statues of Ramses II at Abu Simbel
From Aswan we went on a half-day tour to the famous temples at Abu Simbel in southernmost Egypt.
The temples of Abu Simbel were built during the reign of Pharaoh Ramses II in the 13th century BC. The complex consists of two temples, a larger one dedicated to Ramses himself and a smaller one dedicated to his wife Queen Nefertari. Between 1964 and 1968, the temples at Abu Simbel were disassembled and reconstructed at a higher position to protect them from the rising waters of Lake Nasser (after completion of the Aswan High Dam).
Although Abu Simbel is a very isolated place in the middle of nowhere, the amount of tourists gathering here in the early morning hours can be staggering.
Matt Travels 
Amazing to think that these temples were dismantled and relocated! What a treasure. Great slide show. From your description of the crowds it sounds like Egypt’s tourist industry has recovered.
Yes, the temples are unbelievable!!! Throughout the country, one temple more beautiful than the other – it’s really amazing!! Some of the sights were indeed full of tourists, but I was told that tourist numbers were still only at 20% of what should be normal! Such a pity for all the people relying on tourism for their income!!!
Oh I’m sorry to hear that! I had hoped it had made much more of a recovery. There was so much optimism in Egypt immediately after the Arab Spring when we were there (barely any travellers of course and they were overjoyed to have us).
yes, I think the same! It’s a wonderful country and we met really nice and friendly people! The sights are spectacular and I think everyone with a slight interest in history/architecture etc has to see this place!