Visiting Abu Simbel, the magnificent temple complex built by Ramses II, is a highlight for many travelers to Egypt. Located near the Sudanese border, Abu Simbel is quite remote — about 1,200 kilometers (750 miles) south of Cairo. However, How To Get To Abu Simbel From Cairo
1. By Air: The Fastest Option
The easiest and quickest way to get from Cairo to Abu Simbel is by plane.
- Step 1: Take a flight from Cairo to Aswan. EgyptAir offers daily flights, and the journey takes about 1.5 hours.
- Step 2: From Aswan, catch a connecting flight directly to Abu Simbel Airport. This second flight takes about 45 minutes.
Flights between Aswan and Abu Simbel are often scheduled early in the morning to allow tourists to visit the temple and return the same day.
Tip: Book flights in advance, especially in peak tourist seasons (October to April).
2. By Road: For Adventurers
If you prefer an overland journey, you can travel by car or bus.
- Step 1: First, reach Aswan from Cairo. You can do this by flight, train, or bus.
- Step 2: From Aswan, you can drive or join a convoy to Abu Simbel. The road trip from Aswan to Abu Simbel takes about 3 to 4 hours (each way).
Buses and tours usually leave early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and return by afternoon.
Important: Independent travel to Abu Simbel is possible, but many visitors prefer organized tours for comfort and security.
3. By Nile Cruise (Partial Journey)
Some luxury Nile cruises from Luxor to Aswan offer optional excursions to Abu Simbel. However, you will still need to travel overland from Aswan to Abu Simbel after your cruise ends.
This is a slower but very scenic and cultural way to get closer to Abu Simbel, combining ancient temples, villages, and Nile landscapes.
4. Privel agencies offer private tours from Cairo to Abu Simbel,
usually combining flights and local guides. Though more expensive, this option provides maximum convenience and tailored experiences.
Final Thoughts
The best way to get to Abu Simbel from Cairo depends on your budget, schedule, and sense of adventure. If you're short on time, flying is the best choice. If you enjoy road trips and local scenery, traveling overland via Aswan could be more memorable.
Wherever you start Day Tours, visiting Abu Simbel is an unforgettable experience — standing before the colossal statues, you'll truly feel the awe that Ramses II intended.
