Philae Temple Secrets: Your Private Journey Through Ancient Aswan
Active
3h - 4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Explore the magnificent Philae Temple, one of Aswan’s most iconic ancient sites, on a fully private tour designed for your comfort and flexibility. This experience allows travelers to customize their journey — whether you prefer a simple private car transfer or a complete guided adventure with a local expert and motorboat to the temple island.
Learn fascinating stories about the goddess Isis, admire the temple’s stunning carvings, and enjoy a peaceful ride on the Nile surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Our guides are locals from Aswan, offering authentic insights into Nubian culture and daily life that you won’t find in guidebooks.
This tour is perfect for couples, families, history lovers, and adventure seekers who want a private, relaxing, and memorable experience. We promise a professionally organized and enjoyable trip. Prices are per group (1–10 people). Temple tickets are not included in either option.
Available options
Private Car Transfer
English-Speaking Driver: Private car with English driver. Boat & temple tickets are extra, paid at ticket counter at fixed price.<br/>Pickup included
Transfer & Philae Guide
Car + Boat + Personal Guide: Private car & boat with guide speaking your language. Temple tickets not included; paid at fixed price per person.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Learn hidden stories and ancient secrets from a local professional guide from Aswan.
Visit the legendary Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis on its Nile island.
Choose between Transfer Only or Transfer & Guide to match your preferences.
Travel in comfort with an air-conditioned private car and English-speaking driver.
Motorboat to Philae is not included in Private Car Transfer but included with the guide.
Enjoy a private and flexible experience tailored to your travel style and schedule.
Ideal for families, couples, and history lovers seeking a unique cultural adventure.
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Pass by
Hotel Pickup & Transfer to Philae Temple Parking
Your private tour begins with pickup from your hotel, guesthouse, or Nile cruise anywhere in Aswan. Enjoy a comfortable drive in an air-conditioned vehicle to the Philae Temple parking area, where your Bedouin English-speaking driver will assist you in reaching the boat dock to cross to the island temple.
2
Stop 2
At the Temple of Philae, travelers will explore:
Gateway of Nectanebo: Ancient entrance to the temple complex
Mammisi (Birth House): Dedicated to Horus's birth
Temple of Isis: Main attraction with intricate hieroglyphs
Kiosk of Trajan: Elegant Roman-era structure
Chapel of Osiris: Dedicated to the god of the afterlife
Nilometer: Ancient device for measuring Nile floods
Temple of Hathor: Smaller temple with beautiful reliefs
Gate of Hadrian: Impressive Roman-period entrance
Temple of Imhotep: Dedicated to the famous architect
Sound and Light Show area: Evening entertainment spot
Philae Obelisk: Ancient Egyptian monument
Coptic crosses: Evidence of the temple's Christian phase
Outer Colonnade: Impressive row of pillars
Sanctuary of Isis: Most sacred part of the temple
Philae Museum: Houses artifacts found on the island
This list covers the main attractions of the beautifully preserved Philae Temple complex.
3
Stop 3
Pass by
During the return journey from Philae Temple to your hotel in Aswan, travelers will encounter several attractions and points of interest:
Agilkia Island:
Scenic island setting of the relocated temple complex
Nile River:Panoramic views during the steamboat ride
Lush riverbanks and local flora
Possible sightings of water birds and wildlife
Nubian Villages:Glimpses of traditional villages along the Nile's banks
An impressive modern engineering feat
Elephantine Island:Views of this historically significant island in the Nile
Aga Khan Mausoleum:Prominent hilltop structure visible during the journey
Feluccas on the Nile:Traditional sailboats dotting the river
Aswan's Corniche:Scenic waterfront promenade visible as you near the city
Local Markets and Bazaars:Glimpses of bustling market areas during the car ride back to the hotel
This return journey offers a blend of ancient wonders, natural beauty, and modern city life, providing a comprehensive view of Aswan's diverse attractions.
What's not included
Entrance tickets (Philae Temple – EGP 550 per person) are payable directly at the ticket window.
