Abu Simbel Private Full-Day Tour from Aswan
Recommended by 97% of travelers
Badge of Excellence
Aswan, Egypt
- 8 to 10 hours (approx.)
- Pickup offered
- Group discounts
- Offered in: English
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Overview
Monuments to royal power and passion, the Abu Simbel Temples are a Lower Egypt highlight but getting there can be tricky. Enjoy space to spread out and set the air conditioning to a temperature that suits you on this private door-to-door tour with onboard Wi-Fi. Your Egyptologist guide will tell tales of Ramses II and Nefertari, and how the temples escaped the rising Nile. Entrance fees are at your expense.
- Spend the morning discovering the Abu Simbel Temples with a private guide
- Early start lets you beat the worst of the Sahara heat
- Onboard Wi-fi keeps you connected without the roaming charges
- Hassle-free transfers from Aswan east bank hotels and cruise ships
What's Included
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Snacks
- Bottled water
- Private transportation
- All Fees and Taxes
- Egyptologist tour guide
- Baby seat if requested
- Entrance fees
- Tipping and gratitude
Meeting and Pickup
You can head directly to the meeting point, or request pickup
Itinerary
1
Abu Simbel Temple
8 hours • Admission Ticket Not Included
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Wheelchair accessible
- Stroller accessible
- Near public transportation
- Infant seats available
- Transportation is wheelchair accessible
- Surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Most travelers can participate
- This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
Supplied by
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Traveler Photos
Reviews
4.9
based on 259 reviews
Sort by: Most insightful
Jose_N, Jul 2026
Great experience, our driver Magdi very friendly and helpful. Our guide, Han, explained everything very good and help us around the complex
Muyang_Y, Jul 2026
Very good experience overall. We took the ride on a large van, and there are two drivers rotating as driver. It’s well air conditioned and the ride was smooth. The guide at Abu Simbel Honey was amazing! Explained things well and left us as much time as we want to explore. The recommended lunch spot with fish dishes is descent, though do be aware when paying since the restaurant to charge me of what the drivers ordered.
Shay_B, Jun 2026
Hany, our guide was friendly and knowledgeable. There were no issues, the whole experience was enjoyable. We were picked up in a clean and spacious mini van - would recommend.
sara_b, Jun 2026
Awful experience.I booked the ITALIAN tour the day before the excursion because my mother doesn't speak english (this tour is one of the few with this option and therefore even more expensive). I receveid the confirmation and no other details from the host. On the way to AbuSimbel, about 25 min. from the arrival, I got a messagge from the organiser saying the italian guide was sick and couldn't show up. I could do an english tour at the same cost or get a refund less than 30€, which is the cost for the guide. Viator assistance couldn't do anything more and I was already on the place, 300km away from my hotel. We had no other option than taking the partial refund and do the excursion on ourself. Very bad treatment. The organiser also told me: "you booked last minute...", for sure he couldn't provide an italian tour but instead of warning us on the booking day, he waited at the last so that we woulnd't have lost the whole reservation. He could have paid the entrance tickets for us at least, it would have been appreciated but when I asked, he refused several times. Viator has done nothing more: when you book no protection as customer but you submit cancellation policy deadlines, so do not use Viator; use other tours platforms that are a lot cheaper. AbuSimbel guided tour doesn't worth the price, just get a taxi and visit it on your own.
Response from Host, Jun 2026
Hi
I'm so surprised to hear that from you .
As you booked few hours before the activity starts and you couldn't cancel due to cancelation policy .
And you have been informed with everything just before the activity starts and the options was to go with an English guide , or no guide at all and get the guiding refund .
While there is no difference at all in prices between Italian , English or any other language guiding ( and everyone can check )
Then you choosed the English guide option since you can speak English and you translate to your Mother .
The. I got a message from you negotiate with me to get a partial refund ( while it was an option and you refused) or review us negatively
And you got paid 30 URO ( as you mentioned).
