Abu Simbel Temple Ticket Price for Foreigners 2026
Abu Simbel Temple is one of Egypt’s most magnificent and iconic ancient sites — and a must-visit for travelers exploring the south of Egypt. The remote location near the Sudan border often makes visitors wonder about transportation, guided tours, and especially the Abu Simbel temple ticket price for foreigners.
In this updated guide, we explain ticket prices, opening hours, how long you need on site, and the best ways to visit — whether from Aswan, Luxor, Cairo, or even as part of a Nile Cruise. We’ll also share insider tips from Egypt Tours Group to make your trip smooth, memorable, and full of ancient Egyptian magic.
Where is Abu Simbel?
Abu Simbel is located in the far south of Egypt near the border with Sudan, about 280–290 km (around 180 miles) south of Aswan. The site includes two rock-cut temples built by King Ramses II in the 13th century BC — a breathtaking symbol of New Kingdom power and devotion to the gods.
Today, Abu Simbel is one of Egypt’s most remote yet must-visit attractions, famous for the colossal statues guarding its entrance and the astonishing Sun Festival phenomenon when sunlight illuminates the inner sanctuary twice a year.
Most travelers reach Abu Simbel by road from Aswan or by quick domestic flights — and many combine their visit with guided tours to ensure a smooth and enjoyable day trip.
Popular Abu Simbel Tours
- 2 Days Aswan & Abu Simbel Tour – from $280
- 2 Days Luxor & Abu Simbel Tour – from $375
- 4 Days Cairo & Abu Simbel Tour – from $725
- 8 Days Nile Cruise Cairo, Luxor, and Abu Simbel Tour – from $1030
These tours usually include hotel pickup, private Egyptologist guide, transportation, and assistance with Abu Simbel temple ticket price for foreigners — ensuring a comfortable and well-planned visit.
Interesting Facts About Abu Simbel
Abu Simbel Temples are masterpieces of ancient Egyptian engineering and royal power. Beyond their massive statues, these temples hide incredible stories that make them one of the most unforgettable sites in Egypt.
1️⃣ Relocation Saved by UNESCO
- When the High Dam was built, rising water from Lake Nasser threatened to submerge Abu Simbel.
- A major UNESCO rescue project (1964–1968) cut the temples into blocks and relocated them 65 meters higher — a historic global effort.
2️⃣ The Solar Alignment Phenomenon
- Twice a year — 22 February & 22 October — the rising sun illuminates the sanctuary and Ramses II’s face perfectly.
- This astronomical precision remained accurate even after relocation — an incredible achievement.
3️⃣ A Temple of Love for Queen Nefertari
- Ramses II built the Small Temple for his beloved wife Nefertari, honoring her as the goddess Hathor.
- Her statues are nearly the same height as the king — a rare symbol of royal equality.
These wonders make the Abu Simbel experience unmissable — especially when paired with expert guides who reveal the hidden history behind the temples.
How to Get to Abu Simbel
There are three main ways to reach Abu Simbel: by flight, by private vehicle from Aswan, or as part of a shared/group tour. Your choice depends on time, comfort level, and budget — especially if you’re planning Abu Simbel as a day trip or combining it with a Nile Cruise.
✈️ 1) Flying to Abu Simbel (Fastest Option)
- From Aswan Airport → Abu Simbel: about 45 minutes flight time.
- Flights operate on selected days via EgyptAir, especially in peak seasons.
- Ideal if you have a tight schedule and want to avoid 6–7 hours of driving.
Many travelers fly Cairo → Aswan, spend a day exploring Aswan (Philae Temple, High Dam, Unfinished Obelisk), then continue by flight or road to Abu Simbel the same day or next morning.
🚐 2) Private Vehicle from Aswan (Most Popular)
- Approx. 3.5–4 hours each way through the Nubian Desert (around 280 km).
- Early departure (around 4–5 AM) to arrive before heat and crowds.
- Comfortable for families and small groups — with options for standard cars, vans, or luxury vehicles.
A private road trip is usually more affordable than flying, especially if you share the vehicle cost with other travelers and combine it with a guided tour.
🚍 3) Group Tours & Shared Transport (Budget-Friendly)
- Ideal for budget travelers who don’t mind fixed departure times.
- Typically includes shared transport, an expert guide, and assistance with entrance tickets.
- Less flexible than a private tour but still a very safe and popular way to visit Abu Simbel.
🚏 Visiting Abu Simbel from Luxor
You can visit Abu Simbel on a very long day trip from Luxor, but the most efficient plan is usually:
- Travel from Luxor → Aswan (by road, train, or cruise).
- Continue from Aswan → Abu Simbel by flight or private vehicle.
- Return to Aswan the same day, or stay overnight depending on your itinerary.
If you’re staying in Luxor or continuing to Aswan, a Nile Cruise itinerary can easily include Abu Simbel as one of its most famous highlights.
Abu Simbel Ticket Prices (Updated)
Ticket prices at Abu Simbel Temples vary depending on nationality and whether you visit during the famous Sun Festival dates (Feb 22 & Oct 22). Payments are made by credit/debit card only — cash is not accepted.
- Adults: 750 EGP ≈ US$15
- Students (with ID): 375 EGP ≈ US$8
- Sun Festival: 1200 EGP adult / 600 EGP student
- Adult: 30 EGP / Student: 10 EGP
- Sun Festival: 60 EGP adult / 20 EGP student
- Professional Camera: 300 EGP
- Taxi/Private Car: 25 EGP
- Microbus: 50 EGP
- Coaster: 75 EGP
- Tourist Bus: 100 EGP
*Prices may change based on official tourism updates.
