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How to Visit Abu Simbel from Aswan in Egypt

How to Visit Abu Simbel from Aswan in Egypt

Olly Gaspar

By Olly Gaspar, full-time traveler for 6 years. I visit every place I write about & share real tips, photos, & advice from my trips.

Visiting Abu Simbel, one of Egypt’s most iconic ancient sites, is an absolute must for history lovers, and a key part of my recommended Egypt travel itinerary. Located 280 kilometers (174 miles) south of Aswan near the Sudanese border, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to the massive rock temples of Ramses II, intricately carved into a sandstone cliff over 3,000 years ago.

In my opinion, the best way to get to Abu Simbel is from Aswan by taking one of the several transport options ranging from scenic road trips through the desert, tours, Nile River cruises, and even short-haul flights.

Before visiting Abu Simbel from Aswan, I researched all the main routes, and below is a culmination of my findings as of this year to help you plan your trip to Abu Simbel from Aswan with ease.

Overview: Getting to Abu Simbel From Aswan

One of the most fascinating landmarks in Egypt, Abu Simbel is located 3-4 hours by road from Aswan, near the Sudanese border. The two locations are connected by well-maintained desert roads and a domestic flight route, making it possible to visit Abu Simbel on a day trip, to and from your accommodation in Aswan.

  • Distance: 280 km (174 miles) from Aswan; travel time ranges from 3-4 hours by road or 45 minutes by flight.
  • Transportation Options:
    • By Road: Join one of my recommended group tours, hire a private driver, or take a public bus.
    • By Air: Fly from Aswan to Abu Simbel via EgyptAir; flights are short but limited, so book early.
    • By Nile Cruise: Some cruises include Abu Simbel as part of their itinerary, offering a unique experience but requiring advance planning.
  • Best Time to Visit: Early morning is ideal to avoid the midday heat and enjoy the sunrise lighting on the temples.
  • Guides: Local guides are available at Abu Simbel, or as I recommend, you can book a tour that includes a guide for a more seamless experience.
  • Entrance Fee: EGP 750 (approx USD $14.5) for adults.
  • Tour Duration: Most tours from Aswan last between 8-10 hours, including travel time so expect around 3-4 hours max at the site.
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Easiest Option: Book a Day Tour to Abu Simbel from Aswan

In my opinion, the easiest and most hassle-free way to visit Abu Simbel from Aswan is by booking a guided day tour.

This is the option I chose, and I’d highly recommend it for first-time visitors. Not only does it simplify logistics like transportation and tickets, but having an Egyptologist guide also makes the experience more educational. Given the long 3-4 hour drive each way, it’s great to have someone knowledgeable to answer questions and share fascinating insights about Egypt’s history during the journey.

Here’s what to look for when choosing a day tour:

  • Includes an Egyptologist Guide: Ensure the tour includes a certified guide, as their explanations about the temples’ history, symbolism, and relocation after the Aswan High Dam project are really interesting.
  • Comfortable Transport: Look for air-conditioned vehicles with spacious seating, as the drive through the desert can get hot and very, very long.
  • Group Size: Smaller group tours are great but there are also some private tours available as well.
  • Early Departure: Abu Simbel can get busy so pick a tour that depart between 4:00-5:00 am to reach Abu Simbel in time for opening.
  • Fees: Check if the entrance fees are included in the package.

When booking, I recommend arranging your tour in advance either through your hotel in Aswan or a reputable travel agency. If you’re looking for convenience, I highly recommend this small group tour with an Egyptologist guide for around $50 per person.

However, if you want a private tour, check out this tour for around $90 per person including fees.

Aswan to Abu Simbel Cruise

If you’re dreaming of a slow, scenic journey with a touch of old-world charm, a Nile cruise from Aswan to Abu Simbel might be your perfect choice. Think luxurious decks, serene waters, and an adventure straight out of Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Nile— hopefully minus the drama!

While most Nile cruises stick to the Aswan-Luxor route, a handful sail south on Lake Nasser, stopping at Abu Simbel and other hidden gems. I’ve not done this cruise myself, but it seems like an unforgettable way to explore Egypt's ancient history while escaping the hectic pace of day tours.

Why I'd Consider It

  • More relaxed: Instead of a rushed day trip, you’ll have time to savor the journey, waking up to desert sunrises and visiting sites like Amada Temple and Wadi El Seboua, which most tourists never see.
  • Comfort and Convenience: Cruises like the MS Nubian Sea or Prince Abbas offer cozy cabins, great food, and plenty of time to enjoy the stunning views from the deck.
  • Expert Insight: Onboard Egyptologists give fascinating talks about the temples and monuments you’ll visit, making it feel like you’re traveling with a personal historian.

