Abu Simbel Getting There & Away

Getting There & Away

It is a real treck from the nearest tourist town, so be prepared for a long drive. But it is so so worth it, it is one of the most stunning Temples in Egypt. It is paricularly hot. By plane EgyptAir offers daily flights to Abu Simbel from both Cairo (NB: early morning flight, about 5.30 am) and Aswan (up to four flights daily). http://www.egyptair.com.eg/docs/Services/services2.htm By car Abu Simbel is currently inaccessible to foreigners travelling by car, on account of police security concerns. The road from Aswan to Abu Simbel is open, however, to bus travel. By bus Foreign travellers can get to Abu Simbel by coach or minibus from Aswan, travelling in police convoys. There is at least one daily convoy each way - the number and frequency of these are often raised when demand increases. Travellers are advised to check at the Aswan tourist office before making firm plans. For most of the year, the bus convoys leave Aswan around 3:30am to avoid the searing desert heat for at least the outward journey. Trips can be booked at a day's notice from even the most budget of hotels' receptions, although the tourist information kiosk near Aswan central station is the safest option. All buses travel together in a military convoy, and the journey takes around 3 hours each way. It is advisable to travel on air conditioned buses, as the journey back to Aswan is very hot. By boat It is possible to travel by cruise ship from Aswan through Lake Nasser to Abu Simbel