16 Unmissable Things to do in Aswan, Egypt
Ready to explore the best things to do in Aswan? From the stunning architecture of Philae Temple to day-tripping to Abu Simbel, discover Aswan’s charms...
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Aswan Travel Guide
Aswan, is one of Egypt’s most glorious cities. From ancient architecture to contemporary engineering genius, discover how to make the most of Aswan with this comprehensive travel guide.
Sitting on the east bank of the River Nile, Aswan is a beautiful, laidback city that will leave an indelible mark on your heart and mind.Â
Before I travelled to Egypt earlier this year, I didn’t know much about Aswan. Consequently, it was a rich journey of discovery as I fell completely head over heels for what has always been one of Egypt’s most important cities.
Discover the centuries-old rich Nubian Culture, gaze in wonder at fabulous landmarks and marvel at its riverside location as you understand why Aswan is so unique to so many people.
So sit back, put your feet up, enjoy my banging video introduction to Aswan and read on with my quintessential travel guide to Aswan.
How to Plan a Trip
Best time to visit
Aswan gets extremely hot from May through to September. As a result, I recommend you visit between October and April when the weather is cooler but still warm and sultry and there are far fewer crowds.Â
If you can, time your visit to coincide with the Festival of the Sun in nearby Abu Simbel, which occurs twice yearly on February 22nd and October 22nd.
Handy Resources
- Find the best deal flights to travel to Aswan with SkyscannerÂ
- Grab yourself a hire car to explore Aswan and the nearby treats such as Abu Simbel.
- 12Go and Omio are brilliant sites to explore public transport options and transfers in Aswan.
- Or, find convenient and cheap airport transfers to your hotel with Booking.com.
- Book multi-day guided trips around Aswan with G Adventures.
Where to Stay
Aswan Islands
I didn’t know that some of Aswan’s most beautiful parts are on various islands in the middle of the River Nile. Elephantine Island was the original border town and well worth exploring, while the Island of Seheyl is sacred to the goddess Anukis.
Stay at the beautiful Pyramisa Isis Island Hotel, a beautiful resort with 28 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens.
Kornish El Nile
Kornish El Nile is a stunning riverside district with wide pavements packed with locals and tourists revelling in the welcome breezes whipping off the river. You can enjoy a felucca cruise on the river, the perfect way to spend an early evening as the sun sets before heading off for a tasty dinner.
The Citymax Hotel Aswan is a great place to stay, with an outdoor pool and 4-star air-conditioned rooms.Â
Gharb Soheil
The village of Gharb Soheil is a stunning area full of colour and joy, transporting you back in time to ancient Nubia. A peaceful alternative to the hustle and bustle of Aswan, yet within a few minutes from downtown, check out the Souq that sells traditional local crafts, foods and spices.
The unique and beautiful Artika Wadi Kiki Hotel is the perfect base in this beautiful setting.
Saluga & Gazal Protectorate
Located just outside Aswan, Saluga and Gazal is a beautiful nature reserve formed in 1986 to protect the local threatened biodiversity and nature.Â
With beautiful greenery, bird-watching opportunities and plenty of tranquil nature to enjoy, Saluga and Gazal are so far removed from the general busyness of Egyptian towns.Stay at the Nubian Farm for a peaceful, rural retreat only 15 minutes from downtown Aswan.
Packing For Your Trip
- Ensure a comfortable sleep with Anti-Insect Sleepwear.
- Keep hydrated in the heat on the move with a Hydroflask.
- And make sure your water is safe to drink with Steripen water purifier.
- These Allbirds Tree Runners are perfect for walking around downtown Aswan.
Travel Insurance
It can be tempting to forgo travel insurance, but believe me, if things go wrong on your trip, you’ll be thankful for taking it out. Whether it’s illness, flight cancellations, or loss, it’s better to be safe and sorry.
I always use AXA Travel Insurance, who offers a great range of coverage and competitive rates.
Suggested Guidebooks
- Discovering Aswan: An Ancient Oasis in Modern Egypt by Kyle Watson
- Lonely Planet Guide to Egypt
- Rough Guide to Egypt
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Aswan Visitor Guide: What to Do During Your Aswan Trip
Top Things to Do
Step back in time at the Nubian Museum
Aswan is inextricably linked to the rich ancient Nubian Kingdom. Explore the rich cultural heritage of these ancient people and their modern-day descendants at the Nubian Museum. Gaze awestruck at a massive range of handicrafts and artefacts while visiting statues of Ramses II, among other Pharaohs.