And by the way the tickets prices is 26 URO for both of you .
and everything was clearly and honestly described .
It was April while the Easter season and you got the full service as requested and you got paid a compromise for not providing an Italian guide .
So now i don't understand why you are still complaining.
Thanks
Mary_R, Jun 2026
We were a group of 8 on a Viking RiverCruise. The excursion to Abu Simbel did not have enough plane seats available for all of us so we booked the day through Viator. We were connected with Omar, our tour guide from Black Dragon Tours. He did a fabulous job. Excellent historical knowledge and a joy to travel with. We had a private 8 person tour in a comfortable van that drove us 3 hrs to the temples. Yes a plane ride is much quicker but would have had to sit in the airport waiting for 2 hrs to leave so we arrived at the site at least 45 min before them. It was quite interesting driving thru the Sahara dessert and learned quite a bit about it. We arrived safely about 10:00 AM and had the entire place to ourselves!! Not a single person in the temples with us. As we were finishing up the groups from out boat that flew were just arriving. The point is we saved $400 per person on the same excursion, had the best experience at the temples and arrived back only 30 min after everyone else. This is a great alternative. Request Omar he’s wonderful!!
xhiashi, Jun 2026
Amazing experience. Driver was great and communicated very well. I would highly recommend this tour. We actually started at 9 AM because we wanted to eat breakfast and it was enough time. When we got there, it was after all the tour buses left so there was only a few people there. This was in May 2026
barry_s, May 2026
The Viator tour of Abu Simbel worked out GREAT for the 4 of us...
We were picked up promptly at the dock where are river cruise ship was situated, returned to that precise location as well. Our ride was comfortable and we had an outstanding tour guide, Omar. He provided a thorough explanation of the statuary and construction and relocation of this marvel
JOSHUA_G, May 2026
Amazing experience. The drive was 3.5 hours from Aswan to the site but we had a great driver. He was punctual, very nice and took us to a local restaurant that the food was fantastic. His name was Hany. Abu Simbel was gorgeous!
Jamie_C, May 2026
Haney was great! The car was very nice and air conditioned! He texted the night ahead to confirm and ended up adjusting the logistics to something that made things much easier for us and improved the overall experience. Thank you so much!!
William_L, May 2026
Our driver Morkos Hana (Mark) was excellent. Picked us (4 pax) up onboard our Viking ship at exactly 4:00 AM. He brought water and snacks for us and was full of interesting information about Abu Simbel and southern Egypt. Drove very safely in our newish Toyota Hiace van. Had a timely restroom stop halfway into the 3-hour drive. Morkos had tickets for us upon arrival and connected us with the best guide- Tiger. The temples are spectacular and the guide was very good. The return trip was smooth and restful- I think we all napped a bit on the way back.
As for the Viator part…the booking was a little frustrating. I never could select the correct pick-up point because the preset choices were all hotels…”cruise ships” or the port were not options. Right to the last day, Viator threatened to cancel if I didn’t select a pick-up point. I was finally able to message the operator to let them know we were on a Viking ship. Also frustrating was that we bought the Luxury Tour, including entrance fees….but our itinerary and receipt continued to list entrance fees as “not included”. It wasn’t until we actually arrived at Abu Simbel that we were positive that tickets were indeed included. All-in-all a great experience, but the VIATOUR site could use a little tweaking.
Laura_M, Apr 2026
Our visit to Abu Simbel was an amazing experience, made even better by our excellent driver, Hany. He was knowledgeable, polite, and made us feel comfortable throughout the journey. His car was very comfortable, and he was incredibly helpful, pointing out many interesting sights and sharing useful information along the way. Hany’s professionalism and friendly attitude made the trip smooth and enjoyable. Highly recommended!
carola_w, Apr 2026
Travelling with Hany, our driver, was an outstanding interesting and informative experience. He was exceptionally attentive without being annoying and gave us a lot of information concerning land and people. Besides, he had a lot of charm and wit and we had a lot of fun during that long drive. Abu Simbel, of course, was really impressive and is absolutely worth a visit. As we arrived at noon, the masses had already gone which made the visit even better.
