Aswan has been nicknamed the ‘land of gold’ due to the golden desert sands, the gold mines nearby and also due to the fact it was a burial place for Nubian pharaohs. Pharaohs used to be laid to rest inside golden sarcophagi!

Aswan is located right on the banks of the river Nile in the far South of Egypt so it’s an idyllic location to pause and watch traditional felucca sailing boats go by and gaze at river birds and wildlife.

Since Ancient times Aswan has been a city of major importance. In the past, the granite of the Aswan quarries was used to construct colossal obelisks and sacred temples. Aswan has always been a bustling trading centre and even today people still flock to the Aswan Old Market.

In this article, we will discover the many things to do in Aswan. From ancient temples, and the massive Aswan dam to visiting Nubian villages, visitors will be blown away by the serenity of the river Nile meandering through the desert landscape.

1- Contemplate the gigantic unfinished Obelisk

unfinished Obelisk, Aswan

Marvel at the sheer quantity of granite that makes up the unfinished obelisk that lies in a quarry at Aswan.

The obelisk made out of red granite is believed to have been commissioned by the female Pharaoh Hatshepsut (c. 1473–1458 BC) for the temple of Amun in Karnak. The Ancient Egyptians liked to produce obelisks to adorn the entrances of their temples.

It is believed that the obelisk was left unfinished due to a crack that appeared in the rock during quarrying. If completed it is estimated that the obelisk would have been around a staggering height of 42 meters!

Take the visit to the unfinished Obelisk to learn about how the Ancient Egyptians managed to extract these enormous quantities of stones from quarries using the technique of ‘levering’ involving wooden planks that would expand!

Unfinished Obelisk tours

2 – Admire the incredible engineering of the Aswan High Dam

Aswan High Dam

The Aswan Dam was constructed in order to prevent flooding on the Nile and to provide a reliable source of water for irrigation to sustain local crops. The Aswan Dam was completed in 1970 with the help of funds from the Soviet Union.

Whilst we don’t know the exact number of workers who were contracted to undertake the construction, there were probably around 35,000 laborers employed during the peak of development!

During the construction of the dam, certain archeological monuments were relocated to different sites to reduce the risks of being submerged by water!

The Aswan Dam has resulted in the creation of the water reservoir Lake Nasser. Extending an astonishing 550 kilometers in length, Lake Nasser is one of the largest man-made reservoirs in the world! While there are few crocodiles nowadays along the river Nile, it is said that there is a growing crocodile population within Lake Nasser.

The Aswan Dam is of extreme importance to Egypt because it also generates a large amount of hydroelectricity providing power to millions of Egyptians.

It is definitely worth visiting to understand the size and impact of this engineering project. Look out over the beautiful waters of Lake Nasser from the High Dam and maybe you will even spot some local birdlife such as herons or eagles.

Aswan High Dam tours

3 – Take a river cruise along the Nile

Nile river cruise from Aswan

A visit to Egypt is not quite complete without cruising along the legendary banks of the river Nile. Most cruise tours last 3 or 4 days starting in Aswan and heading to Luxor.

A cruise gives visitors the chance to take in the gorgeous views of the Nile River and stop off on route to see incredible temples such as Kom Ombo and Edfu.

Nile river cruises provide a comfortable and convenient way to explore the ancient sites along the river. Relax on board whilst moving between one temple to another and many of the boats feature swimming pools and sun loungers on deck to cool off.

Sit out on the balcony of your cabin and observe the village scenes as local Egyptians head out fishing or cattle graze in the lush pastures.

Most Nile Cruises offer tasty buffet meals and evening entertainment such as belly dancing or Egyptian music performances.

Nile river cruises from Aswan

See also: Nile Cruises – complete guide

4 – Encounter local life in a Nubian Village

Nubian Village, Aswan

The Nubians are an ethnic group that predominate in Southern Egypt and Northern Sudan. They have their own language, cultural traditions, and are considered one of the oldest indigenous groups in Africa and they have inhabited the area around Aswan for thousands of years.

Take a half day trip to the beautiful Sohail Island known for its brightly geometrically patterned and coloured painted houses and discover more about the Nubian community.

Nubians are celebrated for their craftsmanship skills in woodwork, hand painted pottery and textiles. Nubian women are known for their elaborate henna designs during celebrations.

