Answers to the most important questions about visiting, getting there and the Sun Festival.
What are the opening hours of the Abu Simbel temples?
Abu Simbel temples are open daily. From October to April: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM, and from May to September: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM. Special hours may apply during the Sun Festivals.
How much does it cost to visit Abu Simbel?
Admission (as of 2026) costs approximately 750 EGP for adults and 375 EGP for students (with valid ID). An additional photography pass is required for professional photography. Prices are subject to change.
When is the best time to visit Abu Simbel?
The best time to visit Abu Simbel is from October to April for optimal weather conditions. Early morning visits (sunrise to 9 AM) are recommended for cooler temperatures and ideal photography lighting. The Sun Festivals on February 22nd and October 22nd are special dates when sunlight illuminates the inner sanctuary.
How do I get to Abu Simbel from Cairo or Aswan?
You can reach Abu Simbel via direct flights from Cairo to Abu Simbel Airport (about 3 hours), organized tours from Aswan (most popular option, about 3.5 hours drive), private car transfers, or cruise ship excursions on Lake Nasser (1–2 days). Egyptra also offers private 2-day tours from Hurghada, El Gouna, Safaga and Makadi Bay.
What is the Sun Festival at Abu Simbel?
The Sun Festival occurs twice yearly on February 22 and October 22, when the sun's rays penetrate the Great Temple and illuminate the inner sanctuary sculptures of Ramesses II and the gods Ra-Horakhty and Amun. Remarkably, the statue of Ptah, god of darkness, remains in shadow. This phenomenon demonstrates the ancient Egyptians' advanced astronomical knowledge.
What should I bring when visiting Abu Simbel?
Essential items include: sunscreen and hat (essential due to desert sun), comfortable walking shoes, water bottle, and camera (photography permit required). Modest dress is recommended, and early booking is essential for festival dates.
Are there wheelchair accessible areas at Abu Simbel?
Yes, Abu Simbel has wheelchair accessible areas. The site features paved pathways and designated viewing areas. However, some interior chambers may have limited accessibility due to the ancient architecture. It's recommended to contact the visitor center in advance for specific accessibility arrangements.
Can I take photos inside the Abu Simbel temples?
Photography is allowed at Abu Simbel, but you need to purchase a photography permit in addition to your entrance ticket. Flash photography is prohibited inside the temples to protect the ancient artwork. Professional photography equipment may require special permissions.
How long was the UNESCO rescue operation of Abu Simbel?
The UNESCO rescue operation took 4 years (1964–1968) and cost approximately $40 million USD. It involved 50 participating countries and required moving over 250,000 tons of blocks. The temples were carefully dismantled and relocated 65 meters higher and 200 meters back from their original location to save them from the rising waters of Lake Nasser.
What are the dimensions of the Abu Simbel temples?
The Great Temple of Abu Simbel stands 30 meters high with four colossal statues of Ramesses II, each 20 meters tall. The smaller Temple of Nefertari is 12 meters high with six statues at the entrance. The entire complex covers approximately 3,000 square meters.
How long does a visit to the Abu Simbel temples take?
Plan around 2 to 3 hours on site to explore both temples at a relaxed pace — the Great Temple of Ramesses II and the Temple of Nefertari. Including the journey from Aswan, allow half a day to a full day for the excursion.
Who built the temples of Abu Simbel?
The temples were built in the 13th century BCE under Pharaoh Ramesses II. Construction began around 1264 BCE and took about 20 years. The Great Temple was dedicated to Ramesses II himself and the gods Amun-Ra, Ra-Horakhty and Ptah, while the smaller temple honored his wife Queen Nefertari and the goddess Hathor.
Why were the temples of Abu Simbel relocated?
The construction of the Aswan High Dam in the 1960s meant the rising waters of Lake Nasser threatened to flood the temples. In an unprecedented UNESCO rescue operation (1964–1968), both temples were cut into over 1,000 blocks and faithfully rebuilt 65 meters higher and 200 meters further inland — preserving the original solar alignment.
Can I visit Abu Simbel from Hurghada or El Gouna?
Yes. Egyptra offers private 2-day tours from Hurghada, El Gouna, Safaga and Makadi Bay that combine Luxor and Abu Simbel — including transfers, a private guide and overnight accommodation. From Luxor, a private day trip is also available.
Is Abu Simbel worth visiting?
Absolutely. Alongside the Pyramids of Giza, Abu Simbel ranks among Egypt's most impressive monuments: four 20-meter colossal statues, over 3,000 years of history and the unique solar alignment phenomenon make a visit an unforgettable highlight of any trip to Egypt.
