Aswan: High Dam, Philae Temple & Unfinished Obelisk Day Tour
Morning Aswan excursion with hotel pickup, guided visits to the High Dam, boat to Philae on Agilkia Island, and the Unfinished Obelisk, with an Egyptologist.
At a glance
- Length
- 1 days · 0 nights
- Departs
- Daily
The short answer
High Dam, Philae Temple & Unfinished Obelisk Day Tour is a 1-day guided excursion covering the Aswan High Dam, Philae Temple on Agilkia Island, and the Unfinished Obelisk in Aswan, operated by Discovery Tours Egypt.
- Solo traveller ·
- Couples ·
- Groups ·
- Seniors
Snapshot
Good to know
- Duration
- Full Day (approximately 6-8 hours)
- Travel style
- Private Guided Day Tour
- Accommodation
- N/A
- Operated by
- Discovery Tours Egypt
- Destinations
- Aswan High Dam · Philae Temple · Agilkia Island · Unfinished Obelisk · Aswan northern quarry
- Includes
- Hotel pickup and drop-off in central Aswan · Air-conditioned vehicle · Local Egyptologist guide · Entrance fees to listed sites · Short boat transfer to Agilkia Island
- Best for
- First-time visitors to Aswan · History and archaeology enthusiasts · Couples and small groups · Families with older children · Travelers with limited time in Aswan
- Guide languages
- English
Best time to go
The most comfortable months are October to April, when daytime temperatures in Aswan are generally milder and outdoor walking is easier. From May to September, heat can be intense, especially around midday, so an early departure is preferable. During Ramadan and major public holidays, opening hours and site crowd levels may vary, so advance confirmation is recommended.
- Discovery Tours Egypt is a licensed Egyptian tour operator
- Local Egyptologist guide included for site interpretation
- Hotel pickup and drop-off arranged in central Aswan
- Air-conditioned vehicle transportation included
- Entrance fees to all listed sites included
- 24/7 on-the-ground support for excursion coordination
- Verified traveler reviews available on booking platforms
02 Overview
A first look
By 8 am the Nile near Aswan is a sheet of glass, and the Low Dam sluices are a distant rhythm as the High Dam's concrete face appears on the skyline. You step from the vehicle onto warm stone, listen to the hum of turbines, then board a short motorboat to Agilkia Island where columns and reliefs smell faintly of river breeze and granite dust.
Our Egyptologists guide every stop, explaining engineering at the High Dam, Isis worship at Philae, and quarry techniques visible at the Unfinished Obelisk, with time for photographs and questions. We arrange hotel pickup in central Aswan and travel in an air-conditioned vehicle so the day's logistics are already covered.
Background
The facts
This Aswan sightseeing excursion visits three of the city’s best-known heritage sites: the Aswan High Dam, Philae Temple on Agilkia Island, and the Unfinished Obelisk in the northern quarry. The High Dam was completed in 1970 and is one of modern Egypt’s major water-control projects, regulating Nile flooding and supporting irrigation and hydroelectric power.
Philae Temple is a relocated Ptolemaic and Roman temple complex dedicated primarily to Isis. After the construction of the High Dam, the monument was moved from its original island location to nearby Agilkia Island to protect it from rising water levels; access is by a short motorboat transfer. The temple complex is known for its pylons, courtyards, and carved reliefs that reflect late-period Egyptian religious architecture.
The Unfinished Obelisk sits in the granite quarries north of Aswan and is usually dated to the New Kingdom, often associated with Hatshepsut’s reign in the 15th century BCE. It remains attached to the bedrock, showing ancient quarrying marks and how obelisks were extracted from Aswan granite. Standard sightseeing in Aswan usually combines these sites because they are close enough for a full-day city excursion with road transfers and a boat crossing for Philae.
This itinerary is suitable for visitors based in central Aswan who want a guided introduction to both ancient and modern engineering history. Entrance fees are included, and the route is typically organized with hotel pickup, an air-conditioned vehicle, and on-site commentary from a local Egyptologist.
Named in this entry
Aswan High Dam · Philae Temple · Agilkia Island · Unfinished Obelisk · Nile River · Aswan granite quarries · Isis · Hatshepsut · Ptolemaic period · Roman Egypt
Suited to
Is this for you?
Yes, if
- This excursion suits travelers who want a structured introduction to Aswan’s main landmarks in one day, especially first-time visitors, history-focused travelers, and adults who prefer guided sightseeing over self-navigation. It also works well for travelers who are comfortable with moderate walking, short boat transfers, and time spent outdoors in warm conditions.
What lingers
- 01 Visit the Aswan High Dam with our Egyptologist, learning its 1960s construction and Lake Nasser's creation.
- 02 Two-hour visit to Philae Temple island; entrance fees included, boat transfer and guided tour by our Egyptologist.
- 03 See the Unfinished Obelisk at the northern quarry, evidence of ancient stone-working techniques and abandoned plans.
- 04 We include hotel pickup and private transport – no group bus; flexible stops for photos and shopping.
- 05 Unlike cruise excursions, we schedule Philae before the main boat crowds; more time, quieter views.
