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Egypt
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Aswan Governorate
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Aswan
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Tours & Activities
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Private Felucca Tour: Elephantine Island
2 h
Private
Instant confirmation
About this activity
Elephantine Island is the largest of the Aswan area islands, and is one of the most ancient sites in Egypt, with artifacts dating to predynastic periods. This is probably due to its location at the first Cataract of the Nile, which provided a natural boundary between Egypt and Nubia.
As an island, it was also easily defensible. In fact, the ancient town located in the southern part of the island was also a fortress through much of it's history. At one time, there was a bridge from the mainland to the island.
Elephantine is Greek for elephant. In ancient times, the Island, as well as the southern town, was called Abu, or Yabu, which also meant elephant. The town has also been referenced as Kom, after it's principle god of the island, Khnum (Khnemu).
It is believed that the island received it's name because it was a major ivory trading center, though in fact, it was a major trading post of many commodities. There are large boulders in the river near the island which resembled bathing elephants, particularly from afar, and this too has been suggested as a reason for the island's name.
Please note:
In the event of strong Nile currents, travel will be by motorboat rather than felucca for safety reasons.
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As an island, it was also easily defensible. In fact, the ancient town located in the southern part of the island was also a fortress through much of it's history. At one time, there was a bridge from the mainland to the island.
Elephantine is Greek for elephant. In ancient times, the Island, as well as the southern town, was called Abu, or Yabu, which also meant elephant. The town has also been referenced as Kom, after it's principle god of the island, Khnum (Khnemu).
It is believed that the island received it's name because it was a major ivory trading center, though in fact, it was a major trading post of many commodities. There are large boulders in the river near the island which resembled bathing elephants, particularly from afar, and this too has been suggested as a reason for the island's name.
Please note:
In the event of strong Nile currents, travel will be by motorboat rather than felucca for safety reasons.
Included
- Experience a Private and an expert Qualified Egyptologist guide.
- Private and shaded Felucca.
- Private transportation by air-conditioned minivans ; pick up from hotel and drop off.
- All taxes, fees , handling charges
- Entry/Admission - Elephantine Island
Not included
- Gratuities
Additional
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Infants must sit on laps
- Transportation is wheelchair accessible
Features
Tourism
95%
Cultural
60%
Aquatic
20%
Reviews
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We had high hopes for this tour, but ended with a disappointing trip. The feluccas weren't sailing, because of the lack of wind, and our tour of the sights was limited. We did not see much of the ancient village, and the Aswan Museum on the island is not worth visiting. We had a "row" from the dock to the island and a "float" back to the shore...nothing to write home about. Being on the Nile was fun, but this could have been a much better trip.