Aswan Attractions Guide 2026

Top attractions

The most popular and significant attractions in Aswan.

1. 1

   Philae Temple (Temple of Isis)

   landmarkAdult EGP 220 (~$7) · Child EGP 110 (~$3.50)2-3 hours

   One of Egypt's most romantic temple complexes, dedicated to the goddess Isis, relocated to Agilkia Island in the 1970s to save it from the rising waters of Lake Nasser. The ensemble of colonnaded halls, pylons and sanctuaries glows golden at sunset and is even more dramatic during the Sound and Light Show after dark.

   Tip: Take the motorboat from the Shellal boat landing south of the dam · Evening Sound & Light Show tickets sold separately (~EGP 200) · Wear comfortable shoes on the uneven stone floors

2. 2

   Aswan High Dam (Al-Sad al-Ali)

   landmarkAdult EGP 60 (~$2) · Child EGP 30 (~$1)1-2 hours

   One of the greatest engineering achievements of the 20th century, the Aswan High Dam was completed in 1971 with Soviet assistance and transformed Egypt's water and agricultural future. Visitors walk across its 3.6 km crest for spectacular views over Lake Nasser to the south and the Nile to the north.

   Tip: Photography of the dam structure is restricted — check with your guide · Combine with Philae Temple as they are very close · The monument at the centre commemorates Egyptian-Soviet cooperation

3. 3

   Nubian Museum

   museumAdult EGP 200 (~$6.50) · Child EGP 100 (~$3)2-3 hours

   An award-winning museum opened in 1997 housing more than 3,000 artefacts spanning 5,000 years of Nubian history and culture, from prehistoric tools to rescued temple statues. The elegant sandstone building set in landscaped gardens offers a comprehensive introduction to Nubian civilisation before temple exploration.

   Tip: Audio guides available at the entrance · The outdoor sculpture garden is excellent at sunset · The gift shop sells quality Nubian craft reproductions

4. 4

   Unfinished Obelisk

   landmarkAdult EGP 140 (~$4.50) · Child EGP 70 (~$2)1-2 hours

   Lying in situ in the ancient granite quarries south of Aswan, this colossal obelisk — which would have been the world's largest at 42 metres — was abandoned when a crack appeared during carving. It gives an extraordinary insight into ancient Egyptian stone-cutting techniques and the logistics of monument-building.

   Tip: Wear sunscreen — the quarry is fully exposed to the sun · A short walk reveals ancient workers' graffiti on the granite · Combine with a visit to the Nubian Museum nearby

5. 5

   Elephantine Island

   natureAdult Museum EGP 100 (~$3) · Child Museum EGP 50 (~$1.60)2-3 hours

   Sitting mid-Nile opposite Aswan's corniche, Elephantine Island has been continuously inhabited for more than 5,000 years and was once the frontier fortress between Egypt and Nubia. Today it is home to two colourful Nubian villages, the fascinating Aswan Museum and archaeological ruins including a Nilometer used to measure annual flood levels.

   Tip: Take the free public ferry from the east bank corniche · Walk the island's northern tip for ancient ruins · Explore Siou and Koti Nubian villages for painted houses and henna

6. 6

   Aswan Botanical Garden (Kitchener's Island)

   natureAdult EGP 50 (~$1.60) · Child EGP 25 (~$0.80)1-2 hours

   A tranquil island garden created by Lord Kitchener in the late 19th century on the western arm of the Nile, planted with exotic flora from across Africa, South Asia and South America. The shaded pathways and birdsong provide a peaceful counterpoint to the surrounding desert landscape.

   Tip: Reach by rowboat or felucca from the west bank · A wonderful spot for birdwatching — hoopoes and bee-eaters are common · Bring a picnic for a shaded lunch

7. 7

   Tombs of the Nobles (Qubbet El-Hawa)

   landmarkAdult EGP 140 (~$4.50) · Child EGP 70 (~$2)1.5-2.5 hours

   Carved into the clifftop on the Nile's west bank, these ancient tombs of Old and Middle Kingdom governors and princes offer some of the best Nile panoramas in Egypt. The steep climb is rewarded with stunning views and vivid painted reliefs depicting daily life in ancient Upper Egypt.

   Tip: Hire a motorboat to cross the Nile to the west bank · The tomb of Harkhuf (Tomb 34N) has excellent reliefs · The hilltop dome (Qubbet el-Hawa) itself marks the burial of a local sheikh and commands spectacular views

8. 8

   Nubian Village (Gharb Soheil)

   culturalAdult Free · Child Free2-3 hours

   The most accessible authentic Nubian village near Aswan, Gharb Soheil is famous for its vividly painted houses in turquoise, blue, yellow and pink, its henna artists, and families welcoming visitors with Nubian tea and home-cooked meals. Crocodiles can even be spotted in some households as traditional Nubian pets.

   Tip: Reach by felucca from the Aswan corniche (~30-45 min) · Ask before photographing villagers and especially children · Accept the generous offers of tea — declining is considered rude

9. 9

   Aswan Corniche (Nile Promenade)

   natureAdult Free · Child Free1-2 hours

   The lively riverside promenade stretching several kilometres along the east bank of the Nile is the heart of daily Aswan life, lined with cafes, felucca moorings, palm trees and vendors. It is the best place to watch the sun set over the granite islands and the golden West Bank dunes.

   Tip: The most pleasant walk is between the Old Cataract Hotel and the public garden · Felucca trips depart from multiple points — bargain in advance · Street food vendors set up in the evening along the corniche

10. 10

    Old Cataract Hotel

    landmarkAdult Afternoon tea from EGP 600 (~$20) · Child N/A1-2 hours

    Aswan's most famous landmark, this Victorian Moorish palace opened in 1899 and has hosted Winston Churchill, Princess Diana and Agatha Christie, who wrote part of 'Death on the Nile' here. Even non-guests can enjoy afternoon tea on the veranda with sweeping Nile views over the granite boulders.

    Tip: Reserve afternoon tea on the terrace in advance · The 1902 Restaurant has a formal dress code · The pool terrace is open to non-guests for a day fee in summer

Attractions by category

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Hidden gems

Off-the-beaten-path attractions worth seeking out.

Practical information

What you need to know before you go.

Hours

Most temples open 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM; the Nubian Museum opens later (9:00 AM) but stays open until 9:00 PM

Fees

Major site entry EGP 100-220 ($3-7); the Philae Sound & Light Show adds an extra EGP 200 ($6.50)

Best Times

Early morning (7-9 AM) for temples before tour groups; felucca sunsets (4-7 PM) for Nile views

Booking

Abu Simbel day trips and the Philae Sound & Light Show should be booked a day ahead through your hotel or a local operator

Tips for visiting attractions

Make the most of your sightseeing time.

Frequently asked questions