Abu Simbel Sun Festival (February 2027)

The next solar alignment at Abu Simbel is expected at sunrise on Monday 22 February 2027. For around 20 minutes, the first rays of the sun travel through the Great Temple and illuminate the statues of Ramesses II and the gods Amun-Ra and Ra-Horakhty deep in the sanctuary, while the statue of Ptah remains in darkness. A cultural festival with Nubian and folk performances usually takes place outside the temple the night before. To witness it, join the queue in the early hours; many visitors travel overnight from Aswan by road (about three hours) or fly in. Hotel rooms in Abu Simbel village are limited, so book as early as possible.

Dates: expected (based on previous years; confirm nearer the time).

About the temple

The Great Temple of Abu Simbel was carved into a sandstone cliff on the west bank of the Nile in the reign of Ramesses II, and its facade is dominated by four colossal seated statues of the king. In the 1960s, as Lake Nasser rose behind the new Aswan High Dam, the temple and its smaller neighbour, dedicated to Hathor and Queen Nefertari, were cut into blocks and rebuilt on higher ground in an international rescue campaign led by UNESCO. Today they form part of the Nubian Monuments World Heritage Site.

What to expect

The temple opens before dawn on the day of the alignment, and the crowd moves slowly through the entrance hall towards the sanctuary. Large screens are often set up outside so that people who cannot get inside can still follow the moment. Music and dancing usually carry on after sunrise.

Planning tips

• February nights in the desert are cold, so bring a warm layer for the pre-dawn wait.
• Carry water, a small snack and a torch or phone light for the walk in the dark.
• Photography inside the temple may be restricted; follow the instructions of site staff.
• After the alignment, visit the smaller Temple of Hathor and Nefertari next door, which is much quieter once the crowds have left.