Abu Simbel Temples Day Trip
This private day tour from Aswan visits the rock-cut temples of Abu Simbel with a private Egyptologist guide. Travel by air-conditioned vehicle to explore the colossal monuments of Ramses II and Nefertari.
The Abu Simbel Temples Day Trip provides private round-trip transport from your hotel or cruise ship in Aswan to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Abu Simbel. Located approximately 280 kilometers south of Aswan near the border with Sudan, these massive rock-cut monuments were constructed during the reign of Pharaoh Ramses II in the thirteenth century BCE.
Your private Egyptologist guide accompanies you throughout the journey and explains the history and architecture of the two main temples. The Great Temple features four seated giant statues of Ramses II guarding its entrance, while the smaller Temple of Hathor honors Queen Nefertari. You will also learn about the international UNESCO salvage project of the 1960s that relocated the entire complex to higher ground to save it from the rising waters of Lake Nasser.
After completing your guided tour and spending time exploring the temple interiors and relief carvings, you return to Aswan in your private vehicle. The price covers private air-conditioned transport and your guide; entrance fees are paid on site.
What you will see
- Great Temple of Ramses II with four colossal seated statues
- Temple of Hathor dedicated to Queen Nefertari
- Relief carvings illustrating the ancient Battle of Kadesh
- History of the 1960s UNESCO rescue and relocation project
- Private transport south across the Nubian desert
Your day
Day 1Abu Simbel Excursion from Aswan
Your private driver and Egyptologist guide pick you up from your hotel or Nile cruise in Aswan in the morning. You travel south through the Nubian desert for about three hours to reach the rock-cut site of Abu Simbel.
Upon arrival, your guide leads you through the Great Temple of Ramses II, explaining the ancient battle reliefs and internal chambers. You then visit the adjacent Temple of Hathor and Nefertari to examine its facade and wall carvings while learning about the colossal UNESCO relocation effort.
Following your guided tour and free time for photos, you board your private air-conditioned vehicle for the drive back to Aswan, ending with drop-off at your hotel or cruise.
Included
- Transportation
- Egyptologist guide
Not included
- Flights and hotel accommodation — not included
- Entrance fees (paid on site)
- Tipping for guide and driver
- Personal expenses
Frequently asked questions
Is hotel pick-up included?
Yes, private pick-up and drop-off from your accommodation or cruise ship in Aswan are provided. Your driver will meet you in the lobby at the scheduled departure time.
Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees to the Abu Simbel temple complex are not included in the tour price. You can purchase your admission tickets directly at the official site ticket window upon arrival.
Is this a private tour?
Yes, this is a fully private tour. You will have a private vehicle, driver, and Egyptologist guide dedicated solely to your party throughout the entire excursion.
How long is the drive from Aswan to Abu Simbel?
The drive takes approximately three hours each way across the desert highway. The vehicle is fully air-conditioned, and comfort stops can be made along the route if needed.
What should I bring on the trip?
We recommend bringing cash in Egyptian Pounds for temple entrance fees, sun protection such as a hat and sunglasses, comfortable walking shoes, and bottled water for the desert drive.
