Aswan Corniche & Feluccas
The Corniche is Aswan's free riverside promenade along the East Bank, facing Elephantine Island. It is where you hire a felucca to sail around the islands; 1–2 hours is the ideal length, starting late afternoon so you catch the sunset.
Aswan's Corniche follows the East Bank of the Nile right through the town centre, and the river in front of it is the most scenic stretch of its whole course in Egypt: black granite boulders, green islands, the white sails of feluccas, and golden dunes climbing the West Bank.
Straight across the water is Elephantine Island, with the botanical garden on Kitchener's Island behind it. On the far shore stand the Aga Khan Mausoleum and the rock-cut tombs of Qubbat al-Hawa.
The Corniche is where you pick up a felucca, the traditional Nile sailing boat, for a loop around the islands, or a motorboat out to the Nubian villages.
What to see
- A sunset felucca around Elephantine and Kitchener's Island
- Views of the West Bank dunes and tombs
- Riverside cafés and restaurants
- The public ferry to Elephantine
Visiting
- Opening hours: open at all times
- Feluccas: settle the price, route and timing before you leave; 1–2 hours is ideal
- Best time: late afternoon to sunset
- Nearby: Aswan Souk, Old Cataract Hotel, Nubia Museum
Getting there
Coordinates: 24.0905, 32.8955
Frequently asked questions
How do I hire a felucca in Aswan?
Feluccas wait along the Corniche. Agree the price, the route and the length of the trip with the captain before you set off.
How long should a felucca ride in Aswan be?
One to two hours is ideal, leaving in the late afternoon to be out around Elephantine and Kitchener's Island at sunset.
Can you swim from a felucca in Aswan?
Only stop for a swim off the sandy West Bank in winter or when the water is calm, and never near the dam.