Aswan is one of Egypt's most affordable cities. Food, transport, and accommodation are cheaper than Luxor, though the Abu Simbel day trip is a significant single expense.
Daily cost breakdown
Currency: EGP (Pound) (1 USD ≈ 48 EGP)
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Splurge | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | E£200–500 | E£700–1,500 | E£3,000+ | Hostels → 3-star Nile view → Old Cataract Hotel |
| Food | E£80–180 | E£250–500 | E£800+ | Street food → Corniche restaurants → hotel dining |
| Transport | E£30–100 | E£150–300 | E£500+ | Ferry & walking → taxis → private boat & driver |
| Activities | E£400–700 | E£1,000–2,000 | E£4,000+ | Philae & felucca → all sites → Abu Simbel flight |
| Daily Total | E£710–1,480 | E£2,100–4,300 | E£8,300+ | $15–31 → $44–90 → $173+ |
Money-saving tips
Local ferry is E£5
The local public ferry to Elephantine Island costs E£5. Tourist motorboats charge E£50–100. Same destination, same crossing — the local ferry is part of the Aswan experience.
Share feluccas and Abu Simbel
Feluccas cost per boat (not per person) — share with travelers from your hotel. Abu Simbel shared minibuses are E£600–1,000 vs E£3,000+ private. Ask your hotel to group you with others.
Aswan Souk spice prices
Spices in the Aswan Souk are half the price of Luxor and a third of Cairo. Stock up here. Hibiscus E£10–20 per bag, saffron E£50–100, mixed spice sets E£30–50.
Skip the High Dam
The Aswan High Dam (E£100) is underwhelming — it's a concrete wall with a view. The Unfinished Obelisk (E£200) is far more interesting. Combine it with a half-day taxi including Philae for E£400–600.
Nubian village meals
Eating in the Nubian villages on the West Bank is cheaper and more authentic than Corniche restaurants. Tea is often free and meals cost E£50–100 for traditional home-cooked Nubian food.
Fly to Abu Simbel off-season
EgyptAir flies Aswan to Abu Simbel (35 minutes, $100–150 return) — saving 7 hours of driving. Off-season prices can drop to $80 return. Worth considering if your time is limited.
