Things to Do in Aswan: A Guide to Egypt’s Hidden Gem
How to Reach Aswan
Aswan is easily accessible by car or bus, with a well-connected road network linking it to cities like Luxor and Cairo. The journey offers an idyllic scenery and Nile views, making it a pleasant travel option.
Trains are a popular, comfortable way to reach Aswan. Regular services from Cairo, Luxor, and Alexandria offer a smooth ride with beautiful views. Booking in advance, especially during peak seasons, is recommended.
Aswan International Airport (ASW) connects the city to domestic and international destinations. Direct flights from Cairo and other major cities make it a quick option for travelers. Taxis or pre-arranged transport can take you from the airport to the city center.
Where to stay in Aswan
Our first recommendation when it comes to Aswan accommodation will always be Sofitel Old Cataract Hotel.
The Sofitel Old Cataract Hotel, a luxurious 5-star resort in Aswan, has hosted notable figures like Winston Churchill, Princess Diana, and Agatha Christie, who wrote part of Death on the Nile here.
Built in 1899, it combines history and elegance, with highlights including the Terrace Restaurant overlooking the Nile. Policies for non-residents visiting the hotel have varied recently, so confirm with the hotel before planning a visit.
Our recommendations for a culturally immersive yet budget-friendly stay in Aswan include the Movenpick Aswan Resort 5* on Elephantine Island, offering a luxurious experience by the Nile at nearly half the price of the Sofitel.
For a modern stay with stunning Nile views, book Blue Lotus Nile Suites Hotel, which also offers excellent value deals.
If you’re looking for a Nubian-inspired, colorful, and affordable option, consider Kato Dool Wellness Resort.
For your Aswan vacation, use Expedia to book accommodation, where you’ll find a variety of high-rated options with excellent amenities.
Essential tips for First Time-Visitors to Aswan
General Tips
- Visit early to avoid crowds, especially at the temples.
- Stay hydrated by drinking fluids regularly. Always opt for bottled water to avoid digestive problems and stomachaches, and if you’re dining outside your hotel, it’s best to avoid drinks served with ice.
- Respect local customs, especially at religious sites.
- Bargain at Aswan’s markets to negotiate better prices.
Practical Info
- Currency: Egyptian pound (EGP). ATMs are widely available, and most hotels accept credit cards, but having cash is advisable for smaller places.
- Tipping: “Baksheesh” is expected as a sign of appreciation for good service.
- Transportation: Taxis, buses, trains, and Nile River cruises are common. Always negotiate taxi fares upfront. Choose organized tours that include transportation.
- Language: Arabic is the main language; English is widely spoken.
- Choose the Unlimited Data e SIM packages of TravelSim for your vacation to Egypt to already arrive stress free.
Weather Tips
- Aswan is extremely sunny with less than 1 mm of rainfall annually. Pack sunscreen and wear comfortable & lightweight clothing.
- Summer temperatures can exceed 40°C, but winter is more pleasant, with highs up to 29°C.
Considering travel insurance for your trip? World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 adventure activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation and more.
The Best Things to Do in Aswan
Philae Temple
The Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis, is one of Egypt’s most beautiful and well-preserved temples. A visit to Philae Temple offers not just history, but one of the best views of the Nile, making it must-see in Aswan.
Originally located on Philae Island, it was relocated to Agilkia Island in the 1960s to save it from the rising waters caused by the Aswan Old Dam.
Accessible with a short, scenic 10-minute boat ride, your visit begins at the Philae Temple Marina where you can board one of the motorboats for around 700 EGP (for up to eight people). Once on the island, explore the temple’s stunning reliefs, towering columns, and inscriptions honoring gods like Isis, Osiris, and Hathor.
For an even better view, climb one of the pylons for an additional 200 EGP.
Open from 7 am to 3 pm, you can also enjoy the temple in the evening with the mesmerizing Sound and Light Show, starting at $20 USD.
Unfinished Obelisk
The Unfinished Obelisk in Aswan gives a fascinating look into the stone-cutting techniques of ancient Egypt. Commissioned by Hatshepsut, it was meant to be the world’s tallest obelisk, but was abandoned when a crack formed.
Today, visitors can see this massive monument still in the bedrock, offering a better understanding of the challenges faced by ancient Egyptians in carving and transporting such giant structures. The site is like an open-air museum, showcasing impressive engineering.
Discover the Unfinished Obelisk of Aswan with the guided tour: Aswan Day Tour Visiting Philae Temple, Unfinished Obelisk and High Dam
Nubian Village
The Nubian Village offers a vibrant glimpse into the culture and traditions of the Nubian people. Known for its colorful houses, artistry, and warm hospitality, visitors can explore the small village, enjoy regional dishes like Bamiya stew, and sip tea in local homes.
A highlight is the scenic boat ride from Aswan, weaving through picturesque Nile islands.
While some find the village charming, others see it as touristy. Regardless, it stands as a unique & colorful cultural experience.
Nubian Museum
The Nubian Museum in Aswan highlights the rich culture and history of the Nubian people through an impressive collection of artifacts, jewelry, pottery, and textiles. This modern museum provides insights into Nubian heritage and architecture, and their deep connection to the Nile River.
With well-curated exhibits and vibrant storytelling displays, it celebrates the resilience and creativity of the Nubian civilization. A visit here offers a fascinating exploration of an essential part of Egypt’s heritage.
Click here to discover Nubian Museum with an organized private tour.
