The best months to visit Abu Simbel are Oct – Mar. 22–30°C, avoid summer heat.
Quick facts
Currency EGP (Pound) 1 USD ≈ 48 EGP
Language Arabic / Nubian Some English at temples
Timezone EET (UTC+2) No daylight saving
Best Months Oct – Mar 22–30°C, avoid summer heat
Daily Budget ~$40–80 USD Includes transport from Aswan
Visa Visa on arrival $25 USD for most nationalities
When to go
Ramesses II's colossal rock-cut temples on the shores of Lake Nasser: ancient Egypt's greatest monument, rescued from the rising waters by the world.
Getting There in Abu Simbel
- Most visitors come from Aswan (280km). The convoy departs at 3:30–4:00am, arriving 7–8am. Return convoy departs 1–2pm. Book through your Aswan hotel
- EgyptAir flies Aswan to Abu Simbel (35 minutes), and the schedule varies by season. Check egyptair.com. The aerial views of Lake Nasser and the temples are extraordinary
- Lake Nasser cruise ships (3–4 nights, Aswan to Abu Simbel) stop at Wadi es-Sebua, Amada, and Kasr Ibrim en route. The most scenic way to arrive but expensive ($400–800+ per person)
For itineraries, costs and practical travel advice, see the full Abu Simbel travel guide.
Timezone: EET (UTC+2) (No daylight saving)
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Abu Simbel?
The best months to visit Abu Simbel are Oct – Mar (22–30°C, avoid summer heat), which makes for the most comfortable conditions for sightseeing and getting around. For what a trip costs day to day, see the Abu Simbel budget breakdown.
