Abu Simbel Temples: Practical Visitor Guide (From Aswan, Tickets, Sun Alignment & Transport)
Abu Simbel Temples: Practical Visitor Guide (From Aswan, Tickets, Sun Alignment & Transport)
The Abu Simbel Temples are two rock-cut temples in southern Egypt that many first-time visitors rank among the most memorable sights in the country. They are also remote and time-sensitive, which is why planning matters: opening hours, “last entry,” transport timing, and special event days can change what your day feels like.
This guide focuses on practical decisions: how to visit Abu Simbel, how to get there from Aswan, what official sources say about tickets and hours, and how to avoid common mistakes.

Abu Simbel Temples at a Glance
Here is the quick planning summary first, then the details.
Quick facts (fast answers)
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What it is: Two temples: the Great Temple of Ramses II and the Small Temple (Hathor & Nefertari).
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Distance from Aswan: commonly described as about 280 km from Aswan.
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Typical visit style: most international tourists visit as a day trip from Aswan (road tour or private car). Flights exist but schedules vary.
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Best time of day: early morning for cooler temperatures and better light.
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Most important timing rule: the official booking portal lists a last entry time (not just closing time), and a different schedule during Ramadan.
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Sun alignment dates (twice a year): February 22 and October 22 (sun rays enter the temple and illuminate inner statues).
Ideal trip length (what fits your schedule)
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If you are based in Aswan: plan 1 long day for Abu Simbel (plus 1–3 days for Aswan sights).
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If you want a calmer visit: consider 1 night near Abu Simbel, which makes sunrise entry and the Sound & Light Show easier.
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If you are visiting Egypt once: a 3–5 day Aswan + Abu Simbel plan is common and realistic.
Best seasons (comfort-focused)
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Most comfortable months: roughly October to April (cooler days; early mornings can be chilly).
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Hardest months: May to September (very hot; shade is limited at the site).
Top highlights (what you’ll remember)
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The four colossal seated statues on the Great Temple façade (Ramses II).
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The interior halls leading to the sanctuary.
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The Small Temple of Hathor and Queen Nefertari, with statues where the queen’s colossi are the same size as the king’s (rare in ancient Egyptian art).
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The story of the modern relocation (a UNESCO-led rescue effort).
Approximate budget snapshot (per person)
Prices and exchange rates change often, so treat this as a planning range, not a quote. Costs also depend heavily on whether you choose a shared road tour, private car, or flight.
Table: Daily budget ranges in Aswan + Abu Simbel add-on (approximate)
| Cost item | Budget traveler | Mid-range traveler | Luxury traveler |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aswan accommodation (per night) | EGP 800–1,500 | EGP 1,800–3,500 | EGP 4,500–9,000+ |
| Meals (per day) | EGP 300–600 | EGP 700–1,200 | EGP 1,500–3,000+ |
| Local transport (per day) | EGP 150–300 | EGP 300–600 | EGP 700–1,200 |
| Typical sightseeing tickets in Aswan (per day) | EGP 300–700 | EGP 700–1,500 | EGP 1,500–3,000+ |
| Abu Simbel day trip add-on (transport only) | EGP 1,000–2,000 (shared) | EGP 1,500–3,000 (better shared / small group) | EGP 4,000–10,000+ (private car, or flight) |
| Abu Simbel entrance ticket (foreign adult) | EGP ~750–822 (official sources differ; see below) | EGP ~750–822 | EGP ~750–822 |
Notes:
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The entrance ticket is separate from transport.
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The “special Sun Alignment” ticket is higher than the standard ticket on Feb 22 and Oct 22 (details below).
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Costs in Abu Simbel village can be higher than you expect for a remote area, because options are limited.
Where are the Abu Simbel Temples located?
The Abu Simbel Temples are in southern Egypt near Lake Nasser, in the Aswan Governorate, close to Egypt’s southern border region. The practical point is simple: it is far from major cities, and that distance affects your day.
What “remote” means for you:
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You will likely start very early (often before sunrise) if you travel by road from Aswan.
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You should not assume there will be many food options, pharmacies, or shade at the site.
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You should plan around last entry time, not just “closing time.”
