Abu Simbel's rock-cut temples are in Upper Egypt (Southern Egypt) near the border with Sudan. The Twin temples were carved out of the mountainside in 13th Century BC and serve as lasting monuments for King Ramesses II.
Abu Simbel Temples were dismantled and relocated to prevent them from being ruined by Lake Nasser which was created as a result of constructing the Aswan High Dam on the Nile.
Activities
On your visit to Abu Simbel, you can engage in any of the following activities.
- Visit the Temples
- Nightly Sound & Light Show
- Photography
- Shopping
- Cruising on Lake Nasser
- Sportfishing
When To Visit
The Best time to visit Abu Simbel is during the winter months from November to April. This is when the temperatures are more comfortable and manageable.
November to March is Egypt's high season for tourism, and it is advisable that you book ahead of time.
Related articles: Best time to visit Egypt
Getting There
Getting to Abu Simbel is quite easy since you can fly from Cairo to Aswan. From Aswan, you can choose to drive or to sail the Nile to Abu Simbel.
International flights from some European and Arab Countries go directly to Luxor, and can easily bring you to Abu Simbel without stopping in Cairo.
Driving from Aswan to Abu Simbel will take you around 3 hours to cover the 300 kilometres.
Where To Stay
Abu Simbel is a popular tourist spot with modern hotels to satisfy any budget and preference. You can also spend your night on houseboats that cruise on Lake Nasser.