Felucca Ride
A felucca ride on the Nile River is a serene and memorable experience in Aswan, especially during sunset. These traditional wooden sailboats glide past Elephantine Island, offering picturesque views of lush landscapes, ancient ruins, and traditional villages.
The gentle river and scenic surroundings create a peaceful escape that blends nature and history, making it a must-do activity in Aswan.
Opt for an organized excursion to skip the hassle of bargaining and ensure a highly rated experience.
Private Tour Sunset Felucca Ride of Aswan
West Bank Exploration
The Aga Khan Mausoleum and Monastery of St. Simeon are two fascinating sites on Aswan’s west bank.
The Aga Khan mausoleum, holding the tomb of Sir Sultan Muhammad Shah, is visible from the Nile but not open to visitors.
Nearby, the Monastery of St. Simeon, a well-preserved Coptic monastery, offers a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path experience. Accessible by boat and optionally by camel, reaching the monastery involves a climb up a sand dune.
Taking a boat from Aswan to the base of the hill is easy and a camel can assist with the climb if needed; visit early or late in the day to avoid the heat.
Riding a camel provides a tranquil experience while exploring the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage, combining tranquility and adventure and offering an unforgettable perspective of Aswan’s timeless charm.
In Aswan’s West Bank, the Tombs of the Nobles also invite you to step into the lives of Egypt’s ancient elite. Carved into rocky hillsides, these tombs enchant visitors with vibrant murals and intricate reliefs that depict tales of everyday life, spiritual ceremonies, and mythology.
Exploring these timeless chambers, you’ll feel a deep connection to the rich history and artistry of a bygone era.
Kitchener Island
Kitchener Island offers a peaceful escape with its lush Aswan Botanical Gardens & historical charm and is located to the west of Elephantine Island.
Accessible via a short boat ride from Corniche, this tranquil island was transformed by Lord Horatio Kitchener in the 1890s into a green oasis.
Also known as El Nabatat Island, it’s less than 1 km long and perfect for a relaxing stroll. During the hot season, the island’s cooling breezes add to its allure.
The Aswan Botanical Garden is a peaceful retreat for birdwatchers and nature lovers alike. Surrounded by green landscape and vibrant flora, the garden is alive with the melodies of diverse bird species, from elegant Nile Valley sunbirds to geese and purple herons, while strolling its serene paths offers a perfect blend of tranquility and natural beauty.
Explore Aswan Botanical Garden with an organized tour: Aswan Botanical garden with Felucca ride.
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High Dam
The Aswan High Dam, built in the 1960s, is a symbol of Egypt’s economic progress and resilience. It controls Nile River flooding, generates electricity, and created Lake Nasser, one of the world’s largest artificial lakes.
While the dam itself is not visually striking, its historical significance is profound. The construction displaced 90,000 people and required relocating major monuments like Abu Simbel and Philae Temple.
Located 16 km south of Aswan, it offers panoramic views of Lake Nasser and is an essential stop for history enthusiasts visiting the area.
Aswan Day Tour: Philae Temple, Obelisk, High Dam & Nubian Village
Where to Eat in Aswan
Aswan offers a delightful fusion of Egyptian and Nubian cuisine.
Elephantine Island boasts several excellent and affordable options for enjoying local dishes with breathtaking Nile views, such as King Jamaica Restaurant & Café.
Nubian Dreams Restaurant & Café is another great choice, offering authentic flavors with a charming ambiance.
For a more luxurious and serene dining experience, Juzoor Farm to Table Restaurant provides a “Culinary Journey to Wellness,” using the finest ingredients in a tranquil setting.
If you’re visiting Philae Temple and feel hungry, you can step over to Solaih Nubian Restaurant just a minute away. With its stunning stone and cave-like spaces by the Nile, this restaurant serves traditional Nubian dishes in ceramic pots. It’s also ideal for groups, offering shared food packages.
On your way back to town, if your visit to the Unfinished Obelisk leaves you craving seafood, Ismailia Restaurant is ready to impress with its fresh fish and seafood selections.
Destinations to Combine Aswan with
Abu Simbel
A day trip to Abu Simbel is a must when touring Egypt and can be easily combined with an Aswan vacation. These magnificent twin temples, built by Ramesses II over 3,000 years ago, showcase the grandeur of ancient Egypt.
Relocated to higher ground during the construction of the Aswan High Dam, Abu Simbel stands as a testament to both ancient ingenuity and modern preservation efforts.
Abu Simbel is about 3 hours by car or a 40-minute flight from Aswan so it’s not advisable to rush through both Aswan and Abu Simbel in a single day; instead allow enough time to fully enjoy both destinations.
Abu Simbel Sun Festival (February & October) features an incredible alignment of sunlight on Ramses II’s statues.
Kom Ombo
The Temple of Kom Ombo, perched along the Nile River, is a mesmerizing site renowned for its unique dual dedication to Sobek, the crocodile god, and Horus, the falcon-headed god.
This symmetrical temple, with twin entrances and sanctuaries, is adorned with detailed carvings and inscriptions that tell stories of ancient legends and history. If you have some extra vacation time in Aswan, a truly unforgettable experience is to take a serene felucca ride along the Nile to Kom Ombo.
Open from 9 am to 5 pm, taking a tour is highly suggested, since both transportation from Aswan and the valuable insights of a qualified guide are included.
Visitors can explore the majestic crocodile mummies and enjoy the picturesque views of the Nile. A visit to Kom Ombo combines the serenity of a Nile cruise with a deep dive into Egyptian spirituality and history.
Private Day Trip To Kom Ombo And Edfu Temples From Aswan
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