Things to Know:

  • Time Investment: Cruises typically last 3-4 nights, so you’ll need to allocate extra time in your itinerary.
  • Cost: They’re pricier than a day trip, but include meals, accommodation, and guided tours. In my opinion, it’s worth the splurge for the unique experience.
  • Limited Availability: Lake Nasser cruises aren’t as frequent as the Luxor-Aswan ones. Book early to avoid disappointment.
Typical nile river cruise boat

Is There a Nile Cruise From Aswan to Luxor Including Abu Simbel?

Yes, there is! While this route isn’t the most common, it’s an incredibly convenient way to see Egypt’s top highlights in just four days. You can book a 4-day Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan, including Abu Simbel through platforms like GetYourGuide, and it’s got some great reviews.

Why This would be a good option:

  • Comprehensive Itinerary: You’ll visit iconic sites such as the Valley of the Kings (and explore the best tombs), Hatshepsut Temple, Edfu Temple, Kom Ombo, and Philae Temple, as well as take an early-morning trip to Abu Simbel from Aswan.
  • Time Efficiency: This cruise combines all major highlights into one seamless journey, saving you the hassle of separate arrangements.
  • Comfort and Luxury: The cruise includes a 5-star boat with air-conditioned cabins, delicious meals, and guided tours led by Egyptologists.

I considered this for my trip but didn't have enough time on my route. Here's their advertised itinerary:

  • Day 1: Luxor
    Begin in Luxor with guided tours of the West Bank, including the Valley of the Kings and Hatshepsut Temple. In the afternoon, you’ll check in to the cruise and start sailing toward Edfu.
  • Day 2: Edfu & Kom Ombo
    Take a horse-drawn carriage ride to the stunning Edfu Temple in the morning. In the evening, visit Kom Ombo Temple, dedicated to Sobek, the crocodile god, as you continue sailing toward Aswan.
  • Day 3: Abu Simbel
    Depart early in the morning for a guided tour of Abu Simbel, a 3-hour drive from Aswan. After returning to the cruise, relax onboard as you sail back to Aswan.
  • Day 4: Aswan
    End your journey with visits to the Aswan High Dam and the magical Philae Temple before disembarking around midday.
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Driving to Abu Simbel from Aswan

Driving from Aswan to Abu Simbel is possible and can be an adventurous option if you’re confident behind the wheel. The route follows the Aswan-Abu Simbel Desert Road (Highway 75), a remote and straight road cutting through the barren desert landscape. This 280-kilometer (174-mile) drive typically takes around 3-4 hours one way.

However, it’s worth noting that driving conditions here are anything but ordinary and even after driving on some of the world's most dangerous roads including the Karakoram Highway in Pakistan, I'd avoid it.

  • No Speed Limits: While there are technically limits, they’re not enforced. It’s common to see old beat up cars from the 90s racing past at over 150 km/h, sometimes in the middle of a sandstorm. Be prepared for fast and unpredictable traffic.
  • Remote and Wild: The road is extremely remote, with long stretches where you won’t see another vehicle or services. Breaking down could leave you stranded for hours.
  • Desert Hazards: Blowing sand, limited visibility, and uneven road conditions can make the drive challenging, especially if you’re unfamiliar with desert driving.
Fog at the nasser dam near abu simbel
Conditions near Abu Simbel can often be very foggy due to constant sand storms

If you’re still up for the adventure, here’s what you need to know:

  • Renting a Car: You can rent a car in Aswan, though options are limited. I recommend comparing prices and reviews on platforms like DiscoverCars for the best deals. Be aware that your hotel or car rental agency may try to discourage you, as this route is not commonly driven by tourists.
  • Road Access: Start on Highway 75 heading south from Aswan. Follow signs to Abu Simbel—there are very few turns, so navigation is straightforward.
  • Checkpoints: You’ll encounter multiple military checkpoints along the route. Always have your passport and any necessary permits ready to show.
  • Fuel and Supplies: Fill up your tank in Aswan as there are no reliable gas stations along the way. Bring plenty of water, snacks, and a fully charged phone or GPS device.
  • Timing: Start early to avoid driving in the dark, as there are no streetlights, and visibility can drop quickly with desert winds.

While driving to Abu Simbel can be a unique experience, I wouldn’t recommend it unless you’re very confident in your abilities and prepared for the challenges. For most travelers, a guided tour or hiring a private driver offers a much safer and more convenient way to visit.

