Abu Simbel Temple & Ramses II Statues: Travel Guide to Egypt’s Ancient Marvel

The Abu Simbel Temple might not get the global spotlight like the Pyramids of Giza, but it offers an equally powerful dose of ancient Egyptian magic. This remote archaeological site will blow your mind if you’re into epic history, jaw-dropping statues, and once-in-a-lifetime travel experiences.

Located deep in southern Egypt, near the border with Sudan, Abu Simbel is a true marvel. It’s not just about size, although the massive Ramses II statues at 20 meters tall will leave you awestruck. It’s about the vision, engineering, and spirituality that went into carving these monuments straight into the sandstone cliffs.

What makes visiting Abu Simbel, Egypt, even more incredible is the effort that went into preserving it. In the 1960s, this site faced destruction due to the rising waters of Lake Nasser. But thanks to an international campaign led by UNESCO, the entire complex was relocated, piece by piece, to save it from disappearing forever.

This guide is designed to walk you through everything you need: the temples’ origin, how to get there, what to expect on site, and why the Abu Simbel Sound and Light Show is worth staying overnight. Along the way, we’ll offer tips, insights, and practical travel advice so you can plan an unforgettable journey.

So grab your notebook, charge your camera, and explore one of Egypt’s greatest hidden treasures — the Great Temple of Abu Simbel, its awe-inspiring statues, and the legacy of Pharaoh Ramses II.

What Is Abu Simbel?

Built in 1244 BC during the reign of Pharaoh Ramses II, the Abu Simbel Temple was designed to make a statement — both to the gods and to any rivals of Egypt. It’s not one temple but two:

• The Great Temple of Abu Simbel, dedicated to Ramses himself
• The Small Temple, honoring his beloved queen, Nefertari

But don’t let the word “small” fool you — both structures are carved entirely out of solid rock. These temples aren’t built with blocks; they’re sculpted into the cliff. This ancient design choice made relocation by UNESCO in 1968 an engineering miracle.

The Great Temple blends religious devotion, political propaganda, and cosmic alignment. It commemorates Ramses’ military victories, especially the Battle of Kadesh in 1274 BC, and aligns perfectly with the sun during two solar festivals a year, when sunlight reaches the inner sanctuary.

Discovered in 1813 by Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt and fully uncovered by 1817, the temples remained hidden under sand for centuries. Today, they are the best testament to the artistic and engineering genius of ancient Egypt.

Beyond history, the Ramses II statues are what leave visitors speechless. Carved with incredible detail, these 20-meter-tall colossi portray Ramses seated on his throne, wearing the double crown of Upper and Lower Egypt. One of the statues is famously headless, damaged by a long-ago earthquake — a detail that only adds to its mystique.

How To Get To Abu Simbel

Located roughly 280 kilometers south of Aswan, Abu Simbel village feels like the edge of the Earth — and that’s part of its charm.

Step 1: Get to Aswan from Cairo

Your journey starts in Cairo. You can reach Aswan by:

• Flight: EgyptAir or Air Cairo (~1.5 hours, $50–USD 100)
• Train: Overnight sleeper train (more time-consuming, but scenic)

Step 2: Travel from Aswan to Abu Simbel

You have two main options:

• Drive: A 3.5–4 hour road trip each way. Comfortable and scenic.
• Fly: A 45-minute flight via EgyptAir (~$80 one way)

No direct flights from Cairo to Abu Simbel exist, so a stop in Aswan is mandatory.

If you’re keen on speed, fly. Driving is the way to go if you want the whole desert experience and don’t mind an early start.

Pro Tip: If you aim to catch the Abu Simbel Sound and Light Show, plan to fly or stay overnight. More on that later.

Day Tours To Abu Simbel From Aswan

For most travelers, a day trip from Aswan is the most convenient and budget-friendly way to explore Abu Simbel.

• Start Time: Between 4–5 AM (to beat the heat)
• Duration: Around 7–8 hours round trip
• Cost: Varies based on private vs. group tour ($30–USD 100)

While convoys are no longer required, early departures remain common. It helps you avoid scorching midday heat and heavy crowds.

Travelers on a tight itinerary or limited budget will appreciate this option. You’ll have enough time to explore both temples and return to Aswan for dinner.

Flying To Abu Simbel

Flying is the best bet if you hate long road trips or have limited time.

• Flight Duration: ~45 minutes
• Operates: Only from Aswan
• Cost: ~ USD 160 round trip

It is ideal if:

• You’re attending the Abu Simbel Sound and Light Show
• You plan to stay overnight
• You want a smoother, less tiring experience

But the drive is more sensible if you’re only doing a day trip and watching your budget.

