Old Cataract, Aswan
Majestically perched on a pink granite cliff above the Nile, opposite Elephantine Island, the Old Cataract, Aswan reigns – one of Egypt's most historic hotels. Built in 1899 by British travel entrepreneur Thomas Cook, the house has dazzled from the start with splendid Victorian architecture and interiors in the French Art Deco style that have inspired guests like Agatha Christie. As of May 2026, the historical Palace building will be managed by Mandarin Oriental, while the modern Nile Wing undergoes extensive renovation. After the work is completed in July 2027, the hotel will be fully integrated into the Mandarin Oriental family and will continue as "Mandarin Oriental Old Cataract, Aswan." Even today, the Old Cataract, Aswan combines centuries-old history with the legendary service of Mandarin Oriental – a unique place to experience Egypt in its most beautiful form, whether at the beginning or end of a Nile cruise.
Details
Country
Egypt
Location
Aswan
Price
from approx. €480 per night/person
Best travel time
October - April
Status
Nile Wing under renovation until July 2027
Rooms
During the ongoing renovation of the Nile Wing, the historical Palace building of the Old Cataract, Aswan currently offers 35 rooms and suites – 9 rooms and 26 suites that blend French elegance with Egyptian influences. Classic furniture and exquisite details characterize the interiors, while signature suites impress with spacious layouts, private terraces, and views of the Nile. Marble bathrooms with high-quality fittings round off the experience. After the comprehensive renovation of the Nile Wing is completed in July 2027, the number of rooms in the hotel as Mandarin Oriental Old Cataract, Aswan will significantly increase again.
Culinary
At Saraya, you can already enjoy all-day Levantine and Mediterranean cuisine in an elegant atmosphere, while the Promenade Restaurant directly on the Nile pampers you with light dishes, a view of Elephantine Island, and a stylish afternoon tea. With the completion of the renovation of the Nile Wing in 2027, Mandarin Oriental plans to expand the culinary offerings of the hotel, which will then operate as Mandarin Oriental Old Cataract, Aswan, to a total of six restaurants and bars – until then, a visit to the existing venues with their incomparable view of the river is already worth it.
Activities
The outdoor area with an infinity pool above the Nile invites relaxation even during the ongoing renovation phase, offering one of the most beautiful views of Elephantine Island in all of Aswan. From here, the unfinished obelisk, the Nubian Museum, and the Temple of Philae can be easily explored, while a stroll through the colorful souk of Aswan provides an authentic glimpse into the city. Whether culture, nature, or pure relaxation – the Old Cataract, Aswan already connects history with unforgettable experiences of the region and will continue this tradition at a new level as Mandarin Oriental Old Cataract, Aswan from 2027.
Location
In a unique location on a pink granite cliff by the banks of the Nile, overlooking the golden desert and the idyllic Elephantine Island, lies the Old Cataract, Aswan – managed by Mandarin Oriental since May 2026. Nestled in the fascinating backdrop of Upper Egypt, the hotel already offers a perfect mix of tranquility and elegance during the ongoing renovation of the Nile Wing, while the center of Aswan is just a few minutes away.
Aswan itself is Egypt's southernmost city and known for its warm climate, impressive temples, and rich Nubian culture. The city was once an important trading post on the Nile and today fascinates with attractions such as the Temple of Philae and the Aswan High Dam. The airport is located about 20 kilometers southwest of the hotel.
