Aswan Low Dam
An early 20th-century engineering marvel on the Nile, serving as the gateway to the ancient Temple of Philae.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Aswan Low Dam
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An early 20th-century engineering marvel on the Nile, serving as the gateway to the ancient Temple of Philae.
"The boat ride to Philae Temple, with the Aswan Low Dam in view, is a magical experience."
Negotiate Boat Prices
Bargain with boat captains for rides to Philae Temple; it's part of the experience! :moneywithwings:
Explore Philae Temple
Don't miss this stunning island temple, a highlight of the Aswan Low Dam area. :temple:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Aswan Low Dam (Old Dam)
An early 20th-century engineering marvel on the Nile, crucial for irrigation and power.
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Temple of Philae
Island within the Aswan Low Dam reservoir
An ancient island temple complex, beautifully preserved and accessible by boat.
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Nubian Village Exploration
Experience vibrant culture, colorful houses, and warm hospitality along the Nile.
Felucca Ride on the Nile
Sail the serene Nile River at sunset for breathtaking views and a peaceful escape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to the Aswan Low Dam
Navigating to Philae Temple
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Negotiate Boat Prices
Bargain with boat captains for rides to Philae Temple; it's part of the experience! :moneywithwings:
Explore Philae Temple
Don't miss this stunning island temple, a highlight of the Aswan Low Dam area. :temple:
Visit Nubian Villages
Experience the unique culture and colorful homes of the Nubian people. :housewithgarden:
Sunset Felucca Ride
Enjoy a peaceful sail on the Nile as the sun sets over the water. :ferry:
Tips
from all over the internet
Negotiate Boat Prices
Bargain with boat captains for rides to Philae Temple; it's part of the experience! :moneywithwings:
Explore Philae Temple
Don't miss this stunning island temple, a highlight of the Aswan Low Dam area. :temple:
Visit Nubian Villages
Experience the unique culture and colorful homes of the Nubian people. :housewithgarden:
Sunset Felucca Ride
Enjoy a peaceful sail on the Nile as the sun sets over the water. :ferry:
Ancient Graffiti
Look for ancient graffiti on the temple walls, some dating back centuries. :scroll:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the historical significance and engineering marvel of the Aswan Low Dam, but its primary allure is as the gateway to the stunning Temple of Philae. The boat ride to Philae is a memorable experience, and the vibrant Nubian villages offer a cultural immersion. Some travelers have noted issues with price negotiation and unwanted attention from locals.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Aswan Low Dam is located just north of Aswan city. You can reach it by taxi or private car. Many tours to the Temple of Philae will include transport to the dam area.
To reach the Temple of Philae, you'll need to take a boat from the dock near the Aswan Low Dam. Be prepared to negotiate the price with the boat captains.
While direct public transport to the dam itself might be limited, local buses and taxis can get you to Aswan city, from where you can arrange further transport or tours.
Access to walk directly on the dam might be restricted for safety and operational reasons. However, you can view it from designated points and access the boat docks for Philae Temple.
Many travelers opt for a Nile cruise between Luxor and Aswan, which often includes stops at key sites like the Aswan Low Dam and Philae Temple. +2
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There isn't typically a separate entrance fee for viewing the Aswan Low Dam itself from the outside. However, you will need a ticket to visit the Temple of Philae, which is located within its reservoir.
Ticket prices for the Temple of Philae can vary. It's best to check the official Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities website or inquire locally for the most current pricing.
Sometimes, tour operators offer packages that include visits to the Aswan Low Dam, Philae Temple, and other local attractions. Inquire with local tour agencies for options.
The Temple of Philae generally follows standard Egyptian archaeological site hours, typically opening around 6 AM and closing around 5 PM. It's advisable to confirm these times before your visit.
While some major attractions in Egypt offer online booking, it's often more straightforward to purchase tickets for Philae Temple upon arrival at the ticket office near the boat docks.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Aswan Low Dam is an impressive feat of engineering. You can view its structure and learn about its history. It also serves as the access point for boat trips to the Temple of Philae.
Philae Temple is an ancient Ptolemaic temple dedicated to the goddess Isis, located on an island. It's known for its beautiful architecture and historical significance, being one of the last places ancient Egyptian religion was practiced.
For history and engineering enthusiasts, it's a significant site. For most travelers, its main draw is being the gateway to the stunning Temple of Philae.
Light, breathable clothing is recommended due to the heat. Comfortable walking shoes are essential, especially for exploring Philae Temple. Modest attire is appreciated out of respect for local culture. :athletic_shoe:
Basic facilities like restrooms and small shops selling souvenirs are usually available near the boat docks for Philae Temple. It's wise to carry water and snacks.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photo opportunities are often from the boat approaching Philae Temple, capturing the dam and the island temple together. The dam itself offers a sense of scale and engineering prowess.
Yes, photography is generally allowed within the Temple of Philae complex. However, tripods might be restricted in certain areas, and it's always good to be mindful of other visitors.
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography at Philae Temple, casting a warm glow on the ancient stones. Midday can be harsh.
Drone usage is often restricted in sensitive areas like dams and historical sites in Egypt. It's best to check current regulations before attempting to fly a drone.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) is useful for general sightseeing. A wide-angle lens can be great for capturing the scale of the dam and temples. Don't forget a polarizing filter for the Nile's glare. :camerawithflash:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When visiting Philae Temple, keep in mind that there's a lot of walking on uneven surfaces, so comfortable shoes are a must. Bring plenty of water and snacks, as facilities can be basic. Focusing on the boat ride and the vibrant Nubian culture might be more captivating for younger children than the historical details of the dam itself.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider visiting the Nubian villages independently rather than through a guided tour, which can be more economical. Enjoying a simple felucca ride at sunset can be a more budget-friendly alternative to longer, more expensive Nile cruises.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Capture the temple from the approaching boat for a dramatic perspective. The Aswan Low Dam itself provides opportunities for capturing impressive engineering shots, especially when framed against the Nile. For a different vibe, the Nubian villages offer vibrant colors and unique cultural scenes, perfect for street photography.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Aswan Dams: A Tale of Two Structures
+1Further south, the Aswan High Dam (completed in 1964) is a colossal structure that created Lake Nasser, a massive reservoir. The High Dam was instrumental in Egypt's development, providing hydroelectric power and regulating the Nile's flow for agriculture year-round. However, its construction also led to the displacement of communities and the loss of invaluable archaeological treasures, necessitating a massive international effort to relocate sites like Abu Simbel and Philae.
Understanding both dams provides crucial context for Aswan's history and its relationship with the Nile River. The Low Dam, though older, is intrinsically linked to the preservation of sites like Philae, which had to be meticulously moved to escape the rising waters of Lake Nasser.
+1Experiencing the Temple of Philae
+2Accessing the temple involves a scenic boat ride from the mainland, often departing from near the Aswan Low Dam. This journey itself offers beautiful views of the Nile and the surrounding landscape. Once on the island, you can explore the well-preserved temples, colonnades, and reliefs, marveling at the intricate carvings and the sheer scale of the ancient architecture.
Visitors often describe the experience as magical, especially during sunset when the temple is bathed in golden light. The historical significance of Philae as one of the last bastions of ancient Egyptian religion adds a profound layer to the visit. Don't miss the chance to see the ancient graffiti left by visitors from centuries past.
Nubian Culture and Villages
Visitors can wander through the narrow streets, admire the distinctive architecture of the houses, and interact with the friendly locals. Many Nubian homes open their doors to visitors, offering insights into their daily lives, traditional crafts, and delicious local cuisine. It's a chance to experience a different facet of Egypt beyond the pharaonic monuments.
Beyond the visual charm, engaging with the Nubian community provides a deeper understanding of their history and resilience. Many TikTok and Instagram creators highlight the welcoming nature of the Nubian people and the colorful, photogenic scenery, making it a must-visit for an authentic cultural immersion.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit