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Aswan, Egypt
The peaceful city of Aswan located in southern Egypt is a symbol of natural beauty for it's Nile scenery and rich Nubian culture. Aswan is famous for it's iconic landmarks such as the Philae Temple, Aswan High Dam and colorful Nubian villages. In comparison to other Egyptian cities, Aswan's atmosphere is calm and relaxed, creating the perfect place to enjoy river views, traditional markets and historic sites.
"Aswan has a mixed and diverse population with a distinct Nubian culture. It has therefore an African atmosphere which is different from the rest of Egypt."







Aswan, Egypt
24.0889, 32.8998

Explore the vibrant, rich market of Aswan. Shop from a wide variety of handicrafts, textiles, spices and local flavors with the opportunity to experience Nubian music, dance and warm hospitality!

Explore the colorful architecture of Nubian houses! painted in bright blues, yellows, reds and decorated with unique Nubian symbols and patterns. Experience the warm hospitality of it's locals who often invite visitors for tea and share their heritage and traditions!
A mobile coffee stand popular with locals. It's a fun local pick for a quick coffee that offers a unique cafe experience.
Highly rated seafood restaurant serving fresh Nile fish and local seafood dishes, loved by residents for quality and taste.
A local favorite for Nubian-inspired cuisine, great for trying regional flavors.
A residential area with local Nubian houses, small cafés, and food spots.
Not just a walk, locals come here early in the morning or at sunset for exercise, people-watching, and cheap roadside snacks.
If you're a citizen of Bahrain, Hong Kong, Kuwait, Macao, Oman, Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Malaysia, You're visa exempt. Citizens of the US, UK, EU, Canada, Australia, and others can obtain a 30-day visa upon arrival, though it's recommended that you apply for an e-visa beforehand to avoid queues at the airport. Prohibited items include drones, narcotics, and firearms.
visaThere are no specific mandatory vaccinations required unless you are arriving from a country with a high risk of yellow fever transmission. If you require immediate, high-quality care, private clinics and hospitals are recommended. It is also recommended for you to have travel insurance, as it can cover, or facilitate, access to private healthcare providers in case of emergency.
healthApps like Uber are not available in Aswan so you can depend on local transport. You can use Taxis and tuk-tuks for short, local trips or minibuses for a cheaper option. Aswan is a highly walkable, specifically the Nile Corniche and Aswan Market (Souq). Though to avoid the extremely dry, hot weather, it is advisable to walk during early morning or late afternoon hours.
transportYou will get better rates paying with EGP than using USD/EUR. You can exchange money at banks, reputable exchange offices, or authorized hotel desks for better rates. Keep cash on hand for local markets, taxis, tips, and small shops but cards are accepted in large hotels, some restaurants and at major tourist site ticket offices.
moneyDress modestly and avoid tight, revealing clothing especially at religious sites. Avoid physical displays of affection and always ask for permission before taking photos of local people. Use only your right hand for eating, passing items, or greeting others. Haggling is a normal part of the social and commercial fabric in Aswan’s souks, approach it with a friendly, patient attitude.
cultureAswan is generally a very safe city for you, but you should keep an eye out for risks like petty theft in crowded areas, overcharging by taxi drivers, and persistent vendors. Only purchase tickets at official booths and use licensed, reputable tour guides. You should also stick to well-lit and busy areas and avoid walking alone at night.
safetyThe main language in Aswan is Egyptian Arabic, the Nubian language is also widely spoken but English is common in tourist areas. You can use basic phrases like Salam Alekom (hello), Shukran (thank you), Law samaht (please), and Bikam? (how much?). Use Aiwa/Laa for yes/no, and Khalas to say "enough".
communicationWhile in Aswan, You should try Samak Mashwy (grilled fish), a freshly caught Nile fish (tilapia or perch) grilled over open flames. You can also go for Nubian Tagine, a slow-cooked stew made with lamb, chicken, or vegetables (like okra or spinach) served in clay pots. And if you're brave enough, you can try raw camel liver, which is a unique delicacy sometimes available in traditional Nubian cuisine.
generalAsk taxi drivers for their favorite local eatery, locals often know small family restaurants that aren’t on major review sites. Corniche stalls in the evening (after 5 PM) offer cheap, fresh snacks and drinks. Look for juice & sugarcane stands near Corniche for refreshing local drinks that are frequently recommended by locals.
generalEat from stalls with long lines of locals. This usually indicates fresh, high-quality food. You should also stick to exclusively to sealed bottled water. Avoid ice cubes and tap water, even for brushing teeth. If you're looking for Vegetarian/Vegan Friendly options, Many spots offer tagines with fresh vegetables, lentils, or stuffed vegetables.
healthBased on your travel style, your daily spending could range from $30–$50 USD if you're on a tight budget. Mid-range budgets could cost $70-$150 USD and luxury budgets could range from $150-$400+. These figures cover your accommodation, food, transport, and activities. Tipping is an essential, culturally ingrained practice in Aswan, and it's expected for most services.
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