- Philae Temple
- Kalabsha Temple
- Nubian Museum
A day trip to the Philae and Kalabsha Temples, combined with a visit to the Nubian Museum in Aswan, is a captivating journey into the heart of ancient Nubian civilization. These sites offer a glimpse into the rich history, culture, and architectural brilliance of a region that once thrived along the Nile. Here’s what you can expect from this unforgettable experience:
The day begins with a visit to the stunning Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis, one of the most important deities in ancient Egyptian religion. Located on Agilkia Island, the temple was originally situated on Philae Island but was meticulously relocated to its current location during the UNESCO rescue mission in the 1960s to save it from the rising waters of Lake Nasser after the construction of the Aswan High Dam.
Historical Significance: The temple complex dates back to the Ptolemaic and Roman periods (around 300 BCE to 300 CE), though its origins trace even further back to the 26th Dynasty. It served as a major center for the worship of Isis and was a pilgrimage site for centuries.
Highlights: The temple features beautifully preserved reliefs, including depictions of Isis, Osiris, and Horus, as well as Roman emperors making offerings to the gods. The Kiosk of Trajan, with its elegant columns, is a standout feature.
Atmosphere: The serene island setting, surrounded by the Nile’s blue waters, adds to the temple’s mystical charm.
Next, head to Kalabsha Temple, located near the High Dam. This temple is one of the largest free-standing temples in Nubia and was also relocated during the UNESCO campaign. Dedicated to the Nubian sun god Mandulis (a local form of Horus), the temple was built during the Roman era under Emperor Augustus.
Historical Significance: Kalabsha Temple showcases a blend of Egyptian and Roman architectural styles. It was constructed on the site of an earlier structure from the 18th Dynasty of the New Kingdom.
Highlights: The temple’s well-preserved reliefs depict Roman emperors as pharaohs, offering gifts to the gods. The Nilometer, used to measure the Nile’s water levels, is another fascinating feature.
Cultural Insight: The temple provides a unique perspective on the syncretism of Egyptian and Nubian religious practices.
The final stop of the day is the Nubian Museum, a modern institution dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history and culture of Nubia. Opened in 1997, the museum is a testament to the resilience and creativity of the Nubian people.
Historical Significance: The museum houses artifacts spanning thousands of years, from prehistoric times to the modern era. It highlights the impact of the Aswan High Dam on Nubian communities and the international effort to save Nubian monuments.
Highlights: The exhibits include statues, pottery, jewelry, and tools from ancient Nubian kingdoms like Kush and Meroe. A replica of a traditional Nubian house offers insight into the daily life and architecture of the region.
Cultural Insight: The museum also emphasizes the importance of Nubian language, music, and traditions, ensuring that this vibrant culture is not forgotten.
This day trip is more than just a tour of ancient sites; it’s a journey through time. From the spiritual allure of Philae Temple to the grandeur of Kalabsha Temple and the cultural richness of the Nubian Museum, you’ll gain a deep appreciation for the history and heritage of Nubia. The temples’ relocation stories also highlight the global effort to preserve humanity’s shared cultural legacy.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a culture lover, or simply someone seeking beauty and inspiration, this day trip offers an unforgettable experience that connects you to the timeless wonders of the Nile.
Aswan is a city in Southern Egypt, and is the capital of the Aswan Governorate.
Your Egyptologist tour guide will pick you up from your Nile cruise or hotel in Aswan to visit the temple of Kalabsha. When the High Dam was built between 1960-1970, a number of ancient temples were moved to an Island near Aswan. The most significant monument is the Kalabsha temple, dedicated to the Nubian god Mandaulis, the Temple was originally located 50 km south of Aswan. It was built around 30 BC during the early Roman era, on the site of a much older temple.
After that, visit the Philae Island to explore the most impressive temple of Goddess Isis. It is a temple complex built through the ancient history from the Pharaohs time until the Roman time. Visit the temple by motorboat then have lunch at local restaurant.
