Aswan Travel Guide: Egypt’s Nubian Gem on the Nile

a group of colorful buildings with a hill in the background

Introduction to Aswan

Aswan, Egypt’s southernmost city, offers a more relaxed alternative to bustling Cairo and Luxor. Known for its Nubian culture, stunning Nile views, and incredible temples, Aswan is the perfect gateway to Abu Simbel and the start/finish point for most Nile cruises.

Why Visit Aswan?

✔ Less touristy than Luxor/Cairo
✔ Best-preserved temples (Philae, Abu Simbel)
✔ Authentic Nubian culture & colorful villages
✔ Beautiful Nile islands & felucca rides

Top Attractions in Aswan

1. Abu Simbel Temples (Day Trip Essential)

Why Visit? Ramses II’s monumental cliff temples relocated to save them from Lake Nasser
Highlights:
✔ Great Temple (4 colossal statues of Ramses)
✔ Nefertari’s Temple (dedicated to his favorite wife)
✔ Sun Festival (Feb 22/Oct 22 – sunlight illuminates inner sanctum)
Pro Tip: Take a 3AM convoy from Aswan or fly (1hr vs 4hr drive)

2. Philae Temple (Must-See Island Temple)

Why Visit? Beautiful Isis Temple saved from flooding
Highlights:
✔ Sound & Light Show at night
✔ Kiosk of Trajan – Instagram-famous columns
How to Visit: Short boat ride from mainland

3. Nubian Villages (Cultural Highlight)

Best Villages: Gharb Soheil & Elephantine Island
Experiences:
✔ Drink hibiscus tea in colorful houses
✔ Hold a baby crocodile (Nubian tradition)
✔ Buy handmade crafts & spices

4. Aswan High Dam & Unfinished Obelisk

High Dam: Modern engineering marvel (created Lake Nasser)
Unfinished Obelisk: Shows how ancient obelisks were carved

5. Elephantine Island & Kitchener’s Island

Elephantine Island: Nubian Museum & ancient ruins
Kitchener’s Island: Botanical gardens (perfect for sunset)

6. Felucca Ride to Sehel Island

Why Do It? Traditional sailboat experience
Best Time: Sunset with views of Aga Khan Mausoleum

Unique Aswan Experiences

1. Take a Nile Cruise to Luxor

Best Option: 3-night cruise stopping at Kom Ombo & Edfu Temples

2. Stay in a Nubian Guesthouse

Top Picks: Kato Dool Wellness Resort, Anakato Nubian Houses

3. Visit a Local Market

Aswan Spice Market: Best for hibiscus, dates, henna

Best Time to Visit Aswan

October-April: Pleasant (25-30°C) – peak season
May-September: Very hot (40°C+) but no crowds

Aswan Travel Tips

✔ Abu Simbel Strategy:

Book flights if short on time
Convoy leaves 3AM – sleep on the bus

✔ Nubian Village Visit:

Go with a local guide for authentic experience
Barter politely for souvenirs

✔ Dress Code:

Light, loose clothing for heat
Cover shoulders/knees in villages

✔ Getting Around:

Taxis are cheap (negotiate price first)
Walking is pleasant along the Corniche

✔ Health Tip:

Drink bottled water only

Where to Stay in Aswan

Luxury ($$$)

Sofitel Legend Old Cataract (Agatha Christie’s favorite)
Mövenpick Resort Aswan (private island location)

Mid-Range ($$)

Pyramisa Isis Island Resort (great Nile views)
Hapi Hotel (central location)

Budget ($)

Nubian Dream Hotel (authentic Nubian style)
Keylany Hotel (backpacker favorite)

Sample Aswan Itinerary

Day 1:

Morning: Philae Temple
Afternoon: High Dam & Unfinished Obelisk
Evening: Felucca sunset ride

Day 2:

Abu Simbel day trip
Night: Nubian village dinner

Day 3:

Elephantine Island & Nubian Museum
Relax at botanical gardens

Final Thoughts

Aswan offers Egypt’s most beautiful Nile scenery and rich Nubian culture. While smaller than Luxor, its temples are better preserved and the pace is wonderfully relaxed. Combine with a Nile cruise for the ultimate experience!