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Abu Simbel Temple is a must-visit destination for history and archaeology enthusiasts. Recommended activities include:
The Abu Simbel Temple complex, located 290 kilometers south of Aswan, Egypt, was built between 1300 and 1233 BC. It is said to be named after the young boy who first led Westerners to the site. Situated on the western shore of Lake Nasser, it comprises a cliff-carved archway, a massive cliff-carved statue of Ramses II, front and rear hypostyle halls, and a sanctuary. Abu Simbel, along with many other sites downstream to Philae Island, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, considered a Nubian site.
The temple's relocation due to the construction of the Aswan Dam is a successful attempt to preserve a world-class cultural heritage building. The Sun Festival, a spectacle in which sunlight shines into the temple twice a year, illuminating the statues in the area, is one of its mystical features.
tropical desert climate
Spring and autumn
2 hours
30 Egyptian pounds
annual
Abu Simbel is one of Egypt's most iconic monuments, consisting of two massive rock temples built by Pharaoh Ramses II during the 13th century BCE. The temples were relocated in the 1960s to avoid submersion by the construction of the Aswan High Dam, making it a marvel of modern archaeology and engineering.
Abu Simbel is located in southern Egypt, near the border with Sudan, on the western bank of Lake Nasser. The nearest town is Aswan, approximately 280 km away. You can get there by car, private tour, or bus from Aswan, as there are no metro services in this region. Organized tours are common and provide transportation to the site.
Abu Simbel Temple is open daily from 6 AM to 6 PM. The best time to visit is early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat. The Sun Festival, which takes place in February and October, is a special time to visit when the sunlight illuminates the temple's inner sanctum.
The entrance fee to Abu Simbel Temple is typically around 160 EGP for foreign tourists. Tickets can be purchased onsite at the entrance, and guided tours are also available for an additional fee. Online ticket purchasing may not be available for all visitors, so it's best to purchase on-site or via a local tour operator.
Tickets do not generally need to be booked far in advance. However, during peak tourist seasons or for special events like the Sun Festival, it is recommended to book tickets or tours a day in advance.
Exploring Abu Simbel Temple typically takes about 2 to 3 hours, including time to visit both temples, take photographs, and enjoy the Sound and Light Show in the evening if available.
The must-see highlights include:
Yes, guided tours are available in several languages, including English, Arabic, French, and German. Audio guides are also available for rent in multiple languages. It's highly recommended to take a guided tour to learn more about the history and significance of the site.
The best photography spots include:
Start by visiting the Great Temple first, exploring its grand entrance and detailed reliefs. Then, head to the smaller Temple of Hathor for its intricately carved walls. Make sure to spend time in the inner chambers, especially during the Sun Festival if possible. End your visit with a walk around the complex to admire the temples from different angles.
Yes, the Abu Simbel Sound and Light Show is available in the evenings, offering a dramatic narration of the temple's history with spectacular lighting. This is one of the highlights for many visitors and a great way to experience the temple after dark.
Abu Simbel can be crowded during the peak tourist season, especially around the Sun Festival. The least crowded times to visit are during weekdays and in the early morning when the temple opens.
There are basic facilities at the site, including toilets, a small café for refreshments, and souvenir shops. It’s advisable to bring water with you, as the weather can be hot and dry.
The temple is accessible to most visitors, including elderly and children. However, the site involves some walking and stairs, which may be difficult for visitors with mobility issues. It’s advisable to check in advance for accessibility options.
Cash is typically needed for tickets and small purchases at the site, although some larger establishments around the area may accept credit cards. It’s best to carry Egyptian pounds (EGP) in cash.
There are limited food options near the site, with a few small cafés offering refreshments. For a wider selection of restaurants, you will need to travel back to Aswan, where you’ll find many dining options.
Vegetarian, vegan, and halal options are available in Aswan, but at the site itself, food options are basic, mainly consisting of snacks and light meals.
There are a few hotels in the nearby area of Abu Simbel, such as the Abu Simbel Resort. For more options, travelers can stay in Aswan and make a day trip to the temple.
Other nearby attractions include the Aswan High Dam, Philae Temple, and the Nubian Museum. These can be visited in a day trip from Aswan, and they complement the visit to Abu Simbel with their historical significance.
Yes, there are souvenir shops near the site selling typical Egyptian souvenirs such as statues, jewelry, postcards, and traditional crafts. These items make great mementos of your visit.
After visiting Abu Simbel, the best transportation options are by taxi, private car, or bus back to Aswan. You can also arrange for transportation through local tour operators for a more convenient experience.
