Abu Simbel Day Trips from Aswan
Cross the desert to Ramses II's colossal rock temples, the most dramatic single monument in Egypt, about three hours south of Aswan.
Abu Simbel sits near the Sudanese border on Lake Nasser, about 280 kilometres south of Aswan, roughly three hours each way. The early start is worth it.
The temples
The Great Temple is fronted by four seated statues of Ramses II, each about 20 metres tall, with the smaller temple of Queen Nefertari beside it. Both were cut into blocks and moved to higher ground in the 1960s to escape the rising waters of the Aswan High Dam, one of the great feats of rescue engineering.
How to go
The most-booked option is a group day trip with hotel pickup and an air-conditioned coach, historically in an early convoy. Private tours let you beat the crowds, and some travellers fly the short hop from Aswan instead. Read our Abu Simbel day trip guide for the sun festival dates and full detail.
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Frequently asked questions
How far is Abu Simbel from Aswan?
About 280 kilometres, roughly three hours each way by road across the desert. Tours start before dawn, historically in a convoy, and it can also be reached by a short flight from Aswan.
Is Abu Simbel worth the trip from Aswan?
Yes. The twin rock temples of Ramses II and Nefertari are among the most impressive sights in the ancient world and far less crowded than Giza, well worth the early start and desert drive.
