A serene city on the Nile, Aswan is rich in Nubian culture and ancient wonders.
4.9/5 ⭐Google 660+ Reviews | A+ Better Business Bureau
Overview
Aswan, a captivating city in southern Egypt, is a key Nile River cruise port, serving as both an embarkation and disembarkation point for journeys along the legendary river. Nestled on the east bank of the Nile, where the river widens to embrace picturesque islands and granite outcrops, Aswan is renowned for its tranquil beauty, its ancient monuments, and its vibrant Nubian culture. Historically, it was a strategic trading post between ancient Egypt and Africa, and a vital source of granite for pharaonic constructions.
Today, Aswan offers a relaxed atmosphere, a stark contrast to the bustling cities further north. From the serene Temple of Philae, relocated to save it from the rising Nile waters, to the engineering marvel of the High Dam and the colorful Nubian villages, Aswan provides river cruise visitors with a profound glimpse into Egypt's past and present. A cruise stop in Aswan promises a day of awe-inspiring archaeological discoveries, cultural immersion, and peaceful moments gliding along the timeless waters of the Nile.
Take a boat ride across the Nile to Philae Temple. This temple complex was relocated stone by stone to Agilkia Island to save it. Its carvings and setting make it a magical experience.
Tip: The boat ride to the island is part of the experience, offering views of the temple from the water.
Marvel at the scale of the High Dam, a modern engineering feat completed in 1970. This dam controls the Nile's annual flooding, generates electricity, and created Lake Nasser, impacting Egypt's agriculture and economy.
Tip: While primarily a functional structure, its sheer size and importance make it a worthwhile stop.
Journey to the ancient granite quarries to see the Unfinished Obelisk. This monument, abandoned after a crack appeared during its carving, offers an insight into the techniques used.
Tip: The site provides a fascinating glimpse into the challenges and ingenuity of ancient Egyptian engineering.
Experience the tranquility of the Nile on a traditional felucca. Glide past Elephantine Island, Kitchener's Island, and the Aga Khan Mausoleum. This offers a peaceful and iconic way to appreciate the riverine beauty, at sunset.
Tip: Negotiate the price with the felucca captain beforehand.
Take a boat trip to a Nubian Village on Elephantine Island or the west bank of the Nile. Experience the culture and hospitality of the Nubian people, known for their painted houses, demeanor, and customs.
Tip: Support local artisans by purchasing handicrafts in the Nubian village.
For an excursion, consider a day trip to Abu Simbel. Witness the two rock-cut temples built by Pharaoh Ramesses II, relocated to save them from the Dam's waters, an astounding feat of international cooperation.
Tip: This is a significant time commitment.
Aboard
Viking Ra
From
Cairo, Egypt
48 Sailings
Nov 6, 2026 - Dec 24, 2027
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
MS Farah
From
Cairo, Egypt
50 Sailings
Nov 6, 2026 - Dec 9, 2027
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
MS Farah
From
Cairo, Egypt
50 Sailings
Nov 6, 2026 - Dec 9, 2027
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Oberoi Philae for Tauck
From
Cairo, Egypt
6 Sailings
Nov 8, 2026 - Nov 3, 2027
Aboard
Viking Thoth
From
Cairo, Egypt
95 Sailings
Nov 5, 2026 - Dec 28, 2028
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Viking Osiris
From
Cairo, Egypt
95 Sailings
Nov 4, 2026 - Dec 27, 2028
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
AmaDahlia
From
Cairo, Egypt
89 Sailings
Nov 4, 2026 - Dec 27, 2028
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
AmaNubia
From
Cairo, Egypt
50 Sailings
Oct 31, 2026 - Dec 25, 2027
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Viking Sobek
From
Cairo, Egypt
97 Sailings
Nov 3, 2026 - Dec 26, 2028
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Viking Amun
From
Cairo, Egypt
96 Sailings
Nov 2, 2026 - Dec 25, 2028
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Our expert consultants and customer service teams are standing by to help with all of your cruising needs.
[Our Cruise Expert] and his team were absolutely amazing to work with! Our original trip was unexpectedly canceled by the airline, so we decided at the last minute to go on a cruis...
Julia K.
I've booked several cruises with [Our Cruise Expert] in the past 15 years and continue to book with her for my family of five. We just returned from a Western Caribbean cruise on...
John C.
Friendly and professional attention by my senior cruise consultant. Perfect assistance. Thank you
Jose M.
I was having some trouble finding the right cruise for the right price as a single traveler, but thanks to [our Cruise Expert] I was able to find it with Cruise Web. Thank you very...
Camille G.
We have worked with [our Cruise Expert] several times and she makes it so easy and a pleasure to work with. She is very knowledgeable.
Linda F.
[Our Cruise Expert] was informative and very pleasant to work with. I'm not familiar with booking travel online and he made my experience pleasant.
Sharon E.
I am working with [our Cruise Expert] as my travel agent...he has been very helpful...he is very informative and knowledgeable about the places that I want to go on my Cruise....I...
Priscilla B.
[Our Cruise Expert] does an exceptional job of planning (with you) and coordinating a trip of your dreams! I can't wait to get started on the next one.
Sheralyn H.
Great working with [our Cruise Expert]! He was a tremendous help and steered us in the right direction every time! Helped us make memories for a lifetime!
Wendy F.
[Our Cruise Expert] always works hard to secure the bookings we have chosen and guides us through the process. She is always available to help and her advise is spot on.
James C.
