Philae Temple
An enchanting island temple dedicated to the goddess Isis, accessible by a scenic boat ride and famed for its ancient hieroglyphs and relocation story...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Philae Temple
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An enchanting island temple dedicated to the goddess Isis, accessible by a scenic boat ride and famed for its ancient hieroglyphs and relocation story.
"Even just the motorboat ride to get there is worth it! "
🚢 Boat Ride Essentials
Secure your temple tickets before boarding the motorboat. Haggle for boat prices! :moneybag:
☀️ Beat the Heat
Visit early or late to avoid the intense midday sun. Stay hydrated! :water_wave:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Temple of Isis
Main complex
Dedicated to the goddess Isis, this island sanctuary boasts stunning carvings and a serene atmosphere.
The Nile Motorboat Journey
Access point to the island
The scenic motorboat ride to the temple island is an experience in itself.
Hieroglyphic Inscriptions
Temple walls and columns
Marvel at the detailed hieroglyphs that tell ancient stories and depict Roman emperors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Boat Ride to Island Paradise
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚢 Boat Ride Essentials
Secure your temple tickets before boarding the motorboat. Haggle for boat prices! :moneybag:
☀️ Beat the Heat
Visit early or late to avoid the intense midday sun. Stay hydrated! :water_wave:
⏳ Time Your Visit
Allow about 1.5 hours to explore at a relaxed pace. :clock1:
📸 Capture the Magic
The island setting and ancient architecture offer stunning photo opportunities. :camera:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚢 Boat Ride Essentials
Secure your temple tickets before boarding the motorboat. Haggle for boat prices! :moneybag:
☀️ Beat the Heat
Visit early or late to avoid the intense midday sun. Stay hydrated! :water_wave:
⏳ Time Your Visit
Allow about 1.5 hours to explore at a relaxed pace. :clock1:
📸 Capture the Magic
The island setting and ancient architecture offer stunning photo opportunities. :camera:
💰 Ticket & Boat Prices
Entry is ~550 EGP, boat prices vary. Haggle respectfully! :ticket:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Philae Temple as a must-see in Egypt, highlighting the magical boat ride and the temple's serene beauty. While the heat can be intense, the historical details and the unique island setting make it a worthwhile experience. Some travelers note the need to haggle for boat prices and be prepared for the sun.
"A must-see in Egypt — even just the motorboat ride to get there is worth it! I spent about 1h15 exploring at a slow pace and loved every moment. Your boat will wait for you and take you back to the bank afterwards. Just remember to buy your tickets before boarding the motorboat!"
Jean Blans
"Philae temple was great, lots of historical detail and it's a really nice, short boat ride to get there. Just being ready to haggle the prices down, unless you want to pay tourist price 😉
I would advise having a return car ready if you're coming from Nubian Village or somewhere because mobile signal was quite unreliable and we ended up paying double the taxi rate (after strong haggling down from 500 pounds to 200 pounds)."
Alan Kelly
"We were here in May. Downside: it's hot (really, I'm in southern Egypt and it's hot... so no surprises here). The huge upside is that there were no lineups. In fact, our group of six was barely outnumbered by other visitors... or so it seemed. Great experience and a part of a wonderful tour that also took us up the Nile and to a Nubian village."
Arthur Krzycki
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Philae Temple is located on an island and is accessible only by motorboat from the Philae Marina. You'll need to take a taxi or arrange transport to the marina first.
Boat prices can vary, and it's common to haggle. Expect to pay around 600 EGP for a round trip for two people, but always negotiate respectfully.
Yes, taxis are readily available to take you to the marina. If you're coming from further afield like a Nubian Village, ensure your return car is arranged, as mobile signal can be unreliable.
Direct public transport to the island is not available. The primary mode of access is via motorboat from the designated marina.
The boat ride itself is quite short, typically only a few minutes, offering a scenic approach to the island.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
As of September 2025, the entry fee for Philae Temple is approximately 550 EGP per person. You can pay with cash or card at the ticket office located at the same pier where you board the boat.
You purchase your Philae Temple tickets at the ticket office located at the pier where you board the motorboat. The boat driver will usually take you there first.
Philae Temple is generally open daily from morning until sunset. It's advisable to check the most current hours before your visit, especially if planning for a Sound and Light show.
While advance booking isn't always mandatory, it's recommended to purchase your tickets at the pier before boarding the boat to ensure a smooth entry.
While not always advertised as a single ticket, tours often combine visits to the High Dam and Philae Temple. Inquire with local tour operators for package options.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors find that 1 to 1.5 hours is sufficient to explore Philae Temple at a leisurely pace and appreciate its beauty.
The Philae Temple complex was meticulously moved stone by stone to Agilkia Island to save it from being submerged by the rising waters of the Nile after the construction of the Aswan High Dam.
Yes, it's not uncommon to encounter friendly cats roaming the temple grounds, adding a charming element to the visit.
The Sound and Light Show at Philae Temple offers a magical evening experience, illuminating the ancient structures and narrating its history, often in multiple languages.
Key highlights include the Temple of Isis, the Kiosk of Trajan, the mammisi (birth house), and the intricate hieroglyphic carvings depicting religious and historical scenes.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a more atmospheric glow. The golden hour before sunset is particularly stunning.
Generally, photography is allowed within the temple complex. However, always be respectful of the site and other visitors. Tripods might be restricted in certain areas.
The main Temple of Isis, the Kiosk of Trajan with its Nile backdrop, and the grand pylons offer iconic photo opportunities. Don't forget to capture the boat journey too!
Drone usage is typically prohibited at historical sites in Egypt to protect the monuments and ensure visitor safety. It's best to confirm on-site regulations.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is useful for capturing both wide shots of the complex and details of the carvings. A wide-angle lens is great for the grand architecture.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
which are often a hit with younger visitors. Remember to bring plenty of water and sun protection, as it can get very hot. 💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Remarkable Relocation of Philae Temple
The relocation involved careful documentation, numbering, and reassembly, preserving the original layout and architectural integrity. Today, visitors can explore the temple on its new island home, a testament to human ingenuity and dedication to safeguarding cultural heritage. The process itself is a fascinating part of the temple's modern history, adding another layer to its ancient allure.
This incredible rescue mission highlights the challenges and triumphs of preserving ancient sites in the face of modern development. The island setting of Philae Temple now offers a unique and serene experience, allowing visitors to connect with history in a truly special environment.
Exploring the Temple of Isis
Key features include the Kiosk of Trajan, a beautiful colonnaded structure that offers stunning views of the Nile, and the Mammisi, or birth house, which celebrates the divine birth of the god Horus. The temple's walls are adorned with hieroglyphs that provide insights into ancient religious beliefs and practices, including inscriptions from Roman emperors who sought to legitimize their rule by associating themselves with Egyptian deities.
Visitors often describe the atmosphere as deeply spiritual and enchanting, especially when bathed in the soft light of dawn or dusk. The island setting further enhances this sense of tranquility, making it a place for reflection and awe.
Navigating Your Visit: Practicalities and Tips
Timing is key to avoid the intense heat and large crowds. Visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon is highly recommended. The midday sun can be scorching, especially in warmer months like May. Allow approximately 1 to 1.5 hours to explore the temple complex at a comfortable pace.
For those interested in an evening experience, the Sound and Light Show offers a captivating way to see the temple illuminated and hear its stories narrated.
Remember to bring water, wear comfortable shoes, and protect yourself from the sun.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit