Kom Ombo Travel Guide

Planning to visit Kom Ombo? Our travel guide has got you covered! Explore the culturally rich heritage sites and natural attractions, go on adventures and taste the local food, and learn about the customs of Kom Ombo.


Introduction to Kom Ombo

Kom Ombo is a small town located in the Aswan Governorate of Upper Egypt. It is situated on the banks of the River Nile and has been an important trading hub since ancient times. The town is best known for the Temple of Kom Ombo, which is dedicated to two gods: Sobek, the crocodile god, and Horus, the falcon-headed god. This unique temple is one of the few ancient temples in Egypt that has been well-preserved with its unique double design attracting tourists from all over the world.

List of Places to Visit in Kom Ombo

Kom Ombo has a variety of places to visit, including cultural and natural attractions, hiking/biking routes, exciting activities and tours, local markets for shopping, delicious food and beverages, and many other sites to explore. Here are some of the most popular:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Temple of Kom Ombo - A unique temple that is dedicated to two gods, Sobek and Horus, and has a double design.

  2. Crocodile Museum - A museum that showcases the crocodile mummies that were found in the vicinity of the town.

  3. Village of Daraw - A traditional village that has preserved its ancient architecture and way of life.

  4. The Unfinished Obelisk of Aswan - A massive obelisk that is believed to be the largest obelisk ever made.

Natural Attractions of Kom Ombo: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. River Nile - Take a boat ride on the Nile and watch the breathtaking scenery and picturesque views.

  2. Gebel el-Silsila - A majestic mountain range that is perfect for hiking, camping, and outdoor adventures.

  3. Wadi el-Shatt al-Rigga - A picturesque valley that is ideal for picnics and relaxation.

  4. Pharaoh’s Island - A stunning island that is accessible by boat and is perfect for snorkelling and diving.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kom Ombo

  1. Daraw Village Trail - A scenic hike through the charming traditional village of Daraw.

  2. Nag el-Kubania Trail - A challenging and adventurous bike ride that takes you through the hills of Nag el-Kubania.

  3. River Nile Trail - A leisurely bike ride along the banks of the River Nile, offering picturesque views and a laid-back atmosphere.

Best Things to Do in Kom Ombo: Activities and Tours

  1. Temple of Kom Ombo Tour - A tour of the unique Kom Ombo temple with an experienced guide to provide informative details about the history and architecture of the temple.

  2. River Nile Cruise - A luxurious trip on the River Nile that offers scenic views and delicious food on board.

  3. Camel Riding - An exciting and adventurous way to explore the desert and the surrounding area.

  4. Diving and Snorkelling - Dive into the clear waters of Pharaoh’s Island and explore the underwater world of the Red Sea.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kom Ombo

Here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long stay in Kom Ombo:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Temple of Kom Ombo and the Crocodile Museum
Day 2 Explore the traditional village of Daraw and the Unfinished Obelisk of Aswan
Day 3 Take a boat ride on the River Nile and enjoy the scenic views
Day 4 Hike in the Gebel el-Silsila mountain range
Day 5 Visit Pharaoh’s Island and go snorkelling or diving
Day 6 Enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the River Nile
Day 7 Shop for souvenirs in the local markets and taste the local food and beverages

Food and Drink Scene of Kom Ombo

When it comes to food, Kom Ombo has a lot to offer. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Kebda Iskandarani - Grilled liver with onions and a variety of spices.

  2. Fiteer Meshaltet - A layered pastry that is served with different toppings such as cheese, jam, or honey.

  3. Hamam Mahshi - Stuffed pigeon, cooked for hours with rice, nuts, and a variety of spices.

Local Beverages

  1. Hibiscus Tea - A refreshing and fruity tea that is made from dried hibiscus flowers.

  2. Sugarcane Juice - A sweet and refreshing drink that is made from fresh sugarcane.

Where to Stay in Kom Ombo: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are many options for accommodation in Kom Ombo, ranging from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. Here are some recommendations:

  1. Nubian Oasis Hotel - A luxurious hotel that offers a panoramic view of the Nile and has a variety of facilities such as a swimming pool and a restaurant.