Tour operators such as Viator offer a Nubian lunch or dinner experience within the village so visitors can experience the local Nubian flavors. Other tour operators such as Nice Tours even include a camel tour around a Nubian village!

Nubian Village tours from Aswan

5 – Gaze up at the sensational El-Tabia Mosque

El-Tabia Mosque, Aswan

The mosque itself is relatively new having been constructed in 1974 however its dazzling Mamluk architectural style makes it seem a lot older.

The mosque is elevated on a rock therefore it stands out majestically over Aswan with two soaring minarets. The name ‘El tabia’ translates to ‘fortress’ because formerly there used to be a fort on the same site.

The mosque is surrounded by a nice small green garden area where visitors can relax in the shade and gaze up at the arches and dome.

6 – See ancient artifacts at the Nubian Museum

Nubian Museum, Aswan

The Nubian Museum was created with the aim of housing and safeguarding archeological artifacts at risk during the construction of the Aswan High Dam. It is also a space for the promotion and celebration of Nubian culture. The museum’s vaulted ceilings and colorful murals are inspired by Nubian art.

Visitors can explore displays of Nubian history, architecture, traditional crafts, language, religious customs, and daily life. There are many fascinating objects on display for example a 6000-year-old painted pottery bowl and a quartzite statue of the 25th-dynasty priest of Amun.

Visitors can also expand their knowledge of modern day Nubian culture by looking at a replica of a furnished Nubian home.

Nubian Museum tickets & tours

7 – Take a ride on a camel in Egyptian style

camel riding tours from Aswan

Camel riding has been a traditional mode of transportation in Upper Egypt for centuries.

Take a half day tour from Aswan to Daraw, one of the largest and bustling camel markets in Egypt! Observe locals trading camels in large numbers, sometimes there can be around 2000 camels at the market. Daraw is 18 kilometers north of Aswan so it is easily accessible.

Other tours that offer camel riding include a visit to the Saint Simeon Monastery. Arriving on camel back makes the excursion even more unforgettable as you ascend the rocky desert dunes in authentic style.

There are various different types of camels found in Aswan. The most common camel is the one-humped Arabian camel called the Egyptian Dromedary Camel. Other camels it is possible to come across include the Bisharin Camel or the Sudanese Berberi Camel.

camel riding tours in Aswan

8 – Explore the Temple of Kalabsha with spectacular views of Lake Nasser

Temple of Kalabsha tours from Aswan

This temple from 30 BC was relocated to the scenic location of the edges of Lake Nasser during the construction of the Aswan dam.

Kalabsha is regarded as one of the best examples of a free-standing Nubian temple. The temple was dedicated to the Nubian sun god Mandulis who was associated with protection and healing.

History enthusiasts will enjoy admiring the fusion of Egyptian and Roman architectural styles since the temple was built during the reign of the Roman Emperor Augustus. Stroll around the colonnaded court, halls and chambers decorated with images of ancient gods and pharaohs.

The temple was used as a Christian place of worship later in its history and visitors can take a look at the Coptic crosses carved on the walls.

Temple of Kalabsha tours from Aswan

9 – Set sail along the Nile on a felucca tour

felucca tour in Aswan

A felucca is a traditional wooden sailing boat used on the Nile. They have a single mast, a shallow hull and a characteristically triangular Egyptian cotton sail. Egypt is famous for being a major producer of high quality cotton.

A ride on a felucca allows visitors to navigate along the Nile without the noise of an engine, allowing you to take in the gentle sound of the wind and ripples of the water.

A felucca tour can also give visitors the opportunity to get up close to Elephantine Island from the waters to appreciate the scenery of beautiful rocky vegetation. Alternatively, felucca tours can take visitors to the Aswan Botanical Gardens or to admire the Agha Khan Mausoleum.

The felucca tours tend to range from between 2 to 3 hours. Viator offers a longer two night private felucca experience including visits to Kom Ombo and Edfu for those who want to cruise around the comfortable old-fashioned way.

felucca tours in Aswan

10 – Take in the tranquil atmosphere of the Archangel Michael’s Coptic Orthodox Cathedral

Archangel Michael’s Coptic Orthodox Cathedral, Aswan

The Coptic Orthodox Cathedral is easy to recognize with its large white domes and arches that dazzle brightly in the sunlight. If you walk along the Aswan riverfront and then turn up the hill at the end, you will be instantly greeted by this large and attractive edifice.