Day trip to Abu Simbel
If you want to take an entire day away from Aswan, visit the ancient temples of Abu Simbel. This was a must-visit on my Egypt trip and didn’t disappoint.Â
The temple complex is one of the most incredible sights in Egypt, built by Ramses II. An absolute treasure trove of ancient architecture and engineering, be prepared to be struck dumb with wonder.
Stroll the Aswan Botanical Gardens
Kitchener’s Island lies in the Nile and was owned by Lord Kitchener. He created a beautiful botanical garden in 1928 full of flora and fauna from across Africa and Asia. Take a stroll and enjoy a peaceful picnic surrounded by greenery that contrasts with the arid landscape around Aswan.
Explore the Tombs of the Nobles
The Tombs of Nobles are a range of exquisite rock tombs on the cliffs of the West Bank of the Nile. The final resting place of many of Aswan’s nobiles, the tombs, can be accessed via a steep staircase near the Gharb Aswan boat stop. Don’t miss Tomb 31, the best-preserved tomb among the intricately finished graves of some of Egypt’s most significant leaders.
Visit the Unfinished Obelisk
A short walk from downtown Aswan is one of the city’s best-known attractions, the Unfinished Obelisk. Sat in Aswan’s northern quarry, it is Egypt’s largest – and most mysterious obelisk. Why it is incomplete remains unknown today, but this monument is one of Egypt’s most beautiful treasures.
Wander Elephantine Island
With a liberal sprinkling of palm trees and sitting in the middle of the Nile, Elephantine Island is one of the most picturesque places in Aswan. With a massive number of ancient archaeological sites to explore, don’t miss out on the Ruis of Abu, the oldest settlement in Aswan, and the Temple of Satet, which dates back to the 19th century.
Shop at Aswan Souq
If, like me, you love a bit of retail therapy to indulge your inner shopaholic, Aswan Souq is a dream come true. Just over a kilometre in length, this bazaar sells everything from textiles to handicrafts, spices, to jewellery. Take time to try some local delicacies such as Karkadai, a tea made from dried hibiscus.
Take High Tea at the Old Cataract Hotel
The Old Cataract Hotel is a must-visit for a spot of high tea while enjoying unmatchable views of the Nile. Built by Thomas Cook in 1899, the Old Catara
Suggested Aswan Itineraries
Two days in Aswan
2 days
Monastery of St. Simeon > Philae Temple > Nubian Museum > Abu Simbel > Elephantine Island
This two-day itinerary of Aswan takes in many of the main sites, including a trip to Abu Simbel, yet at a leisurely pace that won’t feel too taxing or overwhelming.
Aswan & Abu Simbel
3 days
Aswan > River Nile > Abu Simbel
A stunning three-day itinerary that takes you from the historical monuments of Aswan and its rich Nubian cultural history before cruising around the granite islands in the Nile on a Felucca on day two and ending by exploring the ancient settlement of Abu Simbel on the third day.Â
Aswan to Luxor
3 days
Aswan > Temples of Edfu and Kom Ombo > Luxor
Another three-day itinerary that is ideal for newbies to the region. Begin with a day in Aswan before taking a day trip to the nearby Ptolemaic temples of Edfu and Kom Ombo. End with a visit to Luxor, the ancient seat of Egypt’s pharaohs.
Hidden Aswan: Off the Beaten Path
Explore the Animalia Museum
This hidden gem takes you under the surface of Nubian culture. A museum of curiosities that includes geological and natural history gems tracing the region’s history, there is a roof terrace serving lovely lunches.Â
If you’re lucky, you may enjoy a lecture about Nubian links with the Nile and birdwatching tours around the Nile basin.
Visit the Mausoleum of Aga Khan
This gorgeous pink limestone Mausoleum overlooking the Nile is the resting place of the Aga Khan, Sir Sultan Muhammed, who died in 1957. Sadly, it is no longer open to the public, but it’s worth visiting to explore the incredible Islamic architecture.
The Kalabsha Temple
The newest temple in Aswan dating back to the Roman Emperor Augustus, this is arguably the most beautiful temple outside Abu Simbel. Built by Amenhotep II, historical reliefs displaying the victories of Ramsis II remain visible.
How to See the Best of Aswan for Free
Downtown Aswan is easily explored on foot. However, some locals offer free private walking tours to get the best from your visit without paying a penny.Â
GuruWalk offers a free private guided tour of Abu Simbel, or you can create your exploration using a guidebook.
How to See the Best of Aswan for Free
Salahaddin Restaurant
The Salahaddin Restaurant is a wonderful riverside eatery boasting several terraces and charming views across the Nile. They serve a gorgeous mix of Egyptian, Nubian and international cuisine and is one of my top dining spots in Egypt, never mind Aswan!
