Abu Simbel Temples Day Trip by Road

Leave Aswan before dawn in a private, air-conditioned vehicle for the drive of about three hours south to Abu Simbel, some 280 kilometres away. Watch the sunrise over the empty desert, and look out for mirages shimmering on the horizon as the day warms up. Your Egyptologist travels with you and tells the story of Ramesses II on the way.

Arrive at Abu Simbel on the shore of Lake Nasser for a guided visit of both rock-cut temples. The Great Temple of Ramesses II is guarded by four colossal statues of the king, and deep inside, twice a year, the rising sun lights up the statues in the sanctuary. Beside it stands the Temple of Hathor and Queen Nefertari. Both were moved block by block in the 1960s to save them from the waters of the High Dam.

After some free time for photos by the lake, begin the drive back to Aswan, arriving at your hotel or cruise ship in the early afternoon. Bring a hat, sunscreen and water, and a light jacket for the cool early start. Prices increase by 50% on the Sun Festival days, 22 February and 22 October.