Trip highlights
- The Pearl of Egypt: Take a scenic motorboat ride to Philae Temple, the legendary island sanctuary of the Goddess Isis.
- The New Kalabsha: Explore the largest standalone temple of Egyptian Nubia, the Temple of Kalabsha, dedicated to the sun god Mandulis.
- Nubian Heritage: Visit the Nubian Museum, a UNESCO masterpiece showcasing thousands of years of Nubian history, art, and culture.
- Engineering Marvels: Learn the fascinating story of how these temples were dismantled and moved to save them from the High Dam.
- Local Flavors: Enjoy a delicious Late Lunch at a local restaurant in Aswan.
Overview
Unlock the secrets of Nubia and the Roman era with this comprehensive Day Tour to Philae, Kalabsha, and the Nubian Museum. This full-day journey takes you beyond the standard trail, exploring the “Pearl of Egypt” (Philae) and the rarely visited but majestic Kalabsha Temple. Accompanied by an expert Egyptologist, you will discover how these monuments were saved from the rising Nile waters and end your day with a deep dive into local heritage at the world-class Nubian Museum.
Itinerary
Day 01Temples of the Lake & Nubian Culture
Your day of discovery begins with a pickup from your hotel in Aswan by a private air-conditioned vehicle. Your first stop is the impressive Temple of Kalabsha. Often overlooked by crowds, this sandstone masterpiece was built during the Roman era by Emperor Augustus and dedicated to the Nubian fertility god, Mandulis. Originally located 50km south, it was painstakingly moved to its current location near the High Dam to save it from the waters of Lake Nasser. The site offers panoramic views of the lake and the High Dam itself.
Next, you will head to the marina to board a motorboat for a magical ride to Agilkia Island, the new home of the Philae Temple. Known as the "Pearl of Egypt," this complex was the last outpost of the ancient Egyptian religion. As you walk through its colonnades and courtyards, your Egyptologist will recount the myth of Isis and Osiris and explain the massive UNESCO rescue mission that moved this temple stone by stone from the submerged island of Philae.
After immersing yourself in ancient history, you will take a break to enjoy a Late Lunch at a carefully selected local restaurant, savoring traditional Egyptian dishes.
The final leg of your journey brings you to the Nubian Museum. Winner of the Aga Khan Award for Architecture, this museum is a treasure trove of history. Here, you will trace the timeline of the Nubian people from prehistoric times to the present day. View stunning artifacts from the Kingdom of Kush, Coptic frescoes, and life-size dioramas depicting traditional Nubian village life. It is the perfect way to understand the culture of the region you are visiting.
As the tour concludes, you will be transferred back to your hotel with a deeper appreciation for Aswan’s rich past and vibrant present.
What is included
Included
- Pick up and drop off from your Hotel in Aswan.
- All transfers by private air-conditioned vehicle.
- Motorboat transfer to Philae Temple.
- Professional English-speaking Egyptologist guide.
- Late Lunch at a local restaurant.
- Bottle of mineral water during the excursion.
- All service charges and taxes.
Not included
- Entrance fees to all sites (Philae Temple, Kalabsha, Nubian Museum).
- Tipping for the guide, driver, and boat captain.
- Personal expenses.
- Optional activities.
- Visa to Egypt.
Questions about this trip
How does this excursion differ from the usual Aswan highlights tour?
It combines Philae with Kalabsha and the Nubian Museum. The focus is temple relocation and Nubian heritage rather than the High Dam and the Unfinished Obelisk.
Is the crossing to Philae arranged?
The motorboat transfer to Philae is included, along with private vehicle transfers. The admission tickets for Philae, Kalabsha and the Nubian Museum are excluded.
Where does the Philae, Kalabsha and Nubian Museum day start?
Hotel collection in Aswan is included. Send your actual accommodation location when booking, especially if you are staying on an island or aboard a cruise.
