Aswan

Egypt's most beautiful stretch of the Nile, with Nubian villages, island temples and the gateway to Abu Simbel.

About the Destination

Aswan is Egypt's southernmost city, where the Nile flows between granite boulders and golden dunes. It is the heart of Nubian culture: relaxed, colourful and friendly, and a favourite place to slow down at the start or end of a Nile cruise.

What Aswan is known for

Philae Temple, dedicated to Isis, sits on its own island and is reached by boat. The Unfinished Obelisk, the High Dam and Elephantine Island tell the story of the city, and the Aga Khan Mausoleum and Kitchener's Botanical Island are a short felucca ride away. Further south, the giant temples of Abu Simbel are the highlight of many trips.

Best time to visit

October to April. On 22 February and 22 October, the rising sun lights the inner sanctuary of Abu Simbel in a famous solar alignment. Summer is very hot.

How long to stay

Two to three days, including an early-morning trip to Abu Simbel (about three hours each way by road) or a short flight.

Tips

Take a felucca at sunset, visit a Nubian village on the west bank, and bring cash for the markets and boat rides.

Gallery

Aswan

ASWAN Weather

Getting there

Aswan is accessible via Aswan International Airport (ASW), which has regular flights from Cairo and other major cities in Egypt. The city is also reachable by train and bus from Cairo, Luxor, and other parts of Egypt. Additionally, Nile cruises between Luxor and Aswan are popular

Attractions

Kitchener's Island (Botanical Island)

Activties

Plan your Journey

Popular Attractions

Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a deeper connection with the local heritage, our list of popular attractions will help guide your journey and ensure you don't miss the must-see locations

Abu Simbel Temples

The temples of Abu Simbel were carved into the mountainside by Ramses II in the 13th century BC, with four colossal seated statues of the king guarding the entrance. A smaller temple honours his wife Nefertari.

Elephantine Island

Elephantine Island, in the Nile at Aswan, was the town at Egypt's southern frontier in pharaonic times and a centre of the ivory trade, which may explain its name.

High Dam

The Aswan High Dam, completed in 1970, controls the Nile's flood and created Lake Nasser, one of the largest man-made lakes in the world.

Kalabsha Temple

Kalabsha Temple, dedicated to the Nubian god Mandulis, was built in Roman times and moved to a site near the High Dam to save it from Lake Nasser.

Kitchener's Island (Botanical Island)

Kitchener's Island, given to Lord Kitchener in the 1890s, is now Aswan's Botanical Garden, filled with palms, flowering trees and plants from around the world.

Nubian Museum

The Nubian Museum, opened in 1997, tells the story of Nubia and its people from prehistory to today.

Nubian Village

The Nubian villages on the west bank of the Nile, such as Gharb Soheil, are known for their brightly painted houses, friendly people and relaxed pace.

Philae Temple

Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis, sits on Agilkia Island south of Aswan. It was moved here stone by stone in the 1970s to save it from the rising waters behind the dams.

Temple of Edfu

The Temple of Horus at Edfu, between Luxor and Aswan, is the best-preserved temple in Egypt, built under the Ptolemies between 237 and 57 BC.

Temple of Kom Ombo

Kom Ombo is a rare double temple on the Nile, dedicated to the crocodile god Sobek and the falcon god Haroeris.

Unfinished Obelisk

The Unfinished Obelisk lies in an ancient granite quarry in Aswan. Had it been completed, it would have been about 42 metres tall, the largest obelisk ever made.

Accommodation

Aswan's hotels make the most of the river: legendary historic hotels on the Nile, island resorts and colourful Nubian guesthouses on the west bank.

Famous Hotels

Ask for a Nile view: the sunset over the islands and dunes is one of the best in Egypt.

Anakato Nubian Houses

A unique hotel offering a blend of traditional Nubian culture and modern comforts, located on the Nile.

Basma Hotel Aswan

A contemporary hotel offering luxury accommodations and panoramic views of the Nile River.

Hapi Hotel

A modern hotel located in the heart of Aswan, providing comfortable accommodations and essential amenities.

Movenpick Resort Aswan

A luxurious resort located on Elephantine Island, offering breathtaking views of the Nile and the city.

Pyramisa Isis Island Resort & Spa Aswan

A luxurious resort situated on an island in the Nile, offering a serene and exclusive environment.

Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Aswan

A historic luxury hotel set on the banks of the Nile, renowned for its grandeur and stunning views.

