White buildings perched on rocky cliffs by the sea under a partly cloudy blue sky.

BenBen by Dhara Hotels

Located in the Nile, on the old Nubian island of Heissa opposite the city of Aswan, lies the BenBen by Dhara Hotels – an adults-only retreat that is only accessible by the hotel's own shuttle boat. Even the journey over the water is part of the experience and sets the tone for the seclusion that makes this boutique hotel so special. The architecture draws on Nubian building traditions: high wooden ceilings, bright, natural materials, and plenty of natural light create an airy, calm atmosphere. From the private terraces – some with their own whirlpool – views open up to the Nile and the Temple of Philae, which shines golden at sunset. Far from the hustle and bustle of the city yet just a short boat ride from Aswan's sights, the BenBen is a place to slow down – for all who wish to experience peace, design, and the magic of the Nile in their own way.

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Details

Country
Egypt
City
Aswan (Heissa Island)
Price
from approx. €190 per night/person
Best Travel Time
October - April

Rooms

The rooms and suites of the BenBen by Dhara Hotels are designed with high wooden ceilings, natural materials, and plenty of daylight – a consciously reduced, eco-friendly interpretation of Nubian living culture. Each accommodation features a private terrace, some even with their own whirlpool directly overlooking the Nile and the Temple of Philae. Amenities include comfortable beds, walk-in showers, air conditioning, and a desk, while soundproof walls ensure quiet even with the terrace door open. Adults-only from 16 years – this keeps the reflective atmosphere preserved for all guests.

Minimalist bedroom in a suite featuring a double bed with white linens, two side tables with lamps, potted plants on each side, a wooden ceiling, and a decorative round wall hanging. The room is viewed through an arched doorway with a sliding glass door on the right side.

Bathroom with a stone sink and a decorative mirror, featuring a view into a bedroom with a large bed, pillows, bedside lamps, and a balcony overlooking an outdoor area.

Spacious suite bedroom with a large bed, colorful rug, wooden vanity, and large windows offering a panoramic view of a river and rocky landscape.

Bright and spacious suite living area with wooden furniture, beige cushions, a colorful geometric rug, and a hanging macrame chair, overlooking a terrace with sea views.

Culinary

In the whitewashed, open YAM Restaurant, local cuisine is served with halal, vegetarian, and vegan options, while the Philae Bar & Terrace is the perfect place for a sundowner with a view of the temple. In the evenings, occasional live music and small entertainment programs create a festive atmosphere under the Nubian starry sky. Breakfast with fresh pastries, fruits, and warming specialties is served on the terrace overlooking the river.

Outdoor dining area of a hotel with round wooden tables and wicker chairs under ambient lighting, surrounded by white walls with built-in illuminated niches displaying decorative items.

A cozy restaurant interior with wooden beams, wicker chairs, wooden tables set with plates and glasses, and a decorated white wall with small illuminated shelves displaying various art pieces.

Spacious lounge area with white arched walls and columns surrounding a sunken seating area with blue cushions, wooden ceiling beams, decorative plates, and large windows offering natural light and an outdoor view.

Rooftop terrace with wicker chairs and tables, a wooden coffee table, and blue cushions overlooking a rocky landscape and body of water under a cloudy sky.

Activities

The spa area of the BenBen combines hammam, steam bath, outdoor whirlpools, and a thermal bath into a small wellness retreat in the middle of the Nile. Those who want to start the day more actively can practice yoga on the so-called 'BenBen's Rock' with a view of the river. From here, the Temple of Philae and the Aswan High Dam are only a short boat ride away, as are the Unfinished Obelisk and the Nubian Museum – ideal excursions to discover Aswan's history before returning to the tranquility of the island.

A white terrace with a private plunge pool and three wooden chairs overlooking a rocky river landscape under a partly cloudy sky.

A woman practicing yoga on rocks near a wooden railing with a wide river and rocky hills in the background under a clear blue sky.

A sailboat gliding on the river in front of a hill with ancient ruins and a small structure at the top.

Location

The BenBen by Dhara Hotels is located on the small, ancient Nubian island of Heissa in the middle of the Nile, opposite the city of Aswan and in sight of the Temple of Philae. The island is exclusively accessible by the hotel's own shuttle boat, which operates around the clock between the mainland and the hotel. The Aswan High Dam is only a few kilometers away, as is the Nubian Museum and the Unfinished Obelisk, while Aswan International Airport is about a 20-minute drive away. This island location makes the BenBen the ideal starting point for day trips to Abu Simbel and also one of the quietest retreats along the entire Nile.

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Contact person

A smiling man with short, light brown hair and a beard standing outdoors with a blurry desert background.

Philip Eichkorn

CEO / Managing Director

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