The Nile · Aswan
Kitchener's Island
A small oval island in the Nile at Aswan that holds a botanical garden of exotic trees and palms, reached by felucca for a calm, shaded stroll.
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The story
The island lies in the Nile at Aswan, beside the larger Elephantine Island. It is also called Kitchener's Island after Lord Kitchener, the British commander who was given it and turned it into a lush garden, planting many trees and shrubs brought from abroad. Sources differ on when this began: some point to the late 19th century, others to his years in Egypt shortly before the First World War. The island later passed to the Egyptian state and served as a botanical research station under the agriculture authorities. It is roughly 650 m long, and its grounds are known for royal palms, tropical and subtropical trees and flowering plants.
Good to know
- The island is oval-shaped and sits in the Nile at Aswan, with the larger Elephantine Island between it and the city.
- It takes its popular name from Lord Kitchener, who was given the island and began its gardens with plants from abroad.
- It covers roughly 17 feddans (about 7 hectares) and is about 650 m long, known for a central path lined with royal palms.
- The whole island is a botanical garden, popular with locals and visitors for quiet afternoons and picnics.
- It is reached only by boat, classically by felucca, landing on the island's south-eastern side.
Visiting tips
The island is usually visited by felucca or boat from the Aswan bank; allow an hour or two to wander the gardens, and bring water and sun protection. Opening hours and prices change, so please check before visiting.