Archangel Michael is the largest Coptic Christian cathedral in Egypt and it opened in 2006. Whilst the exact number of Coptic Christian followers in Egypt is unknown, it is estimated that perhaps around 10% of Egyptians follow the Coptic Orthodox Church.

Inside Archangel Michael’s Cathedral, there is a calm serene atmosphere and visitors can admire the impressive altar and wooden doors. The cathedral contains an extensive collection of Coptic icons and it is possible to do a guided tour of the two floor building.

When visiting the cathedral make sure to check out Feryal Garden nearby. The garden has some windy paths and terraces with spectacular views overlooking the Nile and Elephantine island. Families come to this peaceful garden area to enjoy a picnic or gaze out at the felucca boats sailing down the river.

11 – Discover the ancient wonders and archeological treasures of Luxor

Luxor tours from Aswan

A visit to discover the secrets of ancient Egyptian would not be complete without visiting the magnificent city of Luxor, known as Thebes in ancient times. Luxor was the capital of Egypt during the New Kingdom period (1550-1070 BCE) and therefore is littered with many important monuments and temples.

Luxor is home to the impressive Temple of Karnak dedicated to the god Amun-Ra. Throughout history different pharaohs and rulers have made adjustments or embellishments to the vast Karnak temple complex.

Lose yourself wandering round the colossal columns of the Great Hypostyle Hall. The columns are engraved with detailed hieroglyphs and try to decipher the hidden meanings and symbolism of the different deities and legends with the help of a trained guide.

Walk along and take some photos at the grand avenue of sphinxes which used to link the Karnak temple to the Luxor temple.

The other major temple complex in Luxor is the Temple of Luxor, dedicated to the god Amun and his wife Mut. The entrance to the temple is flanked by two massive statues of the Pharaoh Ramesses II. Inside the temple there is even an operating mosque that has been built on top of the ancient site.

One of the best times to visit Luxor temple is at night when the whole place is illuminated and the great statues of the pharaohs cast dramatic shadows over the rocks.

When in Luxor why not check out some of the hot air balloon rides that take off at sunrise? The hot air balloon rides are a memorable way to see the ancient temples, the Nile River and surrounding distant mountains from above.

Just outside the city of Luxor, visitors will find the incredible Valley of the Kings, the Colossi of Memnon statues and the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut. Check out the full article of ‘things to do in Luxor‘ for further details about these spellbinding ancient monuments.

Luxor tours from Aswan

12 – Embark on a horse driven carriage ride

horse driven carriage ride in Aswan

Explore the sites of Aswan for example the local market from the comfort of a horse driven carriage. Take in the smells and sounds of the street life as locals go about their day to day errands.

Horse-drawn carriages are also known as ‘caleches’ and have a long history in the city of Aswan. A horse driven carriage ride allows visitors to step back in time and nostalgically imagine how Aswan used to be before the arrival of cars!

city tours in Aswan

13 – Embrace the history of the Abu Simbel Temples

Abu Simbel Temples, Egypt

Choose a Nile cruise package that includes a visit to Abu Simbel or alternatively book an extra day trip from Aswan.

Abu Simbel was built by Pharaoh Ramessses II to celebrate his victory over the Hittite Empire at the battle of Kadesh. Like many other monuments such as the Temple of Kalabsha, Abu Simbel was also removed from its original position due to the Aswan high dam.

Whilst other temples were built using stone blocks, Abu Simbel is striking in the sense that a large part of the temple was carved directly into the sandstone rock cliff.

Explore around the great temple and take some incredible photos of the four gigantic seated statues of Ramesses II. In addition to the great temple, there is also a smaller temple dedicated to his wife Queen Nefertari, a symbol of love that has withstood the centuries!

On the 22nd of February and the 22nd of October every year visitors can witness a remarkable solar alignment at the Abu Simbel great temple! The sun lights up the sanctuary including a statue of Ramesses himself and the Sun God Ra!

Abu Simbel Temples tours from Aswan

14 – Observe the Aga Khan Mausoleum from the river

Aga Khan Mausoleum, Aswan

Aga Khan was the 48th Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims. He also was one of the founding members of the All-India Muslim League and President of the League of Nations. His mausoleum is located on the West bank of the Nile across from the city of Aswan perched on a hill in the desert.

