Private Aswan Tour: Philae Temple, High Dam & Unfinished Obelisk
Active
6h - 8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This comprehensive Aswan tour covers the city's most iconic landmarks. Begin at the magnificent Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis, beautifully relocated to Agilkia Island after the High Dam construction. Visit the engineering marvel of the Aswan High Dam, understanding its crucial role in controlling the Nile's floods. Explore the ancient granite quarries where you'll witness the Unfinished Obelisk, still lying in the bedrock and offering fascinating insights into ancient Egyptian stone-working techniques. With an expert guide, this tour perfectly combines ancient history with modern engineering, showcasing how Aswan's monuments and natural resources have shaped Egypt's story from pharaonic times to the present day.
Available options
Gold Package
Inclusions: Expert Driver + Private Car + Professional Local Guide + Sites Entry Fees<br/>Pickup included
VIP Package
Inclusions: Expert Driver + Private Car + Professional Local Guide + Sites Entry Fees + Lunch at a Local Restaurant + Bottled Water<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Bottled water
Transport by air-conditioned minivan
Qualified Egyptologist guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
The High Dam of Aswan is an engineering miracle when it was built in the 1960s. Containing more material than used in the Great Pyramid of Cheops, the Dam is 11,811 ft long, 3215 ft thick at the base, 364 ft tall and is carved into from the existing granite, providing irrigation and electricity for the whole of Egypt. From the top of the High Dam you can gaze across Lake Nasser to Kalabsha temple in the south and the huge power station to the north.
2
Stop 2
Continue to the Unfinished Obelisk in the granite quarries of Aswan where much of the red granite used for ancient temples and colossi came from. The Unfinished Obelisk still lies where it was carved when a crack was discovered as it was being hewn from the rock. Your qualified Egyptologist guide will explain how the hundreds of tons of obelisk was carved, and why the crack caused it to be abandoned.
3
Stop 3
.Philae Temple was carefully moved to its current location (around 500 meters from the original site) when the construction of the High Dam caused surrounding Nile waters to rise. A short motorboat ride takes you to the island where your guide will take you on a walking tour through the temple before allowing you free time to explore further on your own. Dedicated to the goddess Isis, Philae Temple has a beautiful setting on an island in the river which has been landscaped to match its original site. Its various shrines and sanctuaries celebrate the deities involved in the myth of Isis and Osiris. This is a private tour allowing you to determine the amount of time spent at each of the sites during the tour.
What's not included
Food and drinks
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
AR
DE
EN
IT
FR
ES
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Important information
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Important notes
• The listed price does not include a $X per person processing fee, payable at the time of tour check-in. The fee is required by our local supplier and is not within our control.
• The duration of transfers are approximate, the exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions
Hotel pickups commence approximately 30 - 60 minutes prior to this time, exact pickup time will be advised on reconfirmation.
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