Makani Restaurant
If you want to eat traditional Egyptian cuisine, this is another of my favourite dining spots in Aswan. The Makani restaurant is perfect for a leisurely lunch or full-on dinner. With a friendly host, outstanding riverside views and mouthwatering food, this comes highly recommended.
Solaih Nubian
Located on Bigeh Island and offering beautiful views overlooking the Philae Temple, this traditional Nubian restaurant provides a wonderful mix of conventional homemade cooking served on eco-friendly tableware forged from the surrounding area.
1902
If it’s a high-dining experience you’re after, 1902 serves top-quality international cuisine in the ornate and luxurious surroundings of the Old Cataract Hotel. Their lobster risotto is world-famous and one taste will show you why!
Must-Try Bars & Restaurants in Aswan
Salahaddin Restaurant
The Salahaddin Restaurant is a wonderful riverside eatery boasting several terraces and charming views across the Nile. They serve a gorgeous mix of Egyptian, Nubian and international cuisine and is one of my top dining spots in Egypt, never mind Aswan!
Makani Restaurant
If you want to eat traditional Egyptian cuisine, this is another of my favourite dining spots in Aswan. The Makani restaurant is perfect for a leisurely lunch or full-on dinner. With a friendly host, outstanding riverside views and mouthwatering food, this comes highly recommended.
Solaih Nubian
Located on Bigeh Island and offering beautiful views overlooking the Philae Temple, this traditional Nubian restaurant provides a wonderful mix of conventional homemade cooking served on eco-friendly tableware forged from the surrounding area.
1902
If it’s a high-dining experience you’re after, 1902 serves top-quality international cuisine in the ornate and luxurious surroundings of the Old Cataract Hotel. Their lobster risotto is world-famous and one taste will show you why!
Travel Guide: Things to Know Before You Plan a Trip to Aswan
Tipping in Aswan
Tipping is culturally expected in Egypt, although it is not mandatory. Around 10 to 15% of your bill is usual at cafes and restaurants, although this is sometimes included on your bill. Meanwhile, loose change is usually accepted by street food vendors.
Interesting Facts
- Aswan is one of the world’s driest places. The average rainfall is less than 10mm annually.
- The USSR constructed the Aswan Dam between 1960 and 1970. It spans the Nile and is 11,811 ft long, 364 ft high, and has a base of 3215 ft. It produces about 10 billion kW of electricity each hour.
- Aswan is home to over fifty traditional folk dances central to the city’s culture.
- Pink and black granite from Aswan were used to construct most of Egypt’s most famous monuments and shrines, including the Pyramids of Giza.
Handy Phrases
Although English is widely spoken throughout Aswan, the following phrases in Arabic will be helpful on your visit.
Hello – mrbhan
Yes – naeam
No – la
Thank you – shkran lak
How much is – bikum
Time Zones
Aswan observes Egypt Standard Time, which is GMT +03:00 and has recently reintroduced Daylight Saving Time.
Electricity and Adapters
Egypt uses the two-prong Type C and Type F types. To make sure you can keep your devices fully charged, make sure you pack a universal adapter.
Health
You don’t need to get specific jabs to visit Egypt. However, being up to date with your UK vaccinations is recommended.Â
Drinking tap water is not recommended in Aswan. Although it is considered safe, water treatment plants heavily chlorinate the supply, so err on the side of caution and stick to bottled water.
Transport
You can quickly get around downtown Aswan on foot. If you want to head to the islands, use a Felucca and hire a boat for as long as you need to help traverse the islands at your own pace.
For further afield, hire a car and drive yourself, or book a taxi in advance for as long as you need to take you where you need to go. I also recommend cruising down the River Nile if you want to visit Luxor.
Safety
Aswan is a regular tourist destination and is generally considered safe to visit. Petty crime such as theft is a risk, so ensure you keep your valuables and documentation safely stashed at your hotel and keep your wallet safe from pickpocketing fingers.
Costs and Budgeting
The cost of living in Egypt is cheap compared to the UK and US, so enjoying a good quality vacation on a moderate budget is possible. If you’re looking for a mid-range experience, you can expect to spend around £40 to £60 daily ($50 to $73).
For a more luxurious and high-end experience, budget around £120 to £150 per day ($145 to $180), including your accommodation.
Average Daily CostsÂ
- HotelÂ
- Mid-Range £30 to £50 ($35 to $60)
- Luxury £70 to £120 ($85 to $145)
- Food – £10 to £30 ($12 to $35)
- Public £5 to £20 ($6 to $25)
- Attractions £5 to £30 ($6 to $35)
- Tours – £10 to £40 ($12 to $50)
Map of Aswan
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