Aswan Botanical Garden Tour by Felucca to Kitchener's Island
In the middle of the Nile at Aswan lies an island that is entirely a garden. Kitchener's Island was given to Lord Kitchener in the 1890s, and he filled it with trees and plants from around the world. Today it is the Aswan Botanical Garden, one of the calmest places in the city.
This private tour takes you there by traditional felucca, the white-sailed boat of the Nile, so the journey is part of the pleasure. On the island you walk shaded paths among palms and flowering trees, with birdsong around you and views across the water to the Mausoleum of the Aga Khan on the west bank.
Your Egyptologist guide adds the story of the island and the plants, and of Aswan itself, and then you sail back to the mainland.
The tour is gentle and relaxed, so it suits couples, families, bird lovers and anyone who wants a quiet morning or afternoon between the temples, away from the traffic and the noise of the town. Bring a hat, a camera and comfortable shoes.
Your itinerary
-
01
Felucca ride and walk through the Aswan Botanical Garden
Your guide meets you at your Aswan hotel or Nile cruise boat and takes you to the riverbank, where a traditional wooden felucca is waiting. Settle in for a calm sail across the water to Kitchener's Island.
On landing, spend about an hour in the Aswan Botanical Garden. The island was given to Lord Kitchener in the 1890s, and his collection of exotic plants and trees is still the garden's pride. Stroll the shaded paths with your guide, listen for the birds and enjoy the views of the Nile and, across the water, the Mausoleum of the Aga Khan.
After your walk you sail back to the mainland and are driven to your hotel or cruise boat.
Included
- Pick-up and drop-off at your Aswan hotel or Nile cruise boat
- Felucca ride to Kitchener's Island and back
- Private Egyptologist guide in your language
- Entrance fee to the Aswan Botanical Garden
- Bottled water during the visit
- All service charges and taxes
Not included
- Drinks and meals
- Tipping (recommended)
- Anything not mentioned in the itinerary
Good to know
- We confirm your pick-up time on WhatsApp the evening before the trip.
- Pick-up areas: hotels and Nile ships in Aswan.
- Private trip: the day is for your group only. Vehicle: a car for up to 3 to 4 guests, a minivan for up to 7 to 8, and two vehicles for larger groups.
- Walking at the sites, often in the sun. Suitable for most ages, with rests for young children and older guests.
- Bring a hat, sunscreen, water, comfortable shoes and modest clothing for temples and religious sites.
- Runs all year. October to April is the most comfortable; in summer we start early.
- The price shown is the starting price per person. The final price depends on your dates, group size and hotel area, and we confirm it on WhatsApp before you book.
- Children: under 6 travel free, ages 6 to 11 pay half the adult price, and ages 12 and over pay the full price.
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before pick-up. After that the trip is not refundable.
Questions
What is the Aswan Botanical Garden?
It is a garden that covers the whole of Kitchener's Island in the Nile at Aswan. Lord Kitchener planted it in the late 19th century with trees and plants from Africa, Asia and beyond, and today it is a quiet park and bird habitat.
What is the best time of day to go?
Early morning and late afternoon are best: the air is cooler, the light on the river is soft and the birds are active. Midday in summer is very hot, even under the trees. Tell us your preference when you book.
How long is the felucca ride?
The crossing to the island is short, and you return the same way. The boat is a traditional sailing boat, so the speed depends on the wind. Plan on a calm, unhurried trip of a few minutes each way.
Is the walk easy?
Yes. The paths in the garden are flat and shaded, and there are places to sit. It is suitable for most ages and for slow walkers. Wear comfortable shoes and bring a hat and a camera.
You may also like
Ask us on WhatsApp
Make it yours
Send your dates and the number of travellers. We reply with a confirmed plan and price, with no payment now.
Prefer chatting? WhatsApp +20 127 370 0819