Nubian Village in Aswan, Egypt: The Ultimate Travel Guide for 2025

Planning a trip to Aswan? Don’t miss the Aswan Nubian Village—Egypt’s most colorful and welcoming spot. Here’s your ultimate guide with tips, what to do, and how to get there.

The Nubian Village was honestly one of the most colorful, joyful, and welcoming places I visited in Egypt. Between the hand-painted houses, the friendly locals, and those peaceful Nile views, it quickly became one of my favorite things to do in Aswan.

If you’re unsure whether it’s just a tourist trap or actually worth your time—or thinking it’s all about taking pretty Instagram selfies (it’s so much more than that!)—don’t worry, I’ve got you.

In this guide, I’ll show you exactly how to visit the Nubian Village in Aswan—how to get there, what to do, where to stay, and most importantly, how to enjoy the Nubian Village in a way that’s both meaningful and respectful.

This blog post is all about visiting the Nubian Village in Aswan

Who Are the Nubians? Must-Know Facts Before You Visit

Before diving into all the fun things to do in the Aswan Nubian Village, it’s important to understand a bit about the people who live there.

Nubians are one of the oldest ethnic groups in Africa, with roots in what’s now southern Egypt and northern Sudan. They’re known for their colorful homes, unique language, and deep cultural traditions—many of which have survived despite centuries of change and displacement.

Here are a few quick facts to help you get to know them better:

• Nubia is the historic region along the Nile between Egypt and Sudan.
• Their ancient kingdoms—Ta-Seti, Kerma, and Kush—were powerful and even rivaled Ancient Egypt.
• The Nubian language is still spoken today, but it’s passed down orally, not written.
• Nubian homes are known for their rounded domes and bright, colorful murals. 
• When the Aswan High Dam was built in the 1960s, many Nubian villages were flooded, and families had to relocate.
• Nubians are famous for their hospitality, music, dance, and tight-knit community life. Many also have a darker complexion and striking blue or green eyes.

Queen Nefertari, the beloved wife of Ramses II, is believed by some historians to have been Nubian. Ramses was so devoted to her that he built her a temple right next to his at Abu Simbel—an honor rarely given to a queen.

Planning to see it yourself? Don’t miss my full guide to the Aswan to Abu Simbel day trip!

Wait—Which Aswan Nubian Village Are We Talking About?

This might sound silly, but when I was planning my trip to Aswan, I kept seeing “Nubian Village” mentioned everywhere—and honestly, I had no clue which one people meant. It got confusing fast.

Here’s what I figured out:

The Nubian Village most travelers are referring to is Gharb Soheil, on the west bank of the Nile near Aswan. It’s the one with the colorful, hand-painted houses, camel rides, friendly locals, spice markets, and dreamy boat rides. If you’re planning a visit—this is the one you want.

There are also Nubian neighborhoods on Elephantine Island, which are lovely but much quieter and more residential. And that “Nubian Village” in Sharm El Sheikh? It’s actually just a resort, not a real village.

If you’re heading to Gharb Soheil on your own, I highly recommend getting an Airalo eSIM. It came in super handy for translation, directions, and even finding those perfect Instagram spots while exploring.

How to Get to the Nubian Village in Aswan

The most popular (and in my opinion, the most fun) way to get to the Nubian Village in Aswan is by boat. You’ll float down the Nile, passing swaying palm trees, sandy banks, and little river islands. It genuinely feels like a mini Nile cruise!

Most boats leave from the Corniche area in Aswan, especially near the McDonald’s or the Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Hotel (which, by the way, is my absolute favorite place to stay in Aswan!). But even if you just stroll along the river, someone will usually offer you a boat ride within a few minutes.

Here are your main options:

• Private Motorboat: This is what I did, and I loved it. You can leave whenever you want, set your own pace, and enjoy the ride without a crowd. Price: Around 300–500 EGP ($6–10 USD) round trip per boat, depending on your haggling skills.
• Group Tour: A more budget-friendly option that usually includes a guide and sometimes bundles in other attractions like Philae Temple. Easy to book online or through your hotel.
• Felucca: These traditional Egyptian sailboats are slow, peaceful, and super scenic—but wind-dependent. Great if you have time, not ideal if you’re in a rush.
• Car or Tuk-Tuk Only worth it if you’re already on the west bank. Definitely not as scenic or relaxing as the boat ride. There’s no Uber in Aswan, but you can use apps like InDrive instead.