Aga Khan originally came to live in Aswan for health reasons with the aim of improving his rheumatism. In the past Aswan was considered a place for recovery due to the dry hot desert air and healing warm sands. A sand bath is a healing treatment which involves burying body parts under the sand with the aim of easing joint point and aches!

While the Mausoleum cannot be entered by tourists, it is lovely to look up and admire from the river.

15 – Glide over the desert dunes on a Sandboard

sandboarding in Aswan

Surf down the sand dunes in a unique and thrilling desert experience! If you are a keen snowboarder then why not try something new and give sandboarding a try.

Sandboards are very similar to a regular snowboard, just a little thicker. Spend time outdoors in the desert, let off steam, and burn some calories by running up and sliding down the dunes!

16 – Come face to face with mummified crocodiles at the Temple of Kom Ombo

Temple of Kom Ombo tours from Aswan

The temple of Kom Ombo is particularly special to visit because it is dedicated to two different deities; Sobek the crocodile god and Haroeris, the falcon headed god. Crocodiles were highly worshipped in Ancient Egypt because they were associated with fertility and protection.

Right next to the Temple is a small museum entirely dedicated to the crocodile where visitors can contemplate dozens of ancient mummified crocs! Definitely one of the most unusual but fascinating things to do in Aswan! As mentioned above, there aren’t any crocodiles any more in the Nile River nowadays, however, there are many in Lake Nasser!

The Kom Ombo temple is full of carved reliefs on the walls and columns. One of the iconic scenes depicted on the wall is that of a woman giving birth, an insight in how the ancient Egyptians approached labour and the importance of fertility.

Other fascinating reliefs on the temple walls include depictions of ancient Egyptian surgical tools and the practice of bandaging wounds!

By gazing upon these scenes engraved thousands of years ago, visitors can have the surreal experience of connecting with a civilization of the past! In addition to the original ancient Egyptian art surrounded by hieroglyphs, it is also possible to spot Roman and Greek graffiti etched into the stone walls.

Temple of Kom Ombo tours from Aswan

17 – Get to know more about Nubian culture at Soheil Island

Soheil Island, Egypt

Soheil island is home to a Nubian village that is possible to visit either by felucca or motorboat. The houses of Soheil Island are painted in vibrant bright colors and constructed from mud bricks.

Nubian homes typically feature dome-shaped roofs made of palm branches and covered with a layer of mud. The dome shape is built intentionally to promote a good system of ventilation and keep the interior cool.

A tour to Soheil Island can give visitors the opportunity to get to know more about the Nubian people who live there and their music, dance and cuisine. Soheil island has lots of large granite boulders and the Ancient Egyptians used to use it as a quarry for acquiring stone.

Soheil Island tours from Aswan

18 – Cool down in the Aswan Marina Aqua Park

Aswan Marina Aqua Park

The Aswan marina aqua park is the largest water park in Upper Egypt. Slip down the water slides and cool off after some intense sightseeing.

There are different themed areas to keep the kids well entertained and sun loungers with umbrellas for adults who want to sit back and relax.

19 – Relax in the leafy Aswan Botanical Garden

Aswan Botanical Garden

The Botanical Garden in Aswan is located on Kitcheners Island and it is a real oasis of exotic plants and bird species.

The island is named after Lord Horatio Kitchener who was a commander of the Egyptian army during British control. During the 1890s Kitchener imported lots of unusual plants from India, the Far East and other parts of Africa to create this beautiful green paradise.

In the gardens, it is possible to see trees from all five different continents. Plant enthusiasts will enjoy checking out the 25 various species of palm trees!

Aswan Botanical Garden tours

20 – Explore the sacred sanctuaries of the Philae Temple

Philae Temple tours from Aswan

The Philae Temple can be found on Agilkia Island and so visitors first approach the complex from the water.

Philae Temple was dedicated to the Goddess Isis and plastered over the walls are scenes of the life of Isis for example the birth of her son Horus or the mummification of her husband Osiris.

When Christianism took hold in Egypt, early Christians converted the Philae Temple into a church and therefore attempted to wipe out some of the wall imagery and inscriptions created by the Ancient Egyptians.

Learn more about the ancient sacred ceremonies and pilgrimages that took place within the temple to honor Isis the goddess of fertility and magic! Philae is a legendary site that has inspired many classical writers such as Strabo, Seneca and Pliny the Elder!