Tickets & opening hours: what official sources say (and why they differ)

At the time of writing, the most reliable approach is:
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Check the MoTA “Discover Egypt’s Monuments” Abu Simbel page for an official overview of hours and ticket categories.
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Check the official booking portal listing for the current purchase price, “last entry,” and Ramadan hours.
It is normal to see small differences between official pages, because prices and rules can update at different times. The safest move is to treat the booking portal as the “transaction truth” and the MoTA page as the “official overview.”
Abu Simbel opening hours: closing time vs “last entry”
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The MoTA info page lists opening hours as 06:00 AM to 05:00 PM.
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The official booking portal lists opening starting 06:00 AM and shows Last Entry 04:00 pm (summer and winter). It also lists Ramadan Working Hours: from 07:00 am Last Entry 03:00 pm.
How to interpret this without confusion:
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“06:00 to 05:00” can be the overall site hours.
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“Last entry 04:00” means you should plan to be at the gate well before 4 pm, even if the site closes at 5 pm.
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During Ramadan, entry can start later and last entry can be earlier, so a late-day visit is risky.
Abu Simbel tickets / entrance fee: foreigners and special dates
At the time of writing, the MoTA page lists:
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Foreigners: Adult EGP 750 / Student EGP 375
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Feb 22 & Oct 22 (Sun Alignment special ticket): Adult EGP 1200 / Student EGP 600
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Vehicle tickets: Car & Taxi EGP 25, Micro-bus EGP 50, Coaster EGP 75, Bus EGP 100
At the time of writing, the official booking portal lists (Other Nationality):
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Standard: Adult EGP 822 / Student EGP 445.5
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Sun Alignment (Feb 22 & Oct 22): Adult EGP 1272 / Student EGP 670.5
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It also states: All prices are in Egyptian Pounds.
Why do you see different ticket prices on official pages?
Common reasons (without assuming anything):
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One page may be updated faster than the other.
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The booking portal may reflect the “current payable” price.
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Some listings may include rounded pricing or updated fees.
The practical takeaway:
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If you are budgeting, plan with a range (for example, EGP 750–822 for a foreign adult standard ticket) and confirm right before your visit on the official sources.
Official comparison table (hours and tickets)
This table puts the two official sources side by side to reduce planning mistakes.
| Item | MoTA “Discover Egypt’s Monuments” page | Official booking portal listing |
|---|---|---|
| Standard opening hours | 06:00 AM to 05:00 PM | From 06:00 AM; Last Entry 04:00 pm |
| Ramadan hours | Not listed on the snippet | From 07:00 am; Last Entry 03:00 pm |
| Foreign adult ticket | EGP 750 | EGP 822 |
| Foreign student ticket | EGP 375 | EGP 445.5 |
| Sun Alignment adult ticket | EGP 1200 | EGP 1272 |
| Sun Alignment student ticket | EGP 600 | EGP 670.5 |
| Vehicle/parking tickets | Listed (Car/Taxi, Micro-bus, Coaster, Bus) | Listed as “Garage” add-ons in booking flow |
Sources: official MoTA Abu Simbel page and official egymonuments booking portal. Details can change—always re-check before you travel.
Booking in advance: do you need to?
It depends on your travel style:
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If you are visiting on a normal day and you are flexible, many travelers buy tickets on-site.
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If you want less stress, or you are visiting during peak season, weekends, or Sun Alignment dates, booking ahead using the official booking portal can be a safer plan.
Small but important rules on the official booking portal
The official booking portal includes practical rules that can affect you:
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Free entry for children below 6 years.
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Students must present a valid ID and their age must not exceed 24 (for the student ticket).
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It suggests arriving at least one hour prior to the site’s closing time for a pleasant experience.
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It states mobile phone photography is free of charge (note: other camera rules can change; check on-site).
Best time to visit Abu Simbel
The best time depends on what you care about most: comfort, crowds, photography, or special events.
Best months (comfort and heat)
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October to April is generally the easiest for most visitors (cooler air and less extreme heat).