Available languages
Audio guide
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Guide guide
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Written guide
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Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Specialized infant seats are available
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Important notes
**Tickets Information:**
Entrance tickets are **not included**.
Please purchase tickets online or directly at the official temple ticket window using **credit or debit card only** (cash is not accepted).
• **Philae Temple:** EGP 550 per person
**Why tickets are excluded:**
Entrance tickets are not included because the tour price is per group (1–10 travelers), and the number of guests may vary.
**Motorboat to Philae Temple:**
For the **Private Car Transfer** option, the motorboat is **not included** and must be paid directly at the temple ticket counter (fixed rate per group – around **EGP 650**).
For the **Transfer & Philae Guide** option, the **motorboat is already included** in your tour package.
About Aswan
Aswan is a charming city on the Nile River, known for its rich history, ancient temples, and stunning Nile landscapes. It offers a more relaxed and authentic Egyptian experience compared to the bustling cities of Cairo and Luxor.
Top Attractions
Philae Temple
A stunning temple complex dedicated to the goddess Isis, relocated to Agilkia Island due to the Aswan High Dam.
Historical
2-3 hours
EGP 180
Aswan High Dam
A massive dam on the Nile River, built to control flooding and generate hydroelectric power.
Historical
1-2 hours
EGP 10
Abu Simbel
A magnificent temple complex built by Ramses II, featuring colossal statues of the pharaoh.
Historical
Full day
EGP 300 (including transport)
Elephantine Island
An island in the Nile River with ancient ruins and a rich history dating back to the Old Kingdom.
Historical
2-3 hours
EGP 100
Nubian Museum
A museum dedicated to the history and culture of the Nubian people, featuring artifacts and exhibits.
Museum
1-2 hours
EGP 100
Must-Try Local Dishes
Ful Medames
A traditional fava bean dish, often served with falafel and tahini.
Breakfast
Vegetarian
Grilled Nile Fish
Fresh Nile fish grilled and served with garlic sauce and vegetables.
Dinner
Gluten-free
Koshari
A popular street food made with rice, lentils, pasta, and crispy onions, topped with tomato sauce.
Lunch
Vegetarian
Basbousa
A sweet semolina cake soaked in syrup, often flavored with coconut or rosewater.
Dessert
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Nile cruises
Fishing on Lake Nasser
Quad biking in the desert
Boat trips on the Nile
Spa treatments
Sunset cruises
Visiting Philae Temple
Exploring the Nubian Museum
Best Time to Visit
October to April
This period offers pleasant weather with cooler temperatures, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
18°C to 30°C
64°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Arabic
- Widely spoken: English, French
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Egyptian Pound (EGP)
Time Zone
EET (GMT+2)
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Aswan is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken to avoid scams and petty theft.
Important Precautions:
- • Bargain for prices in markets and taxis.
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or tours.
- • Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings.
Getting there
By air
- Aswan International Airport • 10 km from city center
By train
Aswan Railway Station
By bus
Aswan Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common form of public transport, connecting major areas within the city.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Careem
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Corniche El-Nil
Souq Area
West Aswan
Day trips
Abu Simbel
280 km • Full day
A stunning temple complex built by Ramses II, featuring colossal statues of the pharaoh.
Lake Nasser
50 km • Half day to full day
A vast artificial lake created by the Aswan High Dam, offering scenic views and water activities.
Kom Ombo
50 km • Half day
A temple complex dedicated to the crocodile god Sobek, offering insights into ancient Egyptian history.
Festivals
Aswan International Festival of Nubian Arts • February
Aswan Film Festival for Nubian Arts • October
Ramadan • Varies (Islamic calendar)
Pro tips
- Visit the Nubian villages for an authentic cultural experience.
- Take a felucca sailboat ride on the Nile at sunset for stunning views.
- Bargain for prices in markets and taxis to get the best deals.
- Carry small denominations of Egyptian pounds for tips and small purchases.
- Dress modestly and respect local customs, especially in religious sites.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
