Aswan holidays

How to reach Aswan

• Flight time: Flights to Aswan from London and other major UK airports typically involve a stopover in Cairo. The total journey time is about 7 to 9 hours, including the break.

• Transfer time: From Aswan International Airport, it takes around 45 minutes to reach the city centre by taxi. Some hotels offer shuttle services for guests that can be booked in advance.

• Price: Taxis at the airport aren’t in huge supply, and prices can depend on the level of demand and your bartering skills. There is usually a charge for hotel shuttle services.

Best time to visit Aswan

Aswan offers a warm, dry and sunny climate year-round, but the most popular times for holidays to Aswan are the milder months between autumn and spring. It’s an excellent destination for winter sun holidays. Here's a seasonal breakdown:

• March to May sees average temperatures ranging from 20 to 30°C, a more comfortable climate than summer, and pleasant weather for sightseeing.

• June to September can be very hot, with temperatures soaring between 35 and 45°C in mid-summer and is best avoided if you’re not good with intense heat. However, if you can tolerate the high temperatures, this is when you’ll find fewer tourists and possibly lower prices.

• October to November brings a return to milder temperatures, from 30 down to 20°C, making it a nicer time to be outside for trips and sightseeing.

• December to February are the coolest months, with temperatures ranging from 10 to 25°C. This is a popular time to escape the UK winter and explore the ancient sites more comfortably.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Arabic is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, restaurants and by tour guides. Learning a few basic Arabic phrases can be helpful and appreciated by locals.

• Local habits and customs: Egyptian culture is conservative, so dress modestly when away from resorts – especially if visiting a mosque – and public displays of affection are frowned upon. Haggling is common in markets and shops.

• Health and safety: Luxor is generally safe for tourists, but it's wise to take standard precautions, such as not flaunting valuables and being cautious about accepting anything from people selling on the street. Tap water isn’t safe to drink, so stick to bottled water.

• Currency: The Egyptian Pound (EGP) is the local currency, divided into 100 piastres (pt). ATMs are plentiful in tourist areas, and credit cards are widely accepted. It helps to carry some cash for smaller purchases and tips.

• Getting around: The easiest way to get around Aswan and the surrounding area is by taxi. There are also ferries and other boats on the river, and the train is an excellent way to travel north along the Nile.

• Electricity and plug types: Egypt’s supply is 220V, with either plug type C or F. UK travellers will need an adaptor for their devices.

• Time zone: Aswan operates on Eastern European Time (EET), 2 hours ahead of GMT and observes Daylight Saving Time.

• Required travel documentation: UK travellers need a visa to enter Egypt. You can obtain a visa on arrival at the airport for around £25 or apply for an e-visa in advance.

Best things to do in Aswan

Aswan is a relaxed town in one of the most attractive settings in Egypt. The islands scattered across the Nile are great places to visit by felucca (sailboat), with several attractions dotted around them, and the views of them from town are very special. Here’s a roundup of the best things to do on your Aswan holidays:

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Island views: Various points along Aswan’s waterfront offer stunning panoramic views of the Nile and its many islands, especially at sunset. Watching the traditional felucca floating past adds to the atmosphere.

• Elephantine Island: Take a boat trip to Elephantine Island for some picturesque views of the river, the city and the surrounding landscape. The island itself is rich in history and charm.

The best districts

• Corniche El-Nil: The riverside promenade along the Nile is a lively area with markets, cafés and restaurants. It’s a great place for a leisurely stroll to people-watch and enjoy the river views.

• Nubian Villages: Visit the area’s vibrant Nubian villages with their colourful houses and unique cultural heritage for a fantastic way to experience local life and traditions.

• Sharia el Souk: Aswan’s souq stretches out parallel along the Nile and is one of the most relaxed in Egypt, with a hint of Africa. Visit in the morning or late afternoon, and you’ll find vendors selling karkadeh (hibiscus flowers), dates, fabrics, clothes and Nubian items such as baskets.

• The Islands: Among the many islands along the Nile close to Aswan, the major ones such as Elephantine, Kitchener’s and Sehel are home to ancient settlement ruins, temple remains, the Aswan museum, a botanical garden, hotels, resorts and beaches. Trips out to explore them by felucca are an essential Aswan experience.

Historical monuments

• Temple of Isis: Dedicated to the goddess Isis, Philae Temple is an absolute must-visit. Located on Agilkia Island, it’s accessible by boat and showcases exquisite ancient Egyptian architecture and inscriptions.

• Unfinished Obelisk: This massive obelisk, abandoned in its quarry, offers insight into the stone-cutting techniques of ancient Egyptians. It’s an impressive site that gives a glimpse into ancient construction methods.

