Aswan High Dam
Manteqet As Sad Al Aali, Aswan, Egypt, 1240856
Built to control the Nile River’s annual floods, the Aswan High Dam transformed Egypt’s Nile Valley and created the vast Lake Nasser. The sheer scale of the dam is impressive, and at the top, you’ll find sweeping views of the lake and surrounding desert.
The Basics
Short tours of the Aswan High Dam include stops at viewpoints and information on the dam’s construction. Since the dam is on the way from Aswan to the Temple of Isis at Philae, many tours visit both attractions. The Aswan High Dam was a collaboration between Egypt and the former Soviet Union—on the western end of the dam, you’ll find a monument to the two countries’ relationship.
Things to Know Before You Go
The Aswan High Dam is a must for engineering buffs.
The dam is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
While the dam offers great views of the river and lake, the best spot from which to see the dam itself is located about half a mile (0.8 kilometers) downstream.
Photos are allowed, but telephoto lenses are prohibited. Avoid photographing the dam’s military installments.
How to Get There
On Route 75, 8 miles (13 kilometers) south of the city of Aswan, the Aswan High Dam is reachable by taxi. If you’re headed downtown from Aswan International Airport, you’ll pass over the dam on your way—look south to see Lake Nasser, and look north to spot the Nile River.
When to Get There
While traffic flows over the Aswan High Dam 24 hours a day, visiting hours are limited. Check online or ask a tour operator for the latest information.
Aswan High Dam Versus Aswan Low Dam
It’s easy to mix up these two Aswan landmarks—here’s how to keep them straight. The Aswan High Dam is located south of Aswan, dividing the Nile River from Lake Nasser. The Aswan Low Dam is north of the city, and is an older, much smaller structure visible from the Luxor–Aswan Road.
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