Aswan Philae Temple and High Dam Tour
Discover the jewels of the Nubian capital with our comprehensive Aswan Philae Temple and High Dam Tour. This journey bridges the gap between ancient devotion and modern engineering. You will witness the power of the High Dam, a marvel that changed the face of Egypt by taming the Nile River. Then, travel back in time to the Unfinished Obelisk, a massive granite monument that reveals the secrets of ancient stonemasonry. Finally, take a magical boat ride to the island of love to visit the Philae Temple, the sanctuary of the goddess Isis, rescued from the rising waters by UNESCO.
Tour Snapshot
| Duration | Approx. 4-5 Hours |
|---|---|
| Type | Private Day Tour |
| Key Attractions | Philae Temple, High Dam, Unfinished Obelisk |
| Availability | Daily |
Itinerary:
Your exploration of Upper Egypt begins when a Nile Empire representative picks you up from your hotel or cruise ship in Aswan. Your Aswan Philae Temple and High Dam Tour starts with a visit to the High Dam. Built between 1960 and 1970, this engineering miracle provides water and electricity to the whole of Egypt and safeguards the country from the annual Nile floods. It offers a panoramic view of Lake Nasser, the world’s largest artificial lake.
Next, we move to the granite quarries to see the Unfinished Obelisk. Had it been completed, it would have been the heaviest obelisk ever cut, weighing nearly 1,200 tons. It offers a rare glimpse into the techniques used by the Ancient Egyptians to cut these huge stone pillars.
The highlight of the day awaits as you board a motorboat to Agilkia Island. Here stands the majestic Philae Temple, dedicated to the Goddess Isis. The temple was famously dismantled and moved stone by stone to its current location to save it from being submerged. If you enjoy the magical atmosphere of this island, you might also want to return in the evening for the Sound and Light Show at Philae Temple.
This tour provides a perfect overview of the city. However, if you have more time and wish to explore further south, we highly recommend adding a Private Tour to Abu Simbel from Aswan to witness the grandeur of Ramses II.
At the end of your tour, you will be transferred back to your hotel. For those looking to experience the local culture afterwards, a Nubian Villages Tour in Aswan is a colorful and delightful addition to your itinerary.
If you are continuing your journey north towards Luxor, consider our Day Trip to Kom Ombo and Edfu. For travelers arriving or departing, we can also organize smooth Aswan Airport Transfers. If you prefer a slower pace on the river, many visitors choose to arrive via a Luxor to Aswan Nile Cruise.
Experience Highlights: Ancient vs. Modern Engineering
| Feature | Philae Temple (Ancient) | The High Dam (Modern) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Purpose | Spiritual (Worship of Isis) | Functional (Water & Power) |
| Location | Island (Requires Boat) | Mainland (River Barrage) |
| Key Feature | Intricate Carvings & Columns | Massive Scale & Lake Nasser View |
Inclusions & Exclusions
| ✅ Included | ❌ Excluded |
|---|---|
| All transfers by a private air-conditioned vehicle. | Any Optional Tours not mentioned. |
| Pick up services from your hotel/cruise & return. | Entrance fees to all the mentioned sites. |
| Private Egyptologist guide. | Visa to Egypt. |
| Bottled water during your trip. | Tipping. |
| All taxes & service charges. |
The Jewel of the Nile
There is a serene beauty to Aswan that is unlike anywhere else in Egypt. While the High Dam represents the sheer force of human will to control nature, Philae Temple represents the harmony between architecture and the river. Approaching the temple by boat is an unforgettable experience; the golden stone walls rise from the blue water, creating a reflection that has captivated travelers for centuries. It is a place of romance and legend, where the story of Osiris and Isis feels palpably alive. This tour is not just about stones; it is about understanding how the Nile has shaped Egyptian life for millennia.
Discover the legends of Isis and the power of the Nile! Book your Aswan Philae Temple and High Dam Tour today.
Frequently Asked Questions about Aswan Philae Temple and High Dam Tour
How do we reach Philae Temple?
Philae Temple is located on an island (Agilkia Island). The tour includes a transfer to the marina, where we will board a local motorboat for a short and scenic ride to the island temple.
What is the significance of the Unfinished Obelisk?
The Unfinished Obelisk provides crucial evidence of how ancient Egyptians cut and shaped stone. It was abandoned because a crack appeared in the granite, leaving it attached to the bedrock, which allows us to see the tools and marks left by the workers.
Is photography allowed at the High Dam?
Yes, photography is allowed. The High Dam offers spectacular panoramic views of Lake Nasser on one side and the Nile River flowing north on the other, making it a great spot for landscape photos.
How much are the entrance fees to the sightseeing listed in the itinerary ?
Entrance fees in Egypt generally range from EGP 200 to EGP 1500 (4 USD to 30 USD), depending on the site, and all major attractions accept credit card payments or online booking.
You can learn more details by reading the following article: Egypt Attractions Entrance Fees Guide.
Can this tour be done from a Nile Cruise?
Absolutely. We can arrange pick-up and drop-off directly from your Nile Cruise ship docked in Aswan. Just provide us with the name of your ship when booking.
Is the tour suitable for seniors or those with limited mobility?
Generally yes, but please note that Philae Temple requires getting in and out of a small boat and walking on uneven surfaces. The High Dam and Unfinished Obelisk are accessible by vehicle, but some walking is required at the quarry.
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Included
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Not Included
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Maps
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