In short
- Foreign adults pay 550 EGP at the gate.
- The motorboat ride costs 200-300 EGP round trip.
- Cards are required for tickets; cash is needed for boats.
In this article
Visiting Philae Temple involves a two-part payment. You must buy an official entrance ticket from the Ministry of Antiquities and separately negotiate a boat ride to Agilkia Island. Being prepared with both a credit card and local cash ensures a smooth arrival.
How much is the main entrance fee?
The 2026 entry fee is 550 EGP for foreign adults.
Foreign students with a valid ISIC card (maximum age 24) pay 275 EGP. You must present your physical student ID at the ticket window to claim this discount.
Do I need to pay for the boat separately?
Yes, the boat ride to the island is not included in your temple ticket.
You will take a 10 to 15-minute motorboat ride from Marina Philae (Shellal Dock). This round trip costs between 200 and 300 EGP. You negotiate this fee directly with the boat drivers.
Can I pay with cash at the ticket office?
No, the main ticket office now operates under a card-only policy.
Cash is no longer accepted directly at the major site ticket booths. You must use a credit or debit card to purchase your 550 EGP entrance ticket.
Do I need cash for the boat ride?
Yes, you must pay the boatmen in cash.
Bring small EGP denominations to pay for the motorboat and for any tips. The boat drivers do not accept card payments.
Are guided tours a good value?
Tours often bundle the ticket, boat, and transport into one price.
A half-day tour typically costs $30 to $60. This is highly recommended for convenience. It saves you from negotiating taxi fares and boat prices yourself.
| Expense type | Cost / Info |
|---|---|
| Foreign Adult Ticket | 550 EGP (Card only) |
| Foreign Student Ticket | 275 EGP (Card only) |
| Motorboat Ride | 200-300 EGP round trip (Cash only) |
| Guided Tour | From $30-$60 (Bundled) |
What about the Sound and Light Show?
The evening show requires a separate ticket.
If you return for the evening Sound and Light Show, you will need to buy a different ticket. This ticket typically includes the night-time boat ride and costs around 600 EGP. Check Sound & Light for more details.
Questions travellers ask
Can you pay the Philae Temple entrance fee with cash?
No, the main ticket booth uses a card-only policy. You must pay the 550 EGP fee with a credit or debit card.
How much does the boat to Philae Temple cost?
The motorboat costs 200-300 EGP for a round trip from the Shellal dock to Agilkia Island. You must pay this in cash.
How much is the entrance fee for Philae Temple in 2026?
The entrance fee is 550 EGP for foreign adults and 275 EGP for foreign students with valid ID.
