Day tour in Aswan (unfinished obelisk, High Dam and Philae Temple
Overview
Day Tour in Aswan (Unfinished Obelisk, High Dam, and Philae Temple)
Discover the charm of southern Egypt on this Aswan Day Tour with Egypt Top Tours, featuring some of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Begin your Aswan Trip with a visit to the High Dam, a 20th-century engineering masterpiece that transformed Egypt’s economy and created Lake Nasser, the world’s largest artificial lake.
Next, explore the ancient granite quarries and see the Unfinished Obelisk, a massive monument left in its original location, offering insight into the incredible craftsmanship of ancient Egyptians.
Conclude your Aswan City Tour with a boat ride to the stunning Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis. Located on an island in the Nile, this temple is famous for its detailed reliefs and dramatic history of relocation after the dam’s construction.
Join Egypt Top Tours for a day filled with history, culture, and breathtaking views along the Nile in Aswan.
At a Glance
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Duration | Full-day trip |
| Tour Type | Private guided day tour |
| Route | Around Aswan — High Dam, Unfinished Obelisk and Philae |
| Start / End | Pick-up and drop-off at your Aswan hotel or Aswan Airport |
| Price From | $55 per person |
| Meals | Not included |
| Guide | Private English-speaking Egyptologist |
| Entrance Fees | Included for the sites listed |
| Physical Level | Easy to moderate — walking at each site and a short boat ride to Philae |
| Best For | Travelers who want Aswan’s three signature sights in one well-paced day |
Tour Highlights — Day Tour in Aswan
- Stop 1: Aswan High Dam — the 1960s engineering marvel that controls the Nile floods and generates power, with views over Lake Nasser
- Stop 2: The Unfinished Obelisk — a giant monument still lying in the ancient granite quarries, begun in the reign of Queen Hatshepsut
- Stop 3: Philae Temple — reached by a short boat ride, the island temple of the goddess Isis, rescued by UNESCO
Included
- All transfers by a private air-conditioned vehicle.
- Pick up services from your hotel & return.
- Private English Egyptologist guide.
- Entrance fees to all the mentioned sites.
- A bottle of water during your trip.
- All taxes & service charge.
Excluded
- Any extras not mentioned in the itinerary
- Tipping
Itinerary:
Day Tour in Aswan (Unfinished Obelisk, High Dam, and Philae Temple)
Embark on a fascinating Aswan Day Tour with Egypt Top Tours, exploring the highlights of this historic southern city. Your expert Egyptologist guide will pick you up from your hotel or chosen location in Aswan to begin your Aswan City Tour.
Start with a visit to the High Dam, a modern engineering marvel built in the 1960s to control the Nile floods and generate electricity. Then continue to the ancient granite quarries where you'll discover the Unfinished Obelisk, an immense monument carved during Queen Hatshepsut’s reign, offering a rare glimpse into ancient Egyptian stonework techniques.
Next, enjoy a scenic boat ride to Philae Temple, one of Aswan's most iconic landmarks and the spiritual center of the goddess Isis. Rescued from submersion by UNESCO, this temple showcases remarkable Ptolemaic architecture and is rich with mythological history.
After your guided Aswan Trip, return comfortably to your hotel or Aswan Airport with memories of an unforgettable journey through time.
Prices:
Prices
Notes:
Children Policy
0 - 05.99 Free of Charge
6 - 11.99 pay 50% of the tour price
12+ pay full tour price as per adult person
If your tour includes airfare then an extra charge for child rate may apply.
Deposit and Payment
Full payment will be required when confirming your booking as requested and can be paid by credit or debit card (Visa / MasterCard) via Verisign Secured payment system on our website.
Tour Voucher
After your tour is confirmed we will email the final confirmation and voucher to print and bring with you. Details will include contact numbers of your tour operator and customer care and additional information for your convenience
Day Tour in Aswan — Summary
The Day Tour in Aswan is a private trip covering the city’s three signature sights — the High Dam, the Unfinished Obelisk in the granite quarries, and the island Temple of Philae reached by boat. With a private Egyptologist and air-conditioned transport, it is a well-paced introduction to Aswan — from $55 per person, entrance fees and bottled water included.
Is the Day Tour in Aswan Right for You?
YES — if you want to see the essentials of Aswan in a single, comfortable day with a private guide. It combines modern engineering, ancient stonework and one of Egypt’s prettiest temples, and can start or end at Aswan Airport for easy connections.
