Brightly painted houses, camels resting in sandy lanes, the smell of hibiscus tea and a family welcoming you into their courtyard: a visit to a Nubian village is the warmest experience in Aswan. It is also a beautiful boat trip, past the granite boulders of the First Cataract to the west bank of the Nile. This guide explains who the Nubians are, what you do on the tour and how to plan your afternoon.
Nubian Village Tour at a Glance
| Details | |
|---|---|
| Start | 16:00 — pick-up from your hotel or Nile cruise in Aswan |
| Duration | About 4 hours |
| Runs | Daily |
| Getting there | By motorboat along the Nile, past the First Cataract |
| Included | English-speaking guide, boat fees and tickets, bottled water, taxes |
| Not included | Tips and personal expenses |
| Price | From $50 per person (6 people) to $75 for one person, private tour |
Book the private Trip to Nubian Village for any afternoon of your stay.
Who Are the Nubians?
Nubia is the land along the Nile between Aswan and northern Sudan, home to one of Africa’s oldest civilisations — the kingdom of Kush once ruled Egypt as its 25th Dynasty. Nubians have their own languages, music and architecture. When the High Dam created Lake Nasser in the 1960s, many Nubian villages were flooded and their people resettled, which makes the villages that remain around Aswan all the more precious as living culture.
What You Do on the Tour
- Boat ride. From Aswan the motorboat heads south past Elephantine Island and through the rocks of the First Cataract. Watch for herons and kingfishers on the rocks.
- The village. Land on the west bank near Soheil Island, opposite the old Aswan Dam, and walk through lanes of domed houses painted blue, yellow and pink.
- Meet a Nubian family. Sit in a traditional house, drink tea and learn about daily life, traditions and the Nubian language.
- Time to browse. Local markets sell spices, baskets, scarves and handmade crafts; henna painting is often on offer.
- Sunset on the Nile on the way back to your hotel or cruise ship.
Some Nubian homes keep baby crocodiles as a tradition and visitors are sometimes invited to hold one — entirely optional.
Respectful Visiting
- Ask before photographing people, especially women and children.
- Dress modestly — covered shoulders and knees are appreciated.
- Shopping is welcome but never obligatory; small purchases support local families.
- Carry small Egyptian pounds for tea, crafts or tips.
Make More of Your Afternoon
Because the tour starts at 16:00, it fits neatly after a morning visit to the High Dam, Unfinished Obelisk and Philae Temple. If you prefer to arrive the traditional way, read about the Nubian village day trip with a camel ride, or swap the motorboat for a sailing boat with a felucca ride in Aswan on another day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Nubian village worth visiting?
Yes. It is one of the few chances in Egypt to spend time with a local family in their home, and the boat ride through the First Cataract is beautiful in itself.
How long is the Nubian village tour?
About 4 hours, starting with pick-up at 16:00 so you return around sunset.
How do you get to the Nubian village from Aswan?
By motorboat along the Nile. Pick-up from your hotel or Nile cruise and the boat fees are included in the tour.
What else is there to do in Aswan?
Philae Temple, the High Dam, Abu Simbel and felucca sailing. See the full Aswan tours guide.
