Aswan: High Dam, Unfinished Obelisk & Philae Temple tour

Summary

Step into ancient Aswan—granite quarries, Nile islands, and living stories

You’ll ride from Aswan to see the High Dam’s scale, walk among ancient granite at the Unfinished Obelisk site, then cross by boat to explore Philae Temple on its own island—all with a local guide who brings each place alive. Expect sensory moments (the Nile breeze, stone underfoot) and real stories you’ll remember long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

We were already moving before my coffee kicked in—our driver weaving through Aswan’s early traffic, windows cracked just enough to let in that dry Nile breeze. I remember the first glimpse of the High Dam: it’s not pretty, exactly, but there’s something about standing on top of it and looking out over Lake Nasser that made me feel tiny. Our guide, Ahmed, pointed south toward Kalabsha temple (I could barely make it out), then north where the power station hums quietly. He told us how the dam changed everything for Egypt—his uncle worked on it back in the day. I tried to imagine what this place looked like before all that concrete.

The granite dust at the Unfinished Obelisk clung to my sandals. It’s just lying there in the quarry, half-carved and cracked—like someone got frustrated and walked away mid-project. Ahmed explained how they would’ve moved this thing if it hadn’t split (honestly, I can’t picture dragging a 1,000-ton stone anywhere). The sun was already sharp overhead and I kept thinking about all those ancient hands chiseling away here. There was a group of school kids nearby practicing their English—one girl shyly said “hello” and giggled when I answered back.

Then came my favorite part: gliding across the Nile by motorboat to Philae Temple. The water smelled faintly sweet, reeds brushing against the hull as we approached the island. The temple itself feels almost unreal—columns rising up from palm trees and rocks, everything reflected in the river light. Ahmed gave us space to wander after his stories about Isis; I found a quiet spot behind one of the pylons where you could hear nothing but birds and distant boat engines. Still think about that hush sometimes—you know?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Aswan Highlights Tour

• Visit High Dam of Aswan
• Explore Unfinished Obelisk
• Tour Philae Temple by boat
• Return to hotel or Nile cruise

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for this Aswan tour?

Yes, pickup from your hotel or cruise ship in Aswan is included.

How do you get to Philae Temple during this day trip?

You reach Philae Temple by a short motorboat ride across the Nile.

What sites are visited on this private guided tour?

The tour visits Aswan High Dam, Unfinished Obelisk, and Philae Temple.

Are entrance fees included in this tour?

No, entrance fees are not included; bring Egyptian pounds for tickets.

Is lunch provided during the tour?

Lunch is available as an optional extra for a small additional cost.

Can I choose my language for the guide?

Yes, you can request a qualified guide in your preferred language.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, transportation options are wheelchair accessible throughout the tour.

How long does it take to travel between sites?

The distances are short; each site is within 15–30 minutes’ drive of central Aswan.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup and drop-off at your hotel or cruise ship in Aswan by air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water for each person, all transfers between sites (including a motorboat ride to Philae Temple), plus guidance from a qualified Egyptologist who shares stories along every stop.