Aswan

Nubian village in Elephantine Island Aswan - The River Nile as it passes through Aswan

Aswan (Arabic: أسوان‎ àswân) is based in the south of Egypt, some 680 km south of Cairo, just below the Aswan Dam and Lake Nasser, with a population of 275,000. Aswan is far more relaxed and smaller than Cairo and Luxor.

Introduction

Aswan is the smallest of the three major tourist city's on the Nile. Being the furthest south of the three, it has a large population of Nubian people, mostly resettled from their homeland in the area flooded by Lake Nasser. Aswan is the home of many granite quarries from which most of the obelisks seen in Luxor were sourced. Aswan was the ancient Egyptians' gateway to Africa.

Also, Aswan is the hassle-free alternative to Luxor with an equally or even more beautiful Nile, many impressive sights nearby and a far more authentic souq than the tiny one in Luxor.

Weather in Aswan

See also: Egypt#Climate

Travel to Aswan

Travel by plane to Aswan

Aswan International Airport IATA Flight Code: ASW - Public buses don't go to the airport and security on the approach road to the terminal is tight, so it's probably reasonable taking a taxi, for which you must agree a price in advance. The fare from the airport to the train station (stated inside the airport) is Egypt#Money|LE92 (Nov 2022). The following airlines operate services to Aswan International Airport: Astraeus (from London Gatwick), EgyptAir (from Abu Simbel, Cairo, Luxor) and LotusAir (from Cairo).

Travel by train to Aswan

Railway Station Street, Aswan, Egypt, Oct 2004 A - Railway Station Street

Aswan Railway Station - Leave plenty of time if you need to buy tickets, as the service at the counters is slow. It also has a tourist information inside. Microbuses depart from outside the station (turn right as you exit the terminal) and there are a number of cafés and basic hotels on the blocks between the station and the river.

Aswan is the southern terminus of the Egyptian railway network. The line follows the Nile north to Luxor (3-4 hr), Cairo (another 10 hr) and Alexandria (another 2 hr). Train is an excellent way to travel between Aswan and Luxor as it is too short to fly and buses are bumpy and not altogether safe; fares are LE50-100 in AC1, half that in AC2. The train ride from Cairo is obviously much slower than a flight, but comfortable and safe and amazingly affordable.

For practical details see Egypt#Get around by train. From Cairo there are four types of train:

Daytime expresses have 1st and 2nd class air-conditioned coaches called AC1 and AC2 with comfortable aircraft-style seats. They're a relaxing way to sit back and view the lush landscape of the Nile valley. Fares vary with the train, with a single ticket Cairo-Aswan costing LE140 to LE250 in AC1 (Feb 2023) and about 30-40% less in AC2. Soft drinks and [ Snacks are served and there may be a dining car, but best buy food and fruit drinks beforehand.
Overnight expresses, departing 9PM to 11PM, are identical to the daytime trains and have the same fares; they're not sleepers.
Deluxe sleepers are run by a private company, Watania. These have modern air-conditioned sleeping-cars, with a choice of 1- and 2-berth cabins and a club/lounge car. An evening meal and breakfast are included in the fare. Prices one way between Cairo and Aswan are US$110 for a single berth, or US$80 sharing a 2-berth cabin (Feb 2023). One sleeper runs nightly year-round, southbound from Cairo Ramses around 8PM and northbound from Aswan around 7PM. Extra sleepers run at busy times but these trains may commence from Giza rather than from Cairo Ramses station.
Local trains - Non-a/c trains lumber between Cairo, Luxor and Aswan, daytime and overnight, stopping at most stations. These are not much slower, but they are incredibly cheap.

The expresses are run by Egyptian National Railways (ENR) - check timetables and prices and make bookings, with them direct (but be sure to do so 24 hours in advance or the system might not accept!). ENR also runs the ordinary trains but these are not bookable and not shown on timetables, buy your ticket at the station. The deluxe sleepers should be booked online with Watania.

