Aswan Private Obelisk and Philae Temple Tour

What's included

What you'll see and do

1. Aswan

   Your Transfer to the Unfinished Obelisk Begin your Aswan adventure with a seamless pickup directly from your hotel lobby. Your professional English-speaking guide will meet you at reception, holding a personalized sign with your name. Settle into a comfortable, private air-conditioned vehicle as you embark on your journey to ancient Egypt’s most fascinating quarry site. The transfer from central Aswan hotels to the Unfinished Obelisk takes approximately 20 minutes, offering glimpses of local life as you travel through the city. Your driver navigates the routes efficiently while you enjoy complimentary bottled water, preparing for the historical exploration ahead.

   20 minutes here

2. Unfinished Obelisk

   At the Unfinished Obelisk, you will have the opportunity to witness a remarkable ancient monument that offers insights into the art and craftsmanship of the ancient Egyptians. The Unfinished Obelisk is an enormous stone monument that was abandoned during its construction due to a crack. It is located in a granite quarry in Aswan, Egypt. During your visit, you will be able to marvel at the sheer size and scale of the Unfinished Obelisk. Standing at a height of around 42 meters and weighing an estimated 1,200 tons, it provides a fascinating glimpse into the ancient Egyptian techniques of quarrying and monument construction. Our knowledgeable guide will accompany you throughout the experience, providing you with detailed information about the history and significance of the Unfinished Obelisk. You will learn about the tools and methods used by ancient Egyptians to carve and shape the obelisk, as well as the purpose and symbolism behind this monumental structure

   60 minutes here · Admission included

3. Unfinished Obelisk

   Unfinished Obelisk to Philae Temple Boat Dock Transfer After exploring the ancient wonders of the Unfinished Obelisk, your journey continues with a comfortable transfer to the Marina Philae Temple boat dock. Settle into your air-conditioned vehicle as your driver navigates away from the historic quarry site, beginning the 20-30 minute scenic drive through Aswan’s diverse landscape. As you travel south from the ancient granite quarries, you’ll pass through parts of modern Aswan, offering glimpses into local Egyptian life. The route takes you along sections that parallel the mighty Nile River, where you might spot traditional feluccas sails gliding across the water. The landscape gradually transforms as you approach the southern outskirts of Aswan, where the terrain becomes more rugged with granite formations similar to those used by ancient Egyptian stonemasons. In the distance, you’ll catch your first glimpses of the Aswan Low Dam reservoir, signaling your approach to the marina.

   15 minutes here · Admission included

4. Temple of Philae

   Upon arrival at Marina Philae Temple, approximately 8 km south of Aswan, you’ll find yourself at a bustling waterfront area where colorful boats await to transport visitors across the reservoir. Your driver will guide you to ticket counter and the boat boarding area, where you can arrange your boat transfer. As you prepare for the next leg of your journey, take a moment to enjoy the panoramic views of the reservoir and distant shorelines, building anticipation for the 15-minute scenic boat ride that will bring you face-to-face with one of Egypt’s most beautifully preserved ancient temples.

   15 minutes here · Admission included

5. Temple of Philae

   At the Temple of Philae, travelers will explore: Gateway of Nectanebo: Ancient entrance to the temple complex Mammisi (Birth House): Dedicated to Horus's birth Temple of Isis: Main attraction with intricate hieroglyphs Kiosk of Trajan: Elegant Roman-era structure Chapel of Osiris: Dedicated to the god of the afterlife Nilometer: Ancient device for measuring Nile floods Temple of Hathor: Smaller temple with beautiful reliefs Gate of Hadrian: Impressive Roman-period entrance Temple of Imhotep: Dedicated to the famous architect Sound and Light Show area: Evening entertainment spot Philae Obelisk: Ancient Egyptian monument Coptic crosses: Evidence of the temple's Christian phase Outer Colonnade: Impressive row of pillars Sanctuary of Isis: Most sacred part of the temple Philae Museum: Houses artifacts found on the island This list covers the main attractions of the beautifully preserved Philae Temple complex.

   120 minutes here · Admission included

6. Temple of Philae

   Philae Temple to Marina Return Boat Transfer After exploring Philae Temple, you'll board a motorboat at the island's harbor for a scenic 10-15 minute ride back to the mainland marina. During this peaceful journey, you'll enjoy stunning farewell views of the temple complex from the water, perfect for final photographs. The boat ride offers a refreshing transition and beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Upon arrival at the marina, your driver will be waiting with your air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a seamless conclusion to your temple visit.

   20 minutes here · Admission included

7. Aswan

   After exploring Philae Temple and returning to the marina by boat, you'll find your air-conditioned vehicle waiting for you at the dock. Your driver will welcome you as you settle in for the comfortable return journey to your Aswan hotel. During this 20-30 minute drive, you can relax and reflect on the ancient wonders you've experienced throughout the day. The route offers final glimpses of the Nile River and Aswan's landscape as you make your way back through parts of the city. Your experience concludes with a convenient drop-off directly at your hotel entrance, providing a seamless end to your Aswan archaeological adventure.

   20 minutes here

Where it starts and ends

Options you can book

• All Inclusive Private Tour

  Private Minibus: Licensed guide + all entrance tickets included. Philae motorboat included. Price per group. Pickup included

• Self Guided Transfer Only

  Private Sedan or SUV: Private AC vehicle with English-speaking local driver. Philae motorboat included. No guide, no tickets. Pickup included

• Private Tour with Guide

  Private Minivan: Licensed local guide speaking your language. Philae motorboat included. Tickets not included. Pickup included

Before you book

Cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Languages

hi, de, ps, pt, fil, hr, hu, hak, uk, ur, ml, mr, ms, el, en, it, my, es, ar, vi, ja, fa, ro, nl, no, hsn, fi, ru, cmn, yue, jv, bn, fr, zh-TW, wuu, sk, sr, sv, ko, ku, ta, mnp, gu, cs, te, pa, th, zh-CN, pl, he, da, tr

Ticket

Mobile Only

Runs on

Every day

Group size

Up to 8 travelers per booking

Operated by

Eyes of Egypt

Know before you go

• Wheelchair accessible
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Photos