- DurationApprox. 2 hours (about 1 hour sailing)
- Tour typePrivate tour
- StartsPickup from your Aswan hotel or Nile cruise
- PriceFrom $35 per person based on 6+ travellers
OverviewItineraryWhat’s includedPricesFAQ
Tour Overview
An Aswan felucca ride is the simplest pleasure in southern Egypt: an hour on a traditional wooden sailing boat, moving only with the wind, through the rocky channels where the Nile narrows above the First Cataract. Aswan’s stretch of river is the prettiest in the country, with black granite boulders, palm-covered islands and golden dunes rising on the west bank.
Your felucca is private, with its own Nubian captain, and your guide points out the landmarks as you sail: Elephantine Island and its ancient town, the gardens of Kitchener’s Island, the domed Aga Khan Mausoleum and the rock tombs of Qubbet el-Hawa. Late afternoon is the favourite time, when the light turns gold and the river is calm.
Highlights
- A private wooden felucca with its own captain, just for your group
- Sailing between the granite boulders of Elephantine Island
- Views of Kitchener’s Island, the Aga Khan Mausoleum and the Tombs of the Nobles
- Tea or soft drinks on board
- Sunset sailing on request
- Hotel pickup, drop-off and English-speaking guide included
Itinerary
Pickup and transfer to the riverbank
Your guide meets you at your hotel or Nile cruise at the agreed time and takes you by air-conditioned vehicle to the felucca landing on the Corniche, usually a drive of only a few minutes. If your hotel is on the Corniche, you can simply walk down to the boat together.
Board your felucca
Step aboard a traditional wooden felucca with cushioned seating and a shade awning. The captain raises the large triangular sail and you push off into the current. Tea or a soft drink is served on board while your guide explains how these boats have carried people and cargo on the Nile for thousands of years.
Elephantine Island and the cataract rocks
Sail along Elephantine Island, home to Egypt’s southern frontier town for 3,000 years, and between the smooth granite boulders at its southern tip. Your guide points out the Nilometer steps, the ruins of the Temple of Khnum and the colourful Nubian houses of the island villages.
Kitchener’s Island and the west bank
Tack past the tall palms of Kitchener’s Island, now the Aswan Botanical Garden, with views across to the Aga Khan Mausoleum on its hill and the rock-cut Tombs of the Nobles below the domed shrine of Qubbet el-Hawa. The exact route depends on the wind that day.
Return to shore and drop-off
After about an hour on the water, the captain brings you back to the landing. Your guide accompanies you back to your hotel or cruise. If you would like longer on the water, a two- or three-hour sail with a stop at the botanical garden can be arranged.
Good to know: Feluccas depend on the wind. On a calm day the captain may be towed by a small motorboat for part of the route, and the exact route can change.
What’s Included
Included
- Pickup and drop-off at your Aswan hotel or Nile cruise
- Private felucca with captain for about one hour
- English-speaking guide
- Tea or soft drinks on board and bottled water
- All taxes and service charges
Not included
- Entrance to the Botanical Garden or Nubian village (optional add-ons)
- Longer sailing times (on request)
- Personal expenses
- Tips for the captain and guide
Prices
| Group size | Price per person |
|---|---|
| Single traveller | $109 |
| 2 travellers | $59 |
| 3–5 travellers | $45 |
| 6+ travellers | $35 |
Per person in USD. Child prices depend on age and the services included – ask us for a child price before you book.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of day for a felucca ride?
Late afternoon, about an hour before sunset, is the most popular time for its soft light and cooler air. Morning sails are quieter and often have a steadier breeze. In summer, avoid the middle of the day, when the sun on the water is intense.
Is it safe for children?
Yes. Feluccas sail slowly on calm water and the captains are experienced local sailors. Children should stay seated while the boat is moving, and we can provide life jackets on request. The boats have no toilet, so plan for that before boarding.
Can we extend the sail or add a stop?
Yes. A two- or three-hour sail can include a walk in the Botanical Garden on Kitchener’s Island or a stop near a Nubian village on the west bank. Entrance tickets and the extra time are quoted when you book.
What if there is no wind?
Wind on the Nile is never guaranteed. On still days the captain may use a small motorboat to tow the felucca for part of the route, so you still complete the sail. If conditions are poor, we can move your sail to another time during your stay.
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Want to combine tours or change anything? Contact us or message us on WhatsApp and we will tailor it for you.
