Be one of the very first for many years to take a Nile Cruise all the way from Cairo to Luxor and Aswan
Highlights
Pyramids, Sphinx, Egyptian Museum, Tuna al Gebel, Tel el Amarna, Beni Hassan, Abydos, Dendera, Valley of the Kings, Temple of Karnak, Edfu, Komombo, Philae Temple
Itinerary
DAY 1: Arrive in Cairo, transfer to cruise boat
Upon arrival at Cairo airport, we will meet & greet you and transfer you directly to your Nile Cruise boat. The rest of the day is free for you to settle in and relax on board the boat or start to explore Cairo. The evening is spent moored up on the Nile in Cairo. Extra days in a hotel in Cairo are available if you would like to arrive earlier.
OVERNIGHT:
Nile cruise boat
MEALS:
Dinner, Lunch
EXTRAS:
Single cabin supplement - 15 DAY Cruise (EGSGLN)
Extra day in Cairo (4-star) - pre-tour
DAY 2: Egyptian Museum, Coptic Cairo and the Pyramids and Sphinx
Your day begins with breakfast on board, setting you up for a day of exploration. You'll delve into ancient history with a visit to the renowned Egyptian Museum, home to an extensive collection of artefacts from pharaonic Egypt. Following this, you'll explore Coptic Cairo, taking in the rich history and architecture of the area, including visits to the Hanging Church, the Coptic Museum, and the Ben Ezra Synagogue, offering insights into the diverse religious heritage of Egypt. A break for lunch is scheduled, with an international buffet served on board. The afternoon is dedicated to the iconic Giza Plateau, where you'll witness the majestic Pyramids and the enigmatic Sphinx. As evening approaches, a Lebanese buffet will be served on board for dinner. Finally, you'll settle in for an overnight stay onboard in Cairo.
OVERNIGHT:
Nile cruise boat
MEALS:
Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch
EXTRAS:
None
DAY 3: Exploring Memphis, Saqqara and the Grand Egyptian Museum
Your day starts with breakfast on board, preparing you for a day filled with exploration. You will then visit Memphis and Saqqara, immersing yourself in the ancient history and impressive architecture of these significant sites. A Mediterranean buffet lunch will be served on board. Following lunch, you'll explore the Grand Egyptian Museum, a remarkable institution housing a vast collection of Egyptian antiquities, offering a comprehensive overview of the country's rich past. In the evening, a set menu dinner will be served on board. After dinner, you can enjoy an Oriental Takht show, experiencing traditional music and entertainment.
OVERNIGHT:
Nile cruise boat
MEALS:
Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch
EXTRAS:
None
DAY 4: Start sailing to Beni Suef
Your day commences with breakfast on board, providing sustenance for a full day of sailing. You will spend the entire day sailing towards Beni Suef, a city with a rich history and strategic importance along the Nile. Beni Suef, the capital of the Beni Suef Governorate, is an agricultural centre known for its fertile lands and production of crops like cotton and wheat. Historically, it has served as a vital trading point and has witnessed the passage of countless travellers and goods throughout the ages. While sailing towards Beni Suef, you can relax on deck, soak in the tranquil beauty of the Nile River, and observe the changing landscapes that unfold along its banks. Midday brings a delightful Mexican buffet lunch served on board. As evening descends, a BBQ dinner will be prepared, accompanied by live music from a singer, enhancing the dining experience with local flavours and entertainment. Finally, you will moor in Beni Suef and stay overnight, allowing you to appreciate the city's atmosphere and perhaps explore its local markets or historical sites if time permits, before continuing your cruise the following day.
OVERNIGHT:
Nile cruise boat
MEALS:
Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch
EXTRAS:
None
DAY 5: Sail south towards Minya
Your day begins with an early sail to Minya, a city steeped in ancient Egyptian history and often overlooked by mainstream tourism, offering a more authentic glimpse into Egyptian life. Minya, the capital of the Minya Governorate in Upper Egypt, sits on the west bank of the Nile and was once a vital centre of trade and religious significance. The surrounding area boasts remarkable archaeological sites, showcasing the region's rich past. After settling in, breakfast will be served on board. As the day progresses, a French buffet lunch will be available on board. Minya's historical importance includes its role as the capital of the 16th Upper Egyptian Nome and its association with the pharaoh Akhenaten, who attempted to establish a monotheistic religion. The region is also known for its agricultural productivity, particularly for cotton and sugarcane. In the evening, a set menu dinner will be served on board, followed by a Folkloric Party, providing entertainment and a taste of Egyptian culture. You will then stay overnight in Minya, giving you the chance to experience the unique atmosphere of this historical city.
