If Cairo is the heart of Egypt, then Aswan is the Soul, and you can do soul surfing in Egypt by following this ultimate travel guide. Whether you want to dig deep into the culture of Aswan or plan a cruise trip, this guide by Egypt Packages will let you decide what to do to make your Aswan discovery simply unforgettable.
Culture in Aswan – A Living Tapestry of Ancient and Nubian Traditions
What sets Aswan apart from Cairo’s buzzing chaos and Luxor’s royal grandeur is a place where you can deep breath and feel the freshness all around. The cultural heart of city beats with unique rhythm and demonstrate ancient Egyptian roots and Nubian heritage at a soulful pace of life.
Explore Nubian Villages
Start cultural discovery by exploring Nunvian village near Gharb Soheil. You would love to see vibrantly painted homes where people are ready to welcome you with open hearts.Whole community is nown for their warm hospitality and centuries-old traditions. The unique thing about this expanded home is their decoration, where you can witness beautiful geometrical patterns and symbols. Inside this village, classical music, a local market, and handmade crafts will be seen. When it comes to tasting Nubian food, you will enjoy its remarkable coffee, which has a rich taste due to local spices. This coffee is prepared in a slow, ceremonial fashion, and thereby, it’s hard to find such a rich taste anywhere but here in Aswan.
Visit the Unfinished Obelisk & Nubian Museum
Are you ready to step into the world of ancient marvels and modern artifacts? In that case, you need to head to the Nubian Museum. There, you can take a deep look into history and identify Nubian heritage. You can read the story of the community struggle during the construction of Aswan High Dam. The Unfinished Obelisk is a massive stone that tells the story of how these colossal monuments were carved.
Music, Dance & Festivals
As you are peeping into the culture of Aswan, it’s simply complemented without music and festivals. Try to plan your trip during the Aswan International Festival of Culture and Arts, generally in February. In this festival, international cultural troupes perform alongside local artists. Music features a rhythmic beat of drums, chants, and clapping, setting a stage of serenity and fun.
Cruising the Nile from Aswan – Peace, Scenery, and Timeless Beauty
Since you are into soul surfing, your trip would be incomplete without cruising the Nile from Aswan. This discovery lets you take the front seat and peep into the riverside charm, ancient charm, and natural beauty of Egypt.
Why Start Your Nile Cruise in Aswan?
You should start your nile crusie from Aswan because this place has scenic spot. Cruises from Aswan pass through Luxor and let you discover historical sites of Egypt along the way. Taking a cruise from here mean resting in a floating resort while making ancient Egypt discovery. Many cruises start at the sunset and it’s when you enjoy the breathtaking view of the golden skies reflection from crystal clear water of the Nile.
Top Stops on a Nile Cruise from Aswan to Luxor
There are some top stops that you must make on your Nile Cruise from Aswan to Luxor:
- Kom Ombo Temple is dedicated to two gods such as Sobek, the crocodile god, and Horus the Elder. The beauty of this temple is magnificent at sunset.
- Edfu Temple is one of the preserved temples in Egypt. It is the resting place of the Falcon god Horus. This temple is super charming. If you visit it from the local town, a horse-drawn carriage ride would be enjoyable.
- Esna Lock is a narrow canal where your cruise ship navigates. It’s undoubtedly an excellent spot to take some fascinating clicks. Most cruises stop at these places, but you must double-check to ensure you don’t miss these top spots during exploration.
Felucca Rides – Traditional, Tranquil & Timeless
If you can’t afford luxury cruises, it’s always a good idea to try a Felluca ride instead. These traditional wooden sailboats are perfect for short rides along the Nile. You can use them to visit either Elephantine Island or the Botanical Gardens on Kitchener’s Island.These rides are cost-effective as they are wind-powered. You can’t speed up the ride, but you sure can enjoy soul-soothing serenity on the way.
Ancient Temples & Must-See Sights in and Around Aswan
When it comes to discovering Aswan, you need to explore its most iconic temples in Egypt. Here are the top ancient sites you can’t miss during your trip.
Philae Temple – The Jewel of the Nile
Located on Agilkia Island, this temple is dedicated to Isis, the goddess of love and healing. Its mythical appearance comes from the surrounding water and lush green frame. The temple was relocated stone by stone in the 1970s due to the rising water of Aswan High Dams. You must visit this temple when you want to feel sacred spiritual power. An evening show of the Philae Sound and Light is something you can’t miss, as lightning effects and dramatic storytelling during the show are simply magical.
Abu Simbel – The Great Monument to Ramses II
Abu Simbel is a massive complex built by Ramses for himself and his beloved queen, Neferatari. The four colossal statues of Ramses, each over 20 meters tall, are simply the most amazing feature of this monument. During the construction of the High Dam, this entire site was relocated in 1968. Abu Simbel is one of the most significant archaeological relocation projects in history.
Aswan Botanical Gardens – A Peaceful Escape on Kitchener’s Island
When you ride a felucca from the Corniche, you find yourself in a lush land that is home to the Aswan Botanical Garden. This quiet oasis features shady paths and rare plants. It also offers a panoramic view of the Nile. You’ll find peace in these gardens when you want to break from temple discovery. It’s a perfect place to unwind.
Aswan High Dam – Egypt’s Modern Marvel
Aswan High Dam was the real game changer for Egypt, as it generates electricity and controls the Nile Floods. Built in the 1960s, it offers sweeping views over Lake Nasser, one of the largest man-made lakes in the world.
Elephantine Island – Ancient Ruins & Local Life
Opposite Aswan city, you will find Elephantine Island in the Middle of the Nile. On this Island, you will find a soothing blend of modern culture with rich history. On this Island, you will have a lot to explore, from the ruins of the temples to the Aswan Museum and Nilometer. You can ride a felucca and rent a motorbike to visit this ancient Island.