Sitting where the Nile is at its most beautiful, Aswan moves at a gentler pace than the rest of Egypt. Granite islands, palm-fringed banks and a string of remarkable temples make it the perfect place to slow down between the big sights of Luxor and Cairo.
Visit the Temple of Philae
Dedicated to the goddess Isis and rescued from the rising waters of the Nile, the Temple of Philae sits on its own island reached by a short motorboat ride. Go early in the morning to enjoy the carvings before the heat and the crowds arrive.
Sail at Sunset on a Felucca
No trip to Aswan is complete without an hour on a traditional felucca. As the sun drops behind the dunes of the west bank, the river turns gold and the only sound is the wind in the sail — it is the single most memorable thing many travelers do in Egypt.
Explore a Nubian Village
The brightly painted Nubian villages along the river offer warm hospitality, sweet hibiscus tea and a culture all their own. It is a wonderful way to meet local people and understand the living heritage of the south.
