Elephantine Island Pyramid: An Ancient Sentinel on the Nile
Explore the mysteries of the Elephantine Island Pyramid, an ancient monument on the Nile, and discover the rich history of Aswan.
The Elephantine Island Pyramid, a stepped structure dating back to the Third Dynasty, stands as a silent witness to millennia of Egyptian history. Located on Elephantine Island in the Nile, it's one of several mysterious minor step pyramids built far from Egypt's main centers, and its original purpose remains a topic of debate among archaeologists.
A brief summary to Elephantine Island Pyramid
- Aswan 1, Sheyakhah Oula, Aswan Governorate, EG
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat, especially when exploring the unshaded ruins.
- Wear modest clothing and comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain.
- Take a felucca ride around Elephantine Island for stunning views of the pyramid and surrounding landscape.
- Check the Aswan Museum's opening hours (9 AM to 5 PM daily) to explore artifacts from the island's archaeological sites.
- Respect local customs and traditions while exploring the Nubian villages on the island.
Getting There
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Public Transport
To reach the Elephantine Island Pyramid, start from Aswan's Corniche. Head to the El Sadat pier, near the KFC. From there, take the public ferry to Elephantine Island. The ferry departs every 20-30 minutes and costs around 5 Egyptian Pounds for a one-way trip or 10 Egyptian Pounds for a return ticket. The ride is a short, scenic 10-minute journey across the Nile.
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Walking
Once on Elephantine Island, whether you arrive at Siou Village on the north side or the Ancient Ruins dock on the south end, the pyramid is accessible by foot. From the Ancient Ruins dock, it's a short walk north along the western side of the island. Follow the path; the pyramid will be visible. No additional costs are involved.
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Felucca
Alternatively, consider a felucca ride from Aswan to Elephantine Island. Negotiate with a boat owner along the Aswan waterfront. A one-way trip typically costs 50-100 Egyptian Pounds, depending on negotiation and duration. The felucca provides a relaxing and scenic experience on the Nile, with customizable departure and drop-off points.
Discover more about Elephantine Island Pyramid
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