Abu Simbel's main cost is getting there from Aswan. The temples themselves are one combined ticket. Staying overnight adds accommodation but transforms the experience.
Daily cost breakdown
Currency: EGP (Pound) (1 USD ≈ 48 EGP)
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Splurge | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | E£400–800 | E£800–1,500 | E£2,500+ | Basic guesthouse → Eskaleh ecolodge → Nefertari Hotel |
| Food | E£60–150 | E£150–300 | E£500+ | Village restaurants → ecolodge dining → hotel restaurant |
| Transport (from Aswan) | E£600–1,000 | E£1,500–3,000 | E£5,000+ | Shared convoy → private car → EgyptAir flight |
| Activities | E£500 | E£900 | E£1,500+ | Temple entry → + Sound & Light → + fishing trip |
| Daily Total | E£1,560–2,450 | E£3,350–5,700 | E£9,500+ | $33–51 → $70–119 → $198+ |
Money-saving tips
Shared convoy from Aswan
The shared minibus convoy from Aswan to Abu Simbel costs E£600–1,000 per person including temple entry. Private cars are E£3,000–5,000. Ask your hotel to group you with other travelers.
Stay overnight for value
Overnight stays at Abu Simbel are surprisingly affordable (E£800–1,500) and let you see the temples at sunrise without crowds and the Sound and Light Show — far more rewarding than the rushed 2-hour day trip.
EgyptAir off-season flights
EgyptAir flies Aswan to Abu Simbel (35 minutes) for $100–150 return. Off-season prices can drop to $80. The aerial views of Lake Nasser alone are worth the ticket and you save 7 hours of driving.
Eat in the village
Abu Simbel village has simple restaurants serving grilled meat, rice, and vegetables for E£60–100. Eskaleh ecolodge has the best food but is pricier (E£100–200). Bring snacks from Aswan for between meals.
Combined temple ticket
The combined ticket for both temples is E£500 — there's no separate ticket option. This is good value considering the quality. Student cards get 50% off.
Skip the Sound and Light if short on cash
The Sound and Light Show (E£400) is good but optional. The temples at sunrise and sunset are free with your entry ticket and equally atmospheric. Prioritise the overnight stay over the show.