Visiting Abu Simbel Temple

Arriving at Abu Simbel is like stepping into a time machine. It’s a short 5–10 minute walk from the parking lot to the temples. If you’re coming from the village, it’s about a 15-minute stroll.

What To Bring:

• Water bottles (it gets HOT)
• Sunscreen and a hat
• Sunglasses
• Comfortable walking shoes

Beware of aggressive souvenir vendors near the entrance. Most are harmless but persistent. A firm “No, thank you” or ignoring them works.

Facilities include clean toilets and a few small cafés. While there’s some shade at the visitor area, the temples are open-air, so come prepared.

Abu Simbel Temple Ticket Prices

• Keep your photo ticket visible; guards check regularly.
• Mobile photography is free, but professional cameras require a pass.
• Tickets can be bought at the gate — no online reservations needed.

The Great Temple Of Ramses II

It is the crown jewel of Abu Simbel. The four Ramses II statues seated at the facade are unforgettable.

Each statue measures nearly 20 meters. Thousands of years later, they’re carved with such precision that they still express emotion and presence.

Inside, the temple continues to impress. It’s aligned to allow the sun to illuminate the innermost chamber twice yearly — on February 22 and October 22. These dates are believed to mark Ramses’ birthday and coronation.

This solar alignment was preserved even after UNESCO relocated Abu Simbel, an astonishing feat of modern engineering.

Inside The Great Temple

Step inside, and you’re met by towering pillars shaped like Osiris, the god of the underworld — all modeled after Ramses.

The walls depict:

• The Battle of Kadesh, where Ramses claimed victory over the Hittites
• Offerings to various gods
• Ramses in different ceremonial poses

The deeper chambers are darker, quieter, and spiritual. Despite their age, the carvings remain remarkably intact.

Bring your photo pass to capture these interiors — guards do patrol.

The Small Temple of Queen Nefertari

Just 100 meters from the main temple lies a gem — the Small Temple, dedicated to Queen Nefertari and the goddess Hathor.

It’s smaller in scale, but not in grandeur. The facade features six statues — four of Ramses and two of Nefertari, each standing at 10 meters. This equal representation was rare in ancient Egypt, showing the queen’s significance.

The walls inside depict scenes of worship, rituals, and shared divinity — a celebration of beauty, power, and unity.

Inside The Small Temple

The interior is richly decorated:

• Six square pillars with Hathor-headed capitals
• Vivid reliefs of gods, offerings, and dance
• A beautiful scene of Ramses presenting a lotus flower to Nefertari

Compared to the Great Temple, this space is more intimate and often less crowded, perfect for quiet exploration and reflection.

Abu Simbel Sound & Light Show

If you stay overnight, don’t miss the Abu Simbel Sound and Light Show.

• Time: 7 PM
• Duration: 45 minutes
• Cost: 150 EGP (~$9 USD)
• Languages: Multilingual (headphones available)

This nighttime experience adds depth to your visit. The temples come to life through laser projections and dramatic narration with stories of Ramses, gods, and battles. It’s widely considered the best light show in Egypt.

Tip: A minimum of 7 guests is required to run the show. Coordinate with your hotel or tour guide in advance.

Where To Stay In Abu Simbel

The area doesn’t have big hotels, but you’ll find comfortable local options.

Top Picks:

• Tuya Hotel
  • Closest to the temples (5–10 min walk)
  • Basic amenities, clean rooms, decent WiFi
• Eskaleh Nubian Lodge
  • Cultural charm, eco-conscious design
  • Great meals, friendly staff

Book in advance — especially during solar events in February and October.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Abu Simbel?

Best Months:

• December to March: Cooler temps, great for photos
• April–May / September–October: Warm but tolerable
• June–August: HOT (45°C+), but fewer crowds

Solar Alignment Dates:

• February 22 and October 22: Temples align with the sunrise — a bucket-list event.

Stick to winter if you’re into photography or want to avoid the heat. For a spiritual experience, time your trip for a solar event.

Wrap-Up

A trip to Abu Simbel isn’t easy, but worth every step. The Ramses II statues, the solar-aligned temples, the relocation story, and the profound historical aura make it one of the most impressive sites in Egypt.

Whether visiting on a quick day trip or staying for the Abu Simbel Sound and Light Show, you’ll walk away with awe. The temples represent not just Egypt’s past, but also the collective effort to preserve it.

Few places on Earth blend art, science, and spirituality like this. If you’re crafting your Egypt itinerary, visiting Abu Simbel should be at the top.