Things To Do
in As Sarw
As Sarw is a small Nile Delta town characterized by agrarian landscapes and a warm, welcoming community. The area blends rural traditions with subtle hints of urban Egyptian life, especially along the riverfront. Visitors can expect authentic hospitality, simple roadside eateries, and a pace of life that centers on family and local markets.
The town serves as a gateway to nearby natural sites and cultural experiences in the Ismailia region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Touch down at As Sarw’s quaint airstrip and feel the warmth of the desert air as you transfer to a traditional guesthouse overlooking the Nile. Unpack leisurely and enjoy a welcome mint tea on a shaded terrace while watching feluccas glide by. Chat with your host about local customs and set the tone for an immersive exploration.
Stroll along the Corniche, inhaling the scents of date palms and river breeze as you pause at riverside cafés. Browse stalls offering handwoven textiles and fragrant spices at a small market near the water. Let the gentle hum of daily life soothe you as you return to your lodge.
Witness the sunset paint the river in gold and crimson hues from a rooftop terrace. Savor a multi-course meal of molokhia soup and grilled fish while listening to stories of ancient pharaohs. Drift off to the rhythmic lapping of water against the shore.
Rise before dawn to enter Luxor Temple under a pastel sky, feeling the first rays illuminate towering columns. Listen for the echo of ancient chants in the hypostyle hall as you trace hieroglyphs back to the time of Ramses II. Sip aromatic hibiscus tea while gazing at the obelisks standing sentinel.
Wander through a nearby artisans’ quarter to see stone carvers and alabaster sculptors practicing age-old techniques. Sample fresh pomegranate juice at a roadside stand and chat with a local vendor about life along the Nile. Return to the temple grounds for a private, guided tour of hidden chapels.
Attend the theatrical Sound and Light Show at Luxor Temple, where colored lights bring pharaonic legends to life. Stand beneath the Great Court’s colossal statues as narrated voices echo against ancient stone. Conclude your evening with a leisurely stroll under star-spangled skies.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🥗Lunch for two at mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🧃Coffee or tea | $0.5-2 |
| 🥙Local street food snack | $1-4 |
| 🏨One-night budget hotel | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich local culture and hospitality
- Affordable travel
- Quiet and rural atmosphere
- Limited public transport outside the town
- Language barrier for non-Arabic speakers
- Sparse nightlife and amenities in remote areas
- "مرحبا" - Hello
- "شكرا" - Thank you
- "من فضلك" - Please
- "كم السعر؟" - What is the price?
- "أين الحمام؟" - Where is the bathroom?
- "أين أقرب مستشفى؟" - Where is the nearest hospital?
Places to Visit in As Sarw
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide river views with glowing skies; best during golden hour to capture silhouettes of trees and boats.
Colorful stalls, textures, and candid street life provide rich, vibrant foregrounds and locals at work.
Elegant architecture with intricate details; morning or late afternoon light enhances arches and calligraphy.
Peaceful scenes of fields and traditional structures; capture the contrast between sky, earth, and man-made storage.
Open horizons and long shadows; use a low angle to emphasize textures in the sandy terrain.
Food in As Sarw
As Sarw Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty mix of rice, lentils, pasta, chickpeas, and tomato sauce topped with crispy onions; widely available in casual eateries and street stalls.
Must-Try!
A green, leafy soup often served with bread or rice; a delta staple that can be found at traditional restaurants.
Spiced minced meat stuffed in a bread loaf and baked; popular as a takeaway option from local shops.
Egyptian layered pastry that can be sweet or savory; commonly enjoyed as a dessert or with tea in cafés.
Fish and rice dish flavored with onions and spices, reflecting delta coastal influences; look for it in riverside eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A traditional market scene with fresh produce, spices, herbs, and street snacks; ideal for sampling regional flavors.
Casual stalls offering grilled meats, shawarma, ful, and baked goods; great for a quick, affordable bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect local norms by covering shoulders and knees in most public spaces, especially religious sites.
Accept invitations to tea or meals when offered; politely decline if needed, and always say thank you.
Be mindful of prayer times and Ramadan hours; avoid eating or drinking in public during daylight hours in Ramadan if applicable.
Safety
Tipping in As Sarw
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is common for good service in restaurants and cafés; small tips (5-10% or rounding up) are appreciated but not mandatory in casual settings.
Cash is widely accepted; some places may take mobile payments or cards in larger towns; carry smaller bills for markets and smaller vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, blooming fields, and pleasant days; ideal for outdoor markets and walks along the Nile.
Hot daytime heat with cooler evenings; carry water, wear light clothing, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Warm days and cooler nights; good for photography and outdoor exploration with comfortable humidity levels.
Mild to cool days, cooler nights; some days can be breezy along the river; layers are recommended.
As Sarw at Night
Hiking in As Sarw
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Flat, easy trail along the Nile Delta with opportunities for birdwatching and photography.
Airports
How to reach As Sarw by plane.
Regional airport serving Ismailia and nearby areas; connects to select domestic destinations.
Egypt’s main international hub; about 150-200 km from As Sarw via highway; offers wide international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant in the delta region; multi-generational households are common.
Growing presence in local schools and community centers; increasing connectivity via mobile networks.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; informal games in public spaces and schoolyards.
Common in schools and local centers with small leagues and pick-up games.
Occasional recreational rides in nearby desert or along trails outside the delta.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting As Sarw.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can rely on lentil dishes, beans, fresh vegetables, and rice. Request dishes without meat stock and seek out places that offer falafel or stuffed vegetables.