Luxor
Aswan was originally an ancient garrison town and is of strategic importance sitting on the north end of the First Cataract. The Nile flows slowly around pretty islands and black granite boulders providing wonderful views when staying on the banks of the river.
The majority of the river cruises either start or end here and it is also where you catch the boats for Lake Nasser. The most famous landmarks are Philae Temple and the High Dam.
We stayed at the Sofitel Old Cataract which is in a great location overlooking the river and Elephantine Island. This hotel was featured in Death on the Nile and has been beautifully restored.
How to get there and Transportation
By plane - Egypt Air from Cairo, Luxor and Abu Simbel
By train - From Luxor 3 to 4 hours, the line runs from Luxor to Cairo
By boat - cruises run from Cairo but mainly start in Luxor - see Nile Cruise
By car - book a driver from Luxor to Aswan with stops at Edfu and Kom Ombo on the way
Getting around
Taxi - negotiate and do not expect air conditioned comfort.
Recommend - Ahmed 01141274028 - sits outside The Old Cataract Hotel
Where to stay
Sofitel Old Cataract - choice of old wing or new. Great views in the new wing but less character.
Movenpick Resort
Pyramids Isis El Corniche - mid range
Bet el Kerem - mid range
What to See
Philae Temple
Possibly second favourite temple except it has been moved from its original location due to the building of the High Dam.
Ticket Cost 100 EGP
High Dam
Not much to see here really, you are taken to a car park area and thats it.
Nubian Museum
Very good museum, well laid out and some interesting antiquities, also a good shop.
Ticket Cost 100 EGP
Unfinished Obelisk
My favourite in Aswan, we got a taxi ourselves and enjoyed wandering around at our own pace, well worth visiting. There is also a great little stall selling shawls or bed runners on the way out.
Ticket Cost 60 EGP
Souk
Not much to buy and overpriced on a lot of stuff especially spices. We did manage to pick up two Nubian masks.
Abu Simbel
Quite a journey to get here, we flew in as the 4 to 5 hour road journey did not sound pleasant. This is a stunning temple but again it feels a bit false as it has been moved from its original location due to Lake Nasser. It is said that coming by boat is the best way to see it and there does look as if there are other places of interest to visit around the lake.
Ticket Cost 160 EGP plus documentation - 22nd Feb to 22 Oct 2019 cost is 240 EGP
Felucca ride to Botanical Gardens
Very disappointed with the gardens, guide was useless and really not required plus it is in bad condition but just sailing on the Nile was a lovely experience so would recommend just hiring a boat for an hour or so.
Restaurants
We ate at the hotel but this was my list before arrival
Al Makka
El Masry
El Dokka
The Terrace
Cilantro for coffee
Shopping
Nubian Museum shop
Stall selling shawls and bed runners at the Unfinished Obelisk
Jewellery shop at the Old Cataract Hotel - he has some very unusual one off pieces, well worth a visit.
The Souk really did not have to lot, couple of shops selling Nubian masks etc but nothing else of interest and the spices were extremely expensive.
Tips
The stalls at the pier where you catch the boats to Philae Temple seemed to have better items and also the ones at the temple.
Make sure your boat takes you round the island at Philae to get nice photo ops.
No need for a guide at the Unfinished Obelisk
Security at Aswan airport is unpleasant
Four Seasons First Residence Hotel, Cairo
I have no hesitation in recommending the First Residence Cairo. A perfect an luxurious escape from the grime and madness that is the amazing city of Cairo. Click the logo to visit their website
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