There’s something truly magical about birdwatching on the Nile. Last week in Aswan, we welcomed three enthusiastic travelers from France for a memorable birdwatching tour, filled with colorful sightings, laughter, and even a surprise young birder who saw birds through binoculars for the very first time. Here’s the story of an experience that touched hearts and connected us all to the wonders of Egypt’s birdlife.
Last week, we had the pleasure of hosting three wonderful ladies from France on a birdwatching tour along the Nile in Aswan — and what an incredible adventure it turned out to be! From cheerful laughter to first-time bird sightings, this experience was one to remember for everyone involved, including a surprise little guest who stole the show.
Our day began with smiles and excitement as we boarded the motorboat on the tranquil Nile waters. Equipped with binoculars and a bird identification guide, we set off to explore Aswan’s hidden birding gems. The kingfishers were among the first to make an appearance, dazzling us with their bright plumage and swift movements.
As we cruised along, the group marveled at the diverse avian life that thrives in the region’s wetlands and riverbanks. From herons to bee-eaters, each sighting sparked curiosity and wonder.
Amazing feedback: Heartfelt Words from Henriette
After the trip, Henriette, one of our enthusiastic guests, shared her thoughts:
“We had the most beautiful experience with Ismael. He provided us with the boat and binoculars, picked us up from our guesthouse, and had already prepared some documentation about the local birds.
We saw so many species! He knows each of them so well, and we learned a lot about Egypt’s birds thanks to him. We explored a nature reserve where birds usually stay — it was stunning. Then we visited the Aswan Botanical Garden, another must-see, where we also spotted birds among beautiful plants.
Thank you, Ismael, for this amazing moment. We won’t forget it!”
Thank you, Henriette, for your kind words and great energy. Many thanks also for Margot and and Melanie. It was truly a joy birding with you!
Karim’s first birding experience: A child’s wonder
One of the most heartwarming highlights of the tour was the involvement of Karim, the 11-year-old grandson of our boat captain. At first, he sat quietly at the back of the boat, watching us with curiosity. One of our guests asked if he’d like to try using the binoculars. I asked him, and his face lit up — and just like that, Karim’s birdwatching journey began.
With the “Common Birds of Egypt” brochure in hand, Karim began pointing out birds he’d seen through the “magic magnifiers,” as he called the binoculars. Every sighting brought a wide-eyed “Oh wow!” from him. For a young boy from the busy town of Kom Ombo, seeing birds up close — clear, colorful, and full of life — was nothing short of magical.
Almost every bird he spotted was a lifer — a first-ever sighting — making the trip a transformative and unforgettable experience for him.
Inspiring the next generation of bird lovers
At Aswan Birdwatching, we believe that nature education should start young. When children learn to love birds and the natural world, they grow up with a deeper respect for the environment. That awareness is the key to long-term conservation. Simple actions — like reducing plastic waste — start with love and understanding of wildlife.
Engaging kids like Karim isn’t just rewarding; it’s essential. And it reminds us all that birdwatching is not just a hobby — it’s a way to reconnect with nature, family, and community.
In our latest community event (Big Day), we have engaged kids in both bird watching and bird identification.
Watch this short video on our Facebook page featuring the kids envolvement!
37 Species in 4 hours — A birdwatcher’s delight
By the end of our four-hour tour, we had recorded over 37 bird species on our checklist — an impressive count for a single morning! Want to see what we spotted? Click HERE to view the bird list
Experience the Magic of Birdwatching in Aswan
Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a curious traveler, our guided Nile birdwatching tours offer something truly special. Come for the birds, stay for the stories — and leave with memories that will last a lifetime. Aswan Birdwatching – Where Every Sighting Is Miraculous!