OVERNIGHT:
Nile cruise boat
MEALS:
Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch
EXTRAS:
None
DAY 6: 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
DAY 7: Tel El Amarna & sail towards Asyut
Your day begins early as you set sail for Tel El Amarna, a site of immense historical significance, offering a unique glimpse into the 'Amarnian period. At Tel El Amarna, you will experience the legacy of the pharaoh Akhenaten's revolutionary reign. Breakfast will be served on board as you journey. Upon arrival at Tel El Amarna, you will visit the northern tombs, including the Royal Tomb of Akhenaten, though much of its decoration has been lost, its very presence speaks to the radical changes of his rule. You'll also explore the Northern Palace, offering a sense of the royal court's life, and the Small Temples of Aten, dedicated to the sun disc, the focus of Akhenaten's monotheistic religion. These sites provide invaluable insights into the art, architecture, and religious beliefs of this fascinating era. Aboard the ship, an English buffet lunch will be served as you continue sailing towards Assyut. As you sail, you'll make a stop in front of the Prince Tawdrous Monastery. While you will view the monastery from the boat, your guide will provide commentary on its historical and religious importance. This Coptic monastery, nestled on the cliffs, stands as a testament to the enduring Christian presence in Egypt. The day concludes with a BBQ dinner on board, accompanied by a lively Galabia Party, offering a chance to experience Egyptian culture. You will stay overnight in Assyut.
OVERNIGHT:
Nile cruise boat
MEALS:
Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch
EXTRAS:
None
DAY 8: Sailing day to Sohag
Your day starts early as you set sail for Sohag. After a few hours of cruising along the Nile, breakfast will be served on board, providing sustenance for the day ahead. The journey to Sohag itself offers opportunities to observe the changing landscapes of Upper Egypt, with glimpses of rural life and the fertile banks of the river. Sohag, a city with a rich history, serves as a gateway to exploring the surrounding area. Aboard the ship, an international buffet lunch will be served. As evening approaches, an Oriental buffet dinner will be available on board, offering a taste of local flavours and cuisine. Finally, you will stay overnight in Sohag, ready for the next leg of your journey.
OVERNIGHT:
Nile cruise boat
MEALS:
Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch
EXTRAS:
None
DAY 9: Abydos visit & sail to Naga Hammadi
Your day begins very early as you set sail for El Balyana. After a few hours of sailing, breakfast will be served on board, preparing you for the day's explorations. You will then visit the Abydos temple, a significant archaeological site and once a holy city dedicated to Osiris, the god of the dead. Abydos holds immense historical and religious importance, and you will have the opportunity to explore the impressive Temple of Seti I, a remarkable example of New Kingdom architecture, known for its well-preserved reliefs and intricate carvings. This temple offers a fascinating insight into the religious beliefs and artistic skills of the ancient Egyptians. Following your visit to Abydos, you will return to the boat and continue sailing towards Naga Hammadi. This journey involves navigating the Naga Hammadi lock and bridges, an interesting experience in itself, showcasing modern engineering alongside the timeless flow of the Nile. A Moroccan buffet lunch will be served on board as you cruise. In the evening, a BBQ dinner will be available on board. You will then arrive and stay overnight in Naga Hammadi.
OVERNIGHT:
Nile cruise boat
MEALS:
Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch
EXTRAS:
None
DAY 10: Tour of Dendera, sail to Luxor
Your day begins with breakfast on board, preparing you for an excursion to the Dendara Temple complex. Following breakfast, you will travel to the Dendara Temple, a relatively short drive from the ship. This magnificent temple, dedicated to Hathor, the goddess of love, music, and motherhood, is remarkably well-preserved and offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient Egyptian religious practices. The temple's intricate carvings and astronomical ceilings are particularly noteworthy, showcasing the advanced skills and knowledge of the ancient Egyptians. You'll have time to explore the various chambers and courtyards of the temple, taking in its grandeur and absorbing the atmosphere of this sacred site. After your visit to Dendara, you will return to the boat and set sail for Luxor. A delicious Asian buffet lunch will be served on board as you cruise along the Nile. As evening approaches, a more casual dining experience awaits, with a "sandwich street food" themed dinner offered on board. Finally, you'll stay overnight in Luxor, ready to explore the wonders of this ancient city.
OVERNIGHT:
Nile cruise boat
MEALS:
Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch
EXTRAS:
None
DAY 11: Luxor, West Bank tours
Your day begins with breakfast on board, preparing you for a day of exploration on Luxor's West Bank. You will then visit the Valley of the Kings, a vast and awe-inspiring burial ground for pharaohs of the New Kingdom. Here, you'll have the opportunity to explore several richly decorated tombs, each offering a glimpse into the beliefs and funerary practices of ancient Egypt. The vibrant colours and intricate hieroglyphics adorning the walls provide a sense of the power and wealth of these rulers. Following the Valley of the Kings, you will visit the Temple of Hatshepsut, a stunning mortuary temple dedicated to the female pharaoh Hatshepsut. Its unique, terraced architecture blends seamlessly into the surrounding cliffs, creating a visually impressive monument. The temple's design and decorations reflect Hatshepsut's reign and her attempts to legitimise her rule. A light buffet lunch will be served on board. As evening falls, an Indian buffet dinner will be available. After dinner, you can enjoy a captivating belly dancer show, a traditional Egyptian performance that showcases skill, grace, and cultural heritage. You will then stay overnight in Luxor.
