From Aswan: Abu Simbel Temples and & Nefertari Temple by Air

Traveling to Egypt isn’t complete without a visit to the famous Abu Simbel temples, and this tour offers a streamlined way to see them from Aswan. We don’t claim to have personally taken the trip, but based on detailed reviews and the tour’s features, it looks like a carefully curated experience ideal for those wanting to combine comfort with culture.

What we love about this trip? First, the quick flight that gets you directly to the temples without hours of bus travel—especially valuable in a country where road trips can take up a large chunk of your day. Second, the expert guide who provides insights into the temples’ significance, making the visit much more meaningful. Third, the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, which removes the hassle of organizing local transport and allows you to focus on the experience.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour is quite structured, with a brief explanation at the temples and then some free time. If you’re expecting a private, fully guided tour with in-depth commentary throughout, you might find it slightly limited. But overall, this tour suits travelers looking for a well-organized, informative day trip that maximizes what you get from a visit to these UNESCO-protected monuments.

Ideal for history enthusiasts, first-time visitors, or anyone wanting a hassle-free way to see Abu Simbel without the long road journey. If you’re after a quick but enriching taste of Egypt’s legendary temples, this could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Fast and efficient: Fly from Aswan directly to Abu Simbel, avoiding lengthy bus rides.
• Expert guidance: Learn about the history, architecture, and significance of the temples from knowledgeable Egyptologists.
• All-in-one package: Includes hotel pickup, flights, entrance fees, bottled water, and transportation.
• Authentic experience: Visit the famous Ramses II temple and Queen Nefertari’s temple, marveling at their intricate carvings.
• UNESCO relocation story: Gain insight into the remarkable effort to save these monuments from floodwaters.
• Good value: For $589, you get a comprehensive, well-organized day out with plenty of opportunities for photos and learning.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Tour Itinerary and What You Can Expect

Starting with Comfort and Convenience

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup in Aswan, which is a real plus. No need to worry about navigating unfamiliar streets or booking separate transport. Instead, you’re greeted by a friendly guide, and then you’re transferred to the airport in a comfortable air-conditioned van. This setup ensures you’re well-prepared for the journey ahead.

The Flight to Abu Simbel

The flight itself is a major highlight. While the exact duration isn’t specified, flights between Aswan and Abu Simbel are typically quick—around 45 minutes. This short hop is a game-changer, especially considering the alternative of a 3-4 hour drive each way, which many travelers mention as a significant time investment.

Exploring the Abu Simbel Temples

Upon arrival, you’ll stand before the colossal temples built by Ramses II. The larger temple is dedicated to Ramses himself and his victories, including the famous Battle of Kadesh. The carvings and murals are impressive, with some reviewers noting the detailed depictions of Ramses’ military triumphs.

What makes this visit special, according to reviews, is the stunning architecture and preservation. The temple was rediscovered in 1813 and was relocated in 1960 to prevent submersion by the Nile, in an effort led by UNESCO. You’ll learn about this incredible engineering feat, which adds a layer of historical significance to your visit.

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The Temple of Queen Nefertari

Adjacent to Ramses’ grand temple is the Temple of Queen Nefertari, built in her honor by Ramses II. This smaller but equally captivating site features beautifully preserved carvings of Nefertari herself—something rare compared to many other Egyptian temples. You’ll appreciate the artistry and the story behind Ramses’ devotion to his beloved wife, which still resonates centuries later.

Guided Insights and Limited Free Time

The guide provides a brief explanation at each site, often around five minutes, as noted by travelers. While some mention that the guide doesn’t stay with visitors throughout, the snippets of information are generally enough to enrich your visit. If you’re expecting extensive, private commentary, you might find the experience somewhat brisk, but it still offers a solid overview.

Returning to Aswan

After your visit, you’ll fly back to Aswan, ending the day with a comfortable transfer to your hotel. This smooth cycle of flights and transfers means you get to maximize your time exploring rather than sitting in a bus or car.

