Can You Add Abu Simbel to a Dahabiya Nile Cruise? Complete Planning Guide

Can You Add Abu Simbel to a Dahabiya Nile Cruise? Complete Planning Guide

Yes, you can add Abu Simbel to a dahabiya Nile cruise but before or after a cruise, usually as a separate excursion from Aswan by road or air. Abu Simbel is not visited by Nile river cruise dahabiya because it is located far south of Aswan, close to Lake Nasser and the Sudanese border.

Table of contents

• Where Is Abu Simbel Located?

• Is Abu Simbel Included in a Dahabiya Cruise?

• When Should You Visit Abu Simbel?

• How Can You Travel From Aswan to Abu Simbel?

• Is a Day Trip or Overnight Stay Better?

• How Much Extra Time Should You Add?

• What Will You See at Abu Simbel?

• Sample Dahabiya and Abu Simbel Itineraries

• Tips for Planning the Excursion

• Final Thoughts

• FAQs

Where Is Abu Simbel Located?

Abu Simbel is located in southern Egypt, near the Sudanese border, and because of its location, it is not a part of the standard Luxor and Aswan cruise route, and travelers require a separate journey from Aswan by road or air. However, the Dahabiya cruises sail between the major sites along the Nile River, including Kom Ombo, Edfu, Esna, and Luxor.

Is Abu Simbel Included in a Dahabiya Cruise?

It is not a part of the standard Luxor and Aswan small Nile River cruises route. Instead, it is included as an optional add on that must be arranged before or after sailing.

If you want to book a cruise with an Abu Simbel excursion, then it is worth checking what is included in the extension package. However, it may include:

• Transportation between Aswan and Abu Simbel
• Entrance tickets
• Tour Guide
• Meals or refreshments
• Hotel pickup and return

When Should You Visit Abu Simbel?

There are several ways to combine an Abu Simbel tour from Aswan with a traditional Nile cruise.

Before an Aswan-to-Luxor Cruise

If your cruise begins in Aswan, then you can visit Abu Simbel before boarding the cruise. You can arrive in Aswan one day before the classic Nile sailing journey; it will allow you to complete your Abu Simbel excursion, stay overnight, and start your cruise journey the following day.

Many travelers often choose this option as it allows them to board their cruise feeling relaxed, as they don’t have to leave early for additional sightseeing.

After a Luxor-to-Aswan Cruise

It is perfect for travelers who are going to end their cruise journey in Aswan. Once they have completed their cruise journey, they can stay in Aswan one more day and travel to Abu Simbel the next morning. This will allow travelers to enjoy the final days of their trip without rushing between destinations.

During an extra stay in Aswan

You can add one or two extra nights in Aswan. It is the most flexible option, as it allows time not only for Abu Simbel but also for other Aswan highlights, including the Philae Temple and beautiful views along the Nile.

How Can You Travel From Aswan to Abu Simbel?

If your trip includes Abu Simbel, then you don’t have to worry about transport since there are numerous ways to get there from Aswan.

Private road transfer: If you want to be comfortable and want less hassle, then go for a private vehicle, and it is suitable for couples, families, and solo travelers who prefer privacy.

Group tour (sharing) — This is ideal for travelers looking for an economical option to visit Abu Simbel.

Domestic Flight: Best for travelers who are in a hurry to see the Abu Simbel sites. Nonetheless, flight options may change, so it is suggested to confirm the flight options before finalizing the itinerary.

Is a Day Trip or Overnight Stay Better?

However, both options offer almost the same type of experience, depending on your travel style and needs.

Day Trip	Overnight Stay
It is best for shorter itineraries.	It is best for travelers who want a relaxed experience.
It usually allows travelers to return to Aswan on the same day.	Allows more time at Abu Simbel
Travelers don’t have to stay in a hotel.	Requires an additional night
Considered convenient before as well as after a cruise	Less rushed sightseeing
Suitable for travelers who want a simple Abu Simbel visit	Recommended for families, photographers, and travelers who prefer comfort.
Budget-friendly	It is more expensive, as it needs additional accommodation.

How Much Extra Time Should You Add?

