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Kitchener's Island

The breathtaking botanical garden or Kitchener’s Island nestled in the heart of Nile, Aswan. Covered with the lush greenery and exotic plants that offer you to enjoy the beauty of the garden in a peaceful way far from the hectic routine or noise of cities. This paradise is for you whether you are nature lover, history explorer or tranquility seeker. Let’s read about the history, species of plants and photography tips of this botanical garden. 

History of Island 

This island is also known with the name of “El Nabatat Island” which means the plant island has a significant history of transformation. This island was gifted by the british military lord Horatio Kitchener and it was named as Kitchener’s island as well after his name. This place was a barren land in the 19th century and Kitchener decided to transform it into a botanical garden due to its finest location in the Nile river. 

He transformed this barren land of 750m / 2,460 ft long island by importing seeds and shrubs. So, he imports different species of plants from different countries like India, Africa and the Far East. Later on from 1914 to 1928 the department of irrigation worked on featuring the different trees from the five continents. Nowadays, this island attracts visitors from all over the world and is still a living testament of his vision.

Exotic Flora and Fauna:

Although the island starts with a boat dock, its ambiance entrance covered with different flowers  welcomes you. As you walk in gardens, you will come across different sections. It has towering palm trees, different species of flowers, dense foliage and pathways leading you through shaded walkways.  Botanical garden is managed in a well way and its small ponds along pathways create a serene environment. There are some small bridges over the ponds that create a perfect picturesque spot for photography. The cool or fresh air coming from the Nile makes it perfect for relaxation. 

You are going to see different species of plants here like royal palms, cacti, acacias, and hibiscus. There are a bunch of rare tropical trees, medicinal herbs, and colorful flowers such as Bougainvillea, Frangipani, African Tulip Tree. Along with botanical wonders, you are going to see the different species of birds as well like herons, kingfishers, and other migratory birds resting on branches of trees. It is considered to be a living museum of plants in Aswan.  The tranquil atmosphere of the island forces you to stay there for a long time but you can explore the whole island within a couple of hours. 

Island is worth visiting ?

The main reason for visiting this botanical or kitchener’s island is due to its peaceful atmosphere that allows you to rest or enjoy nature. Far from the bustling streets of Aswan, here you will walk in lush green or you can read a book under the shade of a tree along the views of the Nile makes a perfect setting. If you are seeking a relaxing day in Egypt along nature, your visit to this place is going to be worth it.

How to reach and best time 

Kitcchener island is located in the Nile river in Aswan, you can access this island through motorboats or felucca rides. The best way to reach there is through a felucca ride which enhances the experience. Because the wooden traditional boat will offer you to enjoy the views of the river along cool breezes in an ancient Egyptian way. You can also take motorboat rides to reach the island if you have a tight schedule. 

Kitchener’s Island is open everyday for visitors but the best time to visit the garden is during the months from October to April. Because in these months the weather is cooler, otherwise in summer months the weather in Aswan is very hot. If you are going for a photograph, then a morning or evening visit will make your visit best because light is perfect in these times. 

Trip

Felucca Ride 

in Aswan

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Tips for photography on Kitchener Island Aswan

Island offers incredible spots for photoshoot and here are some tips that helps:

• Early morning or before sunset ( golden hours ) are best for smooth photoshoot because in this time there is soft light. 
• Try to capture the reflection of trees in water ponds for stunning effect.
• Take a traditional felucca boat ride for a panoramic shot of island form the nile river. 
• Include visitors as well in your shots to create a sense of atmosphere. 

Attraction near Kitchener’s Island

During your visit to botanical garden you can also explore following nearby tourist attractions:

• Philae Temple that is almost 10 km away from Kitchener island, you can visit as well.
• You can also visit the Aswan High Dam which is almost 38 km away from the island and will take 37 minutes.
• Take a 45 minutes of ride to reach the Nubian museum for learning more about the history of Nubians and Aswan.
• If you want to experience the traditions and culture of Nubian people, you can explore the Elephantine Island which is nearby the Kitchener island. 

Kitchener or botanical garden is not just a garden, it is the tranquil experience that remains last in your memory. Your visit to Aswan will not be complete without visiting this amazing paradise that allows you to enjoy nature with the ancient nile river. Let us know if we are missing something from this amazing place !