Overview
Abu Simbel, in the far south of Egypt near the Sudanese border, is one of the great monuments of the ancient world. Ramesses II had two temples cut into a sandstone cliff about 3,200 years ago: the Great Temple, fronted by four seated statues of the pharaoh, each about 20 m high, and a smaller temple for his queen Nefertari. They were built to impress the Nubians to the south and to glorify the king.
When the Aswan High Dam threatened to flood the site, the temples were cut into blocks and rebuilt on higher ground in the 1960s, in one of the great engineering rescues of heritage. Twice a year, around 22 February and 22 October, the sun shines along the temple axis into the inner sanctuary and lights up the statues, an event that draws large crowds. The site is a long way from other sights, so many visitors fly in for the day from Aswan.
Highlights
- The four colossal statues of Ramesses II
- The inner sanctuary and the sun festivals
- The temple of Nefertari
- Lake Nasser and the desert views
Best time to visit
October to April is the best time. Summers are extremely hot. The sun festival days of 22 February and 22 October are very crowded and need advance planning, but the site is open all year.
- JanJanuary: Best
- FebFebruary: Best
- MarMarch: Best
- AprApril: Good
- MayMay: Not ideal
- JunJune: Not ideal
- JulJuly: Not ideal
- AugAugust: Not ideal
- SepSeptember: Good
- OctOctober: Best
- NovNovember: Best
- DecDecember: Best
● Best · ○ Good · blank: not ideal. Conditions vary by year, so check local forecasts and access before you go.
Getting there
From Aswan (ASW), either take a flight of about 45 minutes or a road convoy, about 3 hours each way, 280 km south through the desert, usually starting before dawn. Tours from Aswan include transport. A few visitors stay at Abu Simbel or arrive by Lake Nasser cruise.
What to expect
A visit takes about two hours, and the site is open and sunny. Tickets cost more for foreigners, and photography is not allowed inside the temples. Early morning is the best time, before the tour buses arrive. Check the travel advisories for the region.
Practical tips
- Go with an organised tour or a trusted driver, and check convoy times.
- Arrive early to see the temple before the crowds.
- Bring water, a hat and sun protection.
- Check the latest travel advice for the south of Egypt.
Frequently asked questions
Why were the temples moved?
The Aswan High Dam flooded the area, so they were cut into blocks and rebuilt on higher ground in the 1960s.
When is the sun festival?
Around 22 February and 22 October, when the sun reaches the inner sanctuary.
How far is Abu Simbel from Aswan?
About 280 km, around 3 hours by road or 45 minutes by air.
Official sources
Rules, fees, permits and conditions change. Check the official pages below before you travel.
Photos
Last reviewed October 2026. Details are for planning only and can change; confirm access, permits and conditions with official sources before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us. Photography: Diego Delso (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Wikimedia Commons, Diego Delso (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Wikimedia Commons, Diego Delso (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Wikimedia Commons.
