Aswan Itineraries Trip Planning & Itineraries

Day 1: Exploring Aswan

Tick off Aswan's "big 3" with a sightseeing tour to the High Dam, Unfinished Obelisk and Philae Temple. Start at the High Dam, responsible for the creation of Lake Nasser and a key feature in Aswan's history. Continue to the granite quarries to see the huge Unfinished Obelisk which lies where it was abandoned thousands of years ago. Finish off the day at Philae Temple, the famous temple which was relocated to rescue it from the rising waters of the Nile and sits in one of the most beautiful locations in the country.

In the evening, take a second boat ride out to Philae Temple to attend the famous Sound and Light Show which many consider to be the best in Egypt. See Philae Temple by day and night to truly appreciate it's magnificent location.

Day 2: Abu Simbel - The Greatest Temples in Egypt

Arguably the most impressive site in Egypt after the Pyramids, Abu Simbel is an easy day trip from Aswan. The great temples built by Ramses II to honor his favorite wife, gods and of course himself, have a fascinating history which have allowed them to stand the test of time. Travel the 300 kilometers to Abu Simbel by road or by plane (much quicker and more comfortable!) for a morning visit to the site to see for yourself the magnificent structures on the banks of Lake Nasser.

In the afternoon visit the Nubia Museum to learn more about the relocation projects of various temples, the history of Nubia and Nubian culture. Alternatively take a Horse and Carriage Ride through Aswan to take in the sights and sounds of this friendly destination which feels more like a village than a city. Stroll through Sharia as-Souq, a lively market where once you pass the persistent vendors on the outer edge, fresh produce fills the alleys including spices, chicken, pigeon (supposedly Egyptian Viagra!), fruit and vegetables.

Day 3: Sail the Nile

The Nile is at its picturesque best in Aswan so there is no excuse for not hitting the water during your stay. The preferred mode of transport on this part of the world is the humble felucca, though motorboats will carry you across the more treacherous stretches where swirling currents collide. The classic felucca trip is a sailing to Aswan Botanic Gardens on Kitchener Island where you can spend a few lazy hours wandering through the shady gardens offering refuge from the relentless desert heat.

Meet the original inhabitants of this area at Soheil Island's Nubian Village, or discover the ancient artifacts at Elephantine Island. Finish your stay in Aswan with a taste of the local cuisine at Nubian House restaurant, located in the hills of the city, where you can enjoy the views over the Nile as the sunsets behind the West Bank.

This is just a taste of the sights, sounds and smells of Aswan; for more ideas check out Viator's complete list of things to do in Luxor and Aswan. If you want to extend your trip to other parts of Egypt, Cairo is a great place to start, jam-packed with Pyramids, Pharaohs and all things ancient you can imagine. Relax by the Red Sea with a visit to Hurghada or Sharm el Sheikh and see what the diving world is raving about. Or follow the Nile River to the grand history of Luxor. Make the most of your trip on an 8 day Nile River Cruise which will sail along the most picturesque stretch of the famous river.