Full-Day Tour of Philae Temple, High Dam and Unfinished Obelisk

A Balanced Look at the Full-Day Tour of Philae Temple, High Dam, and Unfinished Obelisk

If you’re planning a trip to Aswan, this full-day tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Egypt’s impressive engineering feats and ancient marvels. Although I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s a compelling way to explore key sights without the hassle of organizing transportation or guides yourself.

What we love about this experience are its comprehensive itinerary, the knowledgeable guide, and the scenic boat ride to Philae Temple. It’s also notable that the tour is private, meaning you can enjoy a more personalized experience. However, one potential consideration is that admission fees are not included, so budget accordingly if you’re keen on exploring every site in depth.

This tour seems perfect for travelers who want an authentic, hassle-free day of sightseeing with insightful commentary. It’s especially suited for those new to Egypt or visitors eager for a snapshot of Aswan’s most iconic sites in just a few hours.

Key Points

• Convenience: Hotel pickup and return make logistics easy.
• Expert Guidance: A knowledgeable English-speaking Egyptologist enhances the experience.
• Scenic Views: The boat ride to Philae adds a special touch to the sightseeing.
• Clear Structure: The itinerary is well-organized for a full but manageable day.
• Flexibility: Private tour allows for a more personalized visit.
• Additional Costs: Entrance fees and boat tickets are extra, so budget ahead.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

This tour packs three major attractions into roughly 2 hours and 40 minutes, making it ideal for travelers with limited time or those who want a guided overview. It’s designed to give you a solid understanding of Aswan’s historical and modern landmarks, all with the convenience of door-to-door service.

Stop 1: Philae Temple

The highlight for many is the visit to Philae Temple, a complex built over centuries, showcasing different styles and periods of Egyptian architecture. The temple was originally situated on an island but was relocated to Agilkia Island to prevent flooding caused by the construction of the High Dam. Most reviews praise the beautiful sandstone architecture and the scenic boat ride to reach it.

Our guide will escort you via motorboat, which is part of the fun — expect lovely views of the Nile and the lush surroundings. Interestingly, one reviewer notes that their guide, Kareem, was very knowledgeable and entertaining, making the visit rich with stories and insights. However, note that admission to Philae Temple costs 550 EGP, not included in the tour price, so plan accordingly.

Stop 2: Aswan High Dam

Next, you’ll stop at the High Dam, an engineering marvel built in the 1960s that transformed Egypt’s landscape and economy. The dam’s construction was a significant project, and it’s a symbol of modern Egypt’s development. The tour offers a quick 20-minute stop, allowing you to appreciate its scale and historical importance.

One reviewer mentioned that they appreciated seeing the old dam on the way, which adds context to Egypt’s ongoing efforts to control the Nile. There’s also a “friendship symbol” reflecting Egypt’s ties with the former Soviet Union — a reminder of the geopolitical history intertwined with this construction.

Admission costs for the High Dam are 200 EGP, separate from the tour, so don’t forget to budget for that.

Stop 3: Unfinished Obelisk

Finally, the Unfinished Obelisk offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient quarrying techniques. This giant monolith was intended to be the largest obelisk, but cracks in the stone prevented its completion. It’s located in a stone quarry that dates back to Queen Hatshepsut’s era, giving visitors a sense of the scale and ambition of ancient Egyptian engineering.

The site is relatively small but tells a powerful story of craftsmanship and ancient labor. The admission fee here is 220 EGP, again separate from the tour price.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional guide, and modern air-conditioned transportation, which makes the day comfortable and stress-free. These aspects add significant value, especially considering the transportation logistics in a city like Aswan.

However, admission fees are not included—meaning you’ll need to pay at each site. The costs are 550 EGP for Philae, 200 EGP for the High Dam, and 220 EGP for the Unfinished Obelisk, plus the 450 EGP motorboat fare to Philae. For budget-conscious travelers, these extras can add up, but they also mean you can choose to skip any site if you prefer.

The Guide and the Experience

Based on the reviews, guides like Kareem stand out for their depth of knowledge and ability to keep the group entertained. Tourists appreciated his storytelling and clarity, which made the visits more engaging. The private nature of the tour also allows for more flexibility in timing and questions.

The Price Point and Value

At $90 per person, the tour provides access to three major attractions with transportation and guide services, making it a good value. When you consider the cost of individual entrance fees and transport separately, the overall package offers convenience and expert insights that would be difficult to replicate on your own.

Who Will Love This Tour?

Travelers interested in Egyptian history and architecture will find plenty to enjoy. It’s suitable for those who prefer guided experiences over navigating solo, or for visitors with limited time who want a curated look at Aswan’s highlights. It’s also perfect for first-timers, thanks to the rundown.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re looking for an easy, informative day exploring some of Aswan’s most iconic sights, this tour checks all the boxes. You’ll benefit from a knowledgeable guide, scenic boat rides, and the chance to learn about Egypt’s modern and ancient marvels—all without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

The tour’s structure ensures you see the highlights at a comfortable pace, while the private arrangement offers a degree of flexibility. Keep in mind that the additional entrance fees are not included, so always budget for those extras.

This experience suits travelers who value authentic insights from guides, enjoy scenic views, and prefer a well-organized itinerary. If you want a meaningful overview of Aswan’s history and engineering achievements, this tour provides good value and memorable moments.

FAQ

Are hotels in Aswan included in the pickup?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from your hotel in Aswan and returns afterward, making transportation one less thing to worry about.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes, allowing enough time to visit all three sites comfortably.

Are admission fees included?
No, the entrance fees for Philae Temple (550 EGP), High Dam (200 EGP), and Unfinished Obelisk (220 EGP) are paid separately.

Is there a motorboat involved?
Yes, to reach Philae Temple, you’ll take a motorboat, which costs about 450 EGP per person.

What language is the guide speaking?
The guide is an English-speaking Egyptologist, ensuring clear and informative commentary throughout the day.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and since it’s a private tour, it’s flexible enough to accommodate different needs and pace.

Can I customize the tour?
While the itinerary is fixed, being a private experience allows some flexibility in timing and focus, depending on your interests.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and some cash for entrance fees and boat rides are recommended.

To sum it up, this Full-Day Tour of Philae Temple, High Dam, and Unfinished Obelisk offers a balanced mix of ancient wonder, modern engineering, and scenic beauty. It’s well-suited for those wanting a guided, hassle-free way to get a comprehensive taste of Aswan’s key sights. With knowledgeable guides, scenic rides, and clear organization, it’s a solid choice for travelers eager to explore Egypt’s highlights without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.