Aswan and Abu Simbel: What to See and How to Visit

Aswan is Egypt at its most relaxed. The Nile is wide and blue here, dotted with granite rocks and green islands, and colourful Nubian villages line the west bank. It is also the gateway to Abu Simbel, one of the most impressive monuments of the ancient world.

Highlights of Aswan

• Philae Temple – the temple of Isis on its island, reached by a short boat ride. It was moved stone by stone to save it from the rising waters of the Nile.
• The High Dam – the modern engineering project that created Lake Nasser.
• The Unfinished Obelisk – a giant obelisk still lying in the ancient granite quarry where it cracked.
• A Nubian village – colourful houses, henna, tea and warm hospitality.
• A felucca sail around Elephantine and Kitchener’s islands at sunset.

Abu Simbel

Carved into a mountain by Ramses II, the two temples of Abu Simbel guard Egypt’s ancient southern border. Four colossal statues of the king sit at the entrance of the Great Temple, and the smaller temple is dedicated to Queen Nefertari. In the 1960s both temples were cut into blocks and rebuilt on higher ground to save them from Lake Nasser.

How to get to Abu Simbel

Most visitors go by road from Aswan, a drive of around three and a half hours each way, leaving before dawn and returning by lunchtime. You can also fly from Aswan or from Cairo for a shorter day.

The Sun Festival

Twice a year, around 22 February and 22 October, the rising sun shines along the full length of the Great Temple and lights the statues in the inner sanctuary. These mornings are very popular, so book well ahead.