Trip highlights
- Authentic Sailing: Experience the Nile on a Felucca, a traditional Egyptian wooden sailboat used for millennia.
- Tropical Paradise: Explore Lord Kitchener’s Island (Aswan Botanical Garden), home to exotic plants from Asia and Africa.
- Scenic Views: Enjoy panoramic views of Elephantine Island and the golden sands of the West Bank.
- Ancient History: Sail past the hillside Tombs of the Nobles, seeing them illuminated by the sun.
- Sunset Magic: Witness the breathtaking colors of the Aswan sunset reflecting on the river (time permitting).
Overview
Discover the magic of the Nile River in its purest form with a traditional Aswan Felucca Ride. There is no engine noise here—only the sound of the wind filling the sails and the gentle lapping of water against the boat. This private sailing experience offers a peaceful escape from the busy streets, taking you to the lush Aswan Botanical Garden on Lord Kitchener’s Island. Perfect for nature lovers and photographers, this tour combines the history of Aswan’s riverbanks with the serenity of a sunset sail.
Itinerary
Day 01Felucca Sailing on the Nile
Board a traditional felucca sail boat from Aswan. Glide gracefully around Elephantine Island and the Aga Khan Mausoleum.
Day 02Kitchener's Botanical Island
Disembark at Lord Kitchener's Botanical Island to stroll beneath exotic palms, royal bougainvillea, and rare subtropical plants before sailing back.
What is included
Included
- Pick up and drop off from your Hotel in Aswan.
- All transfers by private air-conditioned vehicle.
- Private Felucca boat ride on the Nile.
- Professional English-speaking tour guide.
- Bottle of mineral water during the trip.
- All service charges and taxes.
Not included
- Entrance fees to the Botanical Garden (Lord Kitchener’s Island).
- Tipping for the guide, driver, and felucca captain.
- Personal expenses.
- Optional activities not mentioned.
- Visa to Egypt.
Questions about this trip
What happens if there is no wind for the Felucca?
Feluccas rely on wind power. On rare occasions when the wind is completely still, a small motorboat may tow the Felucca, or we may arrange a motorized launch instead to ensure you reach the Botanical Garden on time
Is there a bathroom on the Felucca?
Traditional Feluccas do not have onboard restrooms. However, there are clean facilities available at the Botanical Garden on the island.
Can we swim in the Nile during this tour?
This specific tour focuses on sailing and visiting the garden. Swimming is generally not recommended near the city center due to boat traffic. If you wish to swim, please ask about our specific "swimming stops" near the clean, sandy beaches of Barbar Island.
Is this tour good for sunset photos?
Yes! Aswan is famous for having the most beautiful sunsets in Egypt. We recommend booking a late afternoon slot (around 3:00 or 4:00 PM in winter) to catch the golden hour on your return sail.
How much walking is involved?
The boat ride is very relaxing, but visiting the Botanical Garden involves walking on paved paths for about 45 to 60 minutes. It is an easy walk suitable