Your adventure begins early with a pick-up from your hotel in Sahl Hasheesh at 5:00 AM. You’ll be driven in a comfortable, air-conditioned private car for about 5-6 hours, traveling through the scenic desert landscapes towards the ancient city of Aswan. During the journey, enjoy the stunning views of the vast desert and the lush Nile Valley, where you can witness the stark contrast between the arid land and the fertile riverbanks of Egypt’s lifeblood, the Nile. Upon arrival in Aswan, your first stop will be the remarkable Aswan High Dam.
The Aswan High Dam, completed in 1970, is one of the most significant modern engineering projects in Egypt. It regulates the flow of the Nile River, prevents annual flooding, generates hydroelectric power, and created Lake Nasser, one of the world’s largest artificial lakes. You’ll learn how this marvel of engineering transformed Egypt’s agricultural economy, provided irrigation systems for farming, and plays a key role in the country’s electricity supply. The high dam’s colossal scale and impact on the surrounding region is a testament to Egypt’s modern development.
Next, you will head to the Temple of Philae, dedicated to the goddess Isis. Originally built on Philae Island, the temple was relocated to Agilkia Island to protect it from being submerged by the rising waters of Lake Nasser caused by the High Dam. The Temple of Philae is famed for its intricate reliefs, columns, and hieroglyphs that depict Egyptian mythology and the worship of Isis, the goddess of magic and healing. Set in a beautiful island location surrounded by water, it offers a serene and picturesque atmosphere for exploration.
Next, you will visit the Unfinished Obelisk, located in the ancient Aswan Quarries. This massive stone obelisk was abandoned when a crack was discovered in the granite, leaving it incomplete. With a planned height of over 40 meters, the obelisk’s massive scale, weighing over 1,100 tons, showcases the extraordinary skill and craftsmanship of ancient Egyptian workers. The unfinished obelisk provides valuable insight into the methods of stone-carving and quarrying used by the ancient Egyptians for their monumental projects.
For lunch, enjoy a traditional meal at a local Egyptian restaurant, where you can savor authentic Egyptian cuisine. Indulge in dishes such as koshari (a delicious blend of rice, lentils, pasta, and chickpeas), molokhia (a savory leafy stew), and grilled meats, giving you a real taste of Egyptian culture. After lunch, you’ll board a Felucca sailboat for a relaxing ride along the Nile River. This traditional wooden boat offers a peaceful experience as you glide past the lush banks, islands, and palm trees of Aswan. The calm waters and gentle breeze provide a serene escape and a beautiful view of Aswan’s landscapes.
After this day of exploration, you’ll check in to your hotel in Aswan, where you can relax and rest in preparation for the next day’s adventure.