The boat ride takes anywhere from 20 to 40 minutes, depending on your departure point and boat type. You’ll be dropped off right at Gharb Soheil, the main Nubian Village—everything there is easy to explore on foot.

Travel Tip: I use Skyscanner to find the best flight deals to Egypt and 12Go for booking trains and buses around the country. If you do want to rent a car (though I don’t personally recommend it), DiscoverCars lets you compare rental prices easily.

10 Best Things to Do in the Nubian Village in Aswan

Once you arrive at the Nubian Village in Aswan, you can just wander and take it all in—but if you like having a bit of a plan, here are 10 amazing things to do that I genuinely enjoyed (and think you will too).

1. Wander Through the Colorful Nubian Houses

The best way to kick off your visit? Just walk.Gharb Soheil, the most popular Nubian Village in Aswan, is full of domed mudbrick homes decorated with vibrant, hand-painted murals. 

You’ll see powder-blue walls, bright yellow doors, orange staircases, and artwork featuring camels, crocodiles, and gods like Horus (yes—the same Horus you’ll meet again at Edfu Temple).

Some murals share family stories or scenes from Nubian daily life. I even spotted a school painted with cartoon children. It’s all incredibly colorful, personal, and perfect for photos.

2. Experience Real Nubian Hospitality

Nubian hospitality is famous—and yet it still surprised me with how warm and genuine it felt. From the moment I stepped off the boat, I was greeted with big smiles and welcoming “Ahlan wa sahlan!” everywhere I went.

Most tours include a visit to a local home, but I was lucky to be invited in just by walking around. I ended up sipping hibiscus tea, nibbling on fresh dates, and chatting with the kids while they shyly practiced their English.

The houses are modest but full of charm, often centered around open-air courtyards with high, curved ceilings that help keep things cool—especially useful during Egypt’s hottest months, when the heat can be brutal.

3. Meet the Crocodiles

This one’s a bit controversial. Some Nubian families keep live crocodiles in tanks—an old tradition tied to protection, strength, and fertility. These days, it’s mostly a tourist attraction.

You might be invited to take a photo with one or see a baby crocodile up close for a small tip. I chose not to go inside—the tanks felt too cramped for me—but it’s still a part of local culture, so it’s up to you to decide what feels right.

Fun Fact: Crocodiles were once worshipped in ancient Egypt. You can learn more about that in my guide to the Temple of Kom Ombo, where the crocodile god Sobek was honored.

4. Get a Henna Tattoo

Henna is a big part of Nubian and Sudanese culture, especially during weddings and celebrations. In the village, you’ll see local women offering quick henna designs on hands, wrists, or feet.

It’s completely painless, lasts about a week, and only cost me 70 EGP (1.4 USD)

It’s also a beautiful way to support local women who rely on tourism—and let’s be real, it’s a souvenir that won’t weigh down your backpack. A win if you’re trying to stop overpacking.

5. Go Shopping

I didn’t expect to love shopping in the Aswan Nubian Village—but I really did. Yes, it’s touristy, but many of the goods are actually handmade, and the sellers are way more relaxed than in places like Khan el-Khalili in Cairo.

Here’s what you’ll find:

• Bright beaded necklaces and woven baskets
• Colorful galabiyas, scarves, and embroidered bags
• Hand-painted pottery and spices like hibiscus, cumin, and saffron

Prices are often better than in Cairo or Luxor, but you’ll definitely want to haggle. Not sure where to start? Check out my guide to haggling while traveling—it’s packed with tips to help you feel confident and get a fair deal!

6. Snap All the Photos

The Nubian Village is hands down one of the most photogenic places I visited in Egypt. Every corner bursts with color—painted houses, camels in tassels, vibrant spice stalls, and rooftops overlooking the Nile.

