9 Best things to do in Aswan
Experiences Along the Nile
Aswan feels like the heart of Southern Egypt: laid-back, sun-soaked, and steeped in history. Nestled on the Nile’s tranquil edge, it blends ancient temples, Nubian heritage, and iconic river islands. Whether you’re sightseeing temples or slowing down with a felucca ride, Aswan offers a peaceful escape with profound cultural resonance. Here are nine ways to make the most of your visit.
Visit the Temple of Isis at Philae
Peacefully perched on the Nile, surrounded by palm trees and ancient legends, the Temple of Isis at Philae is one of Egypt’s most atmospheric and photogenic ruins. A beautifully preserved temple complex dedicated to Isis, moved to Agilkia Island to save it from the High Dam’s waters—expect elegant pylons, colonnades, and daily sound-and-light shows.
Wanderlust Tip: Take the boat from the Corniche for the best approach in the afternoon light
Tour the Aswan High Dam
One of the most significant modern icons of Egypt is the Aswan High Dam, a colossal structure that tamed the mighty Nile and reshaped the country’s future. This 20th-century engineering triumph controls Nile flooding and generates much of Egypt’s electricity—an essential modern supplement to Aswan’s ancient attractions.
Wanderlust Tip: Pair the visit with Philae to appreciate the dam’s role in preserving Egypt’s antiquities.
Explore Elephantine Island & Aswan Museum
Just across from the Corniche, Elephantine Island offers archaeological remains from pre-dynastic times, plus riverbank Nubian villages and the Aswan Museum with regional artifacts. This serene island is a blend of archaeology, living culture, and pure Nile-side beauty.
Wanderlust Tip: Take the little ferry, wander the ruins, and spend an hour in the museum.
Wander through the Aswan Botanical Garden
Also known as Kitchener’s Island, the Aswan Botanical Garden is a shaded oasis in the Nile, featuring exotic palms, tropical foliage, and a chance to pause in the shade. It’s a perfect spot to unwind, have a picnic, or just stroll under the shade of tropical trees with panoramic views of the river on all sides.
Wanderlust Tip: Visit mid-morning and bring a picnic—boat access from the Corniche.
Discover the Nubian Museum
A showcase of Nubia’s cultural heritage—from ancient temples to modern community artifacts—all set in award-winning architecture overlooking the Nile.
Wanderlust Tip: Spend around 90 minutes to absorb the history and audio-guided exhibits.
See the Unfinished Obelisk
Located in an old granite quarry, the Unfinished Obelisk is a massive obelisk that offers insight into ancient stone-working techniques—stunning in its half-carved, half-rooted state. Though never completed, this massive structure offers something most finished monuments can’t—a peek behind the scenes of how these wonders were made.
Wanderlust Tip: Pair this with a High Dam visit; the clouds of Aswan stone make a striking photo backdrop.
Cruise the Nile and Visit the Cataracts
Take a felucca or motorboat to see the First Cataract—the Nile’s rocky rapids—and soak in rural riverside scenes.
Wanderlust Tip: Early morning cruises are fresh and quiet—bring snacks and water.
Take a Day Trip to Abu Simbel
The Abu Simbel Temples are one of the greatest treasures of the ancient world. Commissioned by Pharaoh Ramses II during the 13th century BCE, this rock-hewn complex was designed to showcase his power, assert Egyptian dominance in Nubia, and honor the gods. These UNESCO-listed temples of Ramses II and Nefertari are about 230 km south of Aswan and awe-inspiring in scale and precision. The site was famously relocated to save it from the High Dam.
Wanderlust Tip: Book a sunrise-road tour or short domestic flight for cooler temperatures and fewer tourists.
Visit the Aga Khan Mausoleum
the Aga Khan Mausoleum is one of the most peaceful and beautiful sites in southern Egypt. This elegant pink limestone structure is the final resting place of Sultan Mohammed Shah, also known as Aga Khan III, a spiritual leader of the Ismaili Muslims and a prominent advocate for social progress and development throughout the 20th century.
Wanderlust Tip: Combine this with a felucca ride to nearby Clergy Island for a quiet detour.
Are you ready to start discovering Egypt?
During my trip to Egypt, I booked a couple of tours and had an incredible time! I’m sharing the links below in case you’re interested.
Are you ready to start discovering Egypt?
During my trip to Egypt, I booked a couple of tours and had an incredible time! I’m sharing the links below in case you’re interested.
