The Ultimate Nile Cruise Experience
TRUE Egypt, Long Nile Cruise!
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- Additional Info
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What's included
- Accommodation in single twin share room
- Airport Arrival and Departure Transfers
- Airport meet and Assist
- All service charges and taxes.
- All transfers by a private air-conditioned vehicle.
- Bottled water during your day tours.
- Egypt Entry Visa fees
- Entrance Fees to all the sites mentioned in our above itinerary.
- Entry Inside the Tomb of Tutankhamun
- Overday Tour to Abu Simbel
- Professionally guided tour
- Entry Inside the Pyramids
- Entry Inside the Tomb of King Seti I
- Gratuities for Nile Cruise Staff
- Medical, and emergency insurance
- Services not specifically stated in the itinerary
- Tips to guide and driver
High on History
Set sail on an iconic journey along the storied waters of the Nile, beginning in the majestic city of Cairo, where the timeless Pyramids and Sphinx stand as guardians of Egypt’s ancient legacy. From there, your voyage carries you southward into the cradle of civilization, unfolding through the captivating landscapes and temples that grace the stretch between Luxor and Aswan.

A Rare Voyage
Venturing beyond the well-worn tourist path, this expedition offers a rare and privileged opportunity. Once largely inaccessible, the lower stretch of the Nile between Cairo and Abydos has remained hidden from most travelers. Today, only a handful of select journeys traverse this seldom-seen region. With few vessels making the full passage from Cairo to Luxor each year, this voyage stands as a truly exclusive and extraordinary experience.

Tracing Time on the Nile
As the ship navigates southward, you’ll uncover hidden treasures of antiquity—Tel Amarna, Beni Hassan, and Hermopolis—where the echoes of ancient civilizations linger undisturbed by time. Along the lush Nile banks, scenes of rural life quietly unfold, offering an intimate glimpse into the daily rhythms of modern Egypt.
Upon arriving in Luxor, the tempo shifts, and the river comes alive with energy. On the west bank, you’ll explore the awe-inspiring Valley of the Kings, the elegant Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, and the imposing Colossi of Memnon—each bearing witness to Egypt’s glorious pharaonic legacy. Across the river, the east bank unveils the grandeur of Karnak and Luxor Temples, where gods and pharaohs once walked among colossal columns and sacred carvings.

Laid-back Lifestyle Along the Southern Nile
For those embarking on the full 15-day journey, the adventure continues south beyond Luxor, following the Nile past the magnificent temples of Edfu and Kom Ombo. The voyage culminates in Aswan, where calm waters cradle the island sanctuary of Philae—an enduring symbol of Egypt’s sacred legacy. For those seeking even more, optional excursions lead to the awe-inspiring temples of Abu Simbel, majestically relocated to higher ground to escape the rising waters of Lake Nasser.

As the journey nears its end, the ship bids a graceful farewell—either in Luxor after the 12-day expedition or in Aswan following the full 15-day odyssey. From these ancient, storied shores, travelers begin their return home, hearts full of the timeless echoes of Egypt’s past and minds enriched by the wonders discovered along the legendary banks of the Nile.
- Day 1
- Day 2
- Day 3
- Day 4
- Day 5
- Day 6
- Day 7
- Day 8
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- Day 10
- Day 11
- Day 12
- Day 13
- Day 14
- Day 15
Arrival in Cairo & Embarkation on the Nile Cruise
Upon your arrival at Cairo International Airport, our representative will warmly welcome you and escort you to your Nile cruise boat, where you’ll begin your unforgettable journey along the storied Nile. Take the rest of the day to relax, settle into your cabin, or start exploring the vibrant atmosphere of Cairo at your own pace. The evening is spent peacefully moored on the Nile, offering a unique introduction to the rhythm of river life.
If you wish to arrive earlier, optional pre-tour nights in a 4-star hotel can be arranged.
- Overnight: Nile Cruise Boat
- Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner
- Optional Extras: Pyramids Sound & Light Show
Egyptian Museum, Coptic Cairo, and the Timeless Pyramids of Giza
Start your morning with a hearty breakfast on board before setting out to explore some of Cairo’s most iconic landmarks. Your first stop is the world-famous Egyptian Museum, a treasure trove of ancient artifacts, including the legendary treasures of Tutankhamun and countless relics from Egypt’s pharaonic past.
Next, journey into Coptic Cairo, a historic quarter rich in spiritual and architectural heritage. Highlights include the beautifully preserved Hanging Church, the insightful Coptic Museum, and the ancient Ben Ezra Synagogue, each offering a unique glimpse into Egypt’s diverse religious tapestry.
