What to do in Aswan Egypt

Located along the Nile River in southern Egypt, Aswan is a city rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. Known for its sunny weather and ancient archaeological sites, Aswan has become a popular destination for travelers seeking a unique Egyptian experience. To Know: what to do in Aswan Egypt?, you will find In this comprehensive guide, everything you need to know to plan your great trip to Aswan, from the best time to visit to the best attractions and basic travel tips.

Interesting Facts About Aswan

There are many interesting facts about Aswan. 

• The following are the most important facts:

- The ancient Egyptians were called "Sono" and its meaning was market, which was then diverted to the current name of Aswan.

- The Temple of Abu Simbel, built by King Ramses II, is the most important archaeological shrine in Aswan, where the phenomenon of solar alignment that attracts the eyes of the world twice a year occurs.

- Philae temples are also among the most prominent archaeological areas, with temples dating back to King Thutmous III, most notably the Isis Temple.

- The Graeco-Roman Temple at Kom Ombo had the largest share of archaeological discoveries.

- The governorate of Aswan is known for its therapeutic and cultural tourism. Its sand is a destination for patients with rheumatology and osteoporosis. This reflects the importance of conservation in medical tourism.

- Aswan Governorate is the first source of water and electricity, with the largest project in the history of the Ministry of Irrigation in Egypt, the High Dam, and its industrial lake, the world's largest industrial lake.

Know more about: What are the important holidays in Egypt ?

Is it worth visiting Aswan, Egypt?

Of course, Aswan City in southern Egypt is one of the great tourist destinations to visit. It maintains its attractiveness as a tourist destination, allowing visitors to deepen the rich past by visiting archaeological places. The visitors only want to know the answers to the majority of the questions that may be on their minds.

How to get to Aswan?

You can get to Aswan from Cairo International Airport (CAI) to Aswan International Airport (ASW) flights. Also, you can get from Cairo to Aswan by bus, train, or Nile Cruise.

• If you want to visit Egypt and come through Cairo International Airport, this chance will be a great experience for you: 8 Days Cairo, Luxor, Aswan Classic Tours

• If you have many days, the 10 Days Cairo, Aswan, Luxor & Hurghada Overland Tour will be an extra chance to discover Luxor and Hurghada for an incredible journey.

What is the best time to visit Aswan?

The ideal time to visit Aswan is the winter between November and March, when temperatures are comfortable by day (between 20 and 30 °C), with a sunny atmosphere and little rain, making it ideal for sightseeing.

How long to stay in Aswan?

You should spend at least 2 full days in this wonderful city to enjoy its incredible attractions.

Where to Stay in Aswan?

Aswan has a range of the most important resorts and hotels on all levels. This is a list of the most famous ones to choose from according to the budget:

1. Peramisa Isis Aswan Corniche Resort

2. Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Aswan Hotel

3. Movenpick Aswan Resort

4. Sun Six Aswan Resort

5. Helnan Aswan Hotel

6. Hotel Nile Aswan

7. Hotel Hello Aswan

8. Sara Aswan Hotel

9. Orkida Aswan Hotel

10. Nuba Hotel Neil Aswan

If you know the cheapest time to go to Egypt , you will enjoy several places at the same trip.

Where to eat in Aswan?

There are many restaurants in Aswan. In addition to traditional Egyptian restaurants, there are French, Indian, and Italian restaurants. Here is a list of the famous ones in Aswan:

1. Panorama Restaurant & Bar

2. Mezze Restaurant

3. King Jamaica Restaurant & Cafe

4. Makani restaurant

5. The Terrace

6. Juzoor

7. 1902 Restaurant

8. Solaih Nubian Restaurant

• You may also be interested in the top 10 most common foods in Egypt . However, regarding the most popular drinks, Egyptian Popular Drinks will be helpful.

Can you walk around Aswan?

Many of Aswan's attractions can be reached on foot from one another, making it a walkable city.

What to do in Aswan Egypt?

Through this list, you will learn about the best things to do in Aswan:

1. Elephantine Island 

Go back in time and discover the history of Aswan's southern region across Elephantine Island, an archaeological site filled with historic treasures, from ancient temples to the remnants of war forts.

2. Philae temples

The Philae Temple is one of the most popular tourist places in Aswan. It is an ancient temple complex dedicated to the goddess Isis and is a testament to the greatness of Egyptian architecture.