  2. Sahara Guesthouse - A budget-friendly guesthouse that offers clean and comfortable rooms with a charming traditional atmosphere.

  3. Wendy Nasser House - A traditional house that has been converted into a guesthouse, offering a unique and authentic experience.

What to Buy in Kom Ombo: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Kom Ombo is known for its traditional handicrafts and local products. Here are some of the souvenirs and products that you should consider buying:

  1. Handmade Pottery - Beautiful handcrafted pottery that comes in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colours.

  2. Camel Leather Products - Luxurious and high-quality leather products made from camel leather, such as wallets, bags, and belts.

  3. Spices and Herbs - A variety of aromatic and flavourful spices and herbs that are locally sourced and handpicked.

Local Culture and Customs of Kom Ombo

As a small town located in Upper Egypt, Kom Ombo has a rich culture and customs that are worth exploring. Here are some of the cultural highlights:

  1. Traditional Dress - Men often wear galabeyas, which are long robes made of cotton or linen, while women wear colourful and vibrant dresses that are often embroidered.

  2. Religious Festivals - Kom Ombo celebrates several religious festivals throughout the year, including the Festival of the Nile and the Festival of the Crocodile.

  3. Coffee Culture - Coffee is an essential part of the local culture, and it is often served with dates or sweet pastries.

Best Time to Visit Kom Ombo

The best time to visit Kom Ombo is between October and April when the weather is mild and pleasant. The temperature can get quite hot during the summer months, making it less enjoyable for tourists.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kom Ombo

Here are some of the Do’s and Don’ts of Kom Ombo to keep in mind:

Do:

  1. Respect the local culture and customs.

  2. Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

  3. Learn a few basic Arabic phrases to communicate with locals.

Don’t:

  1. Drink tap water, always drink bottled water.

  2. Take photos of people without their permission.

  3. Disrespect local traditions and customs.

Safety and Health

Kom Ombo is a safe destination for tourists, and the local authorities take necessary measures to ensure the safety of visitors. However, it is always important to take precautions such as:

Safety in Kom Ombo

  1. Avoid walking alone at night.

  2. Keep your valuable belongings safe and secure.

  3. Be aware of pickpocketing in crowded places.

Health in Kom Ombo

  1. Drink bottled water to avoid water-borne diseases.

  2. Wear sunscreen and cover yourself when outdoors to avoid heat stroke and sunburn.

  3. Get vaccinations before travelling to Egypt.

Getting to Kom Ombo: Transportation Options and Logistics

Kom Ombo is well-connected with other major cities of Egypt. Here are some of the transportation options:

Airports Near Kom Ombo

The nearest international airport is in Aswan, around 50 km south of Kom Ombo.

Bus Stations Near Kom Ombo

The town has a local bus station that connects it with other nearby towns and cities.

Other Options

Taxis and private cars are available for hire from Aswan and other major cities.

How to Get Around in Kom Ombo

Kom Ombo is a small town, and most of the attractions are within walking distance. However, taxis and horse carriages are also available for hire.

Where to Go Next from Kom Ombo: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some of the nearby destinations and excursions that you can consider:

  1. Aswan - Explore the ancient temples and landmarks of Aswan, located just 50 km south of Kom Ombo.

  2. Luxor - Visit the Valley of the Kings and explore the ancient temples and tombs of Luxor, located around 230 km north of Kom Ombo.

  3. Abu Simbel - See the stunning Abu Simbel temples that are dedicated to Ramses II and his wife Nefertari, located around 300 km south of Kom Ombo.

Conclusion

Kom Ombo is a fascinating town that offers a rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty and a variety of exciting activities and adventures that makes it a must-visit destination in Egypt. Whether it is exploring the unique temple of Kom Ombo or hiking in the majestic mountains of Gebel el-Silsila, you are sure to have an unforgettable experience in this charming town.

Kom-Ombo Temple Kom-Ombo Temple