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For my coming trip Feb'10, I have been quoted $213US for the flight. The bonus is potentially getting there earlier than the bus/mini-bus convoys and seeing the site with less tourists and as the sun rises (better colours etc).
I was quoted $83USD for the bus tour. And YES, this is some distance by bus!
Written Jan 16, 2010
Located as it is on the southern shores of Lake Nasser near the border with Sudan, Abu Simbel is 320km from Aswan. At the time I visited Egypt, the only way to get to Abu Simbel from Aswan was by air, although there are buses & some hotels organise minibus trips. For those on a tight budget, the bus is considerably cheaper but takes 3-4 hours while the flight is only about 45 minutes. If the bus option is not available, I would highly recommend splashing out on the flight! You won't be disappointed. In 2000, the flight was about US$ 75.00. Obviously prices will have increased over the years. Check with your hotel in Aswan for options / fares. Word of warning... if you do want to go, be sure to book early as seats are taken up rapidly.
Written Jan 13, 2007
Helpfulness
There is another way to sail across Lake Nasser outside the big cruiseships.
That is going by safari boat. It is a small motor boat mainly used for fishing.
In Aswan there is a Nubian boatman who adapted his ship to host 8 to 10 guests. You can compare it with the fellukah sails between Aswan and Edfu. The ship is like a camping site. You will sleep on deck and the captain will prepare your food on board.
If you like you can do some fishing, seems to be great on Lake Nasser. The ship can dock on any site you like. Not just the historical sites, but also the tiny fishermen settlements on the shores of Lake Nasser.
One big advantage, to my idea, is that the ship can dock at Qasr Ibrim, where you can get ashore to explore the site (see my Off the Beaten Path tip).
The name of the boatsman is Negrashi. Ask around when you are in Aswan if you want to take this trip. The trip will take about 6 days.
Written Apr 4, 2005
Helpfulness
After being in Abu Simbel by bus in convoy, this time I wanted to get there more relaxed. So we booked the cruise from Aswan to Abu Simbel.
It takes 4 days, 3 nights and it is wonderful!! Not only you will stop at various sites on the shores of lake Nasser to see Temples and tombs you otherwise will not see. But the majestic view of seeing the two big temples appear in the distance while sailing the lake is priceless!! Not to be compared with anything.
You can choose when you visit the temples. We were there when the place was practically abandoned and spend hours over there.
Also the Sound and Light show is the best I ever saw in Egypt! Only to be seen when you come by boat or plane and stay overnight!
Written Sep 16, 2004
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Reviews and photos of Abu Simbel attractions posted by real travelers and locals. The best tips for Abu Simbel sightseeing.
After being in Abu Simbel by bus in convoy, this time I wanted to get there more relaxed. So we booked the cruise from Aswan to Abu Simbel. It takes 4 days, 3...
Q: Has anyone got details on who to book at Eskaleh Eco-lodge at Abu Simbel Also how much p/n is the accommodation for a doublethe
A: Did you see this mysterious web page ? http://www.eskaleh.110mb.com/
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Since the daring conquest in 1967 (?) to save these tempels from the rising waters of Lake Aswan this place is world famous. To a lot of people they haven't been to Egypt when they haven't visited Abu...
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1 of the most spectacular sights in Egypt. 4 colossal statues of Ramses II. Entrance fee was 36 Egyptian pound/pax.
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Awe inspiring, magnificent, wonderous are a few words you could use to describe Abu Simbel! An amazing feat of architecture, artwork and construction. This fantastic archealogical site comprises two...
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Abu Simbel lies at Egypt's border in Nubia about 280 kilometers south of Aswan and 40 kilometers north of Sudan known to its two famous temples close to Lake Nasser . It was built by Ramses II in...
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