Express tickets can also be bought at the station but in 2017/18, Cairo Ramses station has often refused to sell daytime tickets to tourists, claiming they're only allowed on the overnight train. Thit is bunkum and there are no similar problems buying such tickets at Giza, or northbound Aswan to Cairo - or even in simply boarding the daytime train without a ticket.

Travel by Bus to Aswan

From Hurghada buses cost LE100-150 for 8-12 hours ride (513 km), buses leave Aswan at 3:30PM and 5:30PM, route operated by Upper Egypt Bus Co. Tickets are sold on the bus, but be sure to ask the price at the ticket office, because the ticket seller on the bus will often raise the price LE5 or so and pocket the excess if you are a foreigner.

Travel by boat to Aswan

Cruise ships ply between Aswan and Luxor most days. These are luxury cruise tours taking 5 or more days for a splurgy price and they're not ferries. Various operators, shop around online for dates and prices.

A passenger ferry operated by Nile River Valley Transport Corporation sails across Lake Nasser to Wadi Halfa in Sudan once a week. Southbound it leaves Aswan noon on Sundays to arrive midday Monday; northbound it leaves Wadi Halfa 5PM Mondays to reach Aswan midday Tuesday. First class tickets, which get you a berth in a shared cabin, cost from LE385; 2nd class gets you a seat on the deck for LE230. You'll need to have your Sudan visa sorted in advance. From Wadi Halfa, buses and a very occasional train run south to Khartoum.

Transportation in Aswan

Aswan is compact enough to negotiate primarily on foot.

For the sights on the river islands or on the West Bank, you must cross the river by motor boat or felluca. Be sure to pay attention to the price as operators try to overcharge tourists. The public ferry to Elephantine Island is LE5 for Foreign Muslims (LE1 for Egyptians, Nov 2023). The ferry to the West Bank is apparently also LE5 for Foreign Muslims and LE1 for local residents. Felluca trips will cost LE50-80 depending on your haggling (Nov 2023).

For Philae and the High Dam and the unfinished obelisks, you can take a taxi or a horse-drawn carriage.

What to See

Aswan Town and the East Bank

Nubian Museum - Spacious museum opened in 1997 as a joint project of the Egyptian government and UNESCO, it traces the history of the Nubian region from pre-historic time up to the construction of the Aswan Dam in the 1960s and the consequent flooding of Nubia.

Unfinished Obelisk - The largest known ancient obelisk, carved directly out of bedrock. If finished it would have measured around 42 m (120 feet) and would have weighed nearly 1,200 tons. There is also a short video about obelisks shown by a man who demands tips. This site would be of interest to the most dedicated Egyptophiles, but maybe not to others.

Archangel Michael’s Coptic Orthodox Gothic Church - Modern Coptic cathedral dominating the skyline of southern Aswan.

Fatimid Cemetery The faded former glory of the Fatimid empire can be seen on the crumbling graveyard.

Ferial Gardens - When you're in Aswan you'll have to walk along the Kornish Al Nile (Corniche) at least once. It is a friendly stroll, made even more friendly by the fact that you can walk right into the Ferial Gardens at its southern end. They are a park that is as relaxing as it is beautiful.

The river and islands

Elephantine Island: Nubian Villages & Aswan Museum - Nubian villages of Siou and Koti occupy thit island. Also home to the famous Nilometers and the Temples of Sati, Khnum (ancient rams-head god) and Pepinakht-Heqaib. Movenpick resort is on the island. The Aswan Museum (adult: LE70, student LE35, Jan 2023) at the southern end of the island houses items found during excavations on Elephantine Island and includes access to the neighbouring archaeological site. Also, be careful of unsolicited tours from local residents, which will result in a request for baksheesh. There is regular boat taxi to Elephantine Island run by the local residents for LE5 for one return crossing for tourists (you pay LE5 to go and don't pay to come back).

Aswan Botanical Gardens - El Nabatat Island | Lord Kitchener, who owned the 6.8-hectare island in the 1890s converted it to a botanical garden. Filled with birds and hundreds of plant species and palm trees. Accessible by motor boat (LE200 for two people, which can be haggled down to LE100), via a felucca tour, or via a rowboat from Elephantine island (ask a local near where boats are lying on the Western shore).

