Aswan - Discovering Egypt

Travelling to Aswan

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Aswan, a pretty good destination in Egypt (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Aswan and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Aswan, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Egypt, here's everything to know about Aswan for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Aswan

Aswan is a city in southern Egypt, located along the Nile River. It is famous for its position as the gateway to the ancient temples and ruins of Abu Simbel, and is also close to the famous temples of Philae and Kom Ombo. Aswan has a hot desert climate and is a popular destination for tourists seeking history, culture, and outdoor activities like boat tours and camel rides. The city is home to a vibrant market in the historic district, as well as several museums and heritage centers.

What to visit in Aswan

Sure, here are some of the tourist attractions in Aswan, Egypt: 1. Abu Simbel Temple: This temple was built during the reign of Pharaoh Ramesses II and is famous for its four colossal statues of the pharaoh. It was relocated in the 1960s to prevent it from being submerged by the waters of Lake Nasser.
2. Philae Temple: This temple was dedicated to the goddess Isis and features stunning hieroglyphics and murals. It was also relocated to prevent it from being submerged by the waters of Lake Nasser.
3. Elephantine Island: This small island is located in the middle of the Nile River and features ruins from ancient Egyptian, Greek, and Roman civilizations. The island is also home to a museum that houses many artifacts from the island's history.
4. Nubian Village: This village offers a glimpse into the traditional way of life of the Nubian people, who have lived in the area for centuries. Visitors can enjoy traditional Nubian food, music, and dance performances.
5. Aswan Dam: This massive dam was constructed in the 1960s to control the flooding of the Nile River and to generate hydroelectricity. Visitors can take guided tours of the dam and learn about its history and construction.
6. Unfinished Obelisk: This massive obelisk was never completed due to a crack that developed in the rock during its construction. It is now a popular tourist attraction and offers insight into the ancient Egyptian techniques used to quarry and shape stone.
7. Tombs of the Nobles: These tombs date back to ancient Egyptian times and feature stunning murals and inscriptions. Visitors can explore the tombs and learn about the lives of the nobles who were buried there.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Egypt, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Aswan.

When to go on holiday to Aswan

The best time to visit Aswan is during the winter months, from November to February, when the weather is mild and pleasant with a daytime temperature ranging from 20°C to 25°C. This is a great time to visit Aswan's attractions such as the Philae Temple and the Abu Simbel temples. During the summer months from May to September, temperatures can reach up to 40°C and it can be very hot and dry which can make sightseeing uncomfortable. However, during this time, you can enjoy a Nile cruise or visit some of the attractions early in the morning or late afternoon when the temperature is cooler.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Aswan

There are different ways to get to Aswan, depending on your starting point and travel preferences. Here are some options: 1. By plane: Aswan International Airport (ASW) has direct flights from Cairo and other major cities in Egypt, as well as some international destinations. From the airport, you can take a taxi or shuttle to the city center, which is about 20 minutes away.
2. By train: Aswan is connected to Cairo and other cities in Egypt by a well-developed rail network. The journey from Cairo to Aswan takes around 12 hours on an overnight train, and there are also daytime trains that are faster but less comfortable. The train station is located in the city center, and there are taxis and buses available to take you to your hotel.
3. By bus: There are daily buses from Cairo and other cities in Egypt to Aswan, operated by various companies. The journey takes around 10-12 hours, depending on the route and traffic conditions. The bus station is located in the city center, and there are taxis and local buses available to take you to your destination.
4. By car: If you prefer to drive, Aswan is connected to major cities in Egypt by highways and well-maintained roads. However, driving in Egypt can be challenging and stressful, especially in urban areas.
Overall, each mode of transportation has its pros and cons, so it's important to choose the option that suits your needs and budget best.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Aswan, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Aswan

