Discover the architectural grandeur of ancient Egypt with our premier Abu Simbel day tour from Aswan. Located near the southern border, the temples of Abu Simbel are a UNESCO World Heritage site and a testament to the power of King Ramses II. This comprehensive Abu Simbel day tour from Aswan takes you across the Nubian desert to witness the colossal statues that have stood guard over the Nile for over 3,000 years.
The main highlight of your Abu Simbel day tour from Aswan is the Great Temple of Ramses II. Carved directly into the sandstone cliff, the facade features four massive 20-meter statues of the Pharaoh.
The interior is equally breathtaking, featuring a grand hall lined with Osiris pillars and walls covered in detailed reliefs depicting the Battle of Kadesh. Our expert Egyptologist will explain the solar alignment phenomenon, where twice a year, the sun illuminates the inner sanctum, lighting up the statues of the gods.
Just a few steps away sits the smaller, yet equally elegant, Temple of Hathor and Nefertari. This was the first time in Egyptian history that a Queen was honored with statues the same size as the King’s on a temple facade. Your Abu Simbel day tour from Aswan allows you to explore the beautifully preserved interior, which celebrates the love between Ramses II and his favorite wife, Nefertari, amidst scenes of music and offerings to the gods.
During your visit, you will learn the incredible story of how these temples were saved from the rising waters of Lake Nasser. In the 1960s, a massive UNESCO project dismantled the entire complex piece by piece and rebuilt it 60 meters higher on an artificial hill. This modern engineering miracle is as impressive as the ancient construction itself, ensuring that your Abu Simbel day tour from Aswan remains a bucket-list experience for generations to come.
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Meet your guide and driver, then begin your journey south through the Nubian desert in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle.
Enjoy the scenic desert drive. You may stop briefly along the way for rest and refreshments.
Visit the Great Temple of Ramses II, with its colossal statues and impressive halls.
Explore the Temple of Queen Nefertari, dedicated to his beloved wife.
Learn about the temples’ relocation in the 1960s, one of the greatest engineering feats in history.
Take photos, enjoy the view over Lake Nasser, or explore at your own pace.
Relax on the journey back, arriving at your hotel in Aswan around early afternoon.
The drive takes approximately 3 to 3.5 hours each way (285 km). We use modern, air-conditioned vehicles to ensure a comfortable journey across the desert.
You’ll spend about 2.5 hours exploring Abu Simbel, which is enough time to see both temples and take photos.
Yes, there are domestic flights from Aswan to Abu Simbel, but road travel is the most common and cost-effective option. Let us know if you want to go by flight!
Yes, families with children are welcome. The temples are fascinating for all ages, though the early start should be considered.
Light, comfortable clothing, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and walking shoes are recommended and a light jacket for winter.
Photography is allowed outside and in most areas inside, but flash photography is prohibited.