Seheyl Island - Friendly Nubian villages. Well known for its excellent beaded jewelry. Also the location of the Famine Stela. Cliff with more than 200 inscriptions from the 18th dynasty.

West Bank

Tombs of the Nobles | The northern hills of the west bank are filled with the rock-hewn tombs of princes from the Old Kingdom to the Roman period. The 6th Dynasty tombs, some of which form linked family complexes, contain important biographical texts. Inside and the tombs are decorated with vivid wall paintings showing scenes of everyday life, hieroglyphic biographies and inscriptions telling of the noblemen's journeys into Africa. The ticket gives you access to the Tombs of Mekhu & Sabni and the Tomb of Sarenput II on the left side coming up the hill, as well as the Tomb of Sarenput I on the right side, for all of which you will need the key holder waiting for you when you come up. Generally, you should get into the tombs without problem, but when buying the ticket ask for it to get confidence and refer to this knowledge when you get hassled by the key holder. Try to go with several other people, so you can take some pictures when the key holder is busy, especially in the Tomb of Sarenput II. Otherwise, you will probably have to pay him a fee for taking pictures. On the right side there is also a tomb (no. 35 l) with a stunning bat colony at the far end, if you bring a torch (or you mobile's camera).

Tombs of Mekhu & Sabni – Reliefs show invasion of Nubia
Tomb of Sarenput II – One of the most beautiful and preserved tombs
Tomb of Sarenput I (No. 36) – Six pillars decorated with reliefs
Tomb of Harkhuf – Hieroglyphics
Tomb of Hekaib – Reliefs show fighting and hunting scenes

Kubbet el-Hawa - Small shrine/tomb of a local sheikh and holy man. The climb is rewarded with amazing views of Aswan and the Nile river and the surrounding landscape, richly evoked in the translation from the Arabic of the place name, "the dome of the wind'.

Mausoleum of Mohammed Shah Aga Khan - Tomb of the 48th iman of the Islami sect and his wife. Visible from the outside, although closed to the public.

Monastery of Street Simeon - The history of the monastery of St. Simeon dates back to the 7th century and survived long as a Christian stronghold of southern Egypt until destroyed by Saladin in 1173. While still in use it housed 300 monks and could in addition receive up to 100 pilgrims at a time. The monastery was neighbored by a 10 metre high wall and doubled as a fortress. Apparently and the monastery did not return to its original use after Saladin's destruction. To get here, ride a camel or walk from the Tombs of the Nobles.

Around Aswan

File:معبد فيلة HDR - Philae Temple

Philae Temple | Built to honor Isis, this was the last ancient temple built in the classical Egyptian architectural style. Construction began in approx 690 BC. It was moved from Philae Island, to its new location on Agilkia Island, after the flooding of Lake Nasser. A multinational UNESCO team relocated Philae and other temples that now dot the shores of Lake Nasser. You can see the submerged island a short distance away, punctuated by the steel columns used in the moving process. Don't miss the Sound and Light show at night, see picture to the right and the least cheesy of the Sound and Light "extravaganzas". Note also the re-use of the temple as a Christian church, with crosses carved into the older hieroglyph reliefs and images of the Egyptian gods carefully defaced. There are graffiti dating from the 1800s. At the ticket office there is a sign stating that a daytime motorboat to the site costs LE150 roundtrip for 1-8 people including a one-hour wait, which is generally enough time (Nov 2023). Take a picture of this sign to use when haggling with the boatmen who will demand LE150 each way.

Philue Temple - Trajan's Kiosk

Trajan's Kiosk - A hypaethral temple located on Agilkia Island in Old Aswan dam reservoir. One of the largest Ancient Egyptian monuments standing today, it is conventionally attributed to the Roman emperor Trajan, who gave it its current decorations, though some experts think the structure itself may be older, possibly dating to the time of Augustus.

