Abu Simbel is an archaeological site that comprises of 2 massive rock temples located in Nubia, Southern Egypt. It is by the western banks of Lake Nasser, approximately 290 kilometers southwest of Aswan. It is now called the Nubian Monuments” and is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site, running from Abu Simbel down to Philae.
During the time of Pharaoh Ramesses II, twin temples were carved from the mountainside to serve as a lasting monument of Nefertari, his queen and himself. It also serves as a reminder of their victory during the Battle of Kadesh. However, in the 1960s, this complex was relocated and placed on an artificial hill from a domed structure over the reservoir of the Aswan High Dam. These temples were relocated to save it from submersion at the time they created Lake Nasser.
Lake Nasser is a massive artificial water reservoir which they formed after the Nile River’s Aswan High Dam. With these, Abu Simbel continues to rank amongst the top tourist attractions of Egypt.
Abu Simbel Attractions and Activities
There are 2 main temples in Abu Simbel – the Temple of Hathor and the Great Temple of Ramesses II. These temples showcased various internal stone carvings. For the Great Temple, it took them 24 years to build it. At its current location, it had graffiti on some of its parts already. You’ll see these among Ramesses II’s 4 giant statues.
To see how the fake mountain dome was constructed, you can just follow the pathway inside. Since the time for visiting Abu Simbel is limited – even the time to read the stone carvings will be limited – so, read more about these temples before going there.
It’s also a long journey to reach this archaeological site. Just bring enough beverages and snacks with you.
Abu Simbel Hotels
Here are some 4-star accommodations in Abu Simbel:
Nefertari Hotel Abu Simbel – This hotel offers comfortable accommodations and quality services to Abu Simbel travelers. It is situated along Antonion Ayouyo Street near T Lake Nasser. The city center is merely 2 kilometers away and the Abu Simbel Airport is merely 3 kilometers away.
The rooms in this hotel showcase a typical Egyptian style. Aside from magnificent lake views, these rooms have modern amenities like color TVs, air conditioners, Internet access, in-room safes, hair dryers and private bathrooms. The hotel also features an onsite restaurant serving international and local cuisines. The hotel also has a cafe with beverages and light snacks.
Other facilities of the hotel include a reception desk, concierge services, lounge/bar, laundry services, parking facilities and room services. The nightly rate for this hotel ranges from $176 to $280.
Seti Hotel Abu Simbel – This 4-star accommodation offers travelers with moderately luxurious accommodations. It is the only hotel situated by the Grand Temple of Ramses foot. It is the best place to stay if you want to be near the twin statues of Queen Nefertari and the pharaoh.
The hotel has 138 cozy rooms and suites on 2 levels featured in Nubian-style, offering spectacular views of the lake, magnificent gardens and flowing waterfalls. They also have the Layalina Cafe, Toshka Restaurant, a pool bar, ice cream corner and a Fish Restaurant. They provide high quality boardroom executive services and conference rooms as well as individual meeting rooms. Take time to relax in the swimming pool which also overlooks Desert Mountains and Lake Nasser.
Abu Simbel Airport is only 4 kilometers away while the city center is merely 2 kilometers away. Other amenities and facilities of the hotel include a mini bar, telephone, safe, private bathroom with ensuite, color TV and air conditioner as well as a tennis court, lobby and many more.