Lake Nasser

Lake Nasser has a completely different Egyptian experience, characterized by massive expanses of tranquil waters set against the stark backdrop of the Sahara desert. Visitors typically explore the lake via multi-day cruises, which provide a deeply relaxing way to view the monumental rescue efforts of the 1960s. During the construction of the Aswan High Dam, UNESCO organized an incredible global effort to move several ancient Nubian temples, most famously Abu Simbel and the Philae Temple, to higher ground to save them from the rising waters. The lake is also highly prized by fishing enthusiasts seeking to catch the colossal Nile perch, an aggressive freshwater fish that grows to enormous sizes here. The shores are mostly uninhabited, meaning there are no traditional restaurants along the way; instead, visitors enjoy fresh fish and delicious Egyptian cuisine prepared onboard their cruise ships while watching the abundant birdlife and occasional Nile crocodile. Access to Lake Nasser begins in the southern city of Aswan, which has a major airport and train connections to Cairo. The peak season to take a Lake Nasser cruise is during the winter, from November to February, when the blazing sun of Upper Egypt is mellow enough to allow for pleasant exploration of the lakeside temples.

Nearby cities

Aswan

The sunniest city in southern Egypt, rich in Nubian culture.

Idfu

An Upper Egyptian city famous for its exceptionally well-preserved temple.

History & landmarks

Aswan High Dam

A monumental rock-fill dam built across the Nile in Aswan, creating Lake Nasser and controlling the river's annual flooding.

Nubian Museum

An archaeological museum located in Aswan dedicated to the history and culture of the Nubian people.

Nature

Lake Nasser

A massive reservoir in southern Egypt.

More places

Temple of Kalabsha

An ancient Egyptian temple that was originally located at Bab al-Kalabsha and moved due to the dam.

Aswan Dam Hydroelectric Plant

A massive hydroelectric plant at the Aswan Dam generating a large portion of Egypt's electricity.

Philae Temple

A temple complex on an island in the reservoir of the Aswan Low Dam, dedicated to the goddess Isis.

Kitchener's Island Botanical Garden

A lush garden on a Nile island in Aswan.

Elephantine Island Park

A peaceful park on a historic Nile island.

Abu Simbel Temples

Two massive rock temples in Nubia, carved out of the mountainside during the reign of Ramesses II.

Benban Solar Park

One of the largest solar parks in the world, located near Aswan.

Island near Abu Simbel

An island in Lake Nasser.