Discover Aswan

The Aswan High Dam ranks among the largest engineering works of the 20th century and created Lake Nasser, one of the world's largest reservoirs. From the crest of the dam, an impressive view opens over the vast expanse of water amid the desert.

The two monumental rock temples of Ramses II and Nefertari were relocated in their entirety to save them from the waters of Lake Nasser. Twice a year, the morning sun aligns exactly with the temple axis and illuminates the statues inside.

A sunset ride on a traditional felucca is one of the finest experiences on the Nile. The nearby Elephantine Island is home to a botanical garden as well as ruins of one of Egypt's oldest temple precincts.

Brightly painted houses, hand-woven textiles and Nubian music define the villages along the Nile south of Aswan. A visit offers insight into a culture that differs markedly from the rest of Egypt.

Direct flights connect Cairo with Aswan in about 1.5 hours. Alternatively, the city can be comfortably reached as part of a multi-day Nile cruise from Luxor.

Arabic is the official language, and Nubian languages are also spoken in the region. English is well understood in hotels and on organized excursions.

October to April is best, as the summer months in Aswan are among the hottest in all of Egypt, with temperatures often exceeding 40 degrees.

Abu Simbel lies about 3 hours south of Aswan and is usually visited as an organized day trip by bus in an early-morning convoy or by small plane.