Aswan is a natural base for exploring Upper Egypt. The Nile valley temples at Kom Ombo and Edfu lie between here and Luxor, making them easy stops on a cruise or day trip by road.
Kom Ombo — About 45 kilometres north. The unusual double temple is half dedicated to the crocodile god Sobek and half to the falcon god Haroeris. Look for the ancient mummified crocodile, the Nilometer, and the wall carvings depicting medical instruments and an Egyptian calendar.
Edfu — About 105 kilometres north. The Temple of Horus is the best-preserved temple in Egypt, having spent most of its existence buried in sand. The falcon statues and reliefs depicting the defeat of Seth are impressive.
Luxor — About 200 kilometres north. The Valley of the Kings, Karnak, the Temple of Luxor — be prepared to turn your day trip into two or three days.
Abu Simbel — About 280 kilometres south. Leave early or drive down the night before to catch the sunrise over Lake Nasser gilding the four colossal statues of Ramesses II. The temples were moved block by block, complete with an artificial mountain, to save them from the rising waters of the dam.
