Lake Nasser is a reservoir in southern Egypt and northern Sudan formed in the 1960s when the Aswan High Dam was built across the Nile. It is one of the largest man-made lakes in the world, holds relocated monuments including the Abu Simbel temples, and supports wildlife such as Nile crocodiles along its shores.
Key Takeaways
- Lake Nasser was created in the 1960s by the construction of the Aswan High Dam, flooding a region of Nubian and ancient Egyptian sites.
- The Abu Simbel Temples, colossal statues of Ramses II, were relocated piece by piece above the rising waters.
- The Temple of Kalabsha, dedicated to the sun god Mandulis, is a Roman-era structure preserved near the lake’s edge.
- The lake is home to Nile crocodiles, monitor lizards, and hundreds of bird species.
- Cruise options range from larger ships like the Steigenberger Omar El Khayam and Movenpick Prince Abbas to the smaller, more private Dahabiya Lake Nasser Cruise.
How Lake Nasser Was Formed
Lake Nasser is one of the largest man-made lakes in the world, created by the construction of The High Dam Of Egypt in the 1960s. The dam flooded a region rich in Nubian culture and ancient Egyptian history, and the lake now stretches across southern Egypt and northern Sudan.
Getting There and Cruising the Lake
Aswan City is the gateway to Lake Nasser and home to the Temple Of Philae and The Nubian Village. From Aswan, cruises cross the lake on ships such as the Steigenberger Omar El Khayam Lake Cruise or the Movenpick Prince Abbas Lake Cruise. The smaller Dahabiya Lake Nasser Cruise offers a more private, intimate way to see the lake away from larger groups. Full itineraries are available under Lake Nasser Cruise Egypt, which typically stop at temples, wildlife-watching points, and Nubian communities.
Top Attractions Around Lake Nasser
| Attraction | What It Is |
|---|---|
| Abu Simbel Temples | Colossal rock temples dedicated to Ramses II and Queen Nefertari, relocated above the rising waters on the lake’s western shore |
| Temple of Kalabsha | A Roman-era temple dedicated to the sun god Mandulis, preserved near the lake’s edge |
| The High Dam | The engineering project that created Lake Nasser and transformed Egypt’s economy and environment |
| The Nubian Villages | Communities along the banks where Nubian art, food, and traditions continue |
| Lake Nasser Ruins | Submerged temple ruins beneath the lake, a draw for diving and archaeology tours |
Wildlife and Nubian Culture
Lake Nasser is home to Nile crocodiles, monitor lizards, and hundreds of bird species, making it a destination for wildlife photographers. The The Nubian Museum In Aswan covers the culture and traditions of the Nubian people displaced by the dam’s construction.
Combining Lake Nasser with the Rest of Southern Egypt
Lake Nasser is often paired with an Egypt adventure tour or an Egypt tour with Nile cruise along The Nile River. Many itineraries extend to the Kom Ombo Temple and Edfu Temple, or north to Luxor City, where the Karnak Temple and The Valley Of The Kings pair with the lake’s scenery. Other Nile cruise options include the Oberoi Philae Nile Cruise and the Steigenberger Senator Nile Cruise.
Planning a Trip
Lake Nasser cruises are usually included in broader Egypt Tour Packages alongside Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan. Options include a luxury Egypt tour package, a luxury private tour Egypt, or shorter trips such as the 4 day Egypt tour and 6 day Egypt tour. Families can use the Egypt family tour holidays for multigenerational travel.
FAQs About Lake Nasser in Africa
1. Where is Lake Nasser located?
Lake Nasser lies in southern Egypt and extends into northern Sudan. It was created by the construction of the Aswan High Dam across the Nile River.
2. What are the best ways to explore Lake Nasser?
The best way to explore Lake Nasser is through a cruise, such as the Lake Nasser Cruise Egypt, which includes guided tours of nearby temples and landmarks.
3. Which temples can I visit around Lake Nasser?
Key temples include the Abu Simbel Temples, the Temple of Kalabsha, and several other Lake Nasser Ruins.
4. What wildlife can be found at Lake Nasser?
Lake Nasser is home to Nile crocodiles, monitor lizards, and various bird species, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.
5. Can Lake Nasser be included in a broader Egypt itinerary?
Yes. Many Egypt Vacation Packages include Lake Nasser as part of a southern Egypt tour, often combined with Aswan, Luxor, and an Egypt tour with Nile cruise.