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May to September can be intense. A day trip is still possible, but you should plan around heat:
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early departure
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water and electrolytes
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shade breaks
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lighter clothing that still covers shoulders/knees for respect
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Best time of day (the most important tip)
For most people, the earlier you arrive, the better:
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Lower temperatures (especially in warmer months)
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Better photo light on the façades
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Less crowd pressure inside the chambers
If you are coming by road from Aswan, you will probably arrive in the morning wave with other day-trippers. To avoid this:
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Consider an overnight stay near Abu Simbel, so you can enter at opening time.
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Or plan a private car that arrives earlier than typical group tours (if allowed by road conditions and checkpoints).
Sun Alignment dates (for the “Sun Festival” experience)
At the time of writing, the phenomenon is described officially as happening twice yearly:
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February 22
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October 22
On these days:
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crowds are higher
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prices can be higher (special ticket)
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you should expect a more “event-like” atmosphere
How long to spend at Abu Simbel (and how many days to stay in Aswan)

How long to spend at the Abu Simbel site
A realistic plan for most first-time visitors:
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1.5 to 3 hours on site, depending on:
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crowd levels
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how long you spend photographing the façades
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whether you like to read signs slowly and pause inside chambers
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If you only have 60–90 minutes, you can still see the main highlights, but you will feel rushed (especially with crowds).
How many days to stay in Aswan if Abu Simbel is the star
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3 days total (fast): 1 day Abu Simbel + 2 days Aswan
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5 days total (balanced): 1 day Abu Simbel + 3–4 days Aswan and Nubian experiences
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7 days (slow): add relaxed evenings, extra museums, and buffer days for transport
How to get to Abu Simbel from Aswan
This is the decision that shapes your whole experience. The distance is commonly described as around 280 km from Aswan.
There are three main ways to do an Abu Simbel day trip from Aswan:
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Shared road tour / minibus
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Private driver (private car)
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Flight (schedule-dependent)
Fast decision guide (choose based on your priority)
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Choose a shared road tour if your priority is price and you are okay with a fixed schedule and early pickup.
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Choose a private driver if your priority is control (start time, stops, pacing) and you can split the cost.
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Choose a flight if your priority is time and comfort and you can accept schedule changes and higher cost.
Option A: Shared road tour / group minibus (most common)
What it usually looks like:
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Very early pickup in Aswan (often around 4:00–5:00 AM)
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3–4 hours driving each way on desert roads
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A short visit window at the site (often 1.5–2.5 hours)
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Return to Aswan around early-to-mid afternoon
Pros:
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Lowest cost per person
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Simple logistics (hotel pickup is common)
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Often includes basic coordination at checkpoints
Cons:
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You will likely arrive with many other groups
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Limited flexibility (shorter time inside)
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Comfort varies (vehicle quality, legroom)
Good for:
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Solo travelers on a mid-range budget
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People who want “easy mode” and don’t mind crowds
Option B: Private driver / private car (best control)
What it usually looks like:
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You hire a driver with a private car for the day
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You can choose your departure time (within practical limits)
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You can stop for breaks if needed
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You control how long you stay at the site (within opening hours and last entry)
Pros:
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Most flexibility (timing and pace)
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More comfortable, especially for families or small groups
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Better if you want fewer crowds (arrive earlier or later than tour waves)
Cons:
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Higher total cost (but can be reasonable if split between 2–4 people)
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You should be careful about:
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clear written price
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what is included (fuel, waiting time, meals)
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driver experience on that route
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safety basics (seatbelts, rest stops)
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Good for:
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Couples, families, or 3–4 friends
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People who want better photos and less stress
Option C: Flight (fastest, but schedule-sensitive)
Domestic flights between Aswan and Abu Simbel can exist, but schedules can change by season and airline.
Pros:
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Fastest travel time
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Less physical fatigue than a long road day
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Useful if you have limited time in Upper Egypt
Cons:
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Often the most expensive option
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Flight times can change, reduce, or sell out
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You still need to plan transport on both ends (airport transfers)
Practical advice:
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Treat flights as a “high convenience, high uncertainty” option.
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For schedules, check official airline sources such as EgyptAir’s timetable and flight status tools.
