Discover the genuine charm of El Nuba as you delve into the local lifestyle. During your stay, you'll have the chance to engage with the island's residents, participating in their daily routines and enjoying their warm hospitality up close.
- Enjoy a relaxing sailing trip on the Nile, taking in serene views and peaceful surroundings
- Join a collective dinner at El Gam3eya, the local gathering spot, where you can connect with the community and forge deeper connections
- Visit the Nubian Museum to explore Nubia’s ancient history and cultural heritage
- Discover the Nubian Village and shop for local souvenirs in colorful market
- Swim in the Nile and feel the unique weight and flow of its legendary waters
- Immerse yourself in the vibrant Nubian Zaffa celebration, dancing to lively Nubian beats
- Paddle a kayak back to Heissa island for a hands-on adventure
- Take a tuktuk to join local fishermen for a fishing adventure in traditional row boats
- Go on a guided tour to Philae Temple
- Visit to the Philae Temple for the Sound & Light Show
- Visit the Cataract Hotel, known for its rich history and elegant atmosphere
- Wander through vibrant stalls and explore the Aswan Market filled with local crafts, spices, and textiles
Your arrival in Aswan on day 1 should be between 10 AM and 1 PM . The departure time on day 5 is up to you.
Day 1
Welcome to El Nuba
Upon arrival, you'll be picked up from the airport or train station and transferred to Heissa Island. Settle into the accommodation and enjoy free time to unwind or explore at your own pace. Swim in the refreshing waters of the Nile and take in the serene surroundings. Kayak back to the island (optional activity), or enjoy a relaxing boat ride. Catch the sunset from a unique spot on the island and take in the stunning views. Have dinner at a unique local restaurant within the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Philae and savour a meal with a view of the magnificent Philae Temple. Maybe even visit the Philae Temple to experience the Sound & Light Show (optional activity).
- Take a boat ride and soak in the peaceful views of the Nile
- Swim in the Nile and feel the unique weight and flow of its legendary waters
- Paddle a kayak back to Heissa island for a hands-on adventure (optional activity)
- Watch the sunset from a scenic spot on Heissa island and capture the moment
- Dine at a local restaurant with views of Philae Temple, savouring Nubian flavours and history
- Visit to the Philae Temple for the Sound & Light Show (optional activity)
- Stay overnight at a local guesthouse and connect with the island’s locals, learning about their customs and traditions
Day 2
Live Like a Local
Start your morning with free time on Heissa Island, where you can relax and soak in the tranquil surroundings. Or, if you’re up for adventure, take a tuktuk and join the local fishermen for a fishing experience in traditional row boats or opt for a guided tour to Philae Temple (optional activities). Gather with the locals for a unique dinner preparation experience, join them in the kitchen as they share their traditional cooking techniques. Immerse yourself in the vibrant Nubian Zaffa celebration, dancing to the rhythmic beats of Nubian music and wrap up your day with a collective dinner at El Gam3eya, the local gathering spot, where you can connect with the community and get to know them on a deeper level.
New Years Edition:
Welcome the New Year with a lively Nubian Zaffa celebration on a private island, dancing to traditional Nubian beats. Skip the hands-on dinner preparations and collective meal at El Gam3eya for a night filled with music culture, and joy.
- Enjoy your morning on Heissa Island with free time to relax and soak in the peaceful surroundings
- Take a tuktuk to join local fishermen for a fishing adventure in traditional row boats, or choose a guided tour to Philae Temple (optional activities)
- Gather with the locals for a hands-on dinner preparation experience, learning their traditional cooking techniques
- Immerse yourself in the vibrant Nubian Zaffa celebration, dancing to lively Nubian beats
- Join a collective dinner at El Gam3eya, the local gathering spot, where you can connect with the community and forge deeper connections
Day 3
Sailing
Explore the Nubian Museum to uncover the rich history and cultural heritage of Nubia, or visit the lively Nubian Village to shop for colorful local souvenirs. Set sail on the Nile for a peaceful journey, surrounded by stunning views of the serene landscape. Enjoy lunch on the boat, savoring traditional dishes while drifting along the river. Discover the Cataract Hotel, a historic retreat offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into the past. Finish the day with a relaxed evening at home, listening to a Nubian Musical Performance featuring the enchanting sound of the Tamboura.