Tourists at abu simbel
Arriving with hundreds of other tourists at Abu Simbel
Two traveler friends at abu simbel, aswan

Flying from Aswan Airport to Abu Simbel

If you're short on time then flying to Abu Simbel from Aswan is the quickest way to reach the site and it’s actually quite straightforward. Aswan Airport (ASW) is located just 20 minutes by taxi from the city center, and Abu Simbel Airport (ABS) is a 5-minute taxi ride or a 15-minute walk from the temples.

EgyptAir operates daily flights, typically using small propeller planes like the ATR 72-600, which seat around 70 passengers.

The flight itself takes just 45 minutes, but when you factor in check-in, security, and transfers, the entire journey from your hotel in Aswan to the temple gates will take around 2.5-3 hours, whcih is similar to driving anyway. But, in my experience, this is still faster and more comfortable than the 3-4 hour desert drive.

Cost and Booking Tips

Check flight schedules carefully—most flights are early morning, leaving around 6:00-7:00 am, with returns by late morning or early afternoon. I highly recommend booking one of the very early flights, and if you are flying straight back to Aswan, give yourself enough time (4-6 hours at least) to explore the site and clear security).

A round-trip flight typically costs $150-$250 USD, depending on how far in advance you book.

Book directly on the EgyptAir website or through a trusted travel agent in Aswan to secure your spot, as seats can sell out, especially during peak season. You can also compare prices on SkyScanner.

Olly gaspar exploring abu simbel in a sandstorm

My Experience Visiting Abu Simbel from Aswan

Visiting Abu Simbel was one of the highlights of my trip to Egypt, and the experience started long before I reached the temples.

I opted for an early morning guided tour, departing Aswan at 4:30 am. The dark streets of the city were quiet as our small group loaded into a van, and within minutes, we were cruising through the vast, barren desert. The journey was very long—endless stretches of sand interrupted only by the occasional checkpoint or a glimpse of Lake Nasser in the distance. I took the time to catch up on some much needed sleep between gazing out the window.

Aswan at night
Leaving Aswan at night

Arriving at Abu Simbel just after sunrise, the first thing I noticed was how huge the site is.

Arriving at abu simbel temple site near aswan

The colossal statues of Ramses II at his different stages of life carved directly into the sandstone cliff, seemed to glow in the soft morning light. I had seen so many photos of the temples before, but nothing prepared me for their sheer size and the immaculate carving detail.

Each statue towers over 20 meters (65 feet) high!

What blew me away the most was when our guide Mustafa explained how the entire site was relocated in the 1960s during the construction of the Aswan High Dam. It was fascinating to learn how UNESCO moved the temples block by block to save them from submersion under Lake Nasser. While I wish that we could have seen it in its original position (now under water), it was pretty remarkable that they were able to rebuild it.

Original photograph of abu simbel
Photograph of the original location of abu simbel

Inside the temple, the walls are covered with hieroglyphs and intricate reliefs depicting Ramses II’s military victories, including the Battle of Kadesh.

Olly gaspar at abu simbel temple in egypt

The central chamber was aligned perfectly with the sun during the solstices, was really striking. It’s hard to imagine the level of skill and planning it took to construct this over 3,000 years ago, while today the world's best engineers couldn't even align it properly when moving it.

Abu simbel temple statues
Central chamber at Abu Simbel
Traveler standing in front of hieroglyphs at the abu simbel temple in egypt

As we walked around, the guide shared stories of Ramses II’s reign and the purpose of the smaller temple dedicated to his wife, Queen Nefertari. The Temple of Hathor, just a short walk away, is less imposing but equally beautiful.

The six statues on its facade show Ramses and Nefertari standing side by side, a rare representation of equality in ancient Egyptian art. We spent about 4 hours in total at Abu Simbel which in my opinion is a good amount of time to really take in the site.

In the end, we took the same air conditioned mini bus back to the city to explore more things to do in Aswan.

Haylea and olly at abu simbel in aswan

Final Review: Is It Worth It?

Absolutely. Visiting Abu Simbel is 100% worth it for anyone interested in history, architecture, or just to experience one of Egypt’s most iconic landmarks. Although Abu Simbel is quite far from Aswan and very remote, the trip and cost is worth it, it's my absolute favorite landmark in Egypt besides the Sphinx and going inside the Great Pyramid!

Looking for more must-see sites in Egypt? Perhaps you want some itineraries? After a lot of time spent in this amazing country, I've written dozens of guides that you can read online for free. Take a pick below.

Exploring karnak temple in luxor, egypt

Egypt Accommodation Guides

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Thanks for Reading

I’m Olly Gaspar, Australian adventure traveler and founder of We Seek Travel. Six years ago, I left home to travel full-time and started this website to share my journey. Today, it’s grown into one of the world’s largest free adventure travel resources, now supported by a team of passionate travelers writing travel guides to the places we visit.

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