"Sail to the Tombs of the Nobles – An Exclusive Guided Journey with Your Personal Egyptologist"
Joined 2025
Embark on a captivating journey to visit the Tombs of the Nobles in Aswan, an extraordinary collection of ancient burial sites carved high into the desert cliffs of the Nile’s west bank. Accessible only by motorboat, this experience combines a serene sail across the river with an in-depth exploration of around 40 tombs, several of them are open to the visit
Dating from the Old Kingdom, these tombs once housed the governors, high officials, and military leaders who ruled Egypt’s southern frontier
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
Nile's east bank
- Our tour guide will meet you at your hotel lobby or a designated docking point on the Nile’s east bank. From there, you’ll board a private motorboat for your exclusive transfer to the west bank, where the Tombs of the Nobles await.
Morning Departure
Your adventure begins with a scenic motorboat ride across the glittering Nile. Enjoy the calm waters and gentle breeze as you approach the rugged cliffs of the west bank.
Ascent to the Cliffside Tombs
Follow your guide up a sandy path leading to the tomb entrances. Around 40 tombs have been uncovered here, with a selection open for viewing. Each tomb reveals a unique glimpse into its owner’s life and status.
Tomb Highlights
Tomb of Harkhuf (QH34h): An Old Kingdom explorer who led expeditions into Nubia, immortalized in inscriptions narrating his daring journeys.
Tomb of Sarenput I (QH36): Governor of Elephantine under Pharaoh Senusret I, with exquisite reliefs showing family life and religious rituals.
Tomb of Sarenput II (QH31): Known for its grand columns, vivid wall paintings, and remarkable architectural detail.
The Tombs of the Nobles in Aswan are more than burial chambers; they are historical archives carved into the Nile’s west bank cliffs. Elevated for prestige and flood protection, these tombs date from the Old Kingdom (c. 2600 BCE) to the Ptolemaic Period (c. 300 BCE). They belonged to prominent governors (Nomarchs), military commanders, and high priests responsible for defending and administering Egypt’s southern frontier with Nubia.
Inside, you’ll see hunting scenes, offering processions, and intricate hieroglyphs designed to ensure the deceased’s eternal sustenance. From their cliffside perch, these tombs overlook the Nile, symbolically watching over the lifeblood of Egypt and its southern gateway.
Panoramic Views From the top
From the tomb site’s elevated position, capture stunning photographs of Aswan’s green islands, white-sailed feluccas, and the golden desert horizon.
Return by Motorboat
Relax on your return journey across the Nile, ending the tour with refreshing breezes and picturesque river views.
Ending Point
The tour usually ends at the same location as the pickup point (hotel, Nile cruise, train station, or airport in Aswan). However, if the guest prefers, drop-off can be arranged at a different location within the city.
Want to personalize this tour?
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Round-trip motorboat transfer from your hotel or the Nile’s east bank.
Licensed Egyptologist guide.
Entrance fees to the Tombs of the Nobles.
Bottled water during the tour.
Personal expenses.
Tipping (optional).
Any services not mentioned in the itinerary.
Tour Important Information
* This tour involves a lot of walking, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes.
Cancellation Policy
- Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
- 50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
- No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time
Joined 2025
About Tour Guide Mahmoud M.
My name is Mahmoud and I am a graduate of Minia University, Faculty of Tourism and Hotels, Department of Tour Guiding. I am fluent in English and German, and I have been working as a licensed tour guide in both languages since August 2000.
I have extensive experience guiding tourists in Luxor, Aswan, and the region behind the High Dam on Lake Nasser, where the majestic ancient Egyptian temples relocated from Old Nubia are located.
In addition to guiding, I also organize and manage customized tour programs in Aswan and Luxor, helping visitors explore Egypt’s rich history and breathtaking monuments with deep cultural insight and professional care.
$90/ per group