Anindita_B, Apr 2026
My driver was Hany. And honestly I have really nothing negative to point out here. Hany asked for my address the evening before. He was at my location 5 minutes before departure. He had brought along the snacks and water as promised. He accommodated my need to stop and withdraw some cash at an ATM. The drive to Abu Simbel was super smooth. Hany kept educating me along the way about developments in the Sahara. At Abu Simbel he introduced me to the guide who did the rest of the job. The guides job is pretty short since they are not allowed to enter the temples. The knowledge was basic but correct. At the end the guides did push a bit for tips (but that’s all of Egypt anyway). Hany was patient as I completed some local shopping. The entire experience was structured, calm, and not rushed. Highly reccomended.
ChungLi_C, Apr 2026
Our driver Hany is a nice gentle man. He showed up in our hotel 10 minutes beforehand and helped me and my wife to carry all our stuffs to his car. The car is clean and very comfortable, the seats can be set inclined to your like. In the whole trip, we just laid back like in a chaise sofa, and were able take a full rest/sleep. Hany drives safely and carefully. He is also very knowledgeable about Egyptian history and local Attractions. He recommended a local restaurant for diner. We went there after the trip. The food was excellent and the cost is very affordable.
Thank you Hany for our great trip to Abu Simbel!
Susan_H, Apr 2026
Hany was an excellent driver and very friendly. The car was very comfortable, with reclining seats and shades for the window. Hany texted the night before the trip to ensure everything went smooth, which I appreciated. He was very efficient. Would 100% recommend.
Zayd_A, Mar 2026
This was a brilliant tour - the best one in Egypt so far. Our tour guide, Mina , was brilliant. Very knowledgeable and enthusiastic. I highly recommend!
Maria_P, Mar 2026
Long drive but do stop at rest stops and driver provides snacks ; there are two guides at site to get you a ticket and guide inside
Chris_R, Mar 2026
We did this tour on March, 20 2026. After cruising the Nile we were excited to round out that trip with a tour of Abu Simbel. Hany made this process smooth, fast and relaxing.
Once our tour was confirmed he was communicative and kind, picking us up directly from the lobby of our ship. He arrived early with water & snacks in the back seat for us
The car was clean and comfortable, so much so that I was able to sleep for several hours of our journey - something my husband can attest that I never feel relaxed enough to do.
Once we arrived it became clear that our 4 am pickup time from Aswan was worth it as we were one of the first people at the temples. Our guide met us and explained what we would see (guides cannot explain inside the temples) and we had time to explore getting photos that I never thought possible before the crowds descended. By the time we took a second visit to the temples an hour later there was a wait to get inside. It was clear that Hany’s efforts to get us there early paid off again!
We left happy and made our 1430 flight to Cairo without issue. Add this tour to the end of your cruise and you will be happy you did!
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Thank you so much for your kind words! We’re honored to hear that you had a great experience with us. It was our pleasure to be part of your journey, and we truly appreciate your trust in Egypt wonderful tour If you ever return to Egypt, we’d love to welcome you again and help create more unforgettable memories. Safe travels, and feel free to reach out anytime!
fay_m, Mar 2026
An absolutely fantastic experience visiting Abu Simbel with Hany our driver and Hany our guide.
Our driver was kind, considerate, and very knowledgeable, providing information and snacks across our journey. The car was clean and comfortable for the long journey.
Our guide at Abu Simbel showed us points of interest, whilst also giving us time to explore on our own.