Return to the cruise boat for a relaxing international buffet lunch before heading out again for the afternoon’s grand finale—the Giza Plateau. Stand in awe before the majestic Pyramids of Giza and the timeless Sphinx, enduring symbols of Egypt's ancient power and mystery.
In the evening, unwind with a Lebanese buffet dinner on board and enjoy a peaceful night moored in Cairo.
- Overnight: Nile Cruise Boat
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Extras: None
Memphis, Saqqara & the Grand Egyptian Museum
Begin your day with a delicious breakfast on board before heading out to explore the ancient heart of Egypt. Your morning takes you to the ancient city of Memphis, once the capital of the Old Kingdom and home to grand statues and relics of Egypt’s early dynasties. From there, continue to Saqqara, the vast necropolis known for the iconic Step Pyramid of Djoser, the earliest colossal stone structure ever built.
Return to the cruise for a relaxing Mediterranean buffet lunch before setting off again to visit the much-anticipated Grand Egyptian Museum. Located near the Giza Plateau, this world-class institution showcases thousands of ancient artifacts, including the complete collection of King Tutankhamun’s treasures, many displayed for the first time.
Back on board in the evening, enjoy a set menu dinner, followed by an Oriental Takht performance, where traditional Egyptian music brings the spirit of the Nile to life.
- Overnight: Nile Cruise Boat
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Extras: None
Sailing South to Beni Suef – A Day of Scenic River Life
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast on board as your cruise sets sail for Beni Suef, marking the beginning of your multi-day journey through the heart of Egypt. Nestled along the Nile, Beni Suef is the capital of its namesake governorate and has long served as a vital agricultural and trade hub, famed for its fertile farmlands and production of cotton, wheat, and other crops.
The entire day is dedicated to sailing, offering you the perfect opportunity to relax on deck, take in the ever-changing scenery, and witness daily life along the riverbanks—from fishermen casting their nets to farmers tending the fields. As midday approaches, indulge in a vibrant Mexican buffet lunch served on board.
In the evening, a BBQ dinner awaits, complemented by live music from a singer, adding a festive touch to your evening under the stars. The boat will dock in Beni Suef overnight, giving you a taste of this quiet riverside city's charm. If time allows, you may choose to explore the local markets or take a short stroll along its historic streets.
- Overnight: Nile Cruise Boat (moored in Beni Suef)
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Extras: None
Journey to Minya – Gateway to Hidden Histories
Begin your day as the cruise sets sail early towards Minya, a city rich in history yet delightfully untouched by mass tourism. Nestled on the west bank of the Nile, Minya is the capital of the Minya Governorate and was once a flourishing center of trade, culture, and religious life in ancient Egypt. As the birthplace of Akhenaten’s revolutionary monotheistic vision, this region played a pivotal role in Egypt’s spiritual history.
Enjoy breakfast on board as the ship glides through the peaceful Nile waters, revealing quiet villages and verdant fields. Around midday, savor a French-themed buffet lunch, offering a refined culinary break during your scenic journey.
Upon arrival in Minya, you'll begin to sense the city’s unique blend of antiquity and authenticity. Known historically as the capital of the 16th Upper Egyptian Nome, the area’s legacy includes connections to pharaonic royalty and rich agricultural productivity, particularly in cotton and sugarcane.
In the evening, dine on a set menu dinner followed by a Folkloric Party on board, where traditional music and dance provide a vibrant celebration of Egyptian culture. The boat remains moored in Minya overnight, allowing you to absorb the quiet charm and historical weight of this remarkable city.
- Overnight: Nile Cruise Boat (moored in Minya)
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Extras: None
Tuna El Gebel, Ashmunein & Beni Hassan
Your day begins with breakfast on board, preparing you for a journey into ancient Egyptian history. You'll then visit Tuna El Gebel and Ashmunein. Tuna El Gebel is an important archaeological site, known for its extensive necropolis and the well-preserved tomb of Petosiris, offering insights into the transition between pharaonic and Hellenistic periods. Ashmunein, once a significant city, boasts remnants of a temple dedicated to Thoth, the god of wisdom and writing, and provides a glimpse into the religious practices of the era. A light buffet lunch will be served on board. Following lunch, you'll embark on an excursion to the Beni Hassan tombs, located approximately a one-hour drive from the Minya dock. This site contains a collection of rock-cut tombs belonging to high-ranking officials from the Middle Kingdom. You'll have approximately two hours to explore these fascinating tombs, including the Tomb of Baqet III (BH15), notable for its detailed depictions of daily life; the Tomb of Khety (BH17), showcasing scenes of wrestling and other activities; the Tomb of Amenemhet (BH2), with its vibrant paintings; and the Tomb of Khnumhotep II (BH3), renowned for its depictions of exotic animals and trade. These tombs provide valuable information about the social structure, artistic conventions, and beliefs of ancient Egyptians. After your visit to Beni Hassan, you'll return to the boat. In the evening, an Italian buffet dinner will be served on board. You will stay overnight in Minya.
