How To Get To Abu Simbel From Cairo With Ease And Comfort
Planning to visit the legendary Abu Simbel Temples but starting in Cairo? This complete guide shows exactly how to get to Abu Simbel from Cairo smoothly — whether you prefer speed, comfort, or a budget-friendly route.
We cover every transport option: direct flights, flying via Aswan, overnight trains, long-distance buses, guided day trips, and even private transfers. You’ll also find essential tips on timing, costs, and what to expect when you arrive.
Your journey from Cairo to Abu Simbel doesn’t have to be stressful — and we’ll help make it exciting from the very start!
- Fastest route: Flight Cairo → Aswan → Abu Simbel (total ~3–4 hours).
- Direct flights: Available on selected days; check schedules early.
- Budget option: Overnight train to Aswan + tourist bus.
- Day trips: Possible from Cairo if flying both ways.
- Best time to visit: Early morning to avoid the heat.
- Entrance fees: ~600 EGP for adults / ~300 EGP for students.
Where is Abu Simbel Located?
Abu Simbel is located in southern Egypt near the border with Sudan, overlooking the shores of Lake Nasser. It is about 1,260 km south of Cairo and approximately 280 km from Aswan.
This remote desert location is one reason why most travelers start their journey in Cairo and head south — either by flight or by connecting through Aswan.
How To Get To Abu Simbel From Cairo – Quick Answer
The fastest & easiest way to reach Abu Simbel from Cairo is to fly — either direct to Abu Simbel (when available) or via Aswan (most common route).
- ✈️ Direct flight: ~1.5 hours — best for short stays
- ✈️ Cairo ➝ Aswan ➝ flight or bus/car: more flexible + explore Aswan
Continue below for prices, timings & which route suits you best 👇
Flights from Cairo to Abu Simbel
The fastest and simplest way to travel from Cairo to Abu Simbel is by direct flight. The flight takes around 1 hour 30 minutes and lands at Abu Simbel Airport, located only minutes away from the temples.
Why choose this option?
- Fastest route — ideal for tight itineraries
- Perfect for a same-day trip from Cairo
- No need for long road travel
Direct flights are not daily — so check availability early when planning your trip.
Travel from Cairo to Abu Simbel via Aswan (Most Popular Route)
If you’re planning your Egypt itinerary, the most common and flexible way to get to Abu Simbel from Cairo is to fly or take the train first to Aswan, then continue by tourist bus, private car, or a guided day trip.
This route gives you the chance to explore the beauty of Aswan — including the Philae Temple, Nubian Village, and Nile scenery — before heading to the grand temples of Ramses II on Lake Nasser.
How long is the trip from Aswan to Abu Simbel?
- 🚌 By bus: 3.5–4 hours each way
- 🚐 Private car: about 3 hours
- ✈️ Aswan ➝ Abu Simbel flight: 45 minutes
Because the temples open early, most tours start around 4:00 AM and return to Aswan around lunchtime — ideal for catching a Nile cruise afterward.
Take the Cairo to Aswan Train + Bus to Abu Simbel
A popular budget-friendly way to reach Abu Simbel from Cairo is taking the overnight sleeper train or regular seated train to Aswan, then continue by tourist bus or private vehicle.
Train Duration from Cairo to Aswan
- 🚄 Sleeper train: ~12–14 hours
- 🪑 Seated train: ~10–12 hours
If you prefer comfort after a long journey, consider booking a private transfer upon arrival in Aswan — faster and more relaxing.
Tourist Bus from Aswan to Abu Simbel
Tourist buses are the most affordable and common way for travelers to reach Abu Simbel from Aswan. They operate daily with early departures, usually around 4:00 AM, giving you about 2 hours to explore the temples before returning.
Expect a comfortable bus with AC — and usually a guided group experience, making it a good choice for solo travelers and families alike.
- ❓ Travel time: 3.5–4 hours
- 💰 Best value for money
- 🕐 Early start — avoid midday heat
Private Car or Private Tour from Aswan
If you want a flexible and comfortable journey, hiring a private car or booking a private day tour from Aswan to Abu Simbel is the premium option. You’ll avoid crowded group buses and can set your own schedule.
- 🚘 Travel time: ~3 hours
- 🕗 Choose your preferred departure time
- 🎤 Private Egyptologist guide available
Which Way Should You Choose?
| Option | Best for |
|---|---|
| Direct flight | Fast trips, same-day visits |
| Cairo ➝ Aswan ➝ Bus/Car | Those exploring Aswan too |
| Train ➝ Bus | Budget travelers |
| Private car | Comfort & flexibility |
Interesting Facts About Abu Simbel
- Carved over 3,200 years ago during the reign of Ramses II.
- The temples were relocated in the 1960s to save them from the rising waters of Lake Nasser.
- The statues at the entrance stand 20 meters tall.
