Top 10 things to do in Aswan await you—ready for an unforgettable adventure? Aswan is the perfect mix of history, stunning landscapes, and Nile charm! From ancient temples to peaceful felucca rides, this southern gem is where Pharaonic heritage meets vibrant Nubian culture.
Whether you’re a history buff, adventure seeker, or just want to relax by the Nile, Aswan has something special for you. Let’s dive into the top 10 things to do and make your trip truly unforgettable!
Exciting Facts about Aswan
Aswan is where history meets nature! Home to the Nubian people, it played a key role in Egypt’s past, supplying stone for ancient temples and obelisks. You can even visit the Unfinished Obelisk to see how they were carved!
With 4,000 hours of sunshine a year and almost no rain, Aswan is one of the sunniest places on Earth. Pack light clothes—winter (October to March) is the best time to visit!
If you’re planning an unforgettable trip, be sure to include this iconic temple in your itinerary. Explore its wonders as part of your Egypt vacation packages and immerse yourself in the magic of Egypt Online Tour!
What the Top 10 Things to Do in Aswan
Aswan, a breathtaking gem in southern Egypt, is a city rich in history, culture, and stunning landscapes. Nestled along the majestic Nile River, Aswan offers travelers a perfect blend of ancient wonders, vibrant markets, and serene islands. From the awe-inspiring Philae Temple to the towering Aswan High Dam, this city is a must-visit for history lovers and adventure seekers alike. Whether you’re sailing on a traditional felucca, exploring the colorful Nubian villages, or discovering the mystical Abu Simbel temples, Aswan promises an unforgettable experience. Here are the top 10 things to do in Aswan for an incredible journey!
1. Explore the Majestic Philae Temple
If you’re planning a trip to Aswan, make sure Philae Temple is at the top of your list! Nestled on a beautiful Nile island, this breathtaking temple is one of Egypt’s best-preserved Ptolemaic temples, alongside Dendera and Edfu.
A Temple Dedicated to Love and Mythology
Philae Temple was dedicated to Isis, Osiris, and Hathor, but did you know it’s not in its original location? After the Old Aswan Dam was built in 1902, rising waters left Philae partially submerged for most of the year. In the 1960s, UNESCO led a massive rescue mission, relocating the temple stone by stone to Agilkia Island—an incredible feat of engineering!
What to Expect
- Start your journey at Philae Temple Marina, where you can purchase tickets before hopping on a boat to the island.
- Enjoy a scenic 10-minute ride across the Nile, offering stunning views of the temple emerging from the water.
- Step into history as you walk through towering columns covered in hieroglyphs, telling stories of ancient Egyptian mythology.
- See the last known hieroglyphic inscription ever written in ancient Egypt, marking the end of an era before the language disappeared.
Tips for Your Visit
- Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM (arrive early to beat the crowds).
- Photography is free, so make sure to capture every magical moment!
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2. Marvel at the Temples of Abu Simbel
If you’re exploring Aswan, a trip to Abu Simbel is an absolute must! These incredible temples, carved into the rock over 3,000 years ago, stand as a testament to the power of Ramses II and the grandeur of ancient Egypt.
Saving Abu Simbel
Just like Philae Temple, Abu Simbel faced the threat of submersion due to the construction of the Aswan High Dam. But thanks to one of the greatest archaeological rescue operations in history, the entire complex was moved to higher ground, preserving its breathtaking beauty for generations to come..
Getting to Abu Simbel
The Abu Simbel Temples are a four-hour drive from Aswan, but the journey is part of the adventure! You’ll pass through breathtaking desert landscapes before arriving at this iconic site.
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3. Felucca Ride on the Nile
Sailing on a felucca in Aswan is one of the most peaceful and scenic experiences you can have, especially at sunset. The gentle movement of the boat, the cool breeze, and the golden hues of the sky create a magical atmosphere that’s hard to beat. Unlike motorboats, feluccas are traditional wooden sailboats operated entirely by hand, making the ride slow and relaxing.
What to Expect
During the journey, you’ll sail around Elephantine Island, where you can take in views of ancient ruins and the beautiful riverbanks. Some travelers also choose to combine the ride with a visit to the Nubian Village, switching to a motorboat for the next leg of the adventure.
If you’re looking for a serene way to experience the Nile, a felucca ride is the perfect choice. Just remember—no wind means no sailing, so it’s all about embracing the moment and enjoying the breathtaking scenery.
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4. Immerse Yourself in Nubian Culture at a Local Village
A visit to the Nubian Village in Aswan offers more than just a photo opportunity—it’s a chance to experience a unique culture, interact with the locals, and gain insight into a way of life that has been preserved for generations.
What to Expect?
Sailing to the Nubian Village is an experience in itself! As you cruise along the Nile, passing beautiful islands, you’ll soak in Aswan’s stunning scenery.
Once there, you’ll be greeted by colorful homes, lively streets, and the warmest hospitality. Locals often invite visitors in for traditional Nubian tea and love sharing stories about their heritage. Some homes even keep crocodiles as part of an old tradition—an interesting sight, though not for everyone!
Tips for a Meaningful Visit
- Support Local Communities, Choose a tour that ensures part of your payment benefits the villagers. Shopping for handmade crafts is also a great way to contribute.
- Be Respectful, Always ask before taking photos of people, and dress modestly to respect the local culture.
- Experience, Don’t Just Observe, Instead of just passing through, take time to engage—learn a few Nubian words, try their traditional food, and immerse yourself in their customs.
5.The High Dam
The Nile has always been Egypt’s lifeline, but its annual floods once brought destruction. To control its waters, Egypt embarked on one of history’s greatest engineering projects: the Aswan High Dam.
It all started with the Old Aswan Dam in 1902, an impressive feat for its time, but not enough to tame the mighty river. Over the years, the need for a bigger, stronger solution became urgent—leading to the creation of the High Dam.
- Located 16 km south of Aswan
- Visiting Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM
- Distance from Aswan: About 30 minutes by car.
6. Explore the Hidden Qubbet El-Hawa
If you’re planning your itinerary and looking for the best things to do in Aswan, don’t miss Qubbet El-Hawa (Dome of the Winds)! This hidden gem on the west bank of the Nile offers a perfect mix of history, adventure, and breathtaking views.
Why Visit Qubbet El-Hawa?
- Stunning View: A short but steep climb rewards you with a breathtaking panoramic view of the Nile, Elephantine Island, and golden desert dunes.
- Rich History: Home to the Tombs of the Nobles, where ancient Egyptian governors, priests, and elites were buried thousands of years ago.
- A Photographer’s Dream: From landscapes and sunsets to historical sites, Qubbet El-Hawa offers countless Instagram-worthy moments!
How to Get There?
Take the public ferry from the east bank of the Nile, and when you arrive, follow the trail leading up to the tombs. The climb may be challenging, but the stunning views at the top make it 100% worth it!
7. Discover the Coptic Cathedral in Aswan
Aswan has witnessed diverse cultures throughout history, from the ancient Nubian and Egyptian civilizations to the present day, where Islam is the predominant religion. However, a strong Coptic Christian community still thrives here, reflecting a time when Christianity was the dominant faith in the region.
One of the must-visit landmarks is the Cathedral of Archangel Michael, located near the Nile and just a short walk from the Nubian Museum. This stunning cathedral boasts an impressive exterior and beautifully detailed artwork inside its main hall.
The cathedral is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM, and the best part? Entry is free!
8. Panorama
Pylon Panorama offers a stunning bird’s-eye view of Aswan’s majestic temples, the Nile, and the surrounding landscape. It’s the perfect spot to capture breathtaking photos, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Quick Tips for Your Visit:
- Best Time to Go: Early morning or just before sunset.
- What to Wear: Comfortable clothing, a hat, and sunglasses.
- Photography: Don’t forget your camera for some incredible shots
9. Visit the Unfinished Obelisk
If you’re exploring the top 10 things to do in Aswan, visiting the Unfinished Obelisk should be on your list. This incredible site offers a rare, up-close look at the craftsmanship of ancient Egyptian builders and the techniques they used to carve massive stone monuments (without modern machinery).
Why is the Unfinished Obelisk so Special?
- The Unfinished Obelisk is over 3,500 years old and one of Egypt’s most significant archaeological sites.
- It provides insight into how ancient Egyptians quarried and shaped granite for temples and monuments.
Is the Unfinished Obelisk Worth Visiting?
At first, visiting an incomplete monument might not seem exciting, but when you stand next to this massive, half-carved obelisk, you’ll truly appreciate the immense effort ancient Egyptians put into crafting these structures.
Opening Hours
It is open daily from 7 AM to 4 PM, allowing visitors to walk through and capture stunning photos.
10. Stay in a Nubian-Style Hotel
Enhance your experience by staying in a charming Nubian guesthouse. These accommodations offer colorful interiors, stunning Nile views, and warm hospitality, making your trip even more special.
Check out Egypt Tour Packages for the best hotel options that blend comfort with authenticity.
Why Aswan Should Be on Your Egypt Itinerary
From breathtaking temples to peaceful felucca rides, Aswan offers a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that makes it a top travel destination. Whether you’re exploring with Egypt vacation packages or planning a solo adventure, Aswan promises unforgettable experiences.
Have you been to Aswan? What was your favorite experience? Let us know in the comments!
