Pre-Trip Checklist: Aswan

Essential Preparations

A well-organized timeline for your Aswan trip.

Planning Roadmap

Strategic steps for your journey to Aswan.

+ Months Before Departure

Passport Check

Passport valid for at least six months beyond your departure from Egypt.

Visa Application

Research visa types. Apply for e-Visa online, allowing ample processing time.

Flight Bookings

Book international flights to Cairo (CAI). Compare airlines and routes.

Month Before Departure

Internal Transport

Book domestic flights (e.g., Cairo-Aswan) or train tickets.

Lodging & Excursions

Book remaining hotel/guesthouse accommodation and Abu Simbel day trip.

Insurance Secure

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance. World Nomads

Week Before Departure

Confirm All

Reconfirm all your flight, hotel, cruise, and tour bookings.

Bank Alert

Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel dates.

Digital Copies

Scan or photocopy important documents and store digital copies securely. NordVPN for secure access.

Mandatory Bookings

Certain bookings are typically made in advance to secure your spot.

Reservations

Nile Cruises: Highly advisable to book, especially for specific boats or dates.
Sleeper Trains: Often sell out, early booking suggested.
Abu Simbel Tours: Book your convoy or flight in advance to confirm your spot.
High-Season Hotels: Early booking leads to the best selection and prices.

Enriching Knowledge

Familiarize yourself with the destination's rich background.

Pre-trip Research

Egyptian History: Read up on Egyptian history (New Kingdom, Aswan) and Nubian culture.
Basic Arabic Phrases: Familiarize yourself with greetings and simple phrases. (Babbel)
Health & Safety: Review Aswan's specific health and safety guidelines.
Cultural subtleties: Understand local customs for a respectful visit.

Home Front Checklist

Secure your home and inform contacts before you leave.

Home Security

Lock windows and doors.
Set alarms.
Arrange for mail collection or forwarding.
Turn off unnecessary lights and appliances.

Trusted Contacts

Share your itinerary with family or friends.
Provide them with emergency contact information.
Leave a spare with a trusted person.
Inform them of your absence dates.

Pet Care

Arrange for pet sitting or boarding if you have pets.
Provide detailed care instructions.
Ensure adequate food and supplies.
Leave veterinary contact information.

Thorough Preparation

A comprehensive pre-trip checklist fosters a stress-free and memorable Aswan journey.

Arrival Checklist

These steps help ensure a smooth transition upon landing in Aswan.

Airport Procedures Aswan International Airport - ASW

1
Visa on Arrival (if applicable):
Locate bank kiosks or visa counters Before immigration. Purchase your visa sticker (US$25, cash often useful) and affix it to a blank page in your passport.
2
Immigration:
Proceed to immigration. Have your passport (with visa sticker/e-Visa printout) and a completed arrival card ready.
3
Luggage:
Collect your checked luggage from the baggage claim area.

Initial Needs & Orientation

Currency Exchange/ATM:
Get some local currency (Egyptian Pounds - EGP) from an ATM or exchange office at the airport for immediate expenses (taxi, tips).
SIM Card:
Consider purchasing a local SIM card from one of the mobile provider kiosks (Orange, Vodafone, Etisalat) at the airport for easy connectivity.
Orientation Strategies:
Look for your pre-arranged transfer driver (if applicable) holding a sign. If taking a taxi, confirm the destination and agree on the fare.

Transportation from Entry Point to Accommodation

Pre-arranged Transfer

Use your pre-arranged transfer for direct travel to your hotel or cruise dock.

This is often the most seamless option.

Hotel Shuttle

Inquire if your hotel offers a shuttle service from the airport or train station.

This can be a convenient option.

Negotiated Taxi

If taking a taxi, confirm the destination and agree on the fare before starting your journey.

This helps avoid misunderstandings.

Smooth Transition

Being prepared for arrival procedures leads to a calm and efficient entry into Aswan, setting a positive tone for your journey.

Departure Preparation

Plan your departure to lead to a relaxed and efficient exit.

Souvenir and Shipping Considerations

Weight Limits: Be mindful of your airline's luggage weight limits for your return flight, especially after purchasing souvenirs.
Shipping: If you have purchased large or fragile items, inquire about reputable shipping agents in Aswan.
Factor in shipping costs and customs procedures for your home country.
VAT Refund Procedures: Value Added Tax (VAT) refunds for tourists are generally not available in Egypt. Do not expect to claim VAT back on purchases.

Pre-departure Timing Recommendations

Aswan International Airport (ASW): For domestic flights, arrive at least 2 hours before your scheduled departure time.
Train/Bus Station: Arrive at least 30-45 minutes before your scheduled departure time.
Return Trip Preparation: Confirm your return travel details, including departure times and terminals.
Ensure your passport and boarding passes are easily accessible.

Departure Checklist

Ensure a smooth and stress-free departure from Aswan.

Final Checks

Pack any last-minute items.
Double-check your room for forgotten belongings.
Confirm airport/station transfer.
Have small bills for final tips.

Considerations for a Calm Exit

Review your entire journey itinerary one last time.
Leave ample time for unexpected delays at the airport or station.
Communicate any changes to your accommodation or transfer service.
Depart with a relaxed and positive attitude, cherishing your memories.

Seamless Departure

A well-orchestrated departure rounds off your Aswan adventure, making it a stress-free and memorable journey.

This comprehensive checklist helps you prepare effectively for every stage of your trip.

Pre-Trip Checklist