- Twice a year (Oct 22 & Feb 22), the sun illuminates the inner sanctuary — except Ptah.
- The second temple honors Queen Nefertari, one of the few temples dedicated to a queen in Egypt.
Abu Simbel Ticket Prices for Foreign Visitors
Here are the official entrance fees to visit the Great Temple of Ramses II and the Temple of Queen Nefertari. These apply whether you travel from Cairo, Aswan, or Luxor.
| Ticket Type | Regular Price | Sun Festival Price (Feb 22 & Oct 22) |
|---|---|---|
| Foreigners | ||
| Adult | $15 / 750 EGP | $25 / 1200 EGP |
| Student (with ID) | $8 / 375 EGP | $15 / 600 EGP |
| Egyptians & Arabs | ||
| Adult | 30 EGP | 60 EGP |
| Student | 10 EGP | 20 EGP |
*Prices may change based on official updates from the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities.
What to Expect at Abu Simbel Temples
Abu Simbel is home to two breathtaking rock-cut temples carved during the reign of Pharaoh Ramses II. They were relocated in the 1960s during the creation of Lake Nasser — a UNESCO success story. Here is what you can see in Abu Simbel Temple.
- The Great Temple: dedicated to Ramses II and the gods of Egypt
- Nefertari Temple: a rare honor for a queen
- Marvelous reliefs showing the Battle of Kadesh & royal celebrations
- Precise solar alignment twice a year (October & February)
The Best Panoramic Point at Abu Simbel
One of the best spots for photography is the high panoramic point overlooking both temples and Lake Nasser. It offers a stunning wide-angle view — perfect for sunrise photos.
Ask your guide on arrival, and they’ll show you the short path leading up to the viewpoint.
Best Time to Visit Abu Simbel
Visits are enjoyable year-round, but temperatures in southern Egypt can be high. That’s why most travelers choose early morning tours.
- Best months: October to April
- Best time of day: 7:00–9:00 AM
- Peak events: Sun Festival — Feb 22 & Oct 22
Important Travel Tips
- Bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water — desert heat is real!
- No photography with a flash inside the temples.
- Book transport in advance — especially during festivals.
- Public restrooms available near the entrance.
Can You Spend the Night in Abu Simbel?
Yes — the village of Abu Simbel has a small number of hotels and guesthouses, ideal for those wanting to enjoy the temples at sunrise and sunset when the light is magical, and crowds are minimal.
- Peaceful atmosphere & beautiful Lake Nasser views
- Perfect if attending the Sun Festival in February or October
- More flexible than a rushed day trip
Why Travel from Cairo to Abu Simbel with Egypt Tours Group
We make the journey easy — whether you prefer flying, combining with Aswan tours, or joining a comfortable guided day trip.
- 📌 Private or group tours available
- 📌 Pickup from your hotel in Cairo or Aswan
- 📌 Certified Egyptologist guides
- 📌 Smooth logistics — we handle everything
Looking for the best way to get from Cairo to Abu Simbel? Let us help you plan a smooth and unforgettable visit.
Conclusion – The Best Way to Get from Cairo to Abu Simbel
Traveling from Cairo to Abu Simbel may require more planning than other destinations in Egypt, but the result is absolutely worth it. The quickest and most comfortable option is to fly from Cairo to Aswan, then continue to Abu Simbel by plane or private transfer. Budget travelers can also choose a train or bus journey to Aswan, followed by a scenic road trip south.
No matter how you get there, standing before the colossal statues of Ramses II and exploring the breathtaking chambers of the temples is a once-in-a-lifetime moment — a journey deep into the heart of ancient Nubia.
Plan smart, travel comfortably, and make your visit smooth and unforgettable.
The best strategy is to combine your visit with a stay in Aswan, taking an early-morning road transfer or quick domestic flight to Abu Simbel. This gives you enough time to explore without rushing, and you can still return to Cairo the same day if needed.
Let Egypt Tours Group handle transportation, tickets, and expert guides so you can simply enjoy one of Egypt’s most extraordinary monuments with zero stress.
FAQs – How to Get from Cairo to Abu Simbel
Can you fly directly from Cairo to Abu Simbel?
Yes — but not daily. Most routes connect through Aswan Airport with a short domestic flight to Abu Simbel.
What is the fastest way to travel from Cairo to Abu Simbel?
The fastest option is: Cairo ➝ Aswan (flight) ➝ Abu Simbel (flight) — total travel time ~3–4 hours.
Is there a budget option to reach Abu Simbel from Cairo?
Yes — take the overnight sleeper train to Aswan, then a bus or private transfer south to Abu Simbel.
Is a Cairo to Abu Simbel day trip possible?
Yes — if flying. You can visit in the morning and be back in Cairo by evening with plenty of time for the temples.
Which option offers the most comfort?
A private guided tour from Aswan or a roundtrip flight gives you the easiest and most flexible experience.