What to pack for Abu Simbel (especially on a day trip)
This list saves many first-time visitors:
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Passport or at least a clear copy + your visa page (checkpoints happen on long desert routes)
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1.5–2 liters of water per person (more in hot months)
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Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
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Light scarf or buff (wind and dust)
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Snacks (especially if you have dietary needs)
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Power bank (photos drain batteries fast)
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Small cash (toilets, drinks, tips)
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A warm layer in winter mornings (it can feel cold before sunrise)
Transport comparison table (road vs private vs flight)
Use this matrix to choose quickly.
| Option | Typical total time (door-to-door) | Typical cost (range) | Comfort | Flexibility | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shared road tour | 10–12 hours | Low–medium (per person) | Medium | Low | Budget & simplicity |
| Private car/driver | 9–12 hours | Medium–high (per car) | Medium–high | High | Control, families, photographers |
| Flight | 4–7 hours total (incl transfers/waiting) | High | High | Medium | Time-poor travelers |
Costs vary by season, group size, and market changes. Always confirm inclusions and cancellation terms.
Where to stay: Aswan vs staying near Abu Simbel
Most visitors sleep in Aswan and visit Abu Simbel as a day trip. Staying near Abu Simbel is less common, but it can improve the experience for the right traveler.
Staying in Aswan (the default base)
Aswan is a practical base because it has:
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a wider choice of accommodation
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restaurants and cafes
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ATMs and banks
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tour desks and transport options
It is also a good base if your Egypt itinerary includes Luxor, Nile cruises, or domestic flights.
Staying near Abu Simbel (for a calmer visit)
Staying near Abu Simbel can be worth it if:
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you want to enter at opening time
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you want to attend the Sound & Light Show without a rushed return
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you want a less exhausting day than the long Aswan round trip
The trade-offs:
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fewer accommodation choices
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limited dining and shopping
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fewer backup options if plans change
Where to stay comparison table (areas, not hotel brands)
This is a simple, decision-focused comparison.
| Base | Pros | Cons | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aswan (city / riverfront areas) | Easy logistics, more restaurants, more ATMs, many tour options | Abu Simbel day trip is long and early | First-time visitors, mid-range budgets |
| Aswan islands / quieter river areas | More calm atmosphere, nice evening views | Slightly more transport planning | Couples, slower-paced trips |
| Abu Simbel village area | Sunrise entry possible, easier Sound & Light | Limited choices, fewer services | Photographers, Sun Alignment visitors, people who dislike long road days |
What to see at Abu Simbel: Great Temple + Small Temple + viewpoints
At the simplest level, your visit includes:
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The Great Temple (Ramses II)
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The Small Temple (Hathor & Nefertari)
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Photo time outside (the façades and the setting)
The Great Temple of Ramses II: what to expect
The Great Temple is the headline sight: it is cut into rock and famous for the four large seated statues on the front. The MoTA page describes it as built by King Ramesses II around 1264 BC.
Inside, most visitors walk through:
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a main hall with large figures and carved walls
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smaller chambers leading toward the sanctuary
Practical tips for the Great Temple:
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Go inside early if you can, because the interior can feel crowded and warm later in the day.
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Move slowly in darker areas. Your eyes adjust after a minute.
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If you are sensitive to tight spaces, note that some chambers feel narrow when crowded.
The Small Temple: why it matters (even if you’re short on time)
The Small Temple is dedicated to the goddess Hathor and Queen Nefertari. The MoTA page notes a key detail that many first-time visitors miss: Nefertari’s colossi are the same size as the king’s, which is rare.
If time is limited:
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prioritize the façades of both temples
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go inside the Great Temple first
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then visit the Small Temple, even if briefly
Best viewpoints and photo planning (simple, practical)
You will likely want:
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a wide shot of both temples together
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a straight-on shot of the Great Temple façade
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details of carvings and statues
Practical photo advice:
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Bring a lens cloth (dust is common).
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Morning light is usually kinder than harsh midday sun.
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Do not assume you can use tripods or professional gear without permission—rules can change.
