Cairo to Abu Simbel Tour: A Journey Beyond Just Cruising

Table of Contents 

• Brief Summary 

• Is a day trip to Abu Simbel worth it?

• How far is Abu Simbel from Cairo?

• How to get to Abu Simbel from Cairo? 

• Is it better to fly or drive to Abu Simbel?

• How long is the flight from Abu Simbel to Cairo?

• Is it safe to travel to Abu Simbel right now?

• What time does Abu Simbel open?

• What is the Abu Simbel entrance fee?

• What is the best time of day to visit Abu Simbel?

• Conclusion 

Brief Summary 

The famous rock-cut temple of Abu Simbel can become the highlight of your trip upon visiting. It is known for its 20-meter colossal statue of Ramesses II and for the smaller temples built for his wife. It was relocated in the 1960s as Lake Nasser was overflowing. Plan a tour to Abu Simbel from Cairo with a Nile cruise as an inclusion and explore ancient Egyptian history in its most original form.  

Here in this blog, we explain to you the Abu Simbel tickets, Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, and Abu Simbel tour in depth. Also answering the major queries that travelers usually ask of us. Also listed is the best Cairo to Abu Simbel river cruise that makes exploration easy and fulfilling as you explore each monument in depth and also experience the luxury Nile cruise with a cruising journey from Aswan to Luxor. 

Is a day trip to Abu Simbel worth it?

Yes, the day trip to Abu Simbel for travelers is totally worth it. Typically it includes early morning departures to Aswan and then a short boating or road trip from Aswan to Abu Simbel, a dedicated exploration of the historical place, and an early return by the evening. It is completely worth seeing Egypt’s most unique monuments built by the great pharaoh Ramesses II in the New Kingdom. 

How far is Abu Simbel from Cairo?

The distance from Cairo to Abu Simbel is 1,131 km, a 13-14 hour journey by car. It is a distant location from Cairo; with a Nile cruise in Egypt or with the local flight, the distance can be covered with more comfort. 

How to get to Abu Simbel from Cairo? 

• The recommendations from the Egyptologists suggest a flight from Cairo to Aswan and then a short road trip to reach the Abu Simbel temple.  
• Another option is a long-distance journey via Aswan in a private bus or taxi that would take around 14 hours.  
• The best option to reach Abu Simbel from Cairo is a combined trip with a night Nile cruise, as with a cruise, you explore between Luxor and Aswan and then can travel to Abu Simbel by boat or a short road trip. 

Is it better to fly or drive to Abu Simbel?

The better option is a flight to reach Abu Simbel; the road trip is long, around 13-14 hours, which is usually not ideal for travelers by local transport. A flight from Cairo to Aswan is the better option for the visitor to explore the mesmerizing sun-god temple built in the New Kingdom under the rule of Ramesses II. 

How long is the flight from Abu Simbel to Cairo?

The flight from Abu Simbel Airport to CAI, Cairo International Airport, usually takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes or 40 minutes; sometimes a layover at Aswan Airport makes the flight longer. Flights cover around 860 km; common airlines that operate the regional flights are EgyptAir and Air Cairo. 

Is it safe to travel to Abu Simbel right now?

Yes, the area around Abu Simbel is generally safe for the tourists; security measures are strictly followed due to the importance of a heritage site. The visitors are advised to travel with licensed operators and follow the local guidelines. You can book the 8-Day Journey Through Time: Cairo. A Nile cruise and Abu Simbel are specially curated for travelers who are looking for all-inclusive experiences. 

What time does Abu Simbel open? 

The opening time of the Abu Simbel temple is 6 AM and easily accessible for the early morning travelers; it allows the tourists to capture sunrise moments, and also in the early morning the site is generally silent and no heavy crowds are there. 

What is the Abu Simbel entrance fee? 

The Abu Simbel entrance fee for foreign adults is around 750–822 EGP (approx. US$15–$16). In Egypt, students can enjoy special discounts, so they are advised to bring their valid IDs; then the entrance fee is 375–445 EGP. During the sun festival at the Abu Simbel temple, it is roughly around 1200 EGP. 

What is the best time of day to visit Abu Simbel? 

The best time to visit the Abu Simbel temple is early morning, as then you can witness the early morning sunrise moments; during the peak hours the exploration feels tough due to harsh sunlight or visitors can prefer it in the evening hours around 3 pm to 5 pm. Prefer taking a Nile cruise package with an Egypt tour during the cooler months for a comfortable exploration journey. 

What is the prettiest place in Egypt?

In Egypt pyramids are known as the most prominent historical monuments, but arguably the Abu Simbel temples are among the prettiest Egyptian monuments. The entrance with four massive colossal statues makes it truly awe-inspiring; it is a sun temple that was commissioned by the strongest pharaoh, Ramesses II. His ruling period is also known as the significant golden age for flourishing art and culture during the New Kingdom in ancient Egypt. He has also contributed to construction on the Karnak temple and other Luxor monuments. 

Can I wear shorts to Abu Simbel?

You can wear it if you are comfortable, but avoid it if you can, as even when you are exploring the ancient temples, they are seen as sacred places and connect with the emotions of the people. An ideal dress code for the Abu Simbel temple is light, loose cotton clothes; they are the best. You can wear short flowing dresses, or breathable trousers and T-shirts can also work the best. Pro tip: Wear comfortable, walkable shoes and ensure you have adequate sun protection. 

What time is the sound and light show in Abu Simbel?

The magical and illuminating music and sound show at the Abu Simbel temple occurs around 06:30 PM to 07:00 PM, with a second show that occurs around 08:30 PM to 09:00 PM; it roughly depends upon the season and demand. This show usually operates in English at 07:30 and in Spanish around 08:30.  

During the sound and light show in Abu Simbel, the massive statue of Ramesses II illuminates with lighting, and the Nefertari statue also illuminates. The shows cover the rich historical significance of the pharaoh and also narrate the story about Nefertari, as she is one of the renowned queens in ancient Egyptian history. Evening visuals of the temple at Abu Simbel are totally mesmerizing and worth experiencing. 

So, if your trip to Abu Simbel allows you to witness the music and sound show, do see it and remember the story of the most powerful pharaoh from the New Kingdom of ancient Egypt. 

How much time do I need in Abu Simbel? 

The exploration at the Abu Simbel temple ideally requires 1.5 hours to 2 hours. If you are traveling from Aswan, then it is a complete 8-10 hour trip, as a road transfer of 3-4 hours also gets included in the duration. To avoid encountering heavy crowds, try visiting the temple early in the morning or during late evenings around 4 PM to 5 PM. Stay hydrated while exploring and ensure you have a guided tour for additional support during the exploration journey at Abu Simbel. 

Conclusion  

Abu Simbel is a unique temple that offers once-in-a-lifetime experiences and also becomes memorable when combined with Nile cruises. The journey provides effort in planning, making it easier by booking an all-inclusive tour package and exploring the extraordinary architecture and historical significance of the temple in the best way. In case you need any assistance in booking or looking for a Nile cruise and Egypt tour customized package, feel free to contact us.