Lake Nasser

Imagine a place where the golden silence of the Sahara meets the deep, shimmering blue of one of the world’s largest man-made lakes. Created by the Aswan High Dam in the 1960s, Lake Nasser is not just a reservoir; it is a submerged empire of ancient Nubia, a sanctuary for gargantuan Nile Perch, and the ultimate escape for travelers seeking the "Egypt of old"—away from the bustling crowds of the northern Nile.

Why You Should Visit Lake Nasser

While most travelers stick to the Luxor-to-Aswan route, those who venture "behind the dam" find a completely different world.

• Exclusive Access to Temples: Many of the monuments here, including the world-famous Abu Simbel, were painstakingly moved stone-by-stone to higher ground. Visiting them via the lake feels like discovering a secret; often, yours will be the only boat docked at a site.
• Unmatched Serenity: Without the constant hum of the northern Nile's river traffic, Lake Nasser offers total tranquility. The stargazing here is among the best in Africa due to the lack of light pollution.
• The Land of the Pharaohs’ Giants: It is the only place in Egypt where you can still spot the legendary Nile Crocodile and where anglers from across the globe come to battle the massive Nile Perch.

What to Do in Lake Nasser

1. Embark on a Luxury Lake Cruise

The quintessential Lake Nasser experience. Ships like the Mövenpick Prince Abbas or the Steigenberger Omar El Khayam offer 3- to 4-night journeys between Aswan and Abu Simbel. Unlike the standard Nile cruise, these focus on the desolate, beautiful scenery of the Nubian Desert.

2. Behold the Majesty of Abu Simbel

Carved into a solid rock cliff by Ramses II, these temples are a masterpiece of ancient engineering. Arriving by boat allows you to see the statues of Ramses and Queen Nefertari as they were meant to be seen: rising majestically from the water’s edge.

3. Explore the "Rescued" Temples

• Wadi El Sebua: Known as the "Valley of the Lions," this temple features a stunning avenue of sphinxes.
• Kalabsha Temple: Often the first stop from Aswan, it’s a Roman-era gem dedicated to the Nubian sun god, Mandulis.
• Temple of Amada: The oldest temple in Nubia, famous for its incredibly well-preserved, vibrant wall paintings.

4. Monster Fishing Safaris

For adventure seekers, Lake Nasser is the premier destination for freshwater fishing. Dedicated "fishing safaris" take you into remote areas to catch Nile Perch that can weigh over 80kg (176 lbs).