- Overnight: Nile cruise boat
- MEALS: Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch
- EXTRAS: None
Tel El Amarna & Sail to Assyut – Echoes of a Revolutionary Pharaoh
An early start marks the beginning of a day rich in history and discovery. As the cruise sails toward Tel El Amarna, enjoy breakfast on board, preparing you for an in-depth exploration of one of Egypt’s most extraordinary and short-lived capitals.
At Tel El Amarna, step into the world of Akhenaten, the "heretic pharaoh" who transformed Egypt’s religion and art during his radical reign. Your visit includes the Northern Tombs, where high officials were buried, and the Royal Tomb of Akhenaten, which—though its decoration has faded—remains a powerful symbol of the Amarnian period. You'll also explore the ruins of the Northern Palace and the Small Temples of Aten, dedicated to the sun disc that became the sole focus of Akhenaten's revolutionary monotheism.
Back on board, enjoy an English-style buffet lunch as the ship resumes sailing toward Assyut. Along the way, you’ll pause in front of the Monastery of Prince Tawadros, perched dramatically on the cliffs. While the visit is from the river, your guide will share insights into its Coptic Christian legacy and spiritual significance.
As evening falls, a BBQ dinner is served on board, followed by a festive Galabia Party—a fun and relaxed celebration where guests can dress in traditional Egyptian attire and enjoy local music and dance. The night is spent moored in Assyut, offering a peaceful rest after a day steeped in history.
- Overnight: Nile Cruise Boat (moored in Assyut)
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Extras: None
Full Day Sailing to Sohag – A Journey Through Egypt’s Heartland
Spend a tranquil day on the Nile as the ship sails southward toward Sohag, a region rarely visited by tourists yet rich in natural beauty and rural charm.
The day is perfect for relaxation—unwind on the sun deck, read a book, sip tea, or simply watch the timeless scenes of Egyptian village life unfold along the riverbanks. With the wind in your hair and the rhythm of the river beneath you, this sailing day allows you to absorb the slower, meditative pace of the Nile.
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner will be served on board, each thoughtfully prepared and enjoyed against the backdrop of the passing landscape.
- Overnight: Nile Cruise Boat (moored in Sohag)
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Extras: None
Explore Abydos & Sail to Naga Hammadi – In the Footsteps of Osiris
Your day begins early as the cruise sails toward El Balyana, the gateway to one of ancient Egypt’s most sacred sites. Enjoy breakfast on board as the Nile carries you closer to the legendary city of Abydos, once considered a holy place of pilgrimage and deeply connected to the cult of Osiris, God of the afterlife.
At Abydos, explore the majestic Temple of Seti I, one of the finest surviving temples of the New Kingdom. Renowned for its beautifully preserved reliefs, intricate carvings, and the famous Abydos King List, the temple offers an unparalleled insight into ancient Egyptian religion and royal lineage.
After your visit, return to the ship and continue sailing south toward Naga Hammadi, passing through locks and under bridges—an engaging experience that merges modern engineering with the ancient journey of the Nile. A Moroccan buffet lunch is served on board, offering rich flavors and regional inspiration.
In the evening, enjoy a BBQ dinner on deck as the cruise docks in Naga Hammadi for an overnight stay, surrounded by peaceful Nile scenery.
- Overnight: Nile Cruise Boat (moored in Naga Hammadi)
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Extras: None
Dendera Temple Tour & Sail to Luxor – Gateway to the Gods
Begin your morning with breakfast on board before departing for an excursion to the breathtaking Temple of Dendera. Just a short drive from the boat, this remarkably preserved complex is dedicated to Hathor, the goddess of love, joy, music, and motherhood.