Aswan International Sculpture Park | Sculptors from around the world exhibit their pieces here every spring for the International Sculpture Symposium. The works are all created in Aswan (on the terrace of the Basma Hotel) and when finished brought to this site and exhibited next to each other within view of the ancient quarry.

The Low Dam - When initially constructed between 1899 and 1902, nothing of its scale had ever been attempted; on completion, it was the largest masonry dam in the world, however its capacity stoped being enough during the following years, which led to the investigation and construction of the Aswan High Dam 6 kilometers upstream.

The High Dam | Despite being a highly important piece of infrastructure and the Aswan High Dam is (to put it delicately) a bit of a letdown even for dam lovers.

New Kalabsha

The Temple of Kalabsha by Dennis G. Jarvis - Kalabsha Temple

New Kalabsha is a promontory housing several important temples, structures and other remains that have been relocated from the site of Old Kalabsha and other sites in Lower Nubia, to avoid the rising waters of Lake Nasser caused by the construction of the Aswan High Dam.

Kalabsha Temple - Like Philae, this temple and its surrounding ruins were moved by UNESCO to save them from the floodwaters of Lake Nasser. The main temple was built to the Nubian fertility and sun god Marul during the rule of Emperor Augustus.

The temple of Gerf Hussein by George Snyder - The temple of Gerf Hussein

Gerf Hussein - originally known as Per Ptah and the "House of Ptah" | The temple of Gerf Hussein is dedicated to Ramesses II and was built by the Viceroy of Nubia Setau. Originally, it was partially free-standing and partially rock-cut. During the flooding of Lake Nasser and the free-standing section was dismantled and then rebuilt at New Kalabsha. Most of the original rock-cut Gerf Hussein temple was left in place and is now submerged beneath the waters.

Beit el-Wali - The rock-cut temple of Beit el-Wali was moved from its original location by a Polish archaeological team. It is dedicated to Ramesses II and the gods of Amun and Anukis (among others). It was originally decorated in bright colors, but these were mostly removed by a "squeeze" taken in the 19th Century (the results of this squeeze are now on display in the British Museum).

Kiosk of Qertassi - A tiny Roman kiosk with four slender papyrus columns inside and two Hathor columns at the entrance. It is a small but elegant structure that "is unfinished and not inscribed with the name of the architect, but is probably contemporary with Trajan's Kiosk at Philae."

Dedwen - Originally located within the outer wall of the temple of Kalabsha and is dedicated to the Nubian serpent goddess, Dedwen. It was moved along with the Kalabsha temple to New Kalabsha.

Muslim Travel Tips

Rent a bike | Bikes available at many hotels. Cross the modern bridge to the east bank and bring back your bicycle afterwards by ferry boat.

Camel rides | Grab a felucca captain and they will shuttle you across to the camel marshalling area. Ride the camel to the Monastery of Street Simeon.

Tea with the local shopkeepers | You will get a fascinating insight into their daily lives and they love to practise their English on you. Nevertheless and they will certainly try to sell you something in exchange for the free tea.

Book a cruise ship for 2-3 nights between Luxor and Aswan by tracking down one or several of them along the pier before noon. Most cruise ships have a reception at their entrance and you can just walk in. Do not mind the guards or barriers and they are just there for protection. According to some travellers, prices can start from US$40 per day. Either way, it will be cheaper than when going through an agent or booking online.

What to buy in Aswan

The souqs (markets) in Aswan are refreshingly exotic without the same level of high-pressure selling found in some tourist towns like Luxor. You will generally find that Nubian handicrafts are of higher quality and better value in Aswan. All other goods will be more expensive than in Cairo due to shipping costs to Aswan and the lower tourist demand

Sharia as-Souq - The most charming souq in Egypt, spreading through almost half of the city. There is far less pressure to buy than in other city's and it is more beautiful and exciting as well. Buy Nubian talisman, baskets, Sudanese swords, African masks, live produce, food, fruit, vegetables, henna powder, t-shirts, perfume, spices, robes, statues.

Halal Restaurants & Food in Aswan

Ice Cart Aswan - Ice delivery from a cart

Al-Masry Restaurant | Sharia Al Matar GPS 24.092582,32.899319 - Popular with local residents. Great kafta and Kebab, pigeon and Chicken, all served with bread, salad and tahini.

Aswan Moon | Decent food with cheery service. The local fish joints near the city market can be excellent -- their fish is fresh and you can watch it cook. Don't miss the crab soup!

Biti Pizzas | GPS 24.100401,32.901758 near the train station. Serves fiteer, a flaky Egyptian Pizzas and Western varieties.

Chef Khalil | Sharia al Souq - near the train station - Fresh fish restaurant, priced by weight. Small place but worth the wait.

Madena Restaurant | Sharia al souq - close to Cleopatra Hotel Nice place.

Nubian House | GPS 24.072653,32.881036 off Sharia al Tahrir, 1 kilometers past Nubian Museum. Spectacular sunset views over the first cataract. Sheesha and tea.

Panorama | Corniche an Nil GPS 24.086158,32.891717. Serves simple Egyptian stews served in clay pots, with salad, mezze, Rice. All day breakfast.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Aswan

Aswan - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Aswan, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Aswan. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Aswan and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Aswan. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Aswan. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations in Aswan: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Aswan.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Aswan: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Aswan, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Aswan.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Aswan, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Aswan, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Aswan and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Aswan, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Aswan, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Aswan without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Aswan is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Aswan.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Aswan is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Aswan, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Aswan Media: info@ehalal.io

Ramadan in Aswan

Ramadan 2025 in Aswan

Ramadan concludes with the festival of Eid al-Fitr, which may last several days, usually three in most countries.

The next Ramadan shall be from Friday, 28 February 2025 to Saturday, 29 March 2025

The next Eid al-Adha shall be on Friday, 6 June 2025

The next day of Raʾs al-Sana shall be on Thursday, 26 June 2025

The next day for Mawlid al-Nabī shall be on Monday, 16 September 2024

Muslim Friendly Hotels

//2023-09-16&checkOut=2023-09-17&6654&&Philae+Hotel+Aswan&hotelId=275692&&.Zzc7526d12fe5d43ca9c2d0ef-206204 Philae Hotel | Friendly staff and some of the best views in Egypt (make sure you get a Nile View room). On the downside somewhat rundown rooms, gives you that camping inside feeling, not always plenty of hot water!

//2023-09-16&checkOut=2023-09-17&6654&&Basma+Hotel+Aswan&hotelId=275682&&.Zzf5087162c1d44258bf08cac-206204 Basma hotel - Basma Hotel Aswan is conveniently located in the popular Aswan area. The hotel has everything you need for a comfortable stay. All the necessary facilities, including 24-hour front desk, luggage storage, room service, airport transfer, meeting facilities, are at hand. Each guestroom is elegantly furnished and equipped with handy amenities. To enhance guests' stay and the hotel offers recreational facilities such as outdoor pool, massage, children's playground, billiards, garden. Convenience and comfort makes Basma Hotel Aswan the perfect choice for your stay in Aswan.

//2023-09-16&checkOut=2023-09-17&6654&&Bet+El+Kerem+Guesthouse&hotelId=275681&&.Zzdbdc7e712c664e0085a005f-206204 Bet el Kerem | Only hotel lodging on the west bank. Quiet atmosphere, hospitable staff, clean rooms, small (8 double rooms), restaurant for guests on the roof terrace. Marvellous view over the Nile and the desert and the Nubian villages. Perfect place if you are looking for something different! Bike rental available.

//2023-09-16&checkOut=2023-09-17&6654&&Pyramisa+Island+Hotel+Aswan&hotelId=259274&&.Zz3fc4f9f534cf41c6 b0fde65-206204 Pyramisa Isis El Corniche - Stop at Pyramisa Isis Island Resort Aswan to discover the wonders of Aswan. The property has everything you need for a comfortable stay. Service-minded staff will welcome and guide you at Pyramisa Isis Island Resort Aswan. Each guestroom is elegantly furnished and equipped with handy amenities. The property offers various recreational opportunities. Discover all Aswan has to offer by making Pyramisa Isis Island Resort Aswan your base.

