After-whyle Crocka-dyle: Observations from our Nile Cruiser
If you’re searching for wild Nile crocodiles downstream of the Aswan High Dam, you likely won't find them in the open river. Since the dam’s completion in 1970, the natural migration of these ancient reptiles has been cut off. Today, Egypt’s wild population—estimated between 10,000 and 20,000—thrives almost exclusively upstream in Lake Nasser.
However, if you want to encounter these “lords of the Nile” below Aswan, there are three ways to find them:
Mummified crocodiles from the Crocodile Museum at Kom Ombo.
1. The Crocodile Museum at Kom Ombo
Located immediately adjacent to the Temple of Kom Ombo, this is the most reliable place to see crocodiles in the area (although they are a little stiff!). The collection houses over 20 mummified crocodiles. These range from small hatchlings to massive adults, with the largest measuring 4.3 meters (about 14 feet). The museum explains the ancient veneration of Sobek, showing how crocodiles were kept in sacred pools and adorned with jewelry.
Mark lands a kiss on a baby crocodile.
2. Living Traditions in Nubian Villages
In traditional Nubian villages like Gharb Soheil, you can find living crocodiles kept by locals. It is a long-standing Nubian tradition to keep crocodiles in homes as pets or protectors, believing they bring good fortune and ward off evil. Many guest houses and shops allow visitors to see (and sometimes even handle) smaller crocodiles kept in cages or basins.
Nile Crocodile in a basin inside a home in a Nubian Village, Aswan.
3. Rare Modern Sightings and Safety
While rare, occasional sightings occur north of Aswan. These are usually “escapees” from illegal farms or pets that grew too large and were released into the river.
Because of their near-total absence, many locals and tourists consider the water near Aswan relatively safe for swimming. However, officials discourages it due to boat traffic and water-borne parasites.
Watch the Video
To hear our musings on life on the river, check out the video below by clicking on the panel.