Aswan Travel Guide: Temples, Nubia and the Nile

Aswan is Egypt's southern gate, where the Nile flows golden between granite boulders and palm-fringed islands, and the culture shifts toward Nubia. Slower, sunnier and softer than Cairo or Luxor, it is many travelers' favorite city on the river.

The highlights, Philae Temple, the High Dam, the Unfinished Obelisk and the Nubian villages, fill one unhurried day. Aswan is also the base for the great day trip to Abu Simbel. Here is how to plan it.

Philae Temple

Philae, the temple of Isis, sits on a jewel of an island reached by motorboat, framed by palm trees and dark granite. Relocated stone by stone during the rescue campaign that saved it from the rising waters of Lake Nasser, it is one of the most beautifully sited temples in Egypt. A sound and light show is held here in the evenings.

The High Dam and the Unfinished Obelisk

The Aswan High Dam created Lake Nasser, one of the largest man-made lakes in the world, and its viewpoint gives a sense of the scale. In the ancient granite quarries nearby lies the Unfinished Obelisk, abandoned when it cracked, still attached to the bedrock and revealing exactly how the ancients carved these monoliths.

Nubian Culture

Aswan is the heart of Nubia. Take a boat to a Nubian village on the west bank for painted houses, henna, spiced tea and crocodile folklore, or simply wander the corniche at sunset. Nubian music and hospitality are unforgettable.

Abu Simbel Day Trip

Ramses II's temples at Abu Simbel, three hours south of Aswan by road or a short flight, are Egypt's most dramatic monument after the pyramids. The great temple is fronted by four 20-meter colossi of the king, and the interior is cut 60 meters into the mountain. Most visitors leave Aswan before dawn and are back by early afternoon.

Feluccas and the Islands

Aswan is the best place in Egypt for a felucca ride. Drift around Elephantine and Kitchener's islands, watch herons and kingfishers, and see the Nile at its most beautiful.

Recommended Tours

Explore these Egypt Rest Tours experiences related to this guide:

• Private One Day Aswan Tour from Cairo by Flight — Philae, the High Dam and the Unfinished Obelisk in one day from Cairo

  

• 2-Day Aswan & Abu Simbel Tour from Cairo by Flight — overnight Aswan with the Abu Simbel temples included

  

• Private Abu Simbel Tour from Aswan by Flight — the fastest way to Ramses II's masterpiece

• Private Abu Simbel Tour from Aswan by Car — the classic dawn convoy drive through the desert

Related Reading

• Abu Simbel Guide: Visiting Ramses II's Masterpiece

• Philae, Kom Ombo and Edfu: The Nile Temple Trio

• Nile Cruise Guide: Luxor to Aswan

• Luxor Travel Guide: East Bank and West Bank

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days do I need in Aswan?

One full day covers Aswan itself, with a second day for Abu Simbel. Many travelers arrive on a Nile cruise and extend with our private tours.

When is the best time to visit Aswan?

October to April. Aswan is Egypt's warmest winter city, perfect for sunshine, while summer temperatures are extreme and sightseeing needs very early starts.

Can I visit a Nubian village?

Yes, boats cross to the west bank villages throughout the day. We can add a Nubian village visit to any private Aswan tour on request.