Philae Temple was one of the highlights of our time in Aswan. There’s something special about approaching a temple by boat — palm trees swaying, the Nile sparkling, and then suddenly the shape of an ancient temple appearing on a distant island. It felt both adventurous and peaceful, like stepping into another world.
Getting to the Island
To reach Philae Temple, you’ll need to hop on a small motorboat driven by locals. The ride only takes about 10 to 15 minutes, but it’s a memorable part of the experience. As you skim across the water, you’ll pass the Aswan Dam — an impressive modern structure that forever changed the Nile.
Fun Fact: When the dam was built, all the crocodiles were pushed to the south. Since then, there haven’t been any crocodiles on the north side of the dam where Cairo and Luxor are located.
Arriving at the Temple
The closer you get, the better the views. From the water, the temple’s elaborate columns stand out, and you can imagine how this impressive site must have looked for ancient travellers arriving by boat.
One of the most remarkable things about Philae is that it isn’t in its original location. When the dam was built, rising waters threatened to submerge the ancient site. To save it, UNESCO undertook a massive relocation project, where the entire temple was dismantled stone by stone and rebuilt on higher ground — An impressive feat of preservation that took nearly a decade to complete.
Philae Temple
Philae Temple is dedicated mainly to the goddess Isis, though other gods such as Osiris and Horus are also honoured here. Much of the site is open-air, featuring wide courtyards and rows of columns, along with a few smaller inner rooms to explore. The carvings and hieroglyphics are remarkably detailed, and the whole complex feels both grand and approachable — easy to wander through at your own pace.
We spent about an hour exploring. The boys darted off looking for carvings, while Derek and I paused over the hieroglyphics and took in the views of the Nile.
Tips for Visiting Philae Temple with Kids
• Arrive early: The site is almost entirely open-air, so the midday sun can be intense. Morning visits are cooler, less crowded, and far more enjoyable for kids. Bring plenty of water, hats, and sunscreen.
• Tickets: You can buy tickets online or at the dock on the mainland. If purchasing in person, bring Egyptian pounds for entrance fees and tips. ATMs in Egypt can be unreliable—machines often run out of cash or reject cards, so it’s best to have local currency on hand before you go.
• Boat ride: The only way to reach Philae is by boat. Once you have your tickets, you’ll need to negotiate with local boatmen. Prices usually settle around 250 EGP round-trip, though the opening ask will be higher. Pay when you return, as the boat will wait at the dock while you explore.
• Timing: Expect to have about an hour at the temple. If you’d like more time, you can usually negotiate a longer stay for an additional fee.
• Guides: Unlike some other sites in Egypt, Philae doesn’t have a lot of signage. A guide can make a big difference in helping you understand the different areas and carvings. We didn’t hire one, but in hindsight, we wish we had.
• Extra costs: Skip the additional fee for the panoramic view. It’s just a small upper-level section, and the perspective isn’t worth the price.
• Photos: Locals may offer to take family photos for you, but they’ll expect a tip in return. Best to be prepared, or simply keep the camera in your own hands.
Should We Visit Abu Simbel?
Many travellers also use Aswan as a jumping-off point to visit Abu Simbel, one of Egypt’s most famous temples. Built by Ramses II and carved right into the mountainside, it’s especially famous for its four colossal statues at the entrance. Like Philae, Abu Simbel was also relocated piece by piece to protect it from flooding when the dam was built.
We considered visiting Abu Simbel, but decided against it. Abu Simbel is about a 3–4 hour drive each way, close to the Sudanese border, and at the time of our visit, road conditions and safety weren’t ideal. One day, we hope to experience Abu Simbel, but with two young kids, it felt like too much — too hot, too far, and too long a day. For adults, families with teens, or travellers with a strong interest in ancient history, it could be a fantastic addition. Just be prepared for a 10–12 hour round trip.
Where We Stayed
We stayed at CityMax Hotel, a 4-star property overlooking the Nile. From the rooftop pool, we could watch palm trees swaying and riverboats drifting along the water. Our two-bedroom suite with a sitting area was spacious and comfortable, making it perfect for the family. The only downside was the food, which didn’t quite match the quality of the accommodations. That said, there are plenty of restaurants within walking distance if you want more meal options.
A Morning at Philae
Philae Temple is a highlight of any Aswan visit, especially for families. The short boat ride to the island, the intricate carvings, and the open-air courtyards make it easy to explore at your own pace. It’s the kind of place where kids can wander and discover, while adults can take in the history and stunning Nile views. Even with just an hour to explore, the temple leaves a lasting impression and is well worth the time.
Ready to Explore Egypt?
Check out these related posts to help plan your trip:
• Discovering Egypt’s Pyramids with Kids
• 3 Days in Cairo with Kids
• Exploring Egypt’s White Desert and Whale Valley
• Karnak Temple in Luxor: Tips for visiting with Kids
• Exploring Kom Ombo, Edfu & Khnum Temples: A Family Guide
