Lake Nasser

بحيرة ناصر

A vast artificial lake created by the Aswan High Dam, stretching 500 kilometers south into Sudan, with pristine waters and remote desert landscapes. It's accessible mainly by cruise from Aswan and offers glimpses of relocated temples and unspoiled Nubian scenery.

Things to do

• Cruise to Abu Simbel temples — Visit the two colossal temples of Ramses II relocated to higher ground above Lake Nasser's waters, accessible via a full-day cruise from Aswan.
• Wildlife spotting on the lake — Observe Nile crocodiles, desert birds including eagles and herons, and occasional desert wildlife along the remote shorelines during early morning cruises.
• Visit Kalabsha Temple — Explore this relocated Nubian temple dedicated to the Nubian sun god Mandulis, situated on an island in the lake north of Abu Simbel.
• Desert landscape photography — Capture the dramatic contrast between pristine turquoise waters and golden Nubian desert cliffs that rise steeply from the lake's shores.
• Sunset viewing from the deck — Experience the stunning light show as the desert sun sets over the vast expanse of water, a highlight of most Lake Nasser cruises.
• Fishing expeditions — Participate in Nile perch and other freshwater fish fishing trips organized by cruise operators for both experienced and amateur anglers.
• Visit Amada Temple — Tour this well-preserved temple of Amenhotep III relocated to higher ground, featuring original reliefs and inscriptions from the 18th Dynasty.

Food to try

• Fresh Nile perch grilled whole — Locally caught fish seasoned with cumin, lemon, and herbs, a staple dish served aboard Lake Nasser cruises with exceptional freshness.
• Koshari with Nubian twist — The Egyptian comfort dish of rice, lentils, and pasta topped with tomato sauce and fried onions, often prepared with local variations on cruise ships.
• Ful medames with desert herbs — Slow-cooked fava bean paste infused with garlic and local desert herbs, traditionally eaten for breakfast on Nubian cruise itineraries.
• Roasted lamb with Nubian spices — Tender lamb prepared with a blend of cardamom, cinnamon, and cumin, reflecting Nubian culinary traditions served at formal cruise dinners.
• Fresh date and nut pastries — Locally sourced Nubian dates combined with almonds and walnuts in honey-soaked pastries, offered as desserts and snacks throughout the cruise.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect temple photography restrictions — Many relocated temples have specific areas where photography is forbidden; always ask your guide and respect signage to preserve these sacred and archaeological sites.
• Greet crew members with Arabic courtesy — Simple greetings like 'As-salamu alaikum' (peace be upon you) and 'Sabah al-khair' (good morning) are appreciated and reflect respect for Nubian hospitality traditions.
• Dress modestly at religious sites — When visiting temples and any mosques in nearby villages, women should cover shoulders and knees, and men should avoid shorts, as a sign of respect in this conservative region.
• Learn basic Egyptian Arabic phrases — Crew and local guides deeply appreciate visitors who attempt simple phrases like 'Shukran' (thank you) and 'Aywa' (yes), enhancing cross-cultural interaction on remote cruises.