Philae Temple tours from Aswan

21 – Take a stroll around Kitchener’s Island

Kitchener’s Island, Aswan

As mentioned above, Kitchener’s Island is home to lush and verdant botanical gardens. Before it was named after Kitchener, the Nubians called it El Nabatat Island. Kitchener’s island is very small measuring less than a kilometer long so lovely for a short walk or a pause to take in the views of the river Nile.

Just North of Kitchener’s island it is possible to see the Qubbet el-Hawa. The Qubbet el-Hawa are tombs of some Ancient Egyptian priests and nobles. The site has been described as one of the most densely occupied cemeteries of Ancient Egypt.

There is also a dome from a tomb of an ancient Islamic sheik Ali Abu el-Hawa. The site gains its name from this dome, the name translating to ‘dome of the winds.’

22 – Untangle the rich history of Elephantine Island

Elephantine Island, Aswan

It is believed that Elephantine Island received its name because from a bird’s eye view the shape of the island resembles an elephant tusk. Other sources claim that the name originated because it was used as a place for ivory trading in the past.

Elephantine Island has many fascinating and intriguing things for visitors to see. There are two Nilometers on the island which were used to measure the water levels of the Nile to predict potential flooding.

The Nilometer of Satet Temple found on Elephantine Island is considered one of the oldest nilometers in Egypt! It consists of a staircase corridor that descends towards the river.

The Ancient Egyptians believed that Elephantine Island was inhabited by the ram headed god Khnum who used to control the water rivers. Visitors can walk around the ruins of the Khnum temple and learn more historical curiosities from an expert guide!

Elephantine Island has a rich and complex history. During the 5th century BC it is documented that there was a Jewish community living on Elephantine Island. Discover more absorbing facts about the ancient papyri left behind and what they can tell us about Elephantine Island’s past.

Elephantine Island tours from Aswan

23 – Develop your knowledge of the river Nile, the father of African rivers, at the Nile Museum

Nile Museum, Aswan

The museum is very new and has three different levels with 250 artifacts related to the fascinating history of the Nile River.

The Nile has been considered an important life source in Egypt since the beginning of civilization. Throughout its history, the Nile has been revered for providing a means of transportation across Egypt and helping to ensure fertile terrain for agriculture.

During a visit to the Nile Museum visitors can discover more about the 11 African countries that surround the river. As the largest river in Africa, it is astonishing that the Nile stretches out for 6,600 kilometers!

Learn more about different irrigation techniques, dam systems, fish species and children will enjoy learning about the wildlife found around the Nile.

24 -Spend time around Lake Nasser, the largest artificial lake in the world

Lake Nasser, Egypt

Lake Nasser is such a vast stretch of water that it can be difficult to get your ahead around the scale of it! There are many things of interest to see within Lake Nasser for example historic temples, crocodile island and lots of wildlife for example monitor lizards, wild ducks and Egyptian geese.

As mentioned above , the Temple of Philae, the Temple of Kalabsha and the Temples of Abu Simbel are all found on the shores of Lake Nasser. It is also possible to see the Qasr Ibrim, a former major citadel of lower Nubia that now stands as an archeology site.

The rocky ruins are perched on a small island that tourists are not allowed to visit however it can be admired at a distance by boat. It is possible to do a 3 nights cruise on Lake Nasser to take in the major temples!

Other impressive historical sites very near the water’s edge for those who have more time at hand include the Temple of Dakka and the temples of Wadi es-Sebua. Dakka was dedicated to the god of wisdom Thoth and has a very formidable entrance.

The Romans extended the temple and then much later the temple was restored by the Italian architect and Egyptologist Alessandro Barsanti in the early 20th century.

Wadi es-Sebua is a temple complex built the Pharoah Ramesses II. The name ‘es-Sebua’ actually means ‘lion’ because there is a line of lion headed sphinxes that flank the temple entrance!

Lake Nasser tours from Aswan

25 – Expand your understanding of Nubian wildlife and traditions at the Animalia Museum

Animalia Museum, Aswan

Take a visit to this small family run museum dedicated to Nubian traditions and local flora and fauna. The museum is located on Elephantine island and visitors can enjoy views of the island wildlife from the rooftop terrace café. There is also a gift shop selling Nubian handicrafts.

Explore the exhibition collections of daily Nubian household objects and learn more about the meaning and symbolism of Nubian paintings. There are also some mummified animals to showcase the different species found in the desert terrain and along the river.