“If you only have 60–90 minutes” mini plan
This is a realistic rush plan for tight day trips:
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15–20 min: wide photos + Great Temple façade details
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30–40 min: Great Temple interior at a steady pace
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10–15 min: Small Temple façade + a quick interior look
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10–15 min: final photos + short break (water/shade)
Special experiences: Sun Alignment Festival & Sound & Light Show
Abu Simbel has two “special event” reasons people visit:
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the Sun Alignment phenomenon (twice yearly)
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the Sound & Light Show (evening show)
Abu Simbel Sun Festival / sun alignment: what it is and when it happens
According to the official MoTA page, the temple was built with such precision that on February 22 and October 22, the sun’s rays enter the temple and illuminate the innermost statues.
Practical expectations:
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These dates attract bigger crowds.
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You should expect a more controlled flow inside the temple.
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Transport and accommodation in Aswan can sell out earlier than usual.
Are there special tickets on Sun Alignment dates?
Yes—official sources list Sun Alignment tickets for Feb 22 and Oct 22, which cost more than standard tickets.
If Sun Alignment is your main goal:
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check the official booking portal early
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plan to arrive very early
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consider staying near Abu Simbel the night before, so you are not relying on a long road trip that morning
Abu Simbel Sound and Light Show (schedule, price, and what to know)
At the time of writing, the official Sound & Light website lists:
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Schedule: typically 18:30 and 19:30 (shown across days of the week)
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Price: Regular ticket $20; Child ticket $11 (ages 6–12)
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Important note: “DATES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE.”
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It also notes minimum numbers for shows in some cases.
Practical advice:
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Treat the Sound & Light Show as a bonus, not the core of your visit.
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If you are staying in Aswan, doing the show can be hard without an overnight, because it ends late and the road trip back is long.
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Always re-check the schedule close to your travel date, because the official site warns that dates can change.
Is Abu Simbel safe? Safety, scams, and practical precautions
No place can be guaranteed safe. The useful approach is to reduce risk with good habits and to follow current official travel advice for your nationality.
What official travel advice says (why it matters)
At the time of writing:
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The U.S. State Department lists Egypt as Level 2: Exercise increased caution, citing terrorism, crime, and health concerns, and it notes risks in specific areas and the importance of staying alert in tourist locations.
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The UK FCDO advises against travel to parts of Egypt and notes insurance issues if you travel against advice. It also lists regional risks and exceptions, including that its “Western Desert” advice has exceptions that include Luxor, Qina, Aswan, Abu Simbel and the Valley of the Kings.
Because Abu Simbel is near border areas, it is smart to:
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travel on the main tourist route
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carry ID
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follow local security instructions without arguing
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avoid photographing checkpoints or security buildings (rules can be strict)
Common scams and annoyances (practical, neutral guidance)
Abu Simbel is usually calmer than some major tourist hotspots, but you can still see:
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Overcharging (taxis, drivers, small shops)
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“Free gift” that turns into a demand for money
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Persistent selling near entrances and parking areas
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Unofficial guiding offers
How to handle it:
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Use a firm, polite “No, thank you.”
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Agree prices before getting into a taxi or buying services.
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Keep small bills separate so you are not opening your whole wallet.
Solo and solo female travelers: realistic tips
Official travel advice notes that harassment of women can be a problem in Egypt.
Practical ways to reduce hassle:
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Dress modestly (especially shoulders and knees) to blend in and reduce attention.
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In Aswan, use hotel-arranged taxis/drivers at night.
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Consider a small group tour or private driver for the Abu Simbel road trip if you want extra peace of mind.
Road-trip safety basics (often overlooked)
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Wear seatbelts.
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Bring more water than you think you need.
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Do not assume there will be frequent clean rest stops.
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Buy travel insurance that covers your full itinerary (and check that it is valid for your route).
On-site logistics: accessibility, toilets, shade, photography, etiquette
Heat and comfort management
This site is exposed, and heat can be the biggest “hidden problem.”
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Plan shade breaks.
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Drink water steadily (don’t wait until you feel thirsty).
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Use sunscreen and reapply.
Accessibility: what to expect in real life
Even without official detailed accessibility notes on the pages above, it is safe to expect:
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uneven stone and steps inside chambers
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darker interiors that require slow walking
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long standing times if crowds form
If you have mobility concerns:
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plan more time
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consider visiting at opening time for fewer crowds
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ask your driver/guide about the easiest route on arrival
Toilets and small purchases
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Toilets may be basic and may require a small fee.
