Private Trip: St Simeon Monastery including Motorboat and Camel Ride

Exploring the St. Simeon Monastery with a Private Tour in Aswan

If you’re planning a trip to Aswan and want to experience a blend of ancient history, scenic views, and local culture without the hassle, this private trip to St. Simeon Monastery could be just what you need. While we haven’t taken this exact tour ourselves, the detailed reviews and features suggest it’s a well-rounded, authentic way to explore a fascinating historical site.

What truly makes this experience stand out are the private transfer service, the knowledgeable guide, and the unique combination of boat and camel rides. Travelers love how smoothly everything runs, especially compared to negotiating with local boat captains and guides. Plus, the stunning views from the hilltop monastery offer a memorable backdrop for photos and reflection.

However, one consideration is that the duration is somewhat limited at around four hours, so it’s best suited for those with a flexible schedule or looking to combine this with other activities in Aswan. If you’re after a relaxed, insightful, and visually spectacular half-day, this tour hits the mark. It’s ideal for history buffs, culture seekers, and those wanting a hassle-free way to see a remote but significant site.

Key Points

• Exclusive Access: The private tour ensures a stress-free experience with hotel or cruise transfers.
• Expert Guidance: An English-speaking Egyptologist guides you through the history and highlights.
• Authentic Experiences: A camel ride and boat trip add a traditional touch to your visit.
• Views & Atmosphere: Breathtaking vistas from the hilltop monastery make for great photo opportunities.
• Flexibility: Multiple departure times help you plan your day more comfortably.
• Cost & Value: The price of around $50 per person offers a good balance of guided convenience and unique activities.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Pickup & Transfer

The tour begins with a hotel or cruise ship pickup in Aswan, making the start seamless. A modern, air-conditioned vehicle whisks you away to the Nile, where a motorboat awaits. This direct transfer means you avoid the often stressful negotiations with local boatmen, saving both time and potential frustration.

The Journey to St. Simeon Monastery

The boat ride across the Nile to Elephantine Island offers a calming start, with the waterway stretching peacefully beside scenic desert landscapes. It’s a great chance to relax and soak in the river views that define Aswan. The boat ride is approximately 30 minutes, giving you a picturesque introduction to the area.

Reaching the Monastery & Camel Ride

Upon arriving at Elephantine Island, you’ll switch to a camel for the ascent up the steep hill leading to the monastery. This part is often highlighted as a highlight—reviewers note it’s a fun, authentic way to handle the climb, especially on a warm day. The camel ride also offers a chance to experience local traditions more intimately than just walking.

The original name of the monastery was Anba Hatre, and it dates back to the 7th century. While the interior may be modest compared to larger monasteries, the frescoes, mosaics, and ancient architecture provide tangible links to early Egyptian Christianity.

Exploring the Monastery

Your private Egyptologist guide will lead you through the site, sharing insights into its history, architecture, and significance. You’ll have opportunities to appreciate the spectacular views of the desert below from the hilltop, which is part of what makes this tour memorable. The quiet, remote setting adds a contemplative feel, perfect for those interested in history and scenery.

Return & Relaxation

After the visit, you’ll descend on the camel and board the boat for the ride back to Aswan. The entire trip lasts roughly four hours, giving you enough time to enjoy the highlights without feeling rushed. The tour concludes with a return transfer to your hotel or cruise.

What Makes This Tour Valuable

Guided Experience: Having an Egyptologist not only simplifies the visit but also enriches it with context and stories that make the site come alive. Reviewers like Paul G. appreciated the guide Ammar’s explanations, which added depth to the visit.

Convenient Logistics: The private transfer eliminates the common stress of haggling or waiting for shared transport. This is especially helpful for travelers unfamiliar with local customs or language barriers.

Authentic Touches: The camel ride up the hill offers a more immersive experience than simply walking. It also helps beat the heat, making the climb more comfortable.

Stunning Views & Photo Opportunities: Being able to stand at the top of the hill with panoramic vistas of the Nile and surrounding desert makes this tour a visual delight. The views are often described as breathtaking, perfect for memorable photos.

Flexibility & Comfort: Multiple departure times and the inclusion of bottled water help tailor the experience to your schedule and needs.

The Practicalities & Considerations

While the tour offers excellent value for those interested in history and scenery, it’s important to note that the duration is limited to about four hours. If you’re someone who prefers a leisurely pace or wants more extensive exploration, this might feel a bit brief.

The tour is priced at $50.26 per person, which includes entry fees, guide, boat, camel ride, transfers, and bottled water. For this price, you’re getting an all-in-one package that saves you the hassle of organizing each component separately, making it a good deal in the context of personalized guided tours.

The group size is small and private, ensuring a more personalized experience. This is particularly nice if you prefer tailored commentary and the flexibility to ask questions.

Authenticity & Review Insights

We found that reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides who make the site more meaningful with their explanations. Paul G described their guide Ammar as delightful, with a good grasp of local history, which is a testament to the quality of the guiding service.

Many reviewers appreciated the stunning views from the monastery, noting how the sight of the Nile and desert from the hilltop creates a memorable atmosphere. The experience of riding a camel up the hill is also highlighted as a unique touch that adds charm to the visit.

The ease of logistics—from hotel pickup to boat transfer—receives consistent praise. It means travelers can fully enjoy the experience without the stress of navigating local transport or haggling.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is perfect for history enthusiasts who want to understand the significance of the monastery and enjoy scenic views. It’s also ideal for travelers who value convenience and guided insight, especially if they prefer not to deal with local negotiations or logistics.

If you’re short on time but want a meaningful glimpse into Egypt’s Christian heritage and enjoy authentic activities like a camel ride, this tour offers excellent value. It’s also suitable for those traveling with family or friends who appreciate a private, personalized experience.

Final Thoughts

This private trip to St. Simeon Monastery combines history, scenery, and local traditions into a manageable half-day adventure. The inclusion of private transfers, expert guiding, and scenic activities makes it a hassle-free and enriching choice for many travelers.

You’ll love the stunning vistas from the hilltop monastery, the authentic camel ride, and the well-organized logistics that take the stress out of sightseeing. The careful attention to detail, from bottled water to flexible departure times, ensures comfort and convenience.

While the tour might feel brief for those seeking an in-depth exploration, it hits the right notes for a scenic, educational, and authentic experience. If you’re after a balanced mix of history, scenery, and ease, this trip offers real value for your time and money.

FAQ

How do I get picked up for this tour?
You will be collected from your hotel or cruise ship in Aswan by a private air-conditioned vehicle.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but the climb involves a camel ride up a steep hill, so consider mobility levels or if children are involved.

How long does the boat ride last?
The boat ride to Elephantine Island is approximately 30 minutes, providing a relaxing river experience.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, the tour price includes all entrance fees for St. Simeon Monastery.

What should I bring?
Bring water, sun protection, and comfortable clothing suitable for warm weather – the climb can be warm, and the views are outdoors.

Can I choose my departure time?
Yes, the tour offers a wide range of departure times, allowing you to plan your day flexibly.

Is the guide knowledgeable about the site?
Yes, guides are specialists, such as Ammar, who provide insightful commentary about the monastery’s history and architecture.

What makes this tour different from self-organized visits?
This tour bundles transportation, entry, guiding, and activities, saving you time and avoiding the stress of local negotiations.

How long does the entire experience last?
The total duration is approximately four hours, from pickup to return.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, it offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

To sum it up, this private tour offers a well-rounded, authentic, and comfortable way to explore a fascinating part of Aswan’s history. Its thoughtful logistics, expert guides, and scenic activities make it a smart choice for travelers seeking a memorable half-day experience with excellent value.