Within our Aswan day tours, choose this city Day Tour for the classic Aswan trio; the shorter High Dam and Philae Temple Tour if you want just those two; or the Abu Simbel Tour for the great southern temples.
Who Is the Day Tour in Aswan Best For?
- First-time visitors who want Aswan’s must-see sights in one day
- Travelers with limited time who want an efficient, private itinerary
- Cruise passengers and those connecting through Aswan Airport
- Anyone interested in a mix of ancient monuments and modern engineering
Practical Information
| Topic | Detail |
|---|---|
| Egypt Visa | Required for most nationalities and not included; arrange an e-visa or a visa on arrival before you travel. |
| Tipping | Not included. Tipping is customary in Egypt; a modest tip for your guide and driver is appreciated. |
| Group Size | Private — the tour runs for your party only. |
| Boat Ride | A short motorboat ride is included to reach Philae Temple on its island. |
| What to Wear | Comfortable closed shoes, sun protection, and light, modest clothing for the temple. |
Egypt Top Tours Expert Assessment
“This is the smartest way to see Aswan if your time is short: the High Dam sets the modern scene, the Unfinished Obelisk reveals how the ancients quarried their giants, and Philae — approached across the water — is simply enchanting. A private Egyptologist ties the three together into one coherent story, and the option to start or finish at the airport makes it very easy to slot into a trip.”
— Egypt Top Tours Operations Team — ETA Category A Licence No. 1947
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the tour and where does it start?
It is a full-day private tour that begins and ends at your Aswan hotel, or at Aswan Airport if that suits your schedule.
What is included in the price?
A private Egyptologist, a private air-conditioned vehicle, the boat ride to Philae, entrance fees to the listed sites, bottled water and all taxes. Extras not mentioned and tipping are not included.
Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included on this tour.
Which sites will I visit?
The Aswan High Dam, the Unfinished Obelisk in the granite quarries, and the island Temple of Philae.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes. Children up to 5.99 years travel free of charge, children from 6 to 11.99 pay 50% of the tour price, and travelers 12 and older pay the full adult rate.
GALLERY / PHOTOS
$ 95 / per person
Abu Simbel Tour
Embark on an unforgettable Abu Simbel Tour from Aswan with Egypt Top Tours and explore one of Egypt’s most iconic ancient wonders. Carved into the cliffs by King Ramses II, the twin temples of Abu Simbel stand as a testament to the power and artistry of the New Kingdom. Accompanied by a professional Egyptologist guide, you'll journey through history as you admire the colossal statues, intricate carvings, and the remarkable solar alignment phenomenon. This expertly guided day trip offers a deep dive into ancient Egyptian religion, architecture, and royal legacy—making it one of the most rewarding Aswan day trips.
At a Glance
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Duration | Full-day trip |
| Tour Type | Private guided day tour |
| Route | Aswan → Abu Simbel and back |
| Start / End | Pick-up and drop-off at your Aswan hotel |
| Price From | $95 per person |
| Meals | Not included |
| Guide | Private English-speaking Egyptologist |
| Entrance Fees | Included for the sites listed |
| Physical Level | Moderate — a long road transfer each way and walking around the two temples |
| Best For | Travelers in Aswan who want to see the great rock-cut temples of Ramses II and Nefertari |
Tour Highlights — Abu Simbel Tour
- Stop 1: The Great Temple of Ramses II — carved in the 19th dynasty and dedicated to Ramses II with Ptah, Re-Horakhty and Amun-Re
- Stop 2: The smaller Temple of Queen Nefertari — dedicated to Nefertari and the goddess Hathor
- Stop 3: The UNESCO relocation story — how both temples were moved to save them from the rising waters of Lake Nasser
- Stop 4: Optional timing around the twice-yearly Sun Festival (22 February and 22 October), when the sun lights the inner sanctuary
$ 30 / per person
Sound and Light Show at Philae Temple
Experience the captivating Sound and Light Show at Philae Temple with Egypt Top Tours. As night falls, the magnificent Philae Temple comes to life through a stunning display of lights and narration, telling the ancient stories of Isis, Osiris, and the Pharaohs. This immersive evening experience is a highlight of any visit to Aswan, blending history and myth in a breathtaking setting. Don’t miss the chance to witness the magic of the Sound and Light Show at Philae Temple on your next trip.