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Bring tissues and hand sanitizer.
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Bring small cash for drinks, snacks, and tips.
Photography rules (what is clearly stated officially)
The official booking portal states:
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Mobile phone photography is free of charge.
Because rules for cameras, tripods, and filming can change, the safest approach is:
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follow signs on-site
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ask at the ticket office if you have professional gear
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avoid photographing security personnel or checkpoints
Budget & average costs (Aswan + Abu Simbel)
A simple way to budget is to separate your costs into:
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Aswan base costs (hotel, food, local transport, other sights)
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Abu Simbel day trip costs (transport + ticket)
Sample mid-range cost breakdown (per person, approximate)
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Abu Simbel entrance ticket (foreign adult): EGP ~750–822 depending on the official source you consult at the time
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Abu Simbel transport:
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shared road tour: usually the cheapest
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private car: higher total, but splitable
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flight: usually the highest, but fastest
-
-
Food/water/snacks: bring extra water; buy food in Aswan before you leave
Money-saving that still feels comfortable
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Share a private car with 2–4 people (comfort + cost balance).
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Visit on a normal weekday (not an event date).
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Stay in Aswan and do one big day trip, if you tolerate early starts.
When paying more is worth it
Paying more can make sense if:
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someone in your group has back/heat sensitivity
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you want more time inside and fewer crowds
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you want to avoid a rushed “two-hour window” at the site
Food & drink basics (Upper Egypt)
In Aswan
Aswan has a wide range of food options:
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Egyptian staples (grilled meats, rice, salads)
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Nubian-style dishes and stews
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bakeries and juice shops
On the Abu Simbel day trip

Plan for limited options:
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Eat breakfast before pickup, if possible.
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Bring snacks that survive heat (nuts, dates, crackers).
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Bring enough water; buy extra in Aswan.
Drinking water safety
Many travelers stick to:
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sealed bottled water
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drinks without ice if you are sensitive
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fruit you can peel yourself
Culture, dress code & etiquette
A simple, respectful approach works best:
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Cover shoulders and knees (especially inside temples and in towns).
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Avoid loud behavior inside chambers.
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Ask before photographing people.
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Be polite but firm with sellers.
SIM / eSIM / internet
Practical expectations:
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In Aswan, buying a local SIM is usually straightforward, but you may need your passport for registration.
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On the road to Abu Simbel and around the site, coverage can be weaker than in cities.
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Download offline maps before you leave Aswan.
Sample itineraries (3–7 days) with Abu Simbel as the star
The plans below keep Abu Simbel as the main highlight while making Aswan feel complete.
3-day itinerary (fast but realistic)
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Day 1: Arrive Aswan + easy evening walk on the Corniche
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Day 2: Abu Simbel day trip (road) + early night
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Day 3: Philae Temple + Nubian village/museum time + departure
5-day itinerary (balanced, best for most first-timers)
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Day 1: Arrive Aswan + light sightseeing
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Day 2: Aswan classics (Philae, High Dam, Unfinished Obelisk depending on interest)
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Day 3: Abu Simbel day trip (or overnight plan)
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Day 4: Nubian Museum + relaxed felucca/sunset time
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Day 5: Buffer morning + travel onward
7-day itinerary (slower pace, more comfort)
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Add:
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a second calm day in Aswan (markets, cafés, extra museum time)
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a possible overnight at Abu Simbel (Sound & Light + sunrise entry)
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a buffer day for schedule changes
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Itinerary table (5-day balanced plan)
| Day | Morning | Afternoon | Evening | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arrive Aswan | Check-in + rest | Corniche walk | Save energy for early starts |
| 2 | Philae Temple | Aswan sights (choose 1–2) | Early dinner | Keep midday flexible in heat |
| 3 | Aswan to Abu Simbel (early start) | Abu Simbel visit | Return + rest | Plan around last entry |
| 4 | Nubian Museum | Felucca / island time | Relaxed evening | Good “recovery day” |
| 5 | Buffer morning | Travel onward | — | Use buffer if plans shift |
Practical tips checklist (money, tipping, language, plugs, holidays)
Money & payments
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Carry Egyptian pounds (EGP), especially outside major hotels.