Here are some typical foods of Aswan, Egypt along with a brief description: 1. Foul Medames - A popular breakfast dish made of boiled fava beans, served with olive oil, lemon juice, and spices. It is usually eaten with bread.
2. Kushari - A filling vegetarian meal made of rice, macaroni, lentils, chickpeas, onions, and tomato sauce. It is often topped with crispy fried onions.
3. Molokhia - A traditional stew made from a leafy green vegetable called "Egyptian spinach," garlic, and sometimes chicken or meat. It is usually served with rice and bread.
4. Ta'meya (aka falafel) - Deep-fried balls or patties made from ground fava beans, garlic, and spices. It is typically served as a sandwich with bread and vegetables.
5. Konafa - A popular dessert made of shredded phyllo dough, filled with sweetened cheese or nuts, and soaked in syrup. It is usually served hot and garnished with pistachios.
6. Aswan Rice Pudding - A dessert made of rice, milk, and sugar, flavored with cardamom and other spices. It is often served with raisins or chopped nuts on top. Enjoy your trip to Aswan, Egypt, and don't forget to try some of these delicious dishes!
You can find general info about typical foods in Egypt here.

Is Aswan an expensive destination for tourists?

Aswan can be an expensive destination for tourists, particularly when compared to other destinations within Egypt. However, it is still possible to find affordable accommodation, meals, and activities if you plan ahead and do your research. Some of the pricier aspects of Aswan may include guided tours of historic sites, luxury hotels and resorts, and transportation around the city. Street food and local markets can provide more affordable dining options. Additionally, negotiating prices with vendors and taxi drivers can sometimes result in lower costs.

Where to find accomodation in Aswan

The best areas to find accommodations to visit Aswan, Egypt are in the city center, along the Nile River, or near top tourist attractions such as the Philae Temple or Elephantine Island. Some popular options include the Elephantine Island Resort Aswan, Mövenpick Resort Aswan, and Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Aswan.
You can check hotel prices at Aswan here:
Booking.com

Is Aswan a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Aswan is generally considered a safe place for tourists. The city is known for its peaceful atmosphere and friendly locals. However, as with any destination, it is important to remain vigilant and take common-sense precautions, such as carrying a copy of your passport and avoiding demonstrating wealth in public. It is also advisable to follow local customs and dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Egypt here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Aswan.

What type of travelers will enjoy Aswan the most?

Aswan is a great destination for travelers of all ages and types. It offers a mix of relaxation, history, and adventure that can appeal to couples, families with kids, and young people. Here are some of the reasons why each group might enjoy Aswan: - Couples: Aswan is a tranquil and romantic destination that offers stunning views of the Nile River and beautiful sunsets. Couples can enjoy a felucca ride, visit the Philae Temple, and stay in a luxury hotel with a view of the Nile.
- Families: Aswan offers plenty of family-friendly activities such as visiting the Nubian Village, taking a camel ride, and visiting the Aswan Botanical Garden. Families can also enjoy a felucca ride or take a cruise down the Nile River.
- Young people: Aswan is a great place for adventurous travelers who are looking for some fun. They can take a dip in the Nile, go on a quad bike tour, or visit the Elephantine Island. Young people can also take a Nile River cruise, where they can go to parties and meet new people.
Overall, Aswan is a great place for all types of travelers, but it is especially attractive to those who want to experience a traditional and authentic Egyptian culture.

How to get around Aswan

In Aswan, the most common modes of transportation are taxis, ferry boats, and motorboats. Taxis are often used for short distances or within the city, while ferry boats and motorboats are commonly used to explore the Nile and visit nearby attractions such as the High Dam, Philae Temple, and Abu Simbel temples. Additionally, some hotels and tour operators offer shuttle buses for transportation to and from airports or train stations.

What to see around Aswan

Sure, here are some nice places to visit on a day trip from Aswan: 1. Abu Simbel - home to the famous two temples built by Ramses II, also referred to as Sun Temples.
2. Philae Temple - a beautiful island temple dedicated to the goddess Isis. It's located on the Nile, just outside of Aswan.
3. Kom Ombo Temple - an impressive temple overlooking the Nile River, dedicated to the gods Sobek and Horus.
4. Kalabsha Temple - ancient Egyptian temple located on the west bank of Lake Nasser.
5. Nubian villages - experience the local Nubian culture and enjoy traditional food, music, and dance. These are just a few ideas for day trips from Aswan, there are many more beautiful and interesting places to explore in the area.
For every travel information about Egypt you can click here.

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