Sailing boats on the Nile near Aswan

Visit Upper Egypt, Egypt

Visit Upper Egypt, Egypt

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Upper Egypt refers to the southern half of the country, containing the upper reaches of the river Nile. Today, as in history, the towns and sights are largely confined to the narrow strip of cultivated land either side of the river.

The area is home to one of the greatest concentrations of historical monuments anywhere and although it is the landmarks of ancient civilisations that dominate and draw visitors, the modern world has also left its legacy with the Aswan High Dam and its offspring, Lake Nasser.

Exploring Upper Egypt

Amada, Lake NasserBoth the Nile and the lake are popularly explored by cruise, although the sights of the Nile Valley can equally be visited from the delightful hotels of Luxor and Aswan.

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Places to visit in Upper Egypt

Featuring heavily on our experiences of visiting Upper Egypt, these selected places are destinations that also prove consistently popular with our travellers. Our specialists can help you choose how to include them in your wider trip, based on your preferences.

Suggested itineraries featuring Upper Egypt

Our itineraries will give you suggestions for what is possible when you travel in Upper Egypt, and they showcase routes we know work particularly well. Treat them as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.

Map of Upper Egypt

Places & hotels on the map

    Places in and around Upper Egypt

    Photos of Upper Egypt

    • Temple of Philae, Aswan, Egypt
      Temple of Philae, Aswan, Egypt
    • Felucca on the Nile, Luxor
      Felucca on the Nile, Luxor
    • Abu Simbel, Egypt
      Abu Simbel, Egypt
    • Aswan, Egypt
      Aswan, Egypt
    • Statue at Luxor Museum, Egypt
      Statue at Luxor Museum, Egypt
    • Aswan, Egypt
      Aswan, Egypt
    • Karnak
      Karnak
    • Aswan, Egypt
      Aswan, Egypt

    Accommodation choices for Upper Egypt

    We’ve selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit Upper Egypt. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.

    • Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Aswan, Aswan

      The Old Cataract

      First Class

      Located close to Aswan’s corniche, The Old Cataract is steeped in history and provides the most glorious sunsets over the River Nile. Agatha Christie stayed here, and the furniture and décor reflects this era beautifully.

    • Movenpick Aswan, Aswan

      Movenpick Aswan

      Medium

      Located on Elephantine Island, the Movenpick Aswan offers excellent views, beautiful gardens, and good sports facilities.

    • Hilton Luxor, Luxor

      Hilton Luxor

      First Class

      Situated directly on the edge of the Nile, the views at the Hilton Luxor are quite breath taking. If you’re looking for contemporary style and comfort in Luxor then this is the best choice in the city.

    • Al Moudira

      Al Moudira

      First Class

      Located in peaceful isolation on the West Bank, all of the Al Moudira's rooms are large and individually decorated, with wonderful high ceilings, traditional designs and antique furniture.

    • Old Winter Palace, Luxor

      Old Winter Palace

      Medium

      The Old Winter Palace is one of the most famous hotels in Egypt. Its central location means that it is perfectly placed to explore the temples of Luxor and Karnak.