Aswan Travel Guide
Name: Aswan
Area: 62,766 sq. km. (24,234 sq. mi.)
Population: 1,570,000 (2020)
Language: Nobiin, Kenuzi-Dongola, Egyptian Arabic
Country: Egypt
Currency: Egyptian Pound (EGP)
Time Zone: UTC+2 (EST)
Religions: Islam and Coptic Christians
Aswan, the timeless city on the south of Egypt, is one of the popular tourist attractions. Often referred as the gateway to Egypt, the city has been mentioned several times in the pages of history by different names including Souan. The city was included in the list of UNESCO Creative Cities Network for its contribution to folk art and crafts. Aswan is home to some of the ancient wonders dating back to 3,000 years, as well as the modern architectural wonders including the Aswan Dam. The proximity to the majestic Abu Simbel makes the city a popular stop-gap destination for the tourists as well. A perfect combination of rural and urban lifestyle, overall Aswan travel is truly an interesting prospect.
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Temple of Philae
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Abu Simbel Temple
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Aswan High Dam
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Unfinished Obelisk
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Kom Ombo Temple
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Elephantine Island
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Nubian Museum
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Temple of Kalabsha
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Monastery of St. Simeon
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Gebel El-Silsila
The must-go attractions of Aswan travel are undoubtedly ancient landmarks like Temple of Philae and Elephantine Island. According to ancient records, the Temple of Philae situated on the Agilkia Island was founded between 7th and 6th century BC and it was an important religious sanctuary and cultural center of the time. In the 4th century, the temple was converted into an early Coptic Christian church. Another attraction of the Aswan travel is day trip to the majestic Abu Simbel. The Abu Simbel is small village close to the Sudanese borders, and best known for the majestic temples commissioned by King Ramses II.
One defining factors of Aswan travel experience is incredible heat caused by the hot desert climate. The average high temperature of the city can soar up to 40 °C (104.0 °F) during summers. The average low during this season is close to 25 °C (77.0 °F). Weather is mostly dry throughout the year, with average relative humidity being close to 26.2%. Tourists are advised to carry modest clothing covers the head, shoulders, and knees. Also, carrying a scarf can be a helpful accessory to battel the Egyptian heat. Sunglasses, sunscreen, and sunhats are often included in the itinerary of travelers.
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Kushari or Koshari
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Shawarma
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Nubian Coffee
Egypt, especially Aswan, has experienced a cultural exchange since ancient times. The result is a brilliant swap of food habits, music, and civilization. During Aswan travel, you can experience the delightful and aromatic cuisines of Egypt. While Ful (pronounced as fool) is made from Fava beans cooked in slow heat and sold in almost every corner of the country. The ful is served with cheese, eggs, and pita bread making a heavenly combination. The Nubian coffee is made with freshly roasted beans on coal and spices – it is a refreshing aromatic affair.
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Al Dokka: Hessa Island, Kornish Al Nile, Qism Aswan, Aswan Governorate. Opening time: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM; Average cost for two: EGP169; Taste aromatic Nubian food here. It specializes in serving vegan meals.
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El Masry: Al Matar, Sheyakhah Thalethah, Qism Aswan, Aswan Governorate. Opening time: 10:00 AM – 1:00 AM; Average cost of for two: EGP190; During your Aswan travel, go here for vegetarian Meditation food.
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1902 Restaurant: Abtal Al Tahrir, Sheyakhah Oula, Qism Aswan, Aswan Governorate. Opening time: 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM; Average cost for two: EGP522; The popular fine dining restaurant is known to serve French and continental cuisines.
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Kornish Al Nile: 55%
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Elephantine Island: 50%
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Qism Aswan: 5%
The Kornish Al Nile overlooks the gorgeous Nile River, and often preferred by tourists during Aswan travel. One can find hotels in different range and budget according to the preference of the tourists. The fabulous homestays and hostels in the locality are recommended for tourists traveling on a budget. The place is close to some of the biggest attractions of the city. One can go for lazy felucca rides or interaction with the local Nubians to know the place better.
Aswan International Airport is closest to the city. Being just 24 km (14.9 miles) away from the city, one can take a cab to reach Aswan. Overall, the trip can take around 40 minutes to cover the distance and cost around EGP 130 (US$ 8.3). The nearest railway station Aswan Main, which is around 1.5 km (0.93 miles) from the city center. The trip from the downtown can cost around EGP 200 (US$ 12.8).
For intercity Aswan travel, buses are an excellent option for budget travelers. The trip can cost around EGP 150 (US$ 9.6) for the trip. Besides that, cabs are also available. Trip from downtown to main city center can cost EGP 400 (US$ 25.5).
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Aswan Old Souks: Opening time is 8:00 am to 10:00 pm. Also referred as Sharia el Souk, the market is a popular street market
of Aswan. One can find shoppers fishing out trinkets and souvenirs.
Bargaining while shopping is recommended.
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Aswan Market: Opening time is 9:00 am to 10:00 pm. On Aswan travel, remember to explore this market for real flavors of Egypt. Good place to shop for local produces and souvenirs.
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Hanafi Bazaar: This shopping bazaar, owned by old Hanafi brothers, is the oldest market tourists can find to go for shopping. It sells the Nubian works like baskets, swords, silk kaftans, amulets and beads.