The ancient temples of Abu Simbel stand as Egypt’s most awe-inspiring monuments, and getting there is easier than you think. Small group tours from Aswan deliver the best bang for your buck – typically including round-trip transportation, site admission, and an expert guide who brings these 3,000-year-old temples to life. We love the early morning departures that help beat both the heat and crowds at Ramses II and Queen Nefertiti’s massive sanctuaries. The most rewarding tours give you about 3 hours to explore while providing fascinating historical context about how these temples were actually moved piece by piece in the 1960s to save them from flooding. Check out our favorite Abu Simbel tours below.
Key Points
- Highly-rated Abu Simbel tours offer comprehensive experiences, including round-trip hotel transfers, knowledgeable guides, and insights into the temples’ historical significance.
- Early morning tours provide fewer crowds and better photo opportunities at the UNESCO-listed Abu Simbel Temples, dedicated to Ramses II and Nefertiti.
- Cost-effective tour options from Aswan include entrance fees and cover the popular 8-hour excursion to the ancient Egyptian temples.
- Expert Egyptologist guides enhance the learning experience by providing information on the solar alignment events and the advanced engineering of the temples.
- Advance booking is recommended due to the popularity of Abu Simbel tours, which offer flexible cancellation policies for travelers’ convenience.
Tour to Abu Simbel Temple With a Small Group and a Professional Tour Guide
Though Abu Simbel is a remote location, travelers can easily access it through a small group tour with a professional guide.
This highly-rated tour, with a 4.4/5 rating based on 27 reviews, allows visitors to explore the temples of Queen Nefertiti and Ramses II, built over 3,000 years ago.
The tour includes round-trip hotel transfers from Aswan and covers the entrance fees, making it a convenient and cost-effective option.
Knowledgeable guides provide insights into the temple’s dedication to gods, construction methods, and solar alignment events.
While the early 4 AM pickup may not suit everyone, the benefits of fewer crowds and better photo opportunities make this tour an excellent choice for those interested in ancient Egyptian history and art.
Read our full review: Tour to Abu Simbel Temple With a Small Group and a Professional Tour Guide Review
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From Aswan: Abu Simbel Temples Tour With Egyptologist Guide
Travelers seeking to explore the ancient wonders of Egypt can embark on a captivating tour of the Abu Simbel Temples from Aswan.
This 8-hour excursion, priced at $49 per person, provides the opportunity to visit the UNESCO-listed temples and learn about their rich history from an expert Egyptologist guide.
The tour includes convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, and entrance fees.
Travelers can choose between a shared bus or a private car option.
With an overall rating of 4.2/5 based on 41 reviews, this tour is likely to sell out, so booking in advance is recommended.
Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior is available for a full refund.
Read our full review: From Aswan: Abu Simbel Temples Tour With Egyptologist Guide Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Visit Abu Simbel Temples Independently?
Yes, visitors can explore the Abu Simbel temples independently. While guided tours offer convenience, travelers have the option to visit the site on their own, giving them more flexibility and control over their sightseeing experience.
What Is the Best Time to Visit Abu Simbel?
The best time to visit Abu Simbel is early morning or late afternoon. Temperatures are cooler, and crowds are smaller compared to the middle of the day. This allows visitors to explore the temples more comfortably.
Are There Any Special Events at Abu Simbel?
Yes, there are special events at Abu Simbel. During the annual solar alignment festival, visitors can witness the sun’s rays illuminate the inner sanctum of the temple, an awe-inspiring sight. This event occurs twice yearly, in February and October.
Can I Combine Abu Simbel With Other Destinations?
Yes, visitors can combine their trip to Abu Simbel with other popular destinations in Egypt. Many tour operators offer packages that include visits to sites like Aswan, Luxor, and Nile River cruises, allowing travelers to maximize their time and see more of the country.
Are There Any Alternative Transportation Options for Abu Simbel?
Yes, there are alternative transportation options for visiting Abu Simbel besides tours. Travelers can drive themselves or take a bus from nearby cities like Aswan. They can also charter a private taxi or boat to reach this historic site.
Recap
Visiting Abu Simbel’s iconic temples is a must-do for any traveler in Egypt. With a small group and a knowledgeable Egyptologist guide, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of these impressive ancient structures and their fascinating history. Whether you’re coming from Aswan or elsewhere, these tours offer a convenient and enriching way to explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site.