The museum also covers interesting aspects about Nubian women’s role in society and the impact of recent historical events for example the relocation of around 100,000 Nubians during the construction of the Aswan High Dam.

26 – Take a trip to the ancient Saint Simeon Monastery

Saint Simeon Monastery, Aswan

In addition to visiting many of the temples, another one of the top historical things to do in Aswan involves paying a visit to this 7th century monastery that used to be inhabited by Coptic monks.

The monastery used to be heavily fortified with large stone and mud brick walls to attempt to protect the monks from attacks. The monks used the monastery as a base camp for setting off on missionary trips around Nubia in an attempt to convert the Nubians to Christianity.

Despite the fortification attempts the monastery was indeed sacked in 1173 by the troops of Saladin and then later the monastery fell into abandonment during the 13th century.

In the basilica, it is still possible to see the traces of the original frescoes. Inside the old monk cells visitors can still see the old bench beds used by the monks and even some graffiti left by some passing Muslim pilgrims.

Many of the tours visiting the Saint Simeon Monastery also include a ride in a camel to get there. Arriving on camel back and admiring the crumbling ancient arches, courtyards and columns of the monastery transports the visitor back centuries!

Saint Simeon Monastery tours from Aswan

27 – Pick up some authentic souvenirs at the Aswan Old Souks

Aswan Old Souks

When in Aswan don’t forget to wander through the traditional old bazaar, locally known as Sharia as-Souq. The street is lined with different shops selling Egyptian goods such as wooden baskets, Tutankhamun T-shirts, Egyptian robes, fabrics, essential oils and carpets.

Strolling down the bazaar is a treat for the senses as visitors will be met by smells of fresh spices, hibiscus flowers, tea leaves and henna. There are also lots of perfume flasks and bags of dried fruits. Enjoy taking your time haggling with local vendors in Egyptian style to ensure a good price!

28 – Be blown away by the Philae Temple Sound and Light Show extravanganza

Philae Temple Sound and Light Show, Aswan

The sound and light show at the Philae Temple is one of the most magical things to do in Aswan.

Watch as the lights illuminate the ancient temple edifice and colours dance off the stone and surrounding waters. The different patterns of light really make the place come alive in a surreal and memorable experience.

Tours offer a pick up from Aswan so the access is easy and stress free. Visiting the temple by night also means that you avoid the mid-day heat!

Philae Temple Sound and Light Show tickets

29 – Eat out in some of the best restaurants in Aswan

best restaurants in Aswan

Here is a short list of some of the best restaurants to try out when in Aswan. From rooftop panoramic restaurants, to traditional Nubian inspired dishes to healthy options, Aswan has a lot of culinary delights to offer!

The ‘Bob Marley Moonlight terrace restaurant cafe’ serves up some authentic home cooked Nubian cuisine on Elephantine island. The place is family friendly and visitors will enjoy laid back vibes. The restaurant is especially good if you are a fan of BBQ or fried meats!

Another great option on Elephantine Island is ‘The Mezze Restaurant‘. They have indoor and outdoor seating with spectacular views of the Nile. Wine lovers will enjoy choosing from their impressive wine display and trying some typical Egyptian dishes in an elegant and refined ambiance.

Elephantine Island is also home to the ‘Orangerie Restaurant Aswan‘ which is very near the Nile Museum. This restaurant allows diners to watch their food being prepared from the open kitchen! The restaurant design is inspired by Nubian architecture and offers all-day dining. Sit outside and gaze at the Nile as the felucca boats float peacefully by.

The ‘Panorama Restaurant & Bar‘ is located on the 13th floor of a building on Elephantine Island. This is the restaurant to choose if you want a 360 degree panorama of the Nile and its surroundings! The stylish and chic restaurant serves international style cuisine.

Take in the dreamy sunset from the highest point in Aswan. The food is beautifully presented with healthy options available, lots of pastas, risottos and fish!

For those who don’t want to take the boat over to Elephantine Island, try out the ‘Makani Restaurant’ on the riverfront in central Aswan. They pride themselves on their healthy African foods such as salads, tasty wraps and fresh juices. The atmosphere is relaxing and it is also a good vantage point to admire the evening glow.

How to get to Aswan?

Aswan has an international airport and there are frequent flights connecting from Cairo. Check out the Tourscanner sight to look into private airport transfers. Save time and hassle by booking up ahead. Airport transfers are comfortable and safe, ensuring you get to and from your hotel with ease.

