Itinerary:
Birdwatching at Kitchener’s Island (Botanical Garden)
Location: Lush botanical gardens on an island in the Nile, accessible by felucca boat.
Species to Look For: Egyptian Goose, Pied Kingfisher, Purple Heron, Little Egret.
Best Time: Early morning, when bird activity is at its peak.
Experience: Walk through the garden paths, where the greenery attracts various bird species, making it an ideal start to the day.
Location: Gharb Soheil and nearby Nubian villages.
Species to Look For: Spur-winged Lapwing, White-throated Bee-eater, African Mourning Dove.
Experience: Explore the vibrant Nubian culture while keeping an eye out for birds along the riverbanks and village gardens.
Lunch on a Felucca with Riverbank Birdwatching
Experience: Take a break with a packed lunch on a traditional felucca. Continue observing birds as you float along the Nile, looking for species that hunt or rest near the water.
Species to Look For: Glossy Ibis, Little Egret, Pied Kingfisher.
Birdwatching Cruise Near Elephantine Island & Nile Riverbanks
Location: Small islands and reed-filled edges along the Nile near Aswan.
Species to Look For: Osprey, Spur-winged Lapwing, Purple Heron, Egyptian Goose.
Best Time: Late afternoon, when birds are active before roosting.
Experience: The cruise provides excellent chances to see birds in flight and hunting, with the soft evening light perfect for photography.
- Best Season: November to March, to catch migratory species and enjoy cooler weather.
- Guides: A local guide can be helpful in spotting birds and identifying their calls.
- Equipment: Bring binoculars, a spotting scope, a camera, sun protection, and water.
- Timing: Focus on early morning and late afternoon when bird activity is highest
This single-day bird-watching program in Aswan covers multiple habitats and maximizes the chances of spotting a variety of species, while also giving you a taste of the local culture along the Nile.