At a Glance
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Duration | About 3 hours |
| Tour Type | Private evening experience |
| Route | Aswan — Philae Temple on Agilika Island, by motorboat |
| Start / End | Evening transfer from and back to your Aswan hotel or Nile cruise |
| Price From | $30 per person |
| Meals | Not included |
| Guide | Private English-speaking Egyptologist |
| Entrance Fees | Show and site included |
| Physical Level | Easy — a motorboat ride and gentle walking among the illuminated temple |
| Best For | Travelers wanting an atmospheric evening activity in Aswan |
Tour Highlights — Sound and Light Show at Philae Temple
- Stop 1: Evening motorboat ride across the Nile to Agilika Island
- Stop 2: The illuminated Temple of Philae, rescued by UNESCO from the annual floods
- Stop 3: A Sound and Light Show with laser projections and narration telling the legend of Isis, Osiris and Horus
- Stop 4: A walk among the temple’s glowing columns and shrines before the boat ride back
$ 15 / per person
Nubian Village Tour by Boat
Discover the vibrant culture and rich heritage of southern Egypt on our Nubian Village Tour with Egypt Top Tours. Enjoy a scenic boat ride along the Nile to the colorful Nubian Village, where you’ll meet local families, explore traditional homes, and learn about centuries-old customs in a truly authentic setting.
At a Glance
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Duration | About 3–4 hours |
| Tour Type | Private guided experience |
| Route | Aswan → Nubian Village on Garb Soheil Island, by motorboat |
| Start / End | From your Aswan hotel or Nile cruise, and back |
| Price From | $15 per person |
| Meals | Not included |
| Guide | Private English-speaking Egyptologist |
| Entrance Fees | Included for the sites listed |
| Physical Level | Easy — a scenic motorboat ride and a gentle walk in the village |
| Best For | Travelers who want an authentic cultural experience on the Nile |
Tour Highlights — Nubian Village Tour by Boat
- Stop 1: Scenic motorboat ride along the Nile past islands and cataracts
- Stop 2: The colorful Nubian Village on Garb Soheil Island
- Stop 3: A visit to a traditional Nubian home and a warm welcome from a local family
- Stop 4: An immersion in Nubian customs, colors and traditions before the relaxing boat ride back
$ 60 / per person
Tour to Kom Ombo and Edfu From Aswan
Join Egypt Top Tours on a memorable Tour to Kom Ombo and Edfu from Aswan, a full-day journey through Upper Egypt’s most fascinating temple sites. This private Aswan day tour blends history, mythology, and Nile scenery as you explore two of Egypt’s best-preserved ancient temples, guided by an expert Egyptologist. From dramatic riverbank views to richly carved reliefs, this excursion offers a deep dive into Pharaonic beliefs, art, and architecture—an unforgettable experience along the Nile.
At a Glance
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Duration | About 8 hours |
| Tour Type | Private guided day tour |
| Route | Aswan → Edfu & Kom Ombo and back, along the Nile |
| Start / End | Pick-up and drop-off at your Aswan hotel |
| Price From | $60 per person |
| Meals | Not included |
| Guide | Private English-speaking Egyptologist |
| Entrance Fees | Included for the sites listed |
| Physical Level | Moderate — a scenic drive plus walking at two temples |
| Best For | Travelers who want two of the Nile’s best-preserved Ptolemaic temples in one day |
Tour Highlights — Tour to Kom Ombo and Edfu From Aswan
- Stop 1: Scenic drive north along the Nile through the landscapes of Upper Egypt
- Stop 2: Temple of Horus at Edfu — a superbly preserved Ptolemaic temple with towering pylons and detailed reliefs of the Horus and Seth myth
- Stop 3: Kom Ombo Temple — the unusual double temple of Sobek and Haroeris, on a high bend of the Nile
- Stop 4: River views and insights into ancient rituals and medicine before the return drive to Aswan
$ 100 / per person
Luxor Day Trip from Aswan
Enjoy an unforgettable Luxor Day Trip from Aswan with Egypt Top Tours and travel deep into the heart of ancient Egyptian civilization. This full-day Aswan to Luxor excursion takes you to the world’s greatest open-air museum, where colossal temples and royal tombs reveal the glory of the pharaohs. Combining history, culture, and comfort, this Luxor Day Tour is one of the most popular options among our Aswan day tours—perfect for travelers who want to see Luxor’s highlights in a single, well-planned day.