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Thank you so much for your kind words! We’re honored to hear that you had a great experience with us. It was our pleasure to be part of your journey, and we truly appreciate your trust in Egypt wonderful tour If you ever return to Egypt, we’d love to welcome you again and help create more unforgettable memories. Safe travels, and feel free to reach out anytime!
daniele_p, Mar 2026
I did a private day trip to Abu Simbel from Aswan, and being solo made it perfectly relaxed and flexible—no group rush, just me taking my time.
The temples blew me away. The Great Temple’s huge facade with the four massive Ramses II statues carved into the mountain is stunning and imposing up close.
Inside, the detailed reliefs and halls are incredible, especially the inner sanctuary with its mystical vibe and famous sun alignment story.
The smaller Nefertari Temple is equally gorgeous, with elegant statues and beautiful carvings.
Big thanks to both Hanys! Driver Hany picked me up on time in a comfy, AC car, drove the 3-hour each-way route smoothly, kept me hydrated, shared fun facts, and stopped for photos—his friendly professionalism made the drive enjoyable.
At the site, local guide Hany was excellent—knowledgeable and patient, he explained the history, 1960s relocation, symbolism, and hidden details, answering all my questions while giving me plenty of time.
Early arrival meant fewer crowds and beautiful morning light for peaceful photos and reflection. Everything was seamless and well-organized.
Highly recommend this private tour—the temples are ancient wonders, and with driver Hany and guide Hany, it was stress-free and unforgettable. 10/10!
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Thank you so much for your kind words! We’re honored to hear that you had a great experience with us. It was our pleasure to be part of your journey, and we truly appreciate your trust in Egypt wonderful tour If you ever return to Egypt, we’d love to welcome you again and help create more unforgettable memories. Safe travels, and feel free to reach out anytime!
Rodney_N, Mar 2026
Hany was a wonderful driver and pointed out lots of interesting sights along the road from Aswan. He speaks very good English and we enjoyed his company on the long drive.
Hany provided snacks and drinks and we stopped for coffee en route. Abu Simbel was superb and the guide there was very good too.
Although the 3 hour drive each way is a long day trip, it is well worth it.
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Thank you so much for your kind words! We’re honored to hear that you had a great experience with us. It was our pleasure to be part of your journey, and we truly appreciate your trust in Egypt wonderful tour If you ever return to Egypt, we’d love to welcome you again and help create more unforgettable memories. Safe travels, and feel free to reach out anytime!
Parveen_G, Mar 2026
Very well organised and the communication was excellent, confirm pick up and if we wanted any changes because it was a private hire. Honey our guide in Abu Simbel was excellent, chirpy and well informed.
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Thank you so much for your kind words! We’re honored to hear that you had a great experience with us. It was our pleasure to be part of your journey, and we truly appreciate your trust in Egypt wonderful tour If you ever return to Egypt, we’d love to welcome you again and help create more unforgettable memories. Safe travels, and feel free to reach out anytime!
Sarah_J, Mar 2026
The whole day is magical! No photographs can quite do the temples at Abu Simbel justice!
The knowledge of Hany our guide and the friendliness, professionalism and knowledge of Hany (two different people both called Hany 😎) was beyond our expectations.
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Thank you so much for your kind words! We’re honored to hear that you had a great experience with us. It was our pleasure to be part of your journey, and we truly appreciate your trust in Egypt wonderful tour If you ever return to Egypt, we’d love to welcome you again and help create more unforgettable memories. Safe travels, and feel free to reach out anytime!
Akhil_M, Mar 2026
This was the perfect way to travel! Hany was waiting for us at Aswan Airport, safely drove us to explore the amazing Abu Simbel temples, and then dropped us off in Aswan. The vehicle was spotless, and Hany’s careful driving made us feel completely secure the entire trip. He is wonderfully sweet and went above and beyond by explaining the interesting things we passed on the drive. If you need a transfer, ask for Hany!
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Thank you so much for your kind words! We’re honored to hear that you had a great experience with us. It was our pleasure to be part of your journey, and we truly appreciate your trust in Egypt wonderful tour If you ever return to Egypt, we’d love to welcome you again and help create more unforgettable memories. Safe travels, and feel free to reach out anytime!
