Abu Simbel
Abu Simbel is a small village close to the border with Sudan and 240 kms southwest of Aswan.
It is also the site of two temples built by Ramesses II that had to be moved in the 1960’s due to the building of the High Dam at Aswan causing the Nile to rise and cause a reservoir now known as Lake Nasser.
How to get there and Transportation
By Plane:
Egypt air from Aswan, Luxor or Cairo - this is the quickest way but you only get a few hours at the temples, it was enough for us.
By Private Car with driver/Minivan:
One daily convoy each way takes 3 hours and it leaves at 4 am. Arrange with hotel or travel agents - Memphis Tours offer both options.
By Bus:
Public Bus leaves 4 am and 11 am, takes 3 hours each way. Return journey is at 4 pm latest. You can get a guide outside the complex if required but they cannot go inside the temples with you.
By boat:
Cruise from Aswan - this would be my choice if time permits and you get to see other sights along the way plus seeing Abu Simbel as it should be seen from the water. These are not round trip cruises unless you want to pay twice!
SAI Dahabiya - every Monday from Aswan and Friday from Abu Simbel - 5 and 4 day cruises
MS Steigenberger Omar El Khayam - every Monday from Aswan and Friday from Abu Simbel - 5 and 4 day cruises
Movenpick Prince Abbas - every Monday from Aswan and Friday from Abu Simbel - 5 and 4 day cruises
MS Nubian Sea - every Monday from Aswan and Friday from Abu Simbel - 5 and 4 day cruises
Where to stay
It is possible to stay and see the Sound and Light show or to get a less crowded view. The hotels on offer are not luxury.
Nefertari Hotel - 10 minutes from the site
Set Abu Simbel - 20 minute walk from the site, overlooks Lake Nasser
Tuna Hotel - basic
What to See


The temples were first discovered in 1813 and explored in 1817. After the temple was reconstructed on higher ground the site was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site along with Philae and other nearby monuments.
Two 20 metre seated figures of Ramesses are set either side of the entrance along with smaller figures of his Queen Nefertari, his mother Queen Ti and his children. The temple is dedicated to Amon-Re and Re-Horakte. To be the north of the main temple is a smaller one dedicated to Nefertari worshipping the goddess Hathor decorated with 10 metre statues of the king and queen.
An very very impressive temple complex and well worth visiting.
Cost 215 EGP Photo permit 300 EGP
30 minute Sound and Light Show Cost 250 EGP Oct to Apr 6 pm and 7 pm/May to Sept 7.30 pm (headphones provided in different languages)
Shopping
A number of stalls are located outside the temple, some have interesting tourist items.
Tips
The guides cannot go into the temples with you so be prepared to take in a lot of info in a few minutes.
The walk back is tiring in the heat and could be a problem for less able people.
They do have golf buggies but they were not working when we were there.
Security is strict at the airport on departure, shoes, belts, watches, jewellery have to be removed.
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