The temples of Abu Simbel stand on the shore of Lake Nasser, far to the south, close to the Sudanese border. They were moved block by block in the 1960s to save them from the rising lake. Seeing them is a highlight for many visitors, but reaching them from Cairo in one day takes effort.
The shape of the day
A private car collects you at half past three and takes you to Cairo Airport. The flight to Abu Simbel usually involves a change of planes in Aswan, so the journey takes several hours. Your guide meets you at Abu Simbel Airport at about ten and drives you the short distance to the temples. After the visit and lunch, you fly back, usually via Aswan, and reach Cairo in the early evening.
Time at the temples
You spend about two hours at the site. That is enough to see the Great Temple of Ramses II, with its four seated colossi at the entrance, and the smaller Temple of Nefertari beside it. Your guide explains the carvings and the story of the relocation. It is not a long visit, and some people wish they had more time.
Who it suits
- Travellers who have not planned a trip to Aswan but still want to see Abu Simbel.
- People comfortable with early starts, airports and a full day.
- Not recommended for young children or anyone who finds long travel days hard.
- If you will be in Aswan anyway, a road or convoy visit from there is usually more relaxed.
How booking works
The price includes return flights, so we cannot confirm instantly. You reserve online and we check flight seats for your date. We then confirm availability and the final fare. No payment is taken before that, and if seats are not available we will offer another day.
What to wear and bring
The site is open and exposed, with little shade between the car and the temples, and the sun reflects off the stone and the lake. Wear a hat, sunglasses and light clothing that covers your shoulders, and bring sun cream and a bottle of water. Closed, comfortable shoes are best on the paved but uneven ground. Keep your luggage small, as you will be going through airport security twice.
What catches people out
The early start is the biggest surprise, with the transfer to Cairo Airport at about half past three. Flight times follow the airline schedule on your date, and a change in Aswan can shorten or lengthen the day. The camera ticket for photography inside the temples is not included, and rules on cameras inside change, so ask your guide on arrival. Heat is strongest from late spring to early autumn, when the stone is hot by midday.
Is it worth it
For many people, yes, but only if Abu Simbel is a priority and the route otherwise does not reach Aswan. The temples are large, the setting is remote, and the story of their rescue is remarkable. Against that, you spend far more time travelling than looking. If you can add a night in Aswan, you will see more, with less strain, and feel far less strained.
Open the trip page to choose a date and send your request.
Plan with us
Abu Simbel from Cairo by air in a day: an honest view
A private day from Cairo to Abu Simbel by air, usually changing in Aswan. How long you spend at the temples and who it really suits.