- Visit the Nubian Museum to explore Nubia’s ancient history and cultural heritage, or, discover the Nubian Village and shop for local souvenirs in colorful market
- Enjoy a relaxing sailing trip on the Nile, taking in serene views and peaceful surroundings
- Savor lunch on the boat
- Visit the Cataract Hotel, known for its rich history and elegant atmosphere
- Enjoy a Nubian Musical Performance featuring their main instrument, the Tamboura
Day 4
Live Like a Local
Depending on your departure time, there may be a chance to explore the Aswan Market before you leave the city.
- Wander through vibrant stalls and explore the Aswan Market filled with local crafts, spices, and textiles (depending on departure time)
Yasser's Guest House
Stay overnight at a local guesthouse to fully immerse yourself in the island’s vibrant customs and traditions. Enjoy the warmth of authentic local hospitality, share stories with friendly hosts, and gain a deeper understanding of the island’s cultural heritage. Experience a glimpse into daily life on the island, savour homemade meals and witness traditional practices that have been passed down through generations.
Seating area overlooking the Nile
Rooms
- double, triple, and quadruple rooms (feature a traditional Nubian layout and are decorated in the authentic Nubian style)
- shared bathrooms
- note that based on your chosen room category when booking, you may share accommodation with one or two fellow travelers
Bathrooms
- two shared bathrooms inside the house
- additional bathrooms available outside
What is included in the tour
- Accommodation as mentioned in the itinerary
- All meals as mentioned in the itinerary
- All activities as mentioned in the itinerary
- All transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
- Gazef accompanying chaperone
- First aid kit (first aid certified chaperones)
- All service charges and taxes
What is NOT included in the tour
- Meals other than mentioned in above itinerary
- Beverages
- Optional activities / tours
- Personal expenses
- Tipping
Non-Egyptians will incur an additional fee of $190 to cover essential permits, accommodation, and ticket price differences. Make sure you have this amount in cash to be paid to your trip chaperone at the start of the journey.
The Adventure Leader's primary role is to ensure your journey flows seamlessly. As your main point of contact throughout the trip, they're dedicated to enhancing your experience. Whether it's offering recommendations on activities or attractions, or facilitating interactions among travelers, they ensure everyone feels connected, although often connections form naturally.
Our groups are filled with solo travelers and like-minded individuals who share a passion for adventure and connecting with others. You'll feel right at home exploring with us.
We use private buses (Hiace), tuktuks, boats, and maybe taxis.
In Egypt, the power supply is Type C and F, with a standard voltage of 220V and a frequency of 50Hz.
You can expect a reliable network connection throughout the trip.
- Comfortable Clothing
- Comfortable Shoes
- Slippers
- Bathing Suit
- Towel
- Jacket
- Sun Protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses)
- Insect Repellent
- Camera / Waterproof GoPro (if available)
- Power Bank (if available)
- Speakers (if available)
Tipping directly supports local communities, benefiting drivers and suppliers. The tourism sector heavily depends on this support. While not obligatory, your tip is a meaningful 'thank you' for their service.
Does the mentioned duration of the trip include the transfer time from the hotel to the sights? Yes, it is an estimate of how long it would take to drive from the hotel to the sights, have a private guided tour, and drive back to the hotel.
Meet Yasser, our local partner in Aswan and one of Heissa Island's oldest and most respected residents. Yasser was one of the first to welcome travelers to the island and introduce homestays in El Nuba, paving the way for authentic cultural experiences. Known for his kindness, generosity, and extreme dedication, Yasser goes above and beyond to ensure that every moment is memorable for his guests, always adapting to their needs.
