ASWAN

also known as The Land of Gold

Historic Sites & Ancient Ruins

Philae Temple

The island temple dedicated to the goddess Isis was built in 7th or 6th century B.C. The temple shows a great display of light and shade on the walls due to its location near the Tropic of Cancer. The last time a hieroglyph inscription was carved was on Philae Temple.

The "Unfinished" Obelisk

Lying here is what would have been the largest obelisk the world has ever known. It was ordered by Queen Hatshepsut around 1,500 B.C. but carving stopped perhaps when cracks appeared in the granite. Half of Egypt’s obelisks reside abroad.

Tombs of the Nobles

Buried here are ancient Governers, nobles and priests from the Old and Middle Kingdom. Some famous nobles led expeditions to faraway lands to bring foreign goods to Egypt. Also discovered were tombs of two priests from the Old Kingdom. Excavations since late 1880’s led to the discovery of around 100 tombs. 10 crocodile mummies were discovered recently.

Coptic Monastery

Once a lively resting stop for monks preaching Christianity in the 7th century. The church later served the pilgrims on their way to Mecca.

Satet Temple & The Nilometer

A significant base for thousand years ago and home of The God of the cataracts, believed to control the Nile from caves under the island. See the best preserved Nilometer, a granite step pyramid, museum, temple ruins and more.

Seheil Island Inscriptions

Famous for more than 600 ancient rock inscriptions dating from the prehistoric era. Ancient travelers eternalized themselves by carving their names and titles on those rocks and sometimes told stories as on Famine Stela.

The Nubian Culture

TRANSPORT OPTIONS TO ASWAN

All planes arrive from Cairo. The flight is around 1 hour and 25 minutes long. Options include Egypt Air, Air Cairo and Nile Air. The cheapest flight costs $108 during high season.

Trains leave from Cairo. The scenic trip lasts at least 14 hours, stopping by several towns along the way like Kom Ombo and Luxor. Sleeper train option is available.

Bus service ends in Luxor. But train or private car with driver from Luxor to Aswan is available.

The distance between Cairo and Aswan is ~890 km. The estimated drive time is 10 hours and 40 minutes straight. Travel agencies, like http://bookaway.com offer a private car with driver.