Want that Instagram-famous overhead rooftop shot? Head to the café at Onaty Ka Guesthouse next door. You don’t need to stay overnight, but I definitely recommend grabbing a drink—it’s an easy and respectful way to access the view.

Bonus Tip: Visit in the early morning or late afternoon. The soft golden light makes the colors pop, and you’ll avoid both the midday heat and crowds.

7. Ride a Camel

If you’ve never ridden a camel before, the Nubian Village is a great place to give it a try. It’s relaxed, beginner-friendly, and you’ll usually see camels waiting by the riverbank. Rides typically cost around 150–200 EGP for 10–15 minutes.

I skipped it this time (I’d just ridden one at the Giza Pyramids), but it was still fun watching them pass by—often led by kids who looked way too young to be leading camels!

Just a heads up: make sure the animal looks healthy and is treated well. Unfortunately, animal mistreatment is still an issue in Egypt. I touch on that in my honest post about why Egypt might not be worth visiting.

8. Visit the Temple of Khnum

Just beyond the Nubian Village, you’ll find a quiet little gem: the Temple of Khnum, dedicated to the ram-headed god believed to control the source of the Nile.

It’s not as grand as Karnak or Luxor—but that’s exactly the appeal. It’s peaceful, uncrowded, and a great spot to soak in some mythology without the crowds.

I didn’t get to visit on my last trip, but it’s high on my list for next time. If you love ancient ruins or quieter sites, ask your boat captain to include it in your route.

9. Learn More at the Nubian Museum

The Nubian Museum isn’t inside the village, but it’s 100% worth visiting while you’re in Aswan. It dives deep into Nubian history, culture, and the effects of the Aswan High Dam, which displaced many local families.

Inside, you’ll find ancient tools, jewelry, pottery, and beautifully curated exhibits that give real context to everything you’ll see in Gharb Soheil. I recommend visiting either before or after your village trip.

And if you’re a museum lover, don’t miss my full Grand Egyptian Museum guide while planning your Egypt itinerary.

10. Watch the Sunset Over the Nile

Honestly, this might have been my favorite part of the whole day.

Try to time your boat ride back to Aswan with sunset. As the sun drops low, the Nile turns gold and pink, the breeze kicks in, and the entire river feels calm and magical.

If you can, take a felucca back instead of a motorboat. It’s slower, sure—but so quiet and peaceful, it’s the perfect way to end your Nubian Village adventure.

Do I Need a Guide to Visit the Aswan Nubian Village?

Short answer? No—you don’t need a guide. Visiting the Aswan Nubian Village is totally doable (and safe!) on your own. It’s perfect if you want the freedom to wander at your own pace, take a hundred photos, and soak up the atmosphere without being rushed.

That said, if you prefer having everything arranged, plenty of Egypt tours—and even some Nile cruises—offer the Nubian Village as an optional add-on. You can also book a guided visit through your Aswan hotel or online with platforms like GetYourGuide or Klook.

A guided tour typically includes:

• A round-trip boat ride
• A visit to a Nubian family home
• A local guide who’ll share insights into Nubian culture, history, and traditions

It’s a great choice if you’re short on time or want deeper context during your visit.

Bonus Tip: Combine the Nubian Village with a visit to Philae Temple. Both can be included in a beautiful Nile cruise experience, and they complement each other perfectly.You can read more about that in my full Philae Temple guide here.

Where to Eat in the Aswan Nubian Village

You won’t find any 5-star restaurants in the Nubian Village—instead, the best meals come from family kitchens and small, relaxed cafés. It’s not fancy, but it’s fresh, home-cooked, and absolutely delicious.