Tolip Aswan Hotel

A high-end hotel located on the Corniche, providing modern luxury and excellent amenities.

Food Experience

Aswan's food mixes Upper Egyptian staples with Nubian dishes: slow-cooked stews, fresh river fish and spices from the old caravan markets.

Favorite Cuisines

Eat at a Nubian guesthouse or a floating restaurant, and stroll the spice market for hibiscus, dates and peanuts.

Nubian Fish Tagine

River fish baked in a clay pot with tomatoes, onions and spices.

Bamia

Okra stewed with tomato and meat, a Nubian home-cooking classic.

Gourrassa

Thick Nubian flatbread, eaten with stews and sauces.

Karkadeh

Hibiscus tea, sold in the spice market and served hot or ice-cold.

Transportation & More

In Aswan the river is the road. Boats link the islands and both banks, and the town itself is easy to walk along the Corniche.

Transportation Options

Use boats for the islands, a taxi or tour for the High Dam and Philae landing, and a car or flight for Abu Simbel.

Felucca

The classic way to sail between the islands, best at sunset.

Motorboats and Ferries

Public ferries and private motorboats cross to the west bank, Elephantine and the Nubian villages.

Taxis

For the High Dam, Philae landing and the Unfinished Obelisk; agree the fare first.

Road to Abu Simbel

Tours and private cars leave before dawn for the three-hour drive.

Airport Transfers

Aswan International Airport (ASW) is about 25 minutes from town; trains run north to Luxor and Cairo.

Popular Activties

From thrilling adventures to cultural immersions, each city offers unique experiences that cater to every traveler’s interests.

Private Day Tour to Abu Simbel Temples from Aswan

Discover a part of Egypt that most first-time visitors miss on a private day trip to the Abu Simbel temples from Aswan. You’ll stay cool and skip the hassle of car hire with private, air-conditioned transport, and enjoy the chance to ask…

From $110

4 Day Nile Cruise Aswan to Luxor Abu simbel Hot Air Balloon

The passion and expertise we bring, backed by over 30 years of tour guiding experience. From the moment you arrive in Aswan, you’re not just visiting temples and sailing the Nile you’re immersing yourself in the heart of Egypt’s history…

From $877

Private Sunset Felucca Ride in Aswan

Breathtaking Views: Immerse yourself in panoramic vistas of Aswan’s awe-inspiring sights, including the lush banks of the Nile and the fascinating Elephantine Island. The vibrant greenery and the distant desert backdrop form a stunning

From $15

Private Tour to the Nubian Village and Felucca Ride in Aswan

This is not just a visit to a Nubian village — it's an opportunity to experience Nubian life from the inside. Your journey begins aboard a traditional Nubian sailboat,Along the way, you'll be accompanied by a local Nubian guide who was…

From $35

Full Day Sharing Trip To Abou simple Temple form Aswan

Take the chance and visit Aswan which was known the land of gold as it was a big treasure for the kings of Nubia. Visit Aswan to enjoy its admirable heritage on one day trip on which you can visit Abu Simbel

From $50

4 Day Premium 5 Star Nile Cruise from Aswan to Luxor

Our target for each client is to enjoy each minute in Egypt without hidden costs . Enjoy 4 days Nile cruise Egypt, Explore ancient wonders, professional educated speaking tour guide , newest means of transportation together with 4 days 5…

From $442

4 Days Nile Cruise From Aswan To Luxor

Go deep into the world of ancient Egypt on this full-board 5-star Nile cruise. You'll see the highlights of Aswan, Kom Ombo and Luxor with an Egyptologist guide and enjoy plenty of fun on your lively boat, with belly dancing, galabia…

From $760

Abu Simbel from Aswan in Egypt - Private Tour (guide and transfers Included)

Abu Simbel Day Trip from Aswan will give you the chance to enjoy visiting the two temples of Abu Simbel, with their unique style that are considered the masterpieces of ancient Egypt.