Barbara_R, Mar 2026
Hany was a great driver who had extraordinary knowledge of the area and a genuine nice bloke. He helped make our stay in Egypt easy in so many ways and we appreciated that very much
Honi- the Egyptologist was informative, personable and thoughtful.
Our trip to Abu Simbel was seamless, and made very enjoyable by these two gentleman. Highly recommended.
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Thank you so much for your kind words! We’re honored to hear that you had a great experience with us. It was our pleasure to be part of your journey, and we truly appreciate your trust in Egypt wonderful tour If you ever return to Egypt, we’d love to welcome you again and help create more unforgettable memories. Safe travels, and feel free to reach out anytime!
Thanos_M, Feb 2026
Hany the driver was really friendly, kind and knew his job. He did his best to arrive in time to avoid the crowd. Even though we had a small accident (flat tire) he dealt the situation with patience and managed to complete the “mission” successfully. The guide in the temple knew everything we should know and he was a fast information provider. Highly recommended service for both of them. Thank you again.
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Thank you so much for your kind words! We’re honored to hear that you had a great experience with us. It was our pleasure to be part of your journey, and we truly appreciate your trust in Egypt wonderful tour If you ever return to Egypt, we’d love to welcome you again and help create more unforgettable memories. Safe travels, and feel free to reach out anytime!
KEI_M, Feb 2026
This Abu Simbel tour was truly an unforgettable experience. Everything was well organized, and the temples were even more impressive than I imagined. Our driver, Mr. Mina, and Huney were incredibly kind, professional, and made the whole journey comfortable and enjoyable. Although it was not included in the tour, I highly recommend trying a felucca ride as well — it became one of the highlights of my trip. Thank you for such a wonderful and memorable experience!
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Thank you so much for your kind words! We’re honored to hear that you had a great experience with us. It was our pleasure to be part of your journey, and we truly appreciate your trust in Egypt wonderful tour If you ever return to Egypt, we’d love to welcome you again and help create more unforgettable memories. Safe travels, and feel free to reach out anytime!
travelbug13, Feb 2026
The driver was on time to pick us up and he provided information throughout the 3 hour drive, making the time fly. We stopped enroute for a break and overall the trip went quickly. Once we arrived at Abu Simbel, we were transfered to someone who then took us to our guide. Note - this does not end up being a private tour; we were added to another group of 3 when we connected with our guide. The guide was...terrible! He pointed at the outside of the temple, gave us a couple of quick facts and then told us he couldn't join us inside so we had 45 minutes of free time before we were to meet up with him outside the gift shop. We were at the allotted location on time, but he didn't show up for another 10 minutes. When he showed up, he demanded a tip before telling us to follow the path to the parking lot to find our driver. This guide was an epic failure. There was absolutely no value in having a guide at this site. The driver, however, was excellent.
Luca_G, Feb 2026
Romani was the perfect driver! The temple is amazing but our guide was very hard to understand while speaking.
Response from Host, Mar 2026
thanks indeed for your feedback that means a lot for us and we glad that you enjoyed your abusimble tour and promise to reconsider using this guide in the future
Courtney_R, Feb 2026
Wonderful trip! Our driver, Hany, was so lovely! He even had snacks and water for us in the car, which was an unexpected treat. Our guide at Abu Simbel, a different Hany, was super friendly and informative. Abu Simbel is beautiful and well worth the drive. We left Aswan at 8:30am and got back around 5:30pm, which made it a nice leisurely day with fewer crowds.
Response from Host, Feb 2026
Thank you so much for your kind words! We’re honored to hear that you had a great experience with us. It was our pleasure to be part of your journey, and we truly appreciate your trust in Egypt wonderful tour If you ever return to Egypt, we’d love to welcome you again and help create more unforgettable memories. Safe travels, and feel free to reach out anytime!
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