Proceed to visit the Nubian Museum, a showcase of the history, art and culture of Nubian civilization. The museum was established in 1997, in cooperation with Unesco, it is a reminder of what was lost beneath Lake Nasser. The Museum offers artefacts; objects start with prehistoric from the Kingdom of Kush and Meroe. The Coptic and Islamic art displays lead to a description of the massive Unesco project to move Nubia’s most important historic monuments away from the rising waters of Lake Nasser, following the building of the Aswan High Dam. You will then be returned to your accommodation in Aswan.
| Adults Numbers | Price/Person |
|---|---|
| Single | 140 $ |
| 2 -3 | 85 $ |
| 4 – 6 | 75 $ |
| 7 – 10 | 70 $ |
| 11 – 15 | 65 $ |
Tour price currency is set to USD but you can pay in Euro or British pound. The prices quoted per person per tour all-inclusive of tax and prices are always updated to ensure you receive the lowest price possible. Once your tour is confirmed we guarantee the price will not be changed.
0 – 05.99 free of Charge.
6 – 11.99 pay 50% of tour price.
12+ pay full tour price as per adult person.
Children policy is not applied on all kinds of transportation (Flight, train or bus) full ticket payment is required
We are offering a considerable down payment of just 25% to secure your spaces on the tour including domestic flight ticket, and other travel-related services. The remaining balance can be paid up to two days prior to your arrival date or in cash upon arrival at the destination. Therefore, making your booking a risk-free investment.
Ancient Egypt Tours does not charge a cancellation fee for tours and excursions canceled for ‘force measures reasons such as volcanoes, earthquakes, or reasons beyond control. If cancellation happens due to personal or business reasons and Ancient Egypt Tours has already incurred costs on your behalf, these costs will not be refunded to you.
To receive a full refund, travelers may cancel up to 24 hours before the experience start time in the local time zone. No refunds will be given after that time period.
Flight & train tickets are nonrefundable
After your tour is confirmed, we will email final confirmation and voucher to print and bring with you. Details will include contact numbers of your tour operator and customer care and additional information for your convenience.
21 Days All Egypt Sightseeing includes a visit to the ruins of the former Christian holy city . Additionally, it contain a church, a baptistery, basilicas, public buildings, streets, monasteries, houses, and workshops. Surprisingly, Builders established them over the tomb of Menas of Alexandria.
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Welcome to Egypt. Our airport transfer team is available 24/7. As soon as you get out of the exit gate of the Terminal, you will find Ancient Egypt Tours representative, holding a sign, waiting to meet and greet you. He will escort you to your private A/C vehicle. You will be transferred to the hotel and the reception manager will assist you in check-in procedures as smooth as possible. Ancient Egypt Tours agent will contact you to agree on a meeting time with you
In case you arrive early then check-in limit you can enjoy waiting in the hotel until check-in time or you can ask your operator to book you a pre-tour extra night and get checked in immediately
Optional Tour:
2-hour open buffet dinner Nile cruise including a belly dancer, local band and skirt rotation performer if your tour starts in Cairo
Sound and Light show if available
| Adults Numbers | Price/Person |
|---|---|
| Single | 480$ |
| 2 -3 | 550$ |
| 4 – 6 | 600$ |
| 7 – 10 | 600$ |
| 11 – 15 | 600$ |
Tour price currency is set to USD but you can pay in Euro or British pound. The prices quoted per person per tour all-inclusive of tax and prices are always updated to ensure you receive the lowest price possible. Once your tour is confirmed we guarantee the price will not be changed.
0 – 05.99 free of Charge.
6 – 11.99 pay 50% of tour price.
12+ pay full tour price as per adult person.
Children policy is not applied on all kinds of transportation (Flight, train or bus) full ticket payment is required
We are offering a considerable down payment of just 25% to secure your spaces on the tour including domestic flight ticket, and other travel-related services. The remaining balance can be paid up to two days prior to your arrival date or in cash upon arrival at the destination. Therefore, making your booking a risk-free investment.
Ancient Egypt Tours does not charge a cancellation fee for tours and excursions canceled for ‘force measures reasons such as volcanoes, earthquakes, or reasons beyond control. If cancellation happens due to personal or business reasons and Ancient Egypt Tours has already incurred costs on your behalf, these costs will not be refunded to you.
To receive a full refund, travelers may cancel up to 24 hours before the experience start time in the local time zone. No refunds will be given after that time period.
Flight & train tickets are nonrefundable
After your tour is confirmed, we will email final confirmation and voucher to print and bring with you. Details will include contact numbers of your tour operator and customer care and additional information for your convenience.