• Aswan High Dam: An engineering marvel, the Aswan High Dam controls the flooding of the Nile and created the huge Lake Nasser. A visit here provides both historical context and incredible views.

Day trips in the area

• Abu Simbel: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Abu Simbel is a breathtaking complex of two temples built by Ramses II. It’s quite a journey from Aswan, but it's possible as a day trip, and the colossal statues and stunning interiors make it well worth the effort.

• Kom Ombo: Just a short trip downriver from Aswan, this ancient city is famous for its temple with twin sanctuaries dedicated to two gods – the falcon-headed Haroeris and the crocodile god, Sobek.

Activities for families in Aswan

Aswan is a fantastic destination for family holidays, offering a range of activities that cater to all ages.

• Felucca rides: One of the most iconic experiences in Aswan is taking a felucca ride on the Nile. These traditional wooden sailboats offer a peaceful way to enjoy the river’s beauty and explore nearby islands and ancient sites.

• Nubia Museum: This museum is not only educational but also interactive, so you can learn about Nubian history and culture through engaging exhibits.

• Kitchener's Island: Home to the Aswan Botanical Garden, this island is a lush haven of exotic plants and trees, so it’s perfect for a family picnic or a leisurely stroll.

Free things to do in Aswan

Enjoying Aswan doesn’t have to break the bank. There are several free activities that allow you to soak up the local culture and scenery:

• Visit local markets: Wander through the local markets like the Aswan Souk, which are vibrant places to experience the colours, sounds and scents of Aswan without spending a penny.

• Attend local festivals: If you’re in Aswan during a local festival, many events and performances are free to attend. It’s a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions.

• Hiking: For those who love adventure, hiking in the desert from the west bank of the Nile is a must. The vast, serene desert landscape offers unique opportunities to explore the ancient ruins of tombs and monasteries and enjoy breathtaking views.

• Bird-watching: Aswan’s islands are a haven for bird-watchers. The varied habitats attract a wide range of bird species, making it a fantastic spot for nature enthusiasts.

Wellness in Aswan

• Spas: Enjoy a day of pampering at one of Aswan’s luxurious spas, where you can indulge in Nubian massages, body scrubs, traditional hammam treatments and the beautiful temple-style pool. The Movenpick Resort Aswan is picturesquely placed on Elephantine Island, while Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Aswan is one of Aswan’s classic buildings; both are worth a visit.

• Yoga and meditation: There are a few yoga studios in Aswan where you can join classes or workshops. Practising yoga in a tranquil garden setting or overlooking the Nile offers a peaceful retreat from the lively city.

Local dishes in Aswan

An exciting part of holidays to Aswan is trying the rich and diverse range of food. Here are some of the typical dishes and drinks you should try:

Some typical dishes

• Ful Medames: A popular dish made from fava beans, garlic and lemon juice, typically served with bread and commonly found at breakfast.

• Koshari: A hearty mix of rice, macaroni, lentils and chickpeas, topped with a spicy tomato sauce and crispy fried onions. It’s a super cheap meal and true Egyptian comfort food.

• Taameya: Egyptian falafel made with fava beans instead of chickpeas, flavoured with fresh herbs and spices, and deep-fried to perfection.

Meat and fish dishes

• Kebabs and kofta: Kebabs are grilled skewers of lamb or chicken marinated in aromatic spices; kofta is minced meat, usually lamb or beef, mixed with herbs and spices before grilling.

• Shawarma: Marinated meat, typically lamb or chicken, slow-cooked on a rotisserie and served in pita bread with tahini, garlic sauce, vegetables and pickles.

• Hamam Mahshi: Stuffed pigeon, a delicacy in Egypt, usually filled with rice, herbs and spices, then roasted to perfection.

• Samak Mashwi: Grilled fish, often caught fresh from the Nile, seasoned with local spices and herbs.

Sweets and desserts

• Basbousa: A semolina cake soaked in syrup and often topped with almonds.

• Kunafa: Shredded pastry filled with cheese or cream and nuts, soaked in sweet syrup.

• Baklava: Layers of filo pastry filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with honey or syrup.

• Umm Ali: A warm, comforting bread pudding with coconut, raisins, nuts and cream.

Local drinks

• Karkade: A refreshing tea made from dried hibiscus petals, served hot or cold, with a tart flavour similar to cranberry.

• Fruit juices: Freshly pressed juices are popular in Egypt. Try fresh lemon, lime, guava, pomegranate or sugarcane juice.

• Sahlab: A warm, thick drink made from milk and flavoured with rose water, often topped with nuts and coconut. It’s perfect for cooler evenings.