale of the statues and the intricate details are remarkable.
Most visitors spend around 1 to 2 hours exploring the temples. However, if you're on a tight tour schedule, you might only have about an hour.
The temples can get very crowded, especially in the morning. Visiting in the afternoon, after 1 PM, significantly reduces the crowds. +1
Comfortable walking shoes are essential. Given the desert climate, light, breathable clothing is recommended. Modest attire is appreciated out of respect for the cultural site. +1
Restrooms are available, and there's a market area with vendors selling drinks and snacks. It's still advisable to carry your own water, especially during warmer months.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed in the outdoor areas and the main courtyards. However, photography inside the inner chambers of the temples may be restricted. Always check for signage.
The front facade with the colossal statues of Ramesses II offers iconic photo opportunities. The smaller temple dedicated to Nefertari also provides beautiful shots.
Absolutely! The sheer scale and ancient grandeur of Abu Simbel make it a photographer's dream, capturing the essence of ancient Egyptian architecture.
The soft light of the late afternoon can be ideal for photography, offering beautiful shadows and a less harsh glare. The morning light can also be good, but crowds may be an issue. +1
While general photography is permitted, be mindful of any specific 'no photo' signs inside certain areas. Drones are typically not allowed.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Aim for late afternoon for softer light and fewer people, which can enhance your shots. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Remarkable Relocation of Abu Simbel
+1In a monumental feat of engineering and international cooperation led by UNESCO between 1960 and 1964, the entire temple complex was meticulously dismantled, moved to higher ground, and reassembled. This incredible project saved Abu Simbel from being lost forever, showcasing humanity's dedication to preserving its heritage.
+1This relocation is a story in itself, highlighting the ingenuity required to protect such massive structures. It adds another layer of awe to the already breathtaking experience of visiting these ancient temples.
Understanding the Two Temples of Abu Simbel
The smaller temple, located just north of the Great Temple, is dedicated to Queen Nefertari, Ramesses II's beloved wife, and the goddess Hathor. This temple is notable for its equally impressive, though slightly smaller, statues of Nefertari and Ramesses II, reflecting the pharaoh's deep affection for his queen and his piety.
Together, these temples offer a profound insight into the religious beliefs, political power, and personal relationships of the New Kingdom era, particularly during the reign of Ramesses the Great.
+1Navigating the Journey to Abu Simbel
The road journey typically involves organized bus tours, which can take over three hours each way. While this allows for a more budget-friendly experience and the chance to see the landscape, it also means a significant time commitment. Some visitors find the journey arduous, especially if they have limited time.
For those prioritizing time, a short flight from Aswan to Abu Simbel is available. This option is significantly faster, reducing travel time to about 45 minutes, but comes at a higher cost. The choice often depends on your budget, available time, and travel style.
+1
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