Momliz

What kind of a drive is it from Aswan? Would we get to see the desert? It looks like we won't be able to squeeze in a desert side trip, we don't have time, but would this give us a feel for what it's like outside of towns and cities in Egypt? It is a looong drive, no? Can one stop and stretch one's legs, or do you have to stay in the convoy?

sandi

There have been a number of posts re the "drive" option from Aswan to Abu Simbel. Do a search here and read the details. Recall it's a very early departure in the dark (4am or thereabouts) and a good 5+/hr drive each way. Yes, a convoy with armed guards. Don't believe there's much on the way but sand and more sand. Seems to be cost effective compared to a flight, but does take a good many hours vs by air.

By air, we were at CAI airport in time to make a 7am flight, spent about 2+/hrs sightseeing at Abu Simbel and flight back to Aswan, we boarded our Nile cruise boat by 12N.

MyDogKyle

My research (very early stages) for an Egypt trip indicates that you have more time at Abu Simbel if you travel by bus, and less time at the site (but also much less time in transit) if you fly there. Myabe someone who's been can confirm this..?

QueenofDaNile

MDK-
If you have the time and want to do something different, take the Lake Nasser cruise starting at Abu Simbel. You would have lots of time at the site, candlelight dinner on the ship looking at the temples and see them again at sunrise before setting sail for Aswan.