Examining the Value and Experience

Price Point and What It Covers

At $589 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive package that includes flights, entrance fees, transportation, and guiding. Considering the convenience of avoiding long road trips, this is good value, especially for travelers who prefer a well-organized, hassle-free day.

Authenticity and Education

From reviews, it’s clear that most visitors appreciated the knowledgeable guides, who managed to balance quick explanations with engaging storytelling. One reviewer specifically appreciated the insight into the temples’ history of relocation, which is a remarkable story of preservation.

What Might Be Missing

A few travelers expected a more private guiding experience, as some noted only a brief five-minute explanation at the temples before being left to explore on their own. If you prefer a deeply personalized or in-depth commentary, you may want to supplement this tour with additional guide services.

Timing and Group Size

While specific group sizes aren’t mentioned, the structured nature suggests it’s likely a small group or shared tour. The timing, with flights and short visits, makes it suitable for those with limited time in Egypt or who prefer a guided, time-efficient experience.

Practical Tips

• Bring your passport for entrance and identification.
• Wear comfortable shoes—there’s a lot of walking and exploring.
• Pack sunscreen and water, especially if the weather is hot.
• Be mindful of the brief explanations; if you’re a history buff, consider asking your guide questions within the limited time.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want to see the highlights of Abu Simbel without the hassle of organizing transport or navigating local airports. It’s ideal for history lovers, cultural enthusiasts, or those on a tight schedule. If you’re interested in learning about the temples’ architecture, their story of relocation, and enjoy small-group guided tours, this one is a strong choice.

If you value smooth logistics, expert insights, and authentic sights, then this tour delivers. However, if you seek an in-depth, private-guided experience, you might want to explore other options or consider adding a personal guide.

The Sum Up

This tour from Aswan to Abu Simbel by air offers an excellent balance of convenience, education, and value. The flight component saves time and energy, allowing you to focus entirely on marveling at these extraordinary monuments. The included guide provides enough context to deepen your understanding without overwhelming you, making it a great option for first-timers or those with limited time.

The combination of UNESCO’s rescue story, stunning architecture, and expert commentary makes this an appealing choice for anyone wanting a memorable glimpse into Egypt’s iconic temples. The logistical ease ensures you won’t feel rushed or exhausted, leaving room for wonderful photos and appreciation.

Overall, it’s a well-structured, authentic experience that rewards travelers with the chance to see one of Egypt’s most famous sights comfortably and informatively. It’s best suited for curious, time-conscious travelers eager to tick off a major highlight in style.

FAQ Section

Do I need a passport to join this tour?
Yes, a valid passport is required, as it’s necessary for the airport check-in and entrance to the temples.

How long is the flight from Aswan to Abu Simbel?
The flight duration is typically around 45 minutes, making it a quick and efficient way to reach the temples.

Is the guided commentary detailed?
Guides provide brief explanations of around five minutes at each site, offering valuable insights but not extensive commentary. Reviewers note that you might be left to explore on your own afterward.

What’s included in the price?
The tour covers hotel pickup and drop-off, flights, transportation, entrance fees to the temples, guide service, and bottled water.

Are there any extra costs?
If your hotel is on Soheil Island, Hisa Island, or at Nubian hostels, there’s an additional charge. Also, the tour is paid upfront, so check cancellation policies if your plans are uncertain.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
While not explicitly stated, expect some walking and potentially uneven surfaces at the temples. Confirm with the provider if mobility support is needed.

How many people usually join the tour?
The exact group size isn’t specified, but the structure suggests it could be a small group or share with other travelers.

Can I customize this experience?
The tour is pre-organized, with limited custom options. For personalized guides or private visits, consider other available tours.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport, comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and water, especially during hot weather.

Is it worth booking in advance?
Yes, booking ahead guarantees your spot, especially since you keep the option to reserve and pay later, offering flexibility.

Choosing this tour means embracing a journey packed with history, convenience, and expert insights—perfect for making the most of your time in Egypt without sacrificing comfort.

You can check availability for your dates here: