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), so share with travellers 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.
