General Information About Aswan

Located about 900 km south of Cairo, Aswan is a quiet destination on the Nile valley, where the river is more majestic than anywhere else and flows between granite rocks covered with palm trees and tropical plants. It is one of the favorite winter destinations.
In addition, you will be amazed to see how many monuments and sites are there in this small town. You could sail to the temple of Philae, visit the Agha Khan Mausoleum and hike to the monastery of San Simeon.

This sunny southern Egyptian city is perfect place to stroll and relax. Stroll the wide boulevard known as the Corniche and watch feluccas slowly sailing the Nile. Then  stop at one of the floating restaurants to enjoy Nubian music and eat freshly caught fish. Aswan offers a splendid view of the Nile and is a fantastic starting point for a cruise on the Nile.

Aswan Culture and History

Culture

Aswan also offers a rich cultural experience. Discover Nubian culture through its shops of spices, henna tattoos, souvenirs and African crafts in the souk of Aswan.

Name Aswan comes from ancient Egyptian word “Soun” meaning souk or trade.

History

Since ancient times, Aswan has also been known for its environmental therapy. It is said that the climate of the city is relaxing and rejuvenating properties.

Aswan is known for the Aswan Dam, which is one of the largest hydro-technical achievements of all time, built from 1959 to 1970. The dam height is 111 m, a length of 3830 m. Before the start of construction it was necessary to relocate the historical monuments of Abu Simbel. The entire temple complex was transferred to the more elevated land under the supervision of UNESCO.

Tips

The best time to visit Aswan are May and September. Summers are scorching, and winter temperatures reach 27 degrees during the day, but the nights are cold.

Apart from the usual tourist areas, a visit to the Ferial Park (near the large Coptic Church) or other smaller parks are worth of visit, especially during Ramadan.

Aswan Nightlife