Here are some of the best places to eat in the Nubian Village in Aswan:

• Kato Dool Restaurant:  Probably the most well-known place to eat in Gharb Soheil. It’s colorful, casual, and has a great view of the Nile. You’ll usually find tagines, grilled chicken, molokhia, rice, and fresh salads on the menu.
• Anakato Café & Rooftop: Perfect if you just want tea, fresh juice, or a light bite. It’s super chill—great for an afternoon break. Their karkadeh (hibiscus tea) was one of the best I’ve had.
• Makani Coffee: I popped in for a vanilla caramel coffee and it was delicious. A great way to cool off when the heat kicks in. (You can find it on Google maps)
• Kandaka Restaurant: Good food, friendly staff, and really fair prices. 
• La Wanda Café: Attached to a colorful guesthouse, this café is as photogenic as it is relaxing. It’s a great place to hang out with a coffee and light snack.

Some of the most popular dishes include ful medames (fava beans), grilled fish, warm flatbread from clay ovens, and flavorful local tagines. If you’re not sure what to try, check out my full guide to Egyptian foods you have to eat.

Using public Wi-Fi at cafés or guesthouses? Protect your info with a VPN. I use Surfshark to keep my data safe and access sites that might be restricted abroad.

Where to Stay in the Aswan Nubian Village

I didn’t stay overnight in the Nubian Village myself—but I really wish I had! The guesthouses aren’t luxurious, but they’re super colorful, budget-friendly, and give you the chance to enjoy the village without the day-trip crowds.

Here are some of the best places to stay in nubian village

• Kato Dool Wellness Resort– One of the most popular options in Gharb Soheil, with colorful rooms, Nile views, an on-site restaurant, and fun activities like cooking classes. 
• Anakato Nubian Experience– Famous for its rainbow staircases and pastel rooms. It’s super photogenic and traditionally styled, with some rooms offering balconies overlooking the river.
• Nubian Palace – A bright, cheerful guesthouse with domed rooftops, bold wall art, and generous included meals (plus a welcome smoothie!).
• Malindy Ka – Creative and cozy, with hand-painted furniture, private balconies, and big, tasty breakfasts. A relaxed and playful place to unwind.
• Nub Inn – One of the best-rated places in the village. It’s peaceful, modern, and right on the Nile—perfect if you’re after some quiet.
• Kendaka Nubian House – Colorful and comfortable with Nile-view terraces, free breakfast, friendly staff, and optional airport transfers.
• Doroka Nubian House – A quiet, lesser-known spot with traditional Nubian style and warm, welcoming hosts.
• Artika Wadi Kiki Hotel – Just outside the village, this peaceful guesthouse is loved for its calm setting and simple, homey feel.

Most of these Aswan guesthouses include breakfast and can arrange extras like boat rides, home-cooked dinners, and even evening music performances. If you’ve got the time, staying overnight in the Nubian Village is 100% worth it!

Staying in central Aswan instead? Don’t worry—I’ve put together a full guide to the best places to stay in Aswan for first-time visitors. And if you’re heading to Cairo before or after, my guide on where to stay in Cairo will help you find the perfect area for your trip.

FAQs About Visiting the Nubian Village in Aswan

Now that we’ve explored the beauty and culture of the Nubian Village, let’s quickly answer some of the most popular questions travelers ask before visiting this colorful gem in Aswan.

So, Is the Nubian Village in Aswan Worth Visiting?

Absolutely! The Nubian Village in Aswan is colorful, welcoming, and gives you a real taste of Nubian culture you won’t find anywhere else in Egypt. Whether you’re stopping by for a few hours or spending the night, it’s a unique experience that definitely deserves a spot on your Aswan itinerary.

I hope this guide helped answer all your questions! If you’re looking for more travel ideas, don’t miss my Philae Temple guide or my full post on how to visit Abu Simbel from Aswan.

Have I convinced you to visit the Nubian Village? Or does it still feel a bit too touristy for you? Drop your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to hear what you think!

Other Egypt Travel Guides You Might Enjoy:

• 7 Unique Things to Do in Cairo That Will Totally Surprise You
• The Ultimate 3-Day Cairo Itinerary You Didn’t Know You Needed
• Cairo to Alexandria in a Day: Here’s Exactly What to See
• Why Coptic Cairo Should Be on Every History Lover’s List
• These Stunning Mosques in Egypt Will Leave You Speechless

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