A serene city on the Nile, Aswan is rich in Nubian culture and ancient wonders.
4.9/5 ⭐Google 600+ Reviews | A+ Better Business Bureau
Overview
Aswan, a captivating city in southern Egypt, is a key Nile River cruise port, serving as both an embarkation and disembarkation point for journeys along the legendary river. Nestled on the east bank of the Nile, where the river widens to embrace picturesque islands and granite outcrops, Aswan is renowned for its tranquil beauty, its ancient monuments, and its vibrant Nubian culture. Historically, it was a strategic trading post between ancient Egypt and Africa, and a vital source of granite for pharaonic constructions.
Today, Aswan offers a relaxed atmosphere, a stark contrast to the bustling cities further north. From the serene Temple of Philae, relocated to save it from the rising Nile waters, to the engineering marvel of the High Dam and the colorful Nubian villages, Aswan provides river cruise visitors with a profound glimpse into Egypt's past and present. A cruise stop in Aswan promises a day of awe-inspiring archaeological discoveries, cultural immersion, and peaceful moments gliding along the timeless waters of the Nile.
Take a serene boat ride across the Nile to Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis. This stunning temple complex was meticulously relocated stone by stone to Agilkia Island to save it from submersion after the construction of the Aswan High Dam. Its beautiful carvings and dramatic setting make it a truly magical experience.
Tip: The boat ride to the island is part of the experience, offering fantastic views of the temple from the water. Consider visiting at sunset or for the evening Sound & Light Show.
Marvel at the impressive scale of the Aswan High Dam, a modern engineering feat completed in 1970. This massive dam controls the Nile's annual flooding, generates electricity, and created Lake Nasser, significantly impacting Egypt's agriculture and economy. Enjoy panoramic views of the dam and the vast lake.
Tip: While primarily a functional structure, its sheer size and importance make it a worthwhile stop.
Journey to the ancient granite quarries of Aswan to see the Unfinished Obelisk. This colossal monument, abandoned after a crack appeared during its carving, offers a unique insight into the incredible techniques used by ancient Egyptian stonemasons to extract and shape massive blocks of stone.
Tip: The site provides a fascinating glimpse into the challenges and ingenuity of ancient Egyptian engineering.
Experience the tranquility of the Nile on a traditional felucca (lateen-sailed sailboat). Glide silently past Elephantine Island, Kitchener's Island (Aswan Botanical Garden), and the Aga Khan Mausoleum. This offers a peaceful and iconic way to appreciate Aswan's riverine beauty, especially at sunset.
Tip: Negotiate the price with the felucca captain beforehand. Most cruises include this as a relaxing activity.
Take a colorful boat trip to a Nubian Village on Elephantine Island or the west bank of the Nile. Experience the vibrant culture and hospitality of the Nubian people, known for their brightly painted houses, friendly demeanor, and unique customs. Many tours include a visit to a local home for tea.
Tip: Some homes keep small crocodiles as pets; be prepared for this! Support local artisans by purchasing handicrafts.
For an unforgettable, though often early-morning, optional excursion, consider a day trip to Abu Simbel (by bus convoy or flight). Witness the two colossal rock-cut temples built by Pharaoh Ramesses II, also famously relocated to save them from the Aswan Dam's waters – an astounding feat of international cooperation.
Tip: This is a significant time commitment (approx. 3-4 hours drive each way by bus) but is widely considered one of Egypt's most magnificent ancient sites.
Aboard
Oberoi Philae for Tauck
From
Cairo, Egypt
11 Sailings
Jan 22 - Nov 8, 2026
Aboard
Oberoi Zahra for Tauck
From
Amman, Jordan
14 Sailings
Dec 14, 2025 - Dec 6, 2026
Aboard
Oberoi Zahra for Tauck
From
Cairo, Egypt
14 Sailings
Dec 14, 2025 - Dec 20, 2026
Aboard
Oberoi Philae for Tauck
From
Amman, Jordan
11 Sailings
Dec 18, 2025 - Nov 9, 2026
Aboard
Viking Ra
From
Cairo, Egypt
26 Sailings
Dec 12, 2025 - Jun 5, 2026
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Viking Anubis
From
Cairo, Egypt
38 Sailings
Jan 1 - Dec 23, 2028
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
S.S. Sphinx
From
Cairo, Egypt
38 Sailings
Dec 13, 2025 - Dec 26, 2026
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Viking Amun
From
Cairo, Egypt
134 Sailings
Dec 15, 2025 - Dec 25, 2028
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Viking Hathor
From
Cairo, Egypt
136 Sailings
Dec 13, 2025 - Dec 23, 2028
Aboard
Viking Thoth
From
Cairo, Egypt
131 Sailings
Jan 1, 2026 - Dec 28, 2028
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Our expert consultants and customer service teams are standing by to help with all of your cruising needs.
I was having some trouble finding the right cruise for the right price as a single traveler, but thanks to [our Cruise Expert] I was able to find it with Cruise Web. Thank you very much [our Cruise Expert]!
Camille G.
We have worked with [our Cruise Expert] several times and she makes it so easy and a pleasure to work with. She is very knowledgeable.
Linda F.
[Our Cruise Expert] was informative and very pleasant to work with. I'm not familiar with booking travel online and he made my experience pleasant.
Sharon E.
I would like to mention that for many years I really appreciate to have [our Cruise Expert] taking care of my cruises in the states. So, i'm glad to give five stars for him
Rudi D.
I am working with [our Cruise Expert] as my travel agent...he has been very helpful...he is very informative and knowledgeable about the places that I want to go on my Cruise....I would use [our Cruise Expert] and Cruise Web again to book another cruise...thank you...
Priscilla B.
[Our Cruise Expert] does an exceptional job of planning (with you) and coordinating a trip of your dreams! I can't wait to get started on the next one.
Sheralyn H.
Great working with [our Cruise Expert]! He was a tremendous help and steered us in the right direction every time! Helped us make memories for a lifetime!
Wendy F.
[Our Cruise Expert] always works hard to secure the bookings we have chosen and guides us through the process. She is always available to help and her advise is spot on.
James C.
We are residents in another country, and have used [our Cruise Expert] for years as we try to cruise around the entire world. She offers great service and stellar communication.
Dave O.
[Our Cruise Expert]does a wonderful job for me. I have had no glitches and I can count on things running smoothly when [our Cruise Expert] makes my arrangements.
Barbara H.
