Your journey begins as your On Trip Egypt guide picks you up from your hotel or Nile cruise in Aswan. You'll board a ferry to cross the Nile to its western bank, where a short but scenic camel ride—about 10 minutes—awaits. This peaceful trek through the desert leads you to one of Aswan’s most captivating historical sites: the Monastery of St. Simeon, also known locally as Anba Hatre Monastery.

Perched high in the desert hills, this ancient monastery dates back to the 6th century, though some sources trace its origins as early as the 4th century. Originally named after Anba Hatre, a revered ascetic who later became bishop of Syene (modern-day Aswan), the monastery was a thriving center of Christian monastic life. It once housed hundreds of monks and served as a spiritual waypoint for pilgrims traveling between Egypt and the Holy Land.

As you explore the monastery’s well-preserved stone walls, your guide will walk you through the monks’ living quarters, kitchens, and prayer rooms, offering a glimpse into their austere daily lives. The architecture reflects both Coptic and medieval Nubian influences, with fortified walls and a layout designed to withstand desert raids.

From its elevated position, the monastery offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Nile and the city of Aswan—a perfect backdrop for reflection and photos. After soaking in the history and scenery, you’ll be transferred back to your hotel, carrying with you the echoes of ancient devotion and desert silence.