Opening Hours, Visit Duration & Other Costs
- Opening: around 5:00 AM
- Closing: around 6:00 PM
- Recommended visit: 2–2.5 hours
- Aswan → Abu Simbel (by road): 3.5–4 hours
- Aswan → Abu Simbel (flight): ~45 minutes
- Tipping for guides & drivers
- Snacks & drinks for the long day
- Souvenirs from temple shops
- Transportation to/from your base city
Is Visiting Abu Simbel Worth It?
Absolutely — Abu Simbel is one of the most impressive places in all of Egypt. These temples reflect the immense power of King Ramses II, his devotion to Queen Nefertari, and the engineering genius of ancient Egyptians.
- Jaw-dropping rock-cut temples over 3,000 years old.
- The famous Sun Festival when sunlight illuminates the sanctuary twice a year.
- Panoramic views of Lake Nasser and the Nubian Desert.
- A once-in-a-lifetime, bucket-list experience for history and photography lovers.
Whether you love ancient architecture, storytelling, or simply want to feel the scale of Ramses II’s legacy, Abu Simbel is a highlight many travelers rank as the best day of their Egypt trip.
What to Expect on a Visit to Abu Simbel
Your visit to Abu Simbel with Egypt Tours Group is designed to be smooth, informative, and full of special moments along Lake Nasser and the Nubian region.
- Hear the story of how a young local boy helped rediscover the temples in modern times.
- Learn why the site is called “Abu Simbel” and how Ramses II used it to project power in the south.
- Enjoy the peaceful breeze and stunning views over the lake and desert cliffs.
- Explore both the Great Temple and the Small Temple carved deep into the rock, with detailed explanations of the scenes and deities.
- Understand how UNESCO engineers cut and moved the temples block by block to save them from the rising waters of Lake Nasser.
Know More About what makes ancient Egyptian art and architecture stand out →
Why Visit Abu Simbel with Egypt Tours Group
A smooth and memorable trip starts with choosing a trusted local expert who takes care of every detail. With Egypt Tours Group, your journey to Abu Simbel and across Egypt becomes clear, flexible, and stress-free.
- Flexible itineraries tailored to your schedule, interests, and starting city.
- Clear trip details from booking to final drop-off — no hidden surprises.
- Multiple tour options across Cairo, Aswan, Luxor, and the Red Sea.
- Expert Egyptologist guides and professional drivers for a safe, enjoyable journey.
- Excellent value for money, with choices for different budgets and travel styles.
- Engaging storytelling at iconic sites, including the Sun Alignment at Abu Simbel.
- Optional unique experiences, such as a Private Felucca Ride in Aswan (from $25).
Conclusion – Why Abu Simbel Should Be on Your Egypt Itinerary
Visiting Abu Simbel is more than just a stop on your Egypt itinerary — it is a journey into the power, legacy, and love story of King Ramses II and Queen Nefertari. The precise sun alignment in February and October, the massive seated statues, and the intricate carvings inside the temples make this experience one of Egypt’s most unforgettable highlights.
Whether you travel by flight or overland from Aswan, knowing the Abu Simbel Temple ticket price for foreigners, the travel time, and the total estimated cost in advance helps you plan your day smoothly and focus on what matters most — enjoying the wonder and beauty of ancient Egyptian civilization.
Make sure to include Abu Simbel in your trip — some experiences in life are simply too extraordinary to miss.
For the best experience, we recommend visiting early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds. If you’re staying in Aswan, the sunrise drive or short flight are both excellent options — and you can easily combine this trip with Aswan day tours.
Need a seamless and comfortable trip? Let Egypt Tours Group arrange everything — from transportation to tickets and expert guides — so you just relax and enjoy the magic of Abu Simbel.
FAQs – Abu Simbel Temple Ticket Price & Visiting Tips
How much is the Abu Simbel Temple ticket price for foreigners?
The current ticket price for foreign adults is around EGP 800+, and about EGP 400–450 for foreign students with valid ID. Prices may change depending on exchange rate and official updates — always check shortly before your visit or book with a trusted tour company that confirms the latest rates for you.
Can you go inside Abu Simbel Temples?
Yes — the entrance ticket includes access to both the Great Temple of Ramses II and the Small Temple of Nefertari. Some restricted areas may be closed for preservation, but you can still explore the main halls and chambers.
Do you need a guide to explore Abu Simbel?
A guide is not required, but highly recommended. An experienced Egyptologist explains the history of Ramses II, the solar alignment, and the symbolism of the carvings inside the temples — turning your visit into a much deeper and more memorable experience.
How far is Abu Simbel from Aswan?
Abu Simbel is about 280 km south of Aswan. A road trip takes around 3.5–4 hours each way, while a flight from Aswan to Abu Simbel takes around 45 minutes.
How long do you need inside Abu Simbel?
Most travelers spend 90 minutes to 2 hours exploring the temples, taking photos from different viewpoints, and enjoying the scenery over Lake Nasser.
Is photography allowed inside Abu Simbel?
Phone photography is allowed (without flash). Professional cameras may require an additional ticket. Tripods, stands, and artificial lighting are generally not allowed inside the temples to protect the reliefs.
Is Abu Simbel worth visiting?
Absolutely — Abu Simbel is one of Egypt’s most impressive ancient sites and a UNESCO World Heritage location. Many visitors describe it as the highlight of their trip to Egypt.
Are there toilets and facilities at Abu Simbel?
Yes — the complex includes restrooms, a visitor center, kiosks, and shaded seating areas near the entrance, so you can rest before or after your visit.
