After the busy streets of Cairo and temple-hopping in Luxor, Aswan felt like the perfect slow-down spot. With its peaceful Nile views, colourful Nubian culture, and relaxed atmosphere, it’s a side of Egypt that often surprises visitors. From here, it’s also the best base for visiting Abu Simbel, one of the most impressive historical sites in the country.
If you’re planning your trip, here’s what I’d suggest:
✔ Aswan – Stay at least 2-3 days to fully enjoy the city, take a sunset felucca ride, visit Philae Temple, explore the Nubian villages, and have time to relax.
✔ Abu Simbel – Plan a full-day trip from Aswan. The 4-5 hour drive each way is long but completely worth it. You’ll need an early start (around 4-5 AM), and keep in mind that roads for tourists close after 5 PM.
In this post, I’m sharing exactly what to see, where to stay, how to make the long journey to Abu Simbel easier, and some local tips that made this part of our trip so memorable.
Where to Stay in Aswan
Benben by Dhara – A luxurious island retreat in the middle of the Nile, just 10 minutes by boat from Philae Temple. From the moment we arrived, everything was perfect. We were welcomed with refreshing hibiscus tea and even got a room upgrade. The views were absolutely breathtaking, especially at sunrise, which we watched from our private jacuzzi overlooking the river, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.
The hotel has a Santorini-like feel with its whitewashed architecture, and the restaurant is beautiful, offering a fantastic breakfast with plenty of delicious choices. At night, the island glows from the water, creating a magical atmosphere. The local cats hanging around the restaurant made it feel even more homely! I highly recommend this place—one of my favorites.
Kato Dool Wellness Retreat – An Authentic Nubian Escape Completely different from Benben, Kato Dool Wellness Retreat is an authentic Nubian-style resort that feels like a hidden world of its own. Perched on top of a hill about an hour from Aswan, the journey here was a bit tricky, but 100% worth it for the unbelievable views of the Nile.
The resort is full of handmade details, vibrant murals, and a charm that makes you feel instantly at home. Every part of the stay felt special, from the traditional design to the peaceful surroundings. If you’re looking for a stay that is deeply connected to Nubian culture, full of color, and offers stunning Nile views, this is the place to be.
Sofitel Legend Old Cataract, Aswan – A true luxury escape in Aswan, Sofitel Legend Old Cataract blends historic charm with modern elegance. Overlooking the Nile River, this iconic 5-star hotel is famous for its Victorian-era architecture, infinity pool with stunning views, and world-class service. It’s the perfect choice for those looking to experience Egyptian history in ultimate comfort.
Things to Do in Aswan
✔ Philae Temple – Accessible only by a short boat ride, this temple is dedicated to Isis and sits on an island surrounded by the Nile. The location alone makes it one of the most beautiful temples in Egypt.
✔ Exploring the Nubian Village – Unlike anywhere else in Egypt, Nubian villages are known for their brightly painted houses, relaxed atmosphere, and friendly locals. It’s worth wandering around, talking to people, and seeing a different side of Egyptian culture.
✔ Felucca Ride on the Nile – Aswan is best experienced from the water, and a traditional felucca ride at sunset is a must. Floating along the Nile, surrounded by palm trees and golden desert, was the most relaxing part of our trip.
Local Food in Aswan
✔ Koshary El Safwa – One of the best meals we had in Egypt! Simple, local, and delicious, this place served the best chicken dishes of the trip. Sometimes, the simplest spots have the best food.
Abu Simbel – A Temple of Power & Love
We almost didn’t go to Abu Simbel because of the long 4-5 hour drive from Aswan, but let me tell you—it was 100% worth it! Not only is it one of the most impressive temples in Egypt, but it also has a unique love story behind it. If you’re visiting Aswan, don’t skip Abu Simbel. It’s an early start, but one of the most unforgettable places in Egypt!
Why Abu Simbel is Special
✔ Two Temples, One Love Story – Abu Simbel isn’t just one temple—it’s two. The massive one was built by Pharaoh Ramses II to showcase his power, but the smaller, more intimate temple was dedicated to his wife, Queen Nefertari. How romantic is that? Instead of just glorifying himself, he honored his queen with her own temple—one of the few in ancient Egypt built for a woman.
✔ Massive Scale – These temples are far bigger than they look in pictures. The sheer size and perfect symmetry carved into the rock are breathtaking.
✔ The Relocation Story – Abu Simbel was completely moved in the 1960s to save it from being flooded by the Nile. Imagine cutting an entire mountain into pieces and rebuilding it elsewhere! The fact that it still stands perfectly today is mind-blowing.
✔ Less Crowded – Compared to other temples, Abu Simbel felt less hectic, and vendors weren’t as pushy, making the experience even better.
Tips for Visiting Abu Simbel
✔ Go early in the morning – Most tours leave from Aswan around 4-5 AM to arrive before the heat becomes too intense. Keep in mind that roads for tourists close after 5 PM, so planning your trip in advance is essential.
✔ Enjoy the desert scenery – The 4-5 hour drive may sound long, but the changing desert landscapes make the journey interesting. Watching the sunrise over the dunes was one of the most peaceful moments of the trip.
✔ Bring water and snacks – There are places to buy food and drinks on-site, but prices on the road are higher than in Aswan, so it’s best to stock up before leaving.
✔ Prepare for a long but rewarding journey – You’ll be tired, but Abu Simbel is 100% worth it. The sheer scale, history, and the love story behind the temples make it one of the most unforgettable places in Egypt.
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