Aswan Philae Temple & High Dam Tour | Island Temple Boat Trip
Aswan Philae Temple tour: motorboat to sacred Isis temple on island, visit massive High Dam engineering marvel & see Unfinished Obelisk. Expert guides included.
Free cancellation up to 14 days before
About this tour
Discover the engineering marvels and ancient wonders of modern and historical Aswan on this comprehensive Egypt tour showcasing the city's most iconic attractions. Your journey begins at the monumental Aswan High Dam, completed in 1970 as one of the 20th century's greatest engineering achievements, creating the vast Lake Nasser reservoir stretching 550 kilometers into Sudan. From the dam's observation deck, panoramic views reveal the transformation of the Nile Valley and the massive scale of this project that provides 25% of Egypt's electricity. Continue to the ancient granite quarries where pharaohs sourced stone for their monuments, home to the famous Unfinished Obelisk—at 42 meters long and 1,200 tons, it would have been the largest obelisk ever erected if completed during Queen Hatshepsut's reign (1479-1458 BCE). The highlight of your Aswan day trip awaits as you board a traditional motorboat for the scenic journey to Agilkia Island, home to the rescued Temple of Philae. This sacred complex dedicated to the goddess Isis was meticulously relocated stone by stone during the 1970s UNESCO campaign to save it from rising Nile waters. Walk through the graceful colonnades and beautifully preserved reliefs depicting the Osiris myth, considered some of Egypt's finest Ptolemaic art from 380-362 BCE.
Highlights
Gallery
Itinerary
Aswan High Dam & Lake Nasser Panorama
Stand atop this engineering marvel that tamed the Nile's annual floods and created one of the world's largest artificial lakes. Learn how the dam's construction saved Nubian monuments while transforming Egypt's agriculture and providing crucial electricity to millions of Egyptians across the country.
Unfinished Obelisk & Ancient Granite Quarries
Walk through the ancient stone quarries where pharaohs sourced granite for their monuments, discovering the massive Unfinished Obelisk still attached to bedrock. This 1,200-ton monolith reveals ancient Egyptian quarrying techniques and would have stood 42 meters tall if completed for Queen Hatshepsut's temple.
Temple of Philae Island Boat Excursion
Cruise by motorboat through the granite islands and turquoise waters of the Nile to reach the sacred Temple of Philae on Agilkia Island. Explore the beautifully preserved Ptolemaic complex dedicated to Isis, goddess of magic and motherhood, featuring exquisite reliefs and the famous Birth House where Horus was born.
Pricing
Standard
| Season | Solo | 2-4 Pax | 5-8 Pax | 9-16 Pax |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Peak (Oct-Apr) | $100 | $70 | $55 | $42 |
| Low (May-Sep) | $85 | $58 | $45 | $35 |
Includes
- Expert Egyptologist guide with deep knowledge of Aswan history
- Premium air-conditioned vehicle for comfortable land transportation
- Traditional motorboat transfer to and from Philae Island
- Comprehensive entrance fees to all mentioned archaeological sites
- Aswan High Dam observation deck access and briefing
- Unfinished Obelisk quarry site guided tour
- Temple of Philae island excursion with historical context
- Complimentary bottled water and refreshing towels throughout
Excludes
- Gratuities for guide, driver, and boat captain
- Personal shopping expenses and souvenir purchases
- Lunch and additional beverages during the tour
- Optional sound and light show at Philae Temple
- Photography fees for professional equipment
Why book with us?
- Licensed tour operator
- 4.9/5 from 2,000+ reviews
- Free cancellation (14 days)
- Small group or private