One of the most fun adventures you can enjoy in Aswan is riding riverboats and passing from under the Temple of Philae. You can also make a short boat trip from the center of Aswan.

3. Aswan Museum

This stunning archaeological museum was set up in the center of the vital city of Aswan to be one of the most important archaeological places in Aswan. It showcases a wide range of artifacts, including statues, pottery, and jewelry from different periods of Egyptian history.

7. Temple of Kom Ombo

The Temple of Kom Ombo is a tourist place in Aswan renowned for its history. Located on the east bank of the Nile River, the Kom Ambo Temple is a unique double temple built during the era of Ptolemos II and is dedicated to deportees Subik and Horus.

8. Aswan Botanical Garden

You can escape the hustle and bustle by visiting the quiet island of Ketchner, also known as the Botanical Garden of Aswan, so named after the ruler Lord Ketchner who created it, after which King Fouad I changed its name to the island of plants.

This green oasis is one of the most beautiful tourist places in Aswan and an unparalleled paradise for nature lovers, showcasing a wide range of exotic plants and flowers from all over the world. You can do one of these most important activities:

• Take a pleasant stroll through the island's parks and green spaces.

• Enjoy tranquillity and recreation on the beach.

• Taking a river trip to Ketchner Island.

• Taste the various types of fruits found there that feature some different tastes than usual, such as Abazz, palm trees, cactus, Indian time, jackfruit, and ruins.

9. Abu Simbel Temple

The Temple of Abu Simbel is not only one of the most important tourist spots in Aswan, it is a UNESCO world heritage site that must be visited in Aswan.

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13. Nubian Village

With its traditions and customs, Aswan reflects much of the Nubian culture known to the people of the South. Now it's your turn to learn about it by visiting nearby Nubia, which will give you an unforgettable tour filled with the homes and hospitality of the Nubian people. As well as the organization of colorful mud houses and traditional Nubian food.

Here are some activities to try in this picturesque village:

• Take a sailing boat tour to the west of Suhail where the Nubian village is.

• Riding camels and horses.

• Visit crocodile cages that the people of the region used to raise.

• Shopping on local streets in the village where all kinds of spices, perfumes, and other local products.

14. Unfinished Obelisk

Unfinished Obelisk is known for its construction accuracy, which is 42 meters long and contains various inscriptions that tell stories from ancient Egypt. It is located near the Nile in Aswan.

15. Aga Khan Mausoleum

The Aga Khan has been an Indian arrival since 1954 in Egypt. He came to Aswan for the therapeutic purpose of rheumatology. However, he usually became a favorite to visit Aswan every winter until he recommended that he be buried there at death.

The Aga Khan Mausoleum is located on the west bank of the Nile River, surrounded by spectacular views of the Nile River. You will also note the architecture of the Fatimid State-style Mausoleum in Egypt.

16. High Dam

The Aswan High Dam stands as a symbol of Egypt's progress and resilience and one of the modern engineering projects where parts of the dam are refurbished and maintained year after year.

The dam was built on the Nile River to provide hydropower and regulate the flow of river water, where the dam played a prominent role in preventing floods and ensuring a stable water supply for irrigation.

This is why visiting the Aswan High Dam offers a unique opportunity to witness the integration of ancient and modern Egypt. As well as the ability to view ferries and seaboats passing near the dam.

17. Tabia Mosque

The importance of the Tabia mosque is not only due to its being one of the most prestigious tourist places in Aswan, but is it basically one of two war schools in Aswan, and after its construction its famous minaret has become the tourist surveillance center on which visitors tend to see the entire city of Aswan from above!

Indeed, the Tabia Mosque is a long story that began in 1811 and has overseen its tales and developments by many important figures in Egypt.

18. Aswan Tourism Market

If you want to learn about Aswan from close proximity, visit the tourist market street for the opportunity to learn about the local products of Aswan; One of the most distinctive features of this market is its uneven prices and most of them are affordable.

Where you will find many stalls, lacy folk clothes, dresses, crockery, and special accessories that will only challenge you in Aswan!

19. Aswan Corniche

In a series of developments of many walks in the coastal city, Aswan Corniche had a stake in this development to restore its pavements and pave its ways to receive more visitors and attract various local companies to showcase their products in its designated area.

