Photos of Abu Simbel and nearby sights. For photos of the hotel itself, see its official website.
The Old Cataract is one of the most celebrated hotels in Africa. Built in 1899 by Thomas Cook on a pink granite cliff above the Nile, it looks across to Elephantine Island and the desert hills of the West Bank. Agatha Christie wrote part of Death on the Nile here, and the hotel later served as a film location for the story.
Since May 2026 the hotel has been managed by Mandarin Oriental, replacing Accor’s Sofitel Legend brand. Guests continue to stay in the historic palace building while the newer Nile Wing is renovated, and the whole property is due to relaunch in mid-2027 as Mandarin Oriental Old Cataract, Aswan. Expect some works and a reduced room count until then.
The palace rooms and suites are full of Moorish arches, carved wood and antiques, and many have balconies over the river. The terrace, where afternoon tea is served at sunset as feluccas sail past, is an Aswan institution. Dining includes the grand 1902 restaurant and Levantine and Mediterranean cuisine at Saraya, along with indoor and outdoor pools and a spa.
It suits honeymooners, history lovers and travellers who want a once-in-a-lifetime stay, and are happy to pay for it.
Last checked October 2026. Sources: mandarinoriental.com, press.mandarinoriental.com, en.wikipedia.org, booking.com.
From about $350 per night · last checked October 2026
- Address
- Abtal El Tahrir Street, Aswan
- Check-in
- 15:00
- Check-out
- 12:00
Facilities
- Outdoor pool and indoor pool
- Spa
- Restaurants incl. 1902 and Saraya, plus the famous Terrace
- Afternoon tea on the Nile terrace
- Nile and garden-view rooms
- Free WiFi
- Historic palace building (1899)
At a glance
CityAswan
TypeHistoric hotel
Stars5
NearNile, Elephantine Island
GovernorateAswan
Details last checkedOctober 2026
Prices are approximate starting rates. Check with the hotel before booking; Egypt Info does not take bookings.
Frequently asked questions
How many stars does Sofitel Legend Old Cataract have?
Sofitel Legend Old Cataract is a 5-star hotel.
How much does a night at Sofitel Legend Old Cataract cost?
Standard rooms start from about $350 per night (approximate, October 2026). Rates vary by season.
What are the check-in and check-out times?
At Sofitel Legend Old Cataract, check-in is from 15:00 and check-out is by 12:00.
What is near Sofitel Legend Old Cataract?
Sofitel Legend Old Cataract is near the Nile and Elephantine Island.
How do I book Sofitel Legend Old Cataract?
Book directly on the official website or through a booking site. Egypt Info does not take bookings.