From $150

Private Abu Simbel Tour from Aswan – Day Trip

Enjoy a private and personalized Abu Simbel experience from Aswan, away from crowded group tours. Travel in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle with a licensed local tour guide who will bring the fascinating history of the temples to…

From $95

4 Day Nile Cruise Aswan To Luxor Hot Air Balloon with Abu Simbel

Say goodbye to the hassle of planning a complex itinerary and opt for a seamless 4-day Nile cruise with Aswan Cruise. This all-inclusive package takes you to Aswan, Abu Simbel, and the Valley of the Kings, with hotel transfers, boat…

From $998

Full-Day Tour of Philae Temple, High Dam and Unfinished Obelisk

Philae temple one of the amazing complex temple built by sandstone over periods,and it moved from old Island to agileka island by helping unisco organization High dam is an one big project had built in 1960 rescue Egypt from flooding…

From $50

Felucca Ride in Aswan & Nubian Village Visit by Motorboat

This tour is unique because it offers a private felucca ride along the serene Nile, allowing guests to experience Aswan’s riverbanks and sunsets in a peaceful, intimate setting. After the felucca, the journey continues by motorboat to the

From $22

Private Day Tour to Abu Simbel Temples and Nubian Village From Aswan

Enjoy a fabulous day to the Temples of Abu Simbel and the Nubian Village in Aswan. The ancient temples of Abu Simbel, built by Pharaoh Ramses II and relocated to a dramatic lakeside setting in Nubia, are a highlight of any visit to Aswan.

From $230

4 Days Nile Cruise From Aswan To Luxor Every Wednesday and Friday

Sail through the heart of ancient Egypt on a 4-day Nile Cruise from Aswan to Luxor combining comfort, culture, and adventure. Enjoy guided tours of iconic temples like Philae, Kom Ombo, and Karnak, visit the Valley of the Kings, and soar

From $980

4 Days Nile Cruise from Aswan to Luxor with Daily Guided Trip

Why book separate day trips to Nile's temples when you can have the sights come to you on a delightful 4-day cruise from Aswan to Luxor? This all-encompassing journey begins with the exploration of Aswan's captivating attractions before…

From $1,500

4Days 3Nights Nile Cruise from Aswan to Luxor All Tours Included

Explore the wonders of Ancient Egypt at comfort combining history with leisure on the Nile cruise. A worry-free tour that lets you enjoy the different sites between Aswan and Luxor at ease, while at the same time cruising the Nile with its…

From $690

4 Day Nile Cruise From Aswan to Luxor with Balloon and Abu Simbel

Sail down one of the world's most famous waterways as you discover top attractions in southern Egypt. During this multi-day cruise from Aswan to Luxor, you'll disembark for guided visits to the region's most iconic sites, including Kom…

From $1,100

4-Day Nile Cruise Aswan-Luxor, Hot Air Balloon & Abu Simbel

An unforgettable 4-day, 3-night Nile cruise from Aswan to Luxor, where ancient history and five-star comfort sail side by side. Glide past the riverside temples of Kom Ombo and Edfu, and journey into the desert to marvel at the colossal

From $1,350

private Trip To Abu Simbel Temple

Abu Simbel is an ancient Egyptian temple complex located in Nubia, southern Egypt. It was originally carved out of the rock cliff by order of Pharaoh Ramesses II in the 13th century BC. The temple is dedicated to Ramesses II and his wife

From $175

Shared Day Trip to Abu Simbel from Aswan

Take a captivating day trip to Abusimble from Aswan with us. We'll pick you up from your hotel or Nile cruise starting as early as 4am. Sit back and enjoy the picturesque landscapes as our skilled driver takes you on a comfortable journey

From $64

Tour To Abu Simbel Temples From Aswan

We'll pick up you by air-conditioned vehicle to drive to the most famous and beautiful temples "Abu Simbel Temples". Spend 3 hours enjoying their unique style, are considered to be the masterpieces of ancient Egypt. They reflect the glory

From $49

3 Day Nile Cruise from Aswan and Luxor Hot Air Balloon

Embark on a luxurious 3-day Nile cruise from Aswan to Luxor. Relax in your private cabin and savor the expertly managed itinerary. Day one features a visit to the stunning Temple of Philae. On day two, enjoy a charming horse-drawn carriage

From $815

Private Tour to Abu Simbel Temple From Aswan

Luxor and Aswan Travel expert Tour guide will pick you up from your hotel in Aswan and drive to the south of Aswan which is around 3hrs drive to enjoy Abu Simbel day tour from Aswan by a PRIVATE air-conditioned vehicle.

From $232

Exclusive nile cruise aswan to luxor

Sail along the Nile River from Aswan To Luxor joined by your private Egyptologist tour guide to observe the breathtaking temples and landmarks which lie between Aswan &Luxor Philae temple, Abu simple, Edfou Temple, Kom Ambo Temple Karnak…

From $1,233

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