Marvel at Dendera’s intricate bas-reliefs, grand hypostyle hall, and detailed astronomical ceiling—a highlight that showcases the ancient Egyptians’ profound knowledge of the cosmos. The temple’s vibrant colors and architectural harmony provide a captivating window into Ptolemaic and Roman-era Egypt.
After your visit, return to the cruise and begin sailing toward Luxor, the crown jewel of Upper Egypt. Along the way, enjoy a flavorful Asian buffet lunch on board. As evening falls, a relaxed “sandwich street food” dinner is served, offering a more casual yet satisfying end to the day.
Your cruise arrives in Luxor, where you'll moor overnight in preparation for the grand discoveries that await.
- Overnight: Nile Cruise Boat (moored in Luxor)
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Extras: None
West Bank of Luxor – Royal Tombs & Divine Temples
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast on board before setting off to explore the majestic West Bank of Luxor, home to some of the most iconic treasures of ancient Egypt. Your first stop is the legendary Valley of the Kings, the final resting place of New Kingdom pharaohs. Here, you’ll enter several elaborately decorated tombs, where vibrant wall paintings and symbolic carvings reveal the beliefs and burial customs of Egypt’s most powerful rulers.
Continuing to the stunning Temple of Hatshepsut, an architectural marvel built into the cliffs of Deir El-Bahari. This grand mortuary temple reflects the ambition and legacy of one of Egypt’s most remarkable female pharaohs, blending elegance with political symbolism in its unique terraced design.
After your explorations, return to the cruise for a light buffet lunch. As evening falls, enjoy the rich flavors of an Indian buffet dinner, followed by a belly dancing performance—a lively display of Egyptian artistry, music, and tradition that adds a celebratory touch to your night.
- Optional Extra: Hot Air Balloon Ride over Luxor (pre-dawn activity)
- Overnight: Nile Cruise Boat (moored in Luxor)
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
East Bank Wonders & Sail to Edfu – Temples of Power and Passage Through the Esna Lock
Fuel up with breakfast on board before setting off to explore the East Bank of Luxor, a showcase of Egypt’s spiritual and architectural greatness. Begin at the Karnak Temple Complex, one of the largest religious structures ever built. Dedicated to the Theban Triad, Karnak’s Forest of towering columns, colossal statues, and detailed reliefs spans centuries of devotion and dynastic rule.
Then, walk the restored Avenue of the Sphinxes to the Luxor Temple, an elegant and atmospheric complex that once hosted grand festivals and ceremonies in honor of the god Amun. The temple’s colonnades and sanctuaries reflect both royal power and religious reverence.
Return to the ship for an international buffet lunch, after which passengers concluding their cruise in Luxor will disembark. For those continuing onward, the ship sets sail toward Edfu, passing through the historic Esna Lock, an engaging demonstration of Nile navigation that bridges ancient waters with modern engineering.
In the evening, enjoy a set menu dinner on board as the cruise docks in Edfu for the night.
- Overnight: Nile Cruise Boat (moored in Edfu)
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Extras: None
Temples of Edfu & Kom Ombo – Sailing Toward Aswan
Start your morning with a delicious breakfast on board before heading ashore to visit one of Egypt’s most well-preserved ancient sanctuaries: the Temple of Edfu. Dedicated to the falcon-headed god Horus, this magnificent structure from the Ptolemaic period offers an immersive look into ancient mythology, temple rituals, and architectural mastery. Its towering pylons, rich reliefs, and sacred halls bring the legacy of Horus vividly to life.
After your exploration, return to the ship and enjoy scenic sailing to Kom Ombo, with verdant countryside and riverbank life unfolding around you. A traditional Egyptian lunch will be served on board as you cruise.
In the afternoon, you arrive at the striking Temple of Kom Ombo, dramatically positioned along the Nile’s edge. This unique, symmetrical temple is devoted to two gods—Sobek, the crocodile god of fertility, and Haroeris (a form of Horus). Its rare dual dedication is reflected in mirrored sanctuaries, hypostyle halls, and ceremonial spaces, offering a glimpse into duality in ancient Egyptian worship. Don’t miss the adjacent Crocodile Museum, home to dozens of mummified reptiles!
As the day winds down, enjoy a BBQ dinner on board under the stars as the cruise continues to Aswan, where you will dock and spend the night.
- Overnight: Nile Cruise Boat (moored in Aswan)
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Extras: None
Discovering Aswan – Temples, Traditions & Nubian Culture
Begin your final full day of exploration with breakfast on board, setting the tone for a deep dive into the historical and cultural treasures of Aswan—a city where ancient Egypt meets modern innovation and timeless traditions.
