Private Haif Day Tour to the Monastery of St.Simeon in Aswan
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover one of the most interesting location in Aswan , this Coptic monastery is the oldest and biggest monastery in the region of Aswan , the guide will explain to you the history of the monastery and he will show you a lot of details inside the monastery.
The guide will pick you up from your hotel and go to the monastery by road it takes about 45 minutes driving you will enjoy seeing the western desert of Aswan and some sand dunes around the monastery.
Available options
Van
Van: Toyota highace<br/>Pickup included
Sedan car up to 3 pers
Sedan: Byd & Kia <br/>Pickup included
What's included
Bottled water
Air-conditioned vehicle
Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Discover one of the best monuments in Aswan
The ruins of the old Christian monastery, the largest ancient Coptic architecture complex in Egypt, known as the monastery of St. Simeon, are located in the Aswan desert, in 700 meters from the west bank of the Nile, opposite to the island of Elephantine.
Coptic and Arabic historical sources are calling this monastery as the monastery of Anba-Hatra (Hidra, Hadri). The name of St. Simeon was given to this place much later. This is the last name, by which the monastery is known until our days, but the history of it's renaming is lost in the centuries. The Holy Hatra was an anchorite, consecrated by the bishop of Aswan Patriarch Theophilus (385-412) and who died in the time of Emperor Theodosius I (379-395). Whether the monastic settlement in this area existed before these times is unknown, but the wall paintings found in the rock caves under the brick ruins, date them by the VI-VII centenary.
What's not included
Gratuities
entrance fee to the monastery
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
IT
FR
ES
Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
You can wait in front of KFC restaurant on the kornish of Aswan and the guide will pick you up from there , he will be holding a signboard of your name .
About Aswan
Aswan is a charming city on the Nile River, known for its rich history, ancient temples, and stunning Nile landscapes. It offers a more relaxed and authentic Egyptian experience compared to the bustling cities of Cairo and Luxor.
Top Attractions
Philae Temple
A stunning temple complex dedicated to the goddess Isis, relocated to Agilkia Island due to the Aswan High Dam.
Historical
2-3 hours
EGP 180
Aswan High Dam
A massive dam on the Nile River, built to control flooding and generate hydroelectric power.
Historical
1-2 hours
EGP 10
Abu Simbel
A magnificent temple complex built by Ramses II, featuring colossal statues of the pharaoh.
Historical
Full day
EGP 300 (including transport)
Elephantine Island
An island in the Nile River with ancient ruins and a rich history dating back to the Old Kingdom.
Historical
2-3 hours
EGP 100
Nubian Museum
A museum dedicated to the history and culture of the Nubian people, featuring artifacts and exhibits.
Museum
1-2 hours
EGP 100
Must-Try Local Dishes
Ful Medames
A traditional fava bean dish, often served with falafel and tahini.
Breakfast
Vegetarian
Grilled Nile Fish
Fresh Nile fish grilled and served with garlic sauce and vegetables.
Dinner
Gluten-free
Koshari
A popular street food made with rice, lentils, pasta, and crispy onions, topped with tomato sauce.
Lunch
Vegetarian
Basbousa
A sweet semolina cake soaked in syrup, often flavored with coconut or rosewater.
Dessert
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Nile cruises
Fishing on Lake Nasser
Quad biking in the desert
Boat trips on the Nile
Spa treatments
Sunset cruises
Visiting Philae Temple
Exploring the Nubian Museum
Best Time to Visit
October to April
This period offers pleasant weather with cooler temperatures, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
18°C to 30°C
64°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Arabic
- Widely spoken: English, French
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Egyptian Pound (EGP)
Time Zone
EET (GMT+2)
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Aswan is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken to avoid scams and petty theft.
Important Precautions:
- • Bargain for prices in markets and taxis.
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or tours.
- • Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings.
Getting there
By air
- Aswan International Airport • 10 km from city center
By train
Aswan Railway Station
By bus
Aswan Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common form of public transport, connecting major areas within the city.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Careem
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Corniche El-Nil
Souq Area
West Aswan
Day trips
Abu Simbel
280 km • Full day
A stunning temple complex built by Ramses II, featuring colossal statues of the pharaoh.
Lake Nasser
50 km • Half day to full day
A vast artificial lake created by the Aswan High Dam, offering scenic views and water activities.
Kom Ombo
50 km • Half day
A temple complex dedicated to the crocodile god Sobek, offering insights into ancient Egyptian history.
Festivals
Aswan International Festival of Nubian Arts • February
Aswan Film Festival for Nubian Arts • October
Ramadan • Varies (Islamic calendar)
Pro tips
- Visit the Nubian villages for an authentic cultural experience.
- Take a felucca sailboat ride on the Nile at sunset for stunning views.
- Bargain for prices in markets and taxis to get the best deals.
- Carry small denominations of Egyptian pounds for tips and small purchases.
- Dress modestly and respect local customs, especially in religious sites.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
