Discovery Tours Egypt
AttractionAswan

Abu Simbel Temples – Sun Festival (22 Feb / 22 Oct)

At a glance

Departs
Daily

The short answer

Abu Simbel Temples Entry Ticket is a 1-day attraction ticket covering the Abu Simbel temples and sun festival access in Aswan, arranged through Discovery Tours Egypt.
  • Archaeology & history
  • Cultural

Snapshot

Good to know

Destinations
Aswan

Best time to go

The special festival dates are 22 February and 22 October, when the solar event is expected to occur if weather and site conditions allow. In Aswan, temperatures are usually cooler and more comfortable from November to March, while April to September is much hotter. Festival mornings are crowded, and arrival early is advisable because access is timed and capacity is limited; Ramadan and public holidays can also affect crowd levels and local operating patterns.

02Overview

A first look

Abu Simbel sits about 280 km south of Aswan and is part of the UNESCO-listed Nubian Monuments. On 22 February and 22 October sunlight reaches the sanctuary and illuminates the three principal statues.

Background

The facts

Abu Simbel in southern Egypt is a pair of rock-cut temples carved during the reign of Ramesses II in the 13th century BCE. The larger temple was dedicated to Amun-Ra, Ra-Horakhty, and Ptah, while the smaller temple honored Hathor and Nefertari. The site is part of the UNESCO-listed Nubian Monuments, recognized for both its ancient significance and its 1960s rescue and relocation during the Aswan High Dam project.

The sun festival at Abu Simbel is associated with 22 February and 22 October, when sunlight penetrates the temple axis and reaches the inner sanctuary. Access on these dates is timed and capacity is limited, so the entrance gate can be busy early in the morning. Visitors should expect security screening, controlled entry, and site-managed circulation around the forecourt, colossi, and interior chambers.

This entry ticket grants admission to the temple complex as permitted by the venue on the festival date. It does not include transport, a private guide, meals, or gratuities. Ticket delivery is arranged through Discovery Tours Egypt and sent by email as a PDF after confirmation; some venues may require a printed copy, so printing is recommended if there is any doubt.

Suited to

Is this for you?

Yes, if

  • This entry ticket is suitable for travelers who want self-guided access to one of Egypt’s most important Ramesside monuments, especially visitors with a strong interest in archaeology, UNESCO sites, and solar alignment phenomena. It also suits independent travelers who prefer a straightforward admission product rather than a packaged sightseeing service.

What lingers

  • 01Sun Festival illumination occurs annually on 22 February and 22 October, lighting Ramses II's sanctuary while Ptah remains shaded.
  • 02Visit both the Great Temple of Ramses II and the Small Temple of Nefertari, dedicated to Hathor.
  • 03Abu Simbel sits about 280 km (174 miles) south of Aswan; road transfer typically takes 3.5–4 hours.
  • 04We arrange pre-booked Sun Festival tickets, priority site access, and early-morning transport from Aswan to avoid crowds.
  • 05Relocated in 1964–1968 during Aswan High Dam works, Abu Simbel is part of the Nubian Monuments UNESCO listing.

The fine print

What's included – and what isn't

Included

  • Entry ticket

Not included

  • Professional Egyptologist guide, book separately if required
  • Transport to and from Abu Simbel
  • Meals and personal expenses
  • Photography permit if applicable; photography rules vary, check at the entrance
  • Gratuities

Asked & answered

Frequent questions

  1. 01When is the Abu Simbel Sun Festival?
    The Sun Festival occurs on 22 February and 22 October at sunrise. On those dates sunlight reaches the inner sanctuary and illuminates specific seated statues. Attendance is limited and the illumination moment depends on local horizon and weather. Book early and expect a pre-dawn start to reach viewing points on time.
  2. 02How do I get to Abu Simbel from Aswan?
    You can reach Abu Simbel by road transfer, by domestic flight from Aswan, or as part of a Nile cruise itinerary. We arrange private transfers and timed-entry where available; flights are less frequent and cruise calls follow the ship’s schedule. Unlike large coach day trips, we prioritise pre-dawn private transfers to experience the alignment with fewer crowds.
  3. 03Do I need to book tickets in advance for the Sun Festival?
    Yes – attendance on 22 February and 22 October requires advanced booking because ticket allocation is limited. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and can secure official timed-entry or festival tickets when they are released. Availability can sell out months ahead, so contact us early to confirm options and any supplemental seating or access.
  4. 04Are entrance fees included for Abu Simbel tickets?
    Standard site entrance fees for Abu Simbel are included unless we state otherwise. Special festival seating, private ceremonies, commercial filming, or press-level access may carry supplements and separate permits. Gratuities to guides and drivers are not included unless we explicitly state they are.
  5. 05Is Abu Simbel accessible for travelers with limited mobility?
    Abu Simbel has uneven rock surfaces, steps at the temple entrances, and limited shade; full accessibility is not guaranteed. There are ramps in some areas but steep approaches and loose gravel remain challenging. We can arrange porter assistance and a private transfer; contact us before booking so we can assess specific mobility needs and plan assistance.
  6. 06Can I photograph or film during the Sun Festival?
    Photography for personal use is generally permitted; flash, tripods, and drone use are often restricted. On festival days restrictions are stricter and you may be asked to stay within allocated viewing zones. Commercial filming requires prior permits from Egyptian authorities – speak with us early if you need a filming permit or press access.
  7. 07What should I bring and wear for the Sun Festival?
    Bring sun protection, plenty of water, sturdy walking shoes, and a valid ID; temples require modest dress. Expect strong sun exposure around sunrise with little shade–hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses are essential; a light layer can help for cooler early-morning temperatures. Pack any necessary medications and travel documents; festival days can involve waiting in open areas.

Editorial review

Reviewed by Khaled Mansour

Product ID: TKT-ASW-485647

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