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Use ATMs in Aswan before the Abu Simbel trip.
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Keep small bills for tips, toilets, and small purchases.
Tipping (simple and practical)
Tipping is normal in tourist settings. There is no single correct number, but these are common planning ranges:
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Small help (bags, toilets): EGP 10–30
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Driver (day trip): EGP 100–300 total (more if service is excellent)
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Guide: EGP 150–400 depending on time and group size
Language basics (helpful phrases)
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Hello: “Salam” / “Ahlan”
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Thank you: “Shukran”
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No, thank you: “La, shukran”
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How much?: “Bikam?”
Plugs and power
Egypt commonly uses 220V with plug types similar to C/F in many hotels. Bring a universal adapter if unsure.
Ramadan and public holidays
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Ramadan timing changes yearly.
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The official booking portal lists different Ramadan hours and last entry.
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During Ramadan and major holidays, some services run on different schedules. Always confirm close to your travel date.
Frequently Asked Questions
1) Where are the Abu Simbel Temples located?
They are in southern Egypt near Lake Nasser, in the Aswan Governorate. In practical terms, they are far from Aswan and usually visited by long road day trip or short domestic flight.
2) Can Abu Simbel be done as a day trip from Aswan?
Yes. For most international tourists, an Abu Simbel day trip from Aswan is the most common plan. Expect a very early start and a long day, especially if traveling by road.
If you prefer a calmer experience, staying overnight near Abu Simbel can reduce the “rushed” feeling and make sunrise entry possible.
3) What are Abu Simbel opening hours and last entry time?
At the time of writing:
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The MoTA page lists 06:00 AM to 05:00 PM.
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The official booking portal lists Last Entry 04:00 pm (summer and winter), and Ramadan hours from 07:00 am with Last Entry 03:00 pm.
Because “closing” and “last entry” are different, aim to arrive well before last entry.
4) How much are Abu Simbel tickets for foreigners?
At the time of writing, official sources show different numbers:
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MoTA page: Foreign adult EGP 750 / student EGP 375
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Official booking portal: Other Nationality adult EGP 822 / student EGP 445.5
Prices can change, so confirm on the official sources close to your travel date.
5) Do you need to book Abu Simbel tickets in advance?
Not always, but booking can help if:
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you want less stress
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you are traveling in peak season
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you are visiting on Sun Alignment dates (Feb 22 or Oct 22)
If booking online, use the official egymonuments booking portal and avoid unofficial resellers.
6) What is the Abu Simbel Sun Festival / sun alignment and when is it?
The official MoTA page explains that the temple is aligned so that on February 22 and October 22, the sun’s rays enter the temple and illuminate the innermost statues.
These dates are popular and can be crowded. Plan early transport and consider an overnight stay near the site.
7) Are there special tickets for the Sun Alignment days?
Yes. Official sources list higher-priced “Sun Alignment” tickets for Feb 22 and Oct 22 (foreign adult and student categories).
8) What is the Abu Simbel Sound and Light Show schedule and price?
At the time of writing, the official Sound & Light website shows:
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18:30 and 19:30 showtimes (listed across days)
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Regular ticket $20; child ticket $11 (ages 6–12)
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A clear note that dates are subject to change
Because it’s remote, many visitors find the show easiest if staying overnight near Abu Simbel.
9) Is Abu Simbel safe for tourists?
Many tourists visit Abu Simbel as part of standard Upper Egypt routes. Still, it’s important to follow current official travel advice.
At the time of writing, the U.S. State Department advises exercise increased caution in Egypt and notes crime and scams in tourist areas.
The UK FCDO provides region-by-region guidance and notes insurance implications if traveling against advice.
Practical safety habits:
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travel in daylight
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carry ID
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avoid photographing security sites
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book transport through reputable channels (hotel desks can help)
10) Visa basics for Egypt: what should you check?
Visa rules depend on your nationality.
At the time of writing, the U.S. travel advisory warns about fake e-visa sites and points travelers to the official Egyptian e-visa portal.
Always confirm the latest requirements using official government sources before you fly.
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