At a Glance
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Duration | Full-day trip |
| Tour Type | Private guided day tour |
| Route | Aswan → Luxor and back (about 4 hours’ drive each way) |
| Start / End | Pick-up and drop-off at your Aswan hotel |
| Price From | $100 per person |
| Meals | Not included (a lunch stop is made at a local restaurant in Luxor) |
| Guide | Private English-speaking Egyptologist |
| Entrance Fees | Included for the sites listed |
| Physical Level | Moderate — a long drive each way plus walking on both banks of Luxor |
| Best For | Travelers in Aswan who want to see Luxor’s East and West Banks in one day |
Tour Highlights — Luxor Day Trip from Aswan
- Stop 1: Valley of the Kings — the burial ground of New Kingdom pharaohs, with richly decorated rock-cut tombs
- Stop 2: Temple of Queen Hatshepsut — the terraced mortuary temple built into the limestone cliffs
- Stop 3: Colossi of Memnon — the two giant statues guarding the Theban west bank
- Stop 4: Lunch stop at a local restaurant in Luxor
- Stop 5: Karnak Temple — the largest religious complex ever built, with its vast Hypostyle Hall
$ 30 / per person
Nubian Museum Tour
Embark on an enriching Nubian Museum Tour from Aswan and uncover the fascinating history, culture, and traditions of the Nubian people. This cultural experience is ideal for travelers seeking deeper insight into one of Egypt’s most distinctive civilizations. The Nubia Museum in Aswan showcases rare artifacts, vibrant artworks, and immersive exhibits that tell the story of Nubia from prehistoric times to the modern era.
As part of our carefully designed Aswan day tours, this Nubian Museum Trip offers a perfect blend of education, comfort, and expert storytelling. With a professional Egyptologist guide from Egypt Top Tours, you’ll gain a clear understanding of Nubian heritage, architecture, customs, and daily life, all presented in an engaging and accessible way.
At a Glance
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Duration | About 4 hours |
| Tour Type | Private guided day tour |
| Route | Aswan — the Nubian Museum |
| Start / End | Pick-up at 8:00 am and drop-off at your Aswan hotel |
| Price From | $30 per person |
| Meals | Not included |
| Guide | Private English-speaking Egyptologist |
| Entrance Fees | Nubian Museum included |
| Physical Level | Easy — mostly indoor walking through the museum galleries |
| Best For | Travelers interested in Nubian heritage and culture |
Tour Highlights — Nubian Museum Tour
- Stop 1: The Nubian Museum — opened in 1997 with UNESCO to preserve Nubian heritage after the building of the High Dam
- Stop 2: Collections of statues, tools, jewelry and manuscripts, plus reconstructed traditional Nubian houses
- Stop 3: Life-size dioramas and murals depicting Nubian daily life, ceremonies and traditions
- Stop 4: Your guide’s insights into Nubian migration, architecture, language and beliefs
$ 30 / per person
High Dam and Philae Temple Tour
Join Egypt Top Tours on a memorable High Dam and Philae Temple Tour that blends modern engineering with ancient Egyptian spirituality. This guided experience takes you to two of Aswan’s most important landmarks, offering deep insight into Egypt’s history, culture, and achievements.
Your journey highlights the impressive Aswan High Dam, a symbol of modern Egypt that controls the mighty Nile and created Lake Nasser, one of the world’s largest artificial lakes. You will then enjoy a scenic boat ride to the beautiful Philae Temple, an island sanctuary dedicated to the goddess Isis and famed for its elegant reliefs and romantic setting.
This Philae Temple and High Dam Tour is ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed yet enriching Aswan experience, guided by experts and organized with the quality and care that define Egypt Top Tours.
At a Glance
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Duration | About 7 hours |
| Tour Type | Private guided day tour |
| Route | Around Aswan — High Dam and Philae Temple |
| Start / End | Pick-up and drop-off at your Aswan hotel |
| Price From | $30 per person |
| Meals | Not included |
| Guide | Private English-speaking Egyptologist |
| Entrance Fees | Included for the sites listed |
| Physical Level | Easy to moderate — walking at the sites and a short motorboat ride to Philae |
| Best For | Travelers who want two of Aswan’s highlights at a relaxed pace |
Tour Highlights — High Dam and Philae Temple Tour
- Stop 1: Aswan High Dam — learn how it transformed Egypt’s economy, agriculture and power, with panoramic views of Lake Nasser and the Nile
- Stop 2: A short motorboat ride to Philae Island
- Stop 3: Philae Temple — one of Egypt’s most picturesque temples, dedicated to Isis, with its courtyards, pylons and UNESCO relocation story