Things To Do
in Aswān
Aswān is a city situated in southern Egypt on the banks of the Nile River. Known for its beautiful scenery and vibrant culture, Aswān is a popular tourist destination. The city is famous for its iconic High Dam, which was built to control the flow of the Nile River and provide electricity to the region.
Visitors can also explore historic sites such as the Philae Temple and the unfinished obelisk, offering a glimpse into Egypt's rich heritage.
- "Ahlan wa sahlan" - Welcome
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Afwan" - You're welcome
- "La shukran" - No, thank you
- "Min fadlak" - Please
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $10 - $30
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the Aswān High Dam. Enjoy the breathtaking views of Lake Nasser and take some photos.
Head over to the Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis. You can reach the temple by a short boat ride, which adds to the charm.
Experience a traditional Nubian dinner in a local restaurant. The vibrant atmosphere and exquisite cuisine will make your evening memorable.
Take a boat ride to a nearby Nubian village. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the village while admiring the colorful homes and hospitality of the locals.
Visit a local art shop to see beautiful crafts and jewelry made by artisans. Perhaps even pick up a unique souvenir.
Return to Aswān and relax by the river. Enjoy a scenic sunset while sipping tea at a riverside café.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical significance with ancient monuments like the Temple of Philae and the Aswan High Dam.
- Beautiful landscapes with the Nile River and stunning desert scenery.
- Cultural diversity and traditional markets, providing a glimpse into local life and customs.
- Warm climate, making it a year-round destination for tourists seeking sun.
- Opportunities for various outdoor activities such as boat tours and trekking.
- High temperatures during summer can be uncomfortable for some visitors.
- Limited infrastructure in some areas may pose challenges for travel and accommodation.
- Seasonal influx of tourists can lead to overcrowding at popular sites.
- Water scarcity issues due to the reliance on the Nile and the effects of climate change.
- Language barrier, as English may not be widely spoken among all locals.
Best Activities in Aswān
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a relaxing sail on a traditional Egyptian sailing boat and take in the beautiful views of the Nile River and Aswan's landscapes.
Explore the vibrant Nubian culture, colorful houses, and friendly locals in a traditional Nubian village near Aswan.
Discover the ancient wonders of Philae Temple located on Agilkia Island in the Nile River, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Tours
Uncover the best of Aswān with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Aswān
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers breathtaking views of the river and surrounding landscape.
Provides stunning views of the temple complex and its picturesque surroundings.
Features a beautiful vantage point for capturing the stunning scenery of Aswan and the Nile River.
Food in Aswān
Aswān Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A flavorful dish made with rice, lentils, and pasta, topped with spiced tomato sauce and crispy fried onions. It's a popular and inexpensive street food that can be found at local eateries and food stalls throughout Aswān.
Must-Try!
A traditional Egyptian breakfast dish consisting of mashed fava beans seasoned with garlic, olive oil, and a variety of spices. It is often served with a side of bread or vegetables and can be savored at local breakfast spots and cafes.
Stuffed pigeon is a delicacy in Aswān and is often prepared with a delectable mix of rice, herbs, and spices. This dish can be enjoyed at traditional Nubian restaurants and certain upscale dining establishments.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Aswān better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market offering a wide range of local produce, spices, and street food. Visitors can revel in the lively atmosphere while sampling an assortment of Egyptian delicacies such as falafel, grilled kebabs, and fresh juices.
Located along the banks of the Nile, the Nubian Village is a prime spot to explore authentic street food. Here, travelers can indulge in freshly baked bread, grilled fish, and an array of Nubian specialties amid scenic surroundings.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Aswān, it is important to respect local cultural norms by dressing modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or interacting with local communities.
Visitors should familiarize themselves with local customs, such as greeting people with the traditional Arabic greeting 'As-salamu alaykum' and showing respect for elders and authority figures.
It is important to be mindful of personal space and privacy, especially when interacting with locals, and to seek permission before taking photographs of individuals or their property.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Aswān with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Aswān
Ensure a smooth experience
In Aswan, Egypt, tipping is a common practice and is generally expected in the service industry. It is customary to give a tip of around 10-15% in restaurants and cafes. Additionally, tipping hotel staff, tour guides, and drivers is also common to show appreciation for good service.
In Aswan, Egypt, cash is widely used for most transactions, although larger hotels and some restaurants may accept credit cards. It's advisable to carry Egyptian pounds for smaller purchases and to be prepared for some places that may not accept cards. Foreign currency exchange services are also available in Aswan for convenience.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Aswān.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Aswān, with pleasantly warm daytime temperatures and cool evenings.
Another good time to visit, with milder temperatures and the chance to see the desert in bloom.
Ideal for exploring Aswān, with comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds compared to the peak season.
Very hot and dry, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F), making it less favorable for outdoor activities.
Aswān at Night
Hiking in Aswān
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hiking location near Aswān, offering stunning views of the landscape and vibrant desert flora.
A picturesque hiking trail around Philae Island, which includes historical sites and beautiful Nile views.
A moderately challenging hike that offers panoramic views of the Nile and the high dam.
A challenging hike known for its steep terrain, rewarding hikers with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Various trails that offer exploring opportunities around Lake Nasser, with chances to see local wildlife and unique desert landscapes.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Aswān through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Aswān by plane.
The main airport serving Aswan, Egypt.
International airport located in Luxor, approximately 220 kilometers north of Aswan.
The largest airport in Egypt, located in Cairo, approximately 800 kilometers north of Aswan.
Located in Hurghada, this airport is about 500 kilometers northeast of Aswan.
Located in Sharm El Sheikh, about 650 kilometers northeast of Aswan.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant ethnic group in Aswān, known for their unique culture and language, predominantly located in the southern regions of Egypt.
The majority population in Aswān, sharing common cultural and linguistic traits with other Arab Egyptians.
An ethnic group living mainly in southeastern Egypt, the Beja people have their own distinct language and cultural practices.
Egyptian Christians who make up an important religious demographic, contributing to Aswān's cultural diversity.
Residents from other Upper Egyptian regions who have migrated to Aswān for various reasons, including economic opportunities.
The Soul of Aswān
Discover the essence of Aswān through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Aswān, with many local clubs and teams participating in regional tournaments.
Widely played among the youth, with local leagues and schools often competing in tournaments.
A popular team sport in schools and recreational centers, attracting many participants.
Played both indoors and on the beach, especially during the warm months, with increasing popularity.
Track and field events are practiced by schools and clubs, promoting fitness among the youth.
Including sports such as wrestling, which holds cultural significance and is practiced in local events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Aswān.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Aswān caters well to vegetarian and vegan diets, with numerous restaurants and street food vendors offering an array of plant-based choices. Dishes like vegetable tagine, falafel wraps, and fresh fruit smoothies are readily available.
Many dining establishments in Aswān are mindful of gluten-free requirements, offering dishes such as grilled fish, rice pilaf, and salads made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Travelers with gluten sensitivities can easily find suitable options across the city.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Aswān with these cultural adventures.