Worth knowing
How this compares
Unlike short stop-and-go sightseeing programs, this excursion includes time for guided explanation, photos, and questions at each site. Compared with cruise-run or shore-only visits, it is organized around hotel pickup in central Aswan and a fuller visit to Philae and the quarry. It is also more focused than broader Upper Egypt itineraries because it concentrates on Aswan’s key monuments in a single day.
Bundled in
- Hotel pickup
- All entry tickets
- Group Egyptologist
The fine print
What's included – and what isn't
Included
- Pickup and drop-off from hotels in central Aswan.
- Transport in an air-conditioned vehicle.
- Local Egyptologist guide.
- Entrance fees to Aswan High Dam, Philae Temple and the Unfinished Obelisk.
- Short boat transfer to Agilkia Island.
Not included
- Lunch and drinks.
- Gratuities for guide and driver.
- Personal expenses and optional activities not listed.
- Transfers or pickups outside central Aswan unless arranged in advance.
Tailor it
Make it yours
The tour can be arranged as a private excursion or as a shared sightseeing departure depending on availability. It can also be adjusted with extra time for photography, a lunch stop, or additional Aswan sites if arranged in advance. Pickup outside central Aswan may be added at an extra cost when confirmed before departure.
All requests handled by your dedicated specialist before booking.
Before you go
What to pack & wear
Children & families
Minimum age is 4 years for this excursion due to the boat crossing and site terrain. Children under 12 travel at a reduced child rate when sharing with two paying adults; infants under 2 are free if not occupying a seat. Strollers are not practical at Philae Temple or the Unfinished Obelisk because of steps and rough ground; a baby carrier is recommended. High chairs are not provided at sites; if you require special arrangements please notify us at booking.
The morning of
Meeting point & timing
- Where
- Hotel pickup, central Aswan Map
Indicative rates only – pricing and departure fluctuate. Please enquire for live rates on your specific dates.
· In summary
This day tour includes hotel pickup in central Aswan, transport by air-conditioned vehicle, a local Egyptologist guide, and entrance fees to the Aswan High Dam, Philae Temple, and the Unfinished Obelisk. It also includes a short boat transfer to Agilkia Island for Philae Temple. Lunch, drinks, gratuities, and pickups outside central Aswan are not included.
Asked & answered
Frequent questions
-
01 What is the duration of the High Dam, Philae Temple & Unfinished Obelisk Day Tour?
This is a full-day excursion, typically lasting between 6 to 8 hours from pickup to drop-off. We allow ample time at each site for exploration and commentary from your Egyptologist, ensuring a relaxed pace. -
02 Where does pickup and drop-off occur for this tour?
We arrange complimentary pickup and drop-off from hotels located in central Aswan. If your accommodation is outside this area, please contact us in advance to discuss potential arrangements and any additional transfer fees. -
03 What is included in the High Dam, Philae Temple & Unfinished Obelisk Day Tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in central Aswan, transport in an air-conditioned vehicle, a local Egyptologist guide, entrance fees to the Aswan High Dam, Philae Temple, and the Unfinished Obelisk, plus the short boat transfer to Agilkia Island. -
04 What is not included in the tour price?
The tour price does not cover lunch and drinks, gratuities for your guide and driver, personal expenses, or any optional activities not explicitly listed in the inclusions. Transfers outside central Aswan are also excluded unless pre-arranged. -
05 Is this tour suitable for individuals with mobility challenges?
The tour involves some walking on uneven surfaces at Philae Temple and the Unfinished Obelisk quarry. The boat transfer to Agilkia Island requires stepping on and off a small vessel. Please inform us of any mobility concerns so we can advise on suitability. -
06 Can children participate in this day tour?
Yes, children are welcome on this tour. The pace is moderate, and our Egyptologists are skilled at engaging younger travellers with stories about ancient Egypt. Please ensure children are prepared for walking and sun exposure. -
07 What should I wear and bring for the High Dam, Philae Temple & Unfinished Obelisk Day Tour?
We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunglasses, and light, breathable clothing. Modest dress is advisable for religious sites like Philae Temple. Bring a reusable water bottle, sun cream, and a camera. -
08 What is the photography policy at the sites visited?
Photography is generally permitted at the Aswan High Dam, Philae Temple, and the Unfinished Obelisk. However, some areas might have restrictions, particularly inside certain temple sections. Your Egyptologist will advise on specific rules at each location. -
09 What is the best time of year to take this tour?
The cooler months from October to April are generally most comfortable for visiting Aswan's outdoor sites. Summer months, May to September, are very hot, so early morning starts are preferred to avoid the midday sun. -
10 Why is Philae Temple located on Agilkia Island?
Philae Temple was relocated to Agilkia Island between 1972 and 1980 by UNESCO to save it from being submerged by the rising waters of the Nile after the construction of the Aswan High Dam. The entire complex was dismantled and rebuilt on higher ground.
If plans change
Cancellation
- More than 30 days
- Full refund less a £50 admin fee
- 15–30 days
- 50% refund
- Within 14 days
- No refund – date changes considered case by case
Last updated 18 May 2026 Product ID: EXC-ASW-328591
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