This picturesque promenade offers stunning views of the Nile River, Elephantine Island, and the Aga Khan Mausoleum. Enjoy a quiet moment while enjoying the beauty of the river and consider Aswan's immortal appeal.

This picturesque promenade offers stunning views of the Nile River, Elephantine Island and the Aga Khan Mausoleum. Enjoy a quiet moment while enjoying the beauty of the river and consider Aswan's immortal appeal.

It is will more enjoyable to read about: What Is There to Do in Luxor

Day Trips from Aswan

1. Take a tour of Aswan's fundamental architectural treasures

If you want to discover part of the city's history during your stay, join a tour of the Aswan Philae Temple, the High Dam, and the Unfinished Obelisk.

You will visit the Aswan High Dam, which gave rise to the artificial Lake Nasser. This monumental structure was erected more than 60 years ago for the purpose of generating electricity.

You will also see the Unfinished Obelisk, which dates back to the reign of the 18th Dynasty Pharaoh Hatshepsut. This stone carving is over 40 meters high and is located inside a trench in the quarries in the north of the city. You will also visit the Temple of Aswan Philae, which is dedicated to the goddess Isis and located on an island across the Nile.

This tour, including the Temple of Aswan Philae, the Unfinished Obelisk, and the High Dam, is usually guided. 

• This is convenient, as you will be accompanied by an expert who will take you directly to each destination and tell you its history. 

2. Take a boat tour in Aswan to learn about the Nubian people’s culture

Taking a boat or falucha ride on the Nile River and discovering the history of the ancient Nubian people is a popular excursion in Aswan. This is a unique open-air experience, where you will be able to enjoy the unique scenery.

In Aswan, you will board a boat and, together with a guide, you will take a ride on the calm waters of the Nile. You will sail past Elephantine Island and Sohail, as well as Lake Nasser, which is formed by the High Dam reservoir. These are the main places where the Nubian people are still found.

On this boat tour of the Nubian people from Aswan, you will stop at one of the above destinations to explore at your own pace. You'll walk through streets lined with traditional houses, see some tamed crocodiles, and gain access to the home of a Nubian family.

3. Explore the Abu Simbel temple complex in Aswan

The Abu Simbel temple complex is a must-see destination on your itinerary. You will see an archaeological find more than 3,000 years old, discovered by Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt and declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

For this adventure, you will travel by car some 300 kilometers in the direction of the southern area of Aswan. There, you will find the pair of temples of Abu Simbel. One is dedicated to Ramses II and the other to Nefertari, who was his wife during his lifetime.

You will see the four monumental statues guarding the main entrance. Next, you will find the temple of the pharaoh, followed by that of his wife. In both places, you will see dozens of life-size statues alluding to this pair of characters from Egyptian history. There are also hundreds of hieroglyphs describing their great deeds.

• This day trip to the Abu Simbel temple from Aswan can be done on your own, but it is best to join a guided tour. This way, you won't have to worry about the transfer, as you will have a driver-guide.

4. Visit the Philae Temple and a Nubian village off Soheil Island in Aswan

Another experience you can have in this Egyptian city combines a couple of destinations included in the first two activities of this list of tours and excursions in Aswan. These are the famous Philae Temple and an ancient Nubian village, which is located on the islands along the Nile. You will delve into the history and traditions that are part of the local culture.

The tour usually starts with a drive to the Philae Temple. This is a sacred site, where the goddess Isis is worshipped. You will be left breathless at the sight of this majestic building, statues and other treasures.

Afterward, your guide will take you to the Nile River to board a boat and sail to a Nubian village off Soheil Island, very close to the Aswan Dam crossing. There, you'll get off and walk among the quaint traditional houses and leafy palm trees.

• This is a must-do tour that combines perfectly with other activities such as Nile cruises from Aswan. In fact, if you have enough time, you could take a 3-night Nile cruise from Aswan to Luxor and escape the hustle and bustle.

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5. Embark on a horse-drawn carriage  tour of downtown Aswan with a guide

The guided horse-drawn carriage ride is another of the best tours of Aswan. This is a different way to explore this Egyptian city, giving you a glimpse of local life while discovering interesting destinations.

You will board a comfortable carriage in the city center and the driver will immediately pull the reins to start this fun-filled adventure. The guide will educate you about the history of each location, giving you a new perspective on Aswan.

You will see iconic sites such as the Coptic Orthodox Cathedral, the Nile Corniche Street, the Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Hotel and the El-Tabia Mosque, among others.

6. Enjoy a complimentary tour of the spice market in Aswan.

If you are an enthusiast of Egyptian cuisine and also want to get a different view of the city, you should visit the Aswan Spice Market. You will be enveloped in a lively atmosphere with food stalls, vendors offering their wares, and bargaining.

When you arrive at this traditional market in the centre of the city, you will notice that it is a popular place with locals and tourists alike. You can visit it on your own or with a guide. In any case, you will find dozens of picturesque stalls that you can explore freely and without haste.

You can buy a variety of spices and other kitchen products for your preparations: thyme, fennel, hibiscus flower, etc. You can also taste the delicious Arabica coffee, herbal teas and fresh juices. You will also find handicrafts of the Nubian people that are characterized by their high level of quality, especially in footwear and fashion.

7. Take a sunset cruise on the calm waters of the Nile in Aswan on a falucca

After a long day, a sunset falucca ride in Aswan is a wonderful way to relax. You will witness a picturesque natural scene: the last rays of the sun coloring the sky, the blue waters of the Nile, and the surrounding islands.

• The Nile River is a great river that adds charming beauty to all the places overlooking it. It's worth cutting off your time and knowing 5 facts about Nile River .

This tour takes place in the late afternoon, precisely so that you can enjoy the sunset. You will set sail from the banks of the Nile River and slowly navigate the tranquil waters. Your guide will tell you the history of this iconic site, which dates back to Pharaonic times.

From the boat, you will watch the sunset over the plants and palms of the Aswan Botanical Garden, which is an important natural lung on Lord Kitchener's Island. You will see the reflection of a dune in the Nile, Elephantine Island, among other destinations.

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8. Embark on a bird-watching tour aboard a traditional boat in Aswan

Bird watching from the Nile is another good tour in Aswan. Embark on a traditional boat tour on these calm waters and see the amazing native flying species that inhabit the nearby islands.

The experience usually starts at the port of Aswan, where you will board a felucca sailing boat with a birdwatcher. You will sail the Nile from the east bank to the west bank, heading towards Lord Kitchener's Island. There, you will spot parakeets and egrets and enjoy the picturesque flora: acacias, mimosas, etc.

You will pass around the Cataract Islands, which is on the way to the Aga Khan Mausoleum. In this area, you will see a lot more birdlife: kingfishers, stretch herons, night herons, etc.

9. Take a walking tour through the center of Aswan and discover the highlights

One of the things you should do while visiting Aswan is to take a walking tour.  You'll see the highlights of this Egyptian city and discover what's inside.

You'll be accompanied by an experienced local guide on this tour. He or she will tell you the history of each destination, allowing you to immerse yourself in the local culture as if you were a local.

Although the itinerary may vary according to the activity booked, there are some must-see sites such as the following:

• The El-Tabia Mosque is surrounded by beautiful and picturesque gardens.

• The Aswan Market is the best place to experience local life.

• The Coptic Orthodox Cathedral is dedicated to the Archangel Michael.

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Summary

Aswan City is one of the finest tourist destinations in Egypt, combining the beauty of its picturesque nature with its rich culture. If you were wondering what to do in ِAswan Egypt, through your reading of this comprehensive guide; you discovered a world of magic and excitement.

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FAQs

Is Aswan worth visiting?

Absolutely, Aswan is worth seeing if you have at least six or seven days to spend in Egypt! After seeing the main attractions in Cairo and Luxor, a visitor would be well-served by visiting Aswan, which has a distinct history and culture.

What is special about Aswan Egypt?

Aswan is renowned for its serene atmosphere, important archaeological monuments, and stunning Nile Valley landscapes. Its weather is warm all year round, which makes it a wonderful winter resort. Sail through the Nile in a felucca (Egyptian sailboat) and enjoy the city's breathtaking views and attractions.

Which is nicer Luxor or Aswan?

Aswan and Luxor have very different market experiences. Luxor's markets are more crowded and the merchants are more aggressive because it is a more well-known tourist destination. Aswan's markets are less congested and the vendors are less obnoxious because the city is smaller and laid back.