Where to stay in Aswan?

Check out this brief list of some of the best hotels in Aswan. There are accomodation options for all traveler preferences, ranging from a grandiose Victorian palace to small and colourful Nubian inspired guest houses.

Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Aswan: This 5 star hotel located in a Victorian style palace sits on top of pink granite and looks out over the river. A cataract is a shallow part of the river where there are small rocky boulders.

The Old Cataract has hosted some illustrious guests and dignitaries over its history for example King Fuad and Agatha Christie! Lounge around the pool with views looking onto Elephantine island or take afternoon tea on the terrace and imagine you are part of a Agatha Christie novel.

Nubian House Bed and Breakfast: Located on Elephantine island facing onto the the river. The rooms are quite basic but comfortable and have an authentic homely feel. Sit out and enjoy a drink on the terraced rooftop.

The bed and breakfast is only 500 meters away from the Nubian museum. Perfect for travellers who want a peaceful stay away from the hubbub of central Aswan.

Artika Wadi Kiki Hotel: This eco-friendly 3 star guest house is in an amazing Nubian style house full of charming and quirky character. The different rooms are painted in bright colours with domed roofs and little terraces overlooking onto the river. The location is 1.4 kilometers away from the Aswan bazaar. Some rooms have views of the Nubian village.

Kana Kato: This guest house is located on Elephantine island with views looking back over central Aswan and the river. The rooms are simple but very functional and the restaurant is is celebrated for its delicious local cuisine. Far away from the crowds, this guest house is perfect for those who want a restful nights sleep.

Kato Dool Wellness Resort: 4 star hotel with an outdoor pool and garden. Amazing colorful Nubian architectural design. Enjoy stunning views of the Nile and delicious Egyptian style breakfasts. There are often evening music entertainment and yoga classes during the day.

best hotels in Aswan

Visiting Aswan on a budget?

If you are looking for a hostel in Aswan, check out ‘Go Inn Backpackers.’ The hostel is very well positioned right next to the river with a shared lounge area and kitchen. This is the perfect hostel if you are looking to meet some fellow backpackers. The place is welcoming and some rooms even have balconies overlooking the Nile.

If you are looking for low cost activities, Guruwalk offers free walking tours in Aswan to discover the city’s best-kept secrets. These walking tours cover a visit to the Temple of Philae, the Aswan High Dam, and the Unfinished Obelisk! The tours are based on a donation system.

Where to go next?

There are many other fun things to do in Aswan such as multi-day trips from Aswan. Aswan is a great starting point to begin your cruise on the Nile heading down the river to Luxor. Many multi-day trips from Aswan last around 4 days and include visits to major temple sites.

There are also many things to do in Hurghada. Take a flight from Aswan to Hurghada, one of the best resorts on the Red Sea! Things to do in Hurghada include swimming in the pristine crystal waters, scuba diving around jaw dropping coral reefs or hitting the lively nightlife scene.

From Hurghada, it is also easy to embark upon a desert safari or try out some water sports such as kite surfing or jet skiing.

If you still want to learn more facts about the Ancient Egyptians, there are many historical things to do in Cairo. Top things to do in Cairo include camel riding round the iconic pyramids of Giza, visiting the citadel for spectacular views of the cityscape or marveling at the treasures of the Pharaohs at the Egyptology Museum.

Learn more about the Coptic Christians at Cairo’s Coptic Museum and gaze upon the icons at the famous Hanging Church situated above a Roman fortress.

Final thoughts

The warm weather all year round makes Aswan an ideal location for those who want to enjoy some sun whilst also sightseeing around some fantastic ancient monuments. In fact, Aswan is one of the driest cities in the world! The best moments to visit Aswan are the autumn and winter months for optimal temperatures.

There are so many fun things to do in Aswan from sandboarding over the desert dunes to contemplating the ruins of a 7th century monastery.

Jump aboard a felucca and feel the gentle breeze caressing the shores of the Nile and understand more about the traditional Nubian way of life. Make sure to see the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Abu Simbel and Philae nearby!

Aswan has also been described as the ‘gateway to Africa’ being at the crossroads of several important trading routes! Aswan is a place where cultures meet and mix and a place to slow down and absorb the tranquility of the flowing Nile.

Happy travels!

Table of contents:

29 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Aswan, Egypt