If you want a more enjoyable and smoother travel experience, then you should consider these: Minimum: By adding one full day to your itinerary, you get enough time to visit Abu Simbel without interfering with your luxury Nile cruise schedule.

More comfortable: If you want a more comfortable experience, then you can add one full extra day to your journey either before or after your boutique river cruise. This helps to reduce the stress of early departures.

Relaxed option: If you want to explore temples without rushing, then staying one night near Abu Simbel is best, as many travelers choose this option to enjoy peaceful surroundings.

 

What Will You See at Abu Simbel?

Abu Simbel is one of  Egypt’s most impressive archaeological sites, and its highlights include the following:

The Great Temple of Ramesses II: This temple is situated on the west bank of Lake Nasser, and it is dedicated to the gods Amun, Ra-Horakhty, Ptah, and Ramesses II. It has four statues of Pharaoh Ramesses II at the entrance, and at the innermost sanctuary there are four seated figures of Ptah, Amun-Ra, Ramesses II, and Ra-Horakhty.

Solar alignment is one of its most remarkable features that happens twice a year around February 22 and October 22. On these dates, the rising sun illuminates the statues of Amun-Ra, Ra- Horakhty, and Ramesses II, while Ptah remains in shadow.

The Smaller Temple of Queen Nefertari: This temple was built by Pharaoh Ramesses II in honor of his beloved wife, Queen Nefertari, in the 13th century. This temple has six standing statues; four of them represent Ramesses II, while two depict Queen Nefertari. The interior walls of the temple are covered with vibrant paintings that represent the queen and king participating in religious ceremonies.

Dahabiya Cruise and Abu Simbel Itineraries

There are two ways to combine cruise excursions with Abu Simbel, and both are mentioned below; you can choose as per your cruise departure location.

Option 1	Option 2
Luxor to Aswan Cruise	Aswan to Luxor Cruise
Day 1-4: Enjoy your dahabiya cruise from Luxor to Aswan.	Day 1: Arrive in Aswan
Day 5: Stay overnight in Aswan	Day 2: Visit Abu Simbel
Day 6: Take an early excursion to Abu Simbel	Day 3: Board the traditional Nile sailing boat and begin sailing towards Luxor.

Tips for Planning the Excursion

If you want to make your trip smooth and comfortable, then do follow these tips: 

• If you are traveling in peak seasons, then do book your Abu Simbel tickets in advance.
• Don’t forget to carry water bottles and sun protection essentials (sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses.)
• Pack lightweight linen or cotton clothes and a comfortable pair of shoes.
• Confirm baggage arrangements, especially if you are traveling directly between destinations.
• Check road traffic or domestic flight schedule before departure.
• Ask your cruise operator whether they can arrange or assist with the Abu Simbel excursion.

Final Thoughts

However, Abu Simbel is not part of the traditional Nile boat route, but it can be easily added to your Egypt trip through a separate road or air excursion from Aswan. Whether you choose to visit before boarding the boutique Nile cruise, after completing the cruise tour or during an extended stay in Aswan, breathtaking temples, fascinating history, and remarkable architecture will make your visit worthwhile.

If you are planning to include the Abu Simbel excursion, then it requires little advance planning so that you can enjoy the elegance of the dahabiya cruise while also experiencing one of the country’s amazing ancient sites.

If you’re sailing with Swan Dahabiya, you can easily add an Abu Simbel excursion before boarding or after disembarking in Aswan. Our team can also assist you with planning and recommending the best timing for your visit.

FAQs

Does a Dahabiya cruise sail directly to Abu Simbel?

No, Dahabiya cruises do not sail to Abu Simbel, but you can reach there through a separate road or air excursion from Aswan.

Can Abu Simbel be visited in one day?

Yes, many travelers who have less time to explore Egypt often take a full-day excursion from Aswan and return the same day.

Should I visit Abu Simbel before or after my cruise?

It depends on your itinerary. However, if you are sailing from Aswan, then visiting Abu Simbel before your cruise is recommended, or after your cruise if you finish your sailing in Aswan.

Is it better to travel by road or air?

Domestic flights are ideal for fast travelers, whereas road transfers are best for budget travelers.