//2023-09-16&checkOut=2023-09-17&6654&&Mövenpick+Resort+Aswan&hotelId=275679&&.Zze738d7672f034422a89e45d-206204 Movenpick Resort | Movenpick Resort Aswan is conveniently located in the popular Aswan area. Offering a variety of facilities and services and the hotel provides all you need for a good night's sleep. 24-hour room service, free Wi-Fi in all rooms, 24-hour security, daily housekeeping, fireplace are just some of the facilities on offer. Comfortable guestrooms ensure a good night's sleep with some rooms featuring facilities such as television LCD/plasma screen, internet access – wireless, internet access – wireless (complimentary), non smoking rooms, air conditioning. Access to the hotel's outdoor pool, massage, kids club, swimmingpool (kids), billiards will further enhance your satisfying stay. No matter what your reasons are for visiting Aswan, Movenpick Resort Aswan will make you feel instantly at home.

//2023-09-16&checkOut=2023-09-17&6654&&Sofitel+Legend+Old+Cataract&hotelId=275684&&.Zz3fe9f4a4c35e497a8ad9e44-206204 Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Aswan - Sophisticated but very comfortable hotel «Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Aswan» is located in Aswan. This hotel is located 1 kilometers from the downtown. At the hotel Spend an evening in a nice atmosphere of the café. It’s time to have a nice meal! Stop by the restaurant. The hotel cafe is a nice place to have a Snacks. Want to be always on-line? Wi-Fi is available. Also and the following services are available for guests at the hotel a massage room, a sauna, a steam bath and a spa center. Guests who love doing sports will be able to enjoy a fitness center and a gym. You will find these entertainment amenities on the premises: a library and a barbeque area. Here, you can treat yourself with water procedures as there will be a swimming pool, an indoor swimmingpool and an outdoor pool. For business meetings and there is a conference hall. Want to have an excursion? Consult the tour assistance desk of the hotel The staff of the hotel will order a transfer for you. Accessible for guests with disabilities: the elevator helps them to go to the highest floors. There are other services available for the guests of the hotel For example, a laundry, dry cleaning, an ATM, private check-in and check-out, ironing, press, vehicle rental, a safe-deposit box and a concierge. The staff of the hotel will be happy to talk to you in English, Italian and French. Here’s what you’ll find in the room to have a rest after a long day: a DVD player, an alarm clock, a shower, a TV, a mini-bar, a bathrobe and slippers. The room equipment depends on its category.

Stay Safe

Aswan is generally a very safe city, however do watch out for quite blatant attempts at pickpocketing in the souq. These thieves will approach you carrying scarves, shirts or even papyrus in one hand to sell to you, while attempting to go into your pockets with the other hand. The local residents know this goes on, but do not count on them to intervene. Also, Muslima should avoid travelling alone if they are not comfortable with leering men, although they are all bluster. Most horse carriage drivers will not commit on the price when you arrive at your destination and you are expected to give more.

Cope in Aswan

There is so much to do around the Aswan area that time can be an issue. The local people are generally very cooperative and for a price, doors might remain opened regardless of the hour.

Where to travel next from Aswan

Abu Simbel – most people use Aswan as a base to see this fantastic temple. There is a convoy that departs at 4AM and is arranged by tour agents, return tours cost from LE150-200.
Kom Ombo – Not far north from Aswan, with the double temple of Ptolemaic. Taxi trips or organized tours are LE150, or you take a (local) train and taxi/tuk-tuk from the train station (LE10).
Cruises to Luxor – The 2-night cruise should cost from US$75 per day, including meals, depending on the boat.
Felucca trips to Luxor – see the felucca cruise on the Nile|Felucca guide for a complete itinerary and for information.