Your adventure begins early with a pick-up at 4:00 AM from your hotel in Marsa Alam. You’ll travel in a private, air-conditioned vehicle for about 5-6 hours, driving through Egypt’s vast desert landscapes toward the historic city of Aswan. Along the way, enjoy the breathtaking views of the Nile Valley and the striking contrast between the dry desert and the lush greenery along the riverbanks. Upon arrival in Aswan, your journey of discovery begins at the Aswan High Dam.

The Aswan High Dam, completed in 1970, is an incredible feat of modern engineering. The dam regulates the flow of the Nile River, preventing flooding, generating hydroelectric power, and creating Lake Nasser, one of the largest artificial lakes in the world. This impressive structure is crucial for Egypt’s agricultural development, irrigation, and energy production, and it continues to play a vital role in the country’s economy.

After visiting the High Dam, you’ll continue to the Temple of Philae, which is dedicated to the goddess Isis. Originally located on Philae Island, the temple was moved to Agilkia Island to protect it from the rising waters of Lake Nasser due to the construction of the dam. The Temple of Philae is renowned for its exceptional preservation and ancient Egyptian architecture, with magnificent columns, reliefs, and hieroglyphs that depict scenes of mythology and religion. The temple’s stunning setting, surrounded by crystal-clear waters, enhances the experience and transports you back to the age of the pharaohs.

Next, visit the Unfinished Obelisk, located in the Aswan Quarries. This enormous obelisk was never completed due to a crack in the granite, but it offers valuable insight into ancient Egyptian stone-carving techniques. The Unfinished Obelisk weighs over 1,100 tons and was intended to stand at over 40 meters tall. It’s a testament to the engineering skills of the ancient Egyptians and provides a fascinating glimpse into their monumental construction projects.

For lunch, you will enjoy a traditional Egyptian meal at a local restaurant in Aswan, where you can taste authentic dishes such as koshari (a rice and lentil dish), molokhia (a leafy stew), and grilled meats. This is the perfect opportunity to recharge before continuing your exploration of Aswan’s wonders. After lunch, you’ll embark on a Felucca sailboat ride along the Nile River, offering a tranquil and scenic experience. Glide past lush islands, enjoy the gentle breeze, and take in the serene beauty of the river and its surroundings.

In the evening, you will check in to your hotel in Aswan to rest and prepare for the exciting second day of your journey.