Abu Simbel by Road from Aswan (Day Tour)

The short answer

Abu Simbel by Road from Aswan Day Tour is a 1-day excursion covering the Great Temple of Ramesses II and the Temple of Nefertari in Aswan, operated by Discovery Tours Egypt.

• Cultural
• Archaeology & history

Snapshot

Good to know

Duration

1 day

Background

The facts

Suited to

Is this for you?

What lingers

• 01 Private air-conditioned minivan from Aswan; 280 km, approximately 3.5–4 hours each way on the desert road.
• 02 Arrive before the late-morning heat; two hours at Abu Simbel to see Ramses II and the Hathor (Nefertari) temple.
• 03 Entrance fees included; we coordinate timed tickets to minimize queue waits and midday crowds.
• 04 Pickup commonly at 03:30–04:00 from Aswan hotels; expect return to Aswan around early evening.
• 05 Early start and long drive are trade-offs; this road option avoids flight schedules and airport transfers.

The fine print

What's included – and what isn't

Asked & answered

Frequent questions

1. 01 How long is the drive from Aswan to Abu Simbel?

   The road transfer is about 280 km and typically takes roughly three hours each way. We arrange private air-conditioned transfers rather than large coach groups. The desert highway is mostly straight with limited services; drivers usually include a short rest stop on the route.
2. 02 Can I visit Abu Simbel from Aswan in one day?

   Yes – Abu Simbel is commonly visited as a same-day return from Aswan. Expect roughly three hours each way by road and plan 90–120 minutes at the temples including security and transfers. Early departures reduce heat and the largest tour groups; flying is an alternative when available but depends on schedules.
3. 03 Are entrance fees and guides included?

   Standard site entrance fees and a licensed Egyptologist guide are included unless we state otherwise. Premium extras such as commercial filming permits, private camera licences, and gratuities are not included. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and issue the required local confirmations and tickets before departure.
4. 04 What should I bring and wear to Abu Simbel?

   Bring sun protection, sturdy closed shoes, plenty of water, and modest clothing for temple visits. Wide-brim hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses are essential because shade is limited at midday. Temperatures can be cool early morning, so layers help; small cash is useful for toilets and local vendors.
5. 05 Is photography allowed inside the temples?

   Photography is generally allowed in the Abu Simbel complex, but flash and tripods may be restricted inside some chambers. Guards enforce rules to protect painted reliefs, and commercial filming requires a permit from antiquities authorities. Restrictions can change, so we confirm limits on the day.
6. 06 Can travelers with limited mobility visit Abu Simbel?

   Partial access is possible, but both temples have steps, uneven ancient stone, and limited ramps. We can position vehicles close to the entrance and assist with short walks, but interior chambers include low thresholds and steps. Please tell us in advance so we can arrange assistance and the most convenient vehicle drop-off.
7. 07 Will we see both the Great Temple of Ramesses II and the Small Temple of Nefertari?

   Yes – visits normally include the Great Temple of Ramesses II and the nearby Small Temple to Queen Nefertari. Both temples were dismantled and relocated between 1964 and 1968 during the UNESCO Nubian salvage campaign and form part of the Nubian Monuments World Heritage listing. Solar-alignment events occur on Feb 22 and Oct 22, which draw extra visitors.

If plans change

Cancellation

More than 30 days

Full refund less a £50 admin fee

15–30 days

50% refund

Within 14 days

No refund – date changes considered case by case