Your morning starts with a visit to the High Dam, a monumental feat of 20th-century engineering that forever changed the landscape of the Nile. Standing atop the dam, take in sweeping views of Lake Nasser, one of the largest artificial lakes in the world.
Next, you'll visit the enchanting Philae Temple, dedicated to Isis, the goddess of magic and motherhood. Relocated to Agilkia Island after the creation of the High Dam, the temple's majestic colonnades, hieroglyphs, and sacred sanctuaries offer a breathtaking example of ancient Egyptian devotion and architectural grace.
Return to the cruise for a fresh seafood buffet lunch before setting out in the afternoon to the Nubian Museum—a cultural gem that tells the story of the Nubian people, their history, heritage, and resilience. Through artifacts, textiles, and multimedia exhibits, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the traditions that have shaped life along the southern Nile.
As evening falls, enjoy a flambé dinner on board—an interactive culinary experience that adds flair to your meal. The day ends with a lively Nubian Party, where traditional music, dance, and costumes bring the rhythms of Aswan to life in a joyful celebration of culture and community.
- Overnight: Nile Cruise Boat (moored in Aswan)
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Extras: None
Farewell from Aswan – Optional Abu Simbel & Departure
After a final breakfast on board, your journey along the Nile officially comes to an end. For those seeking one last grand adventure, an optional sunrise tour to Abu Simbel is available. Located on the shores of Lake Nasser, the twin temples of Ramses II and Nefertari are masterpieces of ancient engineering and devotion. The early morning excursion requires a pre-dawn departure, with a return to Aswan around 1:00 PM.
If you choose to visit Abu Simbel, we recommend booking your departure flight no earlier than 6:00 PM to accommodate the return journey.
We are happy to assist with additional hotel nights in Aswan, as well as international flights into Cairo and out of Aswan (via Cairo with EgyptAir). Just let us know your preferences.
- Overnight: N/A
- Meals Included: Breakfast
- Optional Extras: Overland tour to Abu Simbel / Extra night in Aswan
- International flight arrangement
More about this tour
A Voyage Through Time: Long Nile Cruise in Egypt
A long Nile cruise offers more than just a leisurely sail—it is an immersive passage through the heart of Egypt’s ancient and modern identity. This remarkable journey traces the lifeblood of Egyptian civilization, flowing through landscapes that once witnessed the rise and fall of dynasties. From the bustling metropolis of Cairo to the serene beauty of Aswan, the cruise moves along a historic axis that has shaped cultures, kingdoms, and spiritual legacies for over 5,000 years.
Climate
Egypt’s climate along the Nile is predominantly arid, tempered slightly by the river’s cooling presence. Average annual temperatures hover around 72 °F (22 °C), with daytime highs in summer often surpassing 95 °F (35 °C), while winter temperatures remain pleasantly mild, averaging around 59 °F (15 °C). Rainfall is scarce, with most regions receiving less than one inch (25 mm) annually, making the climate ideal for year-round cruising, especially in the cooler months from October to April.
The Nile Route
The cruise route typically begins in Cairo or Luxor, flowing through the heart of Upper Egypt. Cairo, sprawling and energetic, introduces travelers to the grandeur of Islamic, Coptic, and pharaonic heritage. As the ship sails south, the river narrows and the rhythm slows, revealing timeless towns and archaeological wonders—Beni Hassan’s rock-cut tombs, Tel Amarna’s ghostly ruins of Akhenaten’s capital, and the mystical remains of Hermopolis.
Luxor, often called the world’s greatest open-air museum, marks a pivotal point in the journey. Here, the Nile divides temples and tombs: the east bank with its monumental Karnak and Luxor Temples, and the west bank guarding the Valley of the Kings and the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut. Continuing onward, the voyage graces the sacred grounds of Edfu and Kom Ombo, where deities were once worshipped beneath stone colonnades.
Aswan and Beyond
The cruise culminates in Aswan, a city of Nubian charm and gentle waters, where the island temple of Philae rises in majestic stillness. Optional excursions to Abu Simbel offer a powerful finale—colossal statues carved in devotion, relocated to safety above Lake Nasser’s rising waters.
Like Berlin rising from the ashes of conflict into a symbol of cultural resurgence, the Nile journey reveals Egypt as a land of both enduring past and vibrant present. The riverbanks, dotted with farms, feluccas, and village life, mirror the nation’s deep-rooted continuity—a graceful blend of legacy and life unfolding beneath desert skies.



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