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.
We don't visit touristic sites on this trip, so if it's your first time to visit Fayoum and you're interested in that, then this is probably not the trip for you.
- Go on a fishing trip with locals in traditional row boats
- Sail the Nile on a classic felucca boat
- Bake Sanasel bread like a local Nubian chef
- Kayak from Heissa Island to Tingar Beach, soaking in the scenic views
- Join the vibrant Nubian Zaffa Celebration with local festivities
- Dine with a local Island Elder and experience authentic cuisine
- Cook over an open wood fire and savor the flavors of traditional dishes
- Visit a local island home for an inside look at daily Nubian life
- Swim at Tingar Beach and enjoy the unique experience of Nile waters
- Explore a Nubian Village and immerse yourself in the local culture
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 will be picked up from the airport or train station and transferred to Heissa Island. Settle into our accommodation and enjoy the day at your leisure. Kayaks will be available for you to take one and go on a paddle to an island on the opposite side of our home stay, or you can opt for a relaxing boat ride. Take a refreshing swim and soak in the tranquility of the Nile's waters. Later, we'll return to Heissa island to catch the sunset at a unique place. After the sun sets, we'll return home for an early dinner. Experience the local hospitality and kindness that defines the island's people.
- Kayak from Heissa Island to Tingar Beach, soaking in the scenic views
- Swim at the beach and take a refreshing dip in the Nile's cool waters
- Dine with a local Island Elder and experience authentic cuisine
Day 2
Fisherman's Island
We'll wake up early to experience a day in the fishermen's lives. We'll move at 6am in the morning using local transportation to reach today's destination. A felucca ride followed by a tuktuk journey will lead us to Fisherman's Island (Gezeiret El Sayad), where we'll test our luck at fishing in traditional row boats. Once we've reeled in our catch, we'll indulge in the unique experience of grilling or frying our fresh fish for lunch. We'll also enjoy a Nubian musical performance featuring their main local instrument.
- Go on a fishing trip with locals in traditional row boats
- Cook over an open wood fire and savor the flavors of traditional dishes
- Ride a Tuktuk
- Enjoy a Nubian musical performance featuring their main local instrument
Day 3
Sailing
Today, we’ll learn the art of making Sanasel bread, the Nubian crepe-like bread. After breakfast, we'll head out to explore the Nubian Village. Take some time for shopping before we set sail along the Nile on a traditional sailing boat. As we glide along the river, we’ll watch the sunset and enjoy a lunch aboard. In the evening, we'll return back to the island.
- Bake Sanasel bread like a local Nubian
- Explore a Nubian Village and immerse yourself in the local culture
- Sail the Nile on a felucca boat
- Shop for unique local souvenirs and goodies
Day 4
Live Like a Local
Our morning begins with a visit to an island local's house, offering a glimpse into a different way of life. Here, you'll observe a unique perspective and approach to daily living. Then, we'll take the boat to Tingar beach, where we'll relax by the shore and have lunch. After lunch, we'll return home to enjoy the sunset over tea at 3am Sally's. We'll have some time to shower and freshen up, before head to El Gam3eya, a gathering place on Heissa Island where locals connect, play games, and host events. There, we'll share our final dinner and celebrate with a lively Nubian Zaffa, marking our last night together.
- Visit a local island home for an inside look at daily Nubian life
- Swim at Tingar Beach and enjoy the unique experience of Nile waters
- Join the vibrant Nubian Zaffa Celebration with local festivities
- Dance to Nubian beats
- Hang out with locals and get to know them on a deeper level
Day 5
Free Day
On our last morning in Aswan, seize the opportunity to explore the soul of the city one last time before we bid farewell. Depending on departure time, there may be a chance to explore Aswan souq before your journey concludes.
- Aswan Souq (depending on departure time)
Yasser's Guest House
- 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
Sally's House
- seating area overlooking the Nile
- seating area inside the house
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
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 Sally, our local guide in Aswan and one of Heissa Island's oldest and most respected residents. Sally was 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, Sally goes above and beyond to ensure that every moment is memorable for his guests, always adapting to their needs with a warm smile. Despite his age, Sally is full of energy and moves with impressive speed. Let him guide you through his hometown and experience unparalleled warmth and hospitality.
