Nubian Village Tour by Boat from Aswan

You are collected from your hotel or Nile cruise mooring in Aswan and taken to the landing, where a small motorboat waits for you. You travel along the river past natural parks and the rocky Nile cataracts that once stood in the way of boats sailing south. Your guide points out the islands, birdlife and landmarks along the way and tells you what to expect in the village. The boat ride is the first highlight of the day, and you arrive at Gharb Soheil relaxed and ready to explore.

You step ashore at Gharb Soheil, a Nubian village on the west bank, where your guide introduces you to the community and takes you into a traditional Nubian house. Nubians have their own language, which is spoken but not written, and your hosts explain how families, crafts and customs have been passed on by word of mouth. You see the courtyard, the decoration and the way a house is arranged, and you learn how life by the river has changed while many traditions have stayed.

You sit down to tea and Nubian drinks with your hosts, and you can try a henna design, a Nubian custom. You can also ride a camel if you wish, which is optional, and browse handmade crafts made by local artisans. There is no pressure to buy, and your guide helps with questions and translation. It is the unhurried part of the day, and a good opportunity to talk with the people who live here.

When you have finished, you board the motorboat again and head back along the Nile to Aswan, with another chance to enjoy the river, the islands and the light on the water. Your guide stays with you throughout, and you are taken back to your hotel or cruise mooring once the boat arrives. The tour ends there, usually with time left in the afternoon to rest or explore Aswan on your own.