OVERNIGHT:
Nile cruise boat
MEALS:
Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch
EXTRAS:
Hot air balloon in Luxor
DAY 12: Luxor, East Bank tour, sail to Edfu
Your day begins with breakfast on board, preparing you for a morning of exploration. You will then visit the East Bank, a treasure trove of ancient Egyptian wonders. Here, you will experience the grandeur of the Karnak Temple complex, an immense and awe-inspiring site dedicated to the Theban Triad. This sprawling complex, built over centuries, features colossal columns, intricate hieroglyphics, and towering statues, offering a glimpse into the religious and political heart of ancient Egypt. Also on the East Bank, you will visit the majestic Luxor Temple, connected to Karnak by the Avenue of the Sphinxes. Luxor Temple, with its elegant colonnades and impressive architecture, was dedicated to the god Amun and served as a place of worship and celebration. Following your exploration of these magnificent temples, an international buffet lunch will be served on board. After lunch, passengers ending their cruise in Luxor will disembark. The ship will then set sail for Edfu, navigating through the Esna lock, an experience in itself, showcasing the engineering prowess required to traverse the changing water levels of the Nile. As evening approaches, a set menu dinner will be served on board. You will then stay overnight in Edfu, ready for the next day's adventures.
OVERNIGHT:
Nile cruise boat
MEALS:
Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch
EXTRAS:
None
DAY 13: Edfu & Komombo temple, sail to Aswan
Your day begins with breakfast on board, preparing you for a day of exploration. You will then visit the Temple of Edfu, a remarkably well-preserved ancient Egyptian temple dedicated to the falcon god Horus. This impressive structure, built during the Ptolemaic period, offers a fascinating glimpse into the religious beliefs and architectural prowess of the time. Its intricate carvings and detailed reliefs provide valuable insights into the rituals and mythology associated with Horus. Following your visit to Edfu, the ship will sail to Kom Ombo. The journey along the Nile provides scenic views of the Egyptian countryside. Lunch, featuring an Egyptian meal, will be served on board. In the afternoon, you will explore the unique Kom Ombo Temple. Unusually, this temple is dedicated to two deities: Sobek, the crocodile god, and Haroeris, a form of Horus. The temple's dual dedication is reflected in its symmetrical design, with separate sections dedicated to each god. Its location overlooking the Nile adds to its dramatic setting. As evening approaches, a BBQ dinner will be served on board. Finally, you will stay overnight in Aswan.
OVERNIGHT:
Nile cruise boat
MEALS:
Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch
EXTRAS:
None
DAY 14: Sightseeing in Aswan
Your day begins with breakfast on board, preparing you for a day of exploration in Aswan. You will then visit the High Dam, a modern engineering marvel that significantly altered the flow of the Nile and provides irrigation and hydroelectric power. The sheer scale of the dam is impressive, and it offers panoramic views of Lake Nasser, one of the largest man-made lakes in the world. Following this, you'll explore the Philae Temple, a beautiful temple complex dedicated to the goddess Isis. Originally located on the island of Philae, the temple was moved to Agilkia Island to save it from the rising waters of Lake Nasser after the construction of the High Dam. The intricate carvings and impressive architecture of Philae Temple offer a glimpse into ancient Egyptian religious beliefs and practices. A seafood buffet lunch will be served on board. In the afternoon, you will visit the Nubian Museum, which showcases the rich history and culture of the Nubian people, who have inhabited the region for thousands of years. The museum's collection includes artefacts, traditional clothing, and exhibits that highlight the unique customs, art, and history of Nubia. For dinner, a flambé will be prepared on board, providing a delightful culinary experience. The evening culminates in a Nubian party, offering a chance to experience Nubian music, dance, and traditions, providing a vibrant and immersive cultural experience. You will stay overnight in Aswan.
OVERNIGHT:
Nile cruise boat
MEALS:
Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch
EXTRAS:
None
DAY 15: Tour ends in Aswan, transfer to airport
Your tour end today after breakfast, but you may consider taking an optional sunrise tour to the stunning temples of Abu Simbel, situated on the shores of Lake Nasser. This optional tour requires a very early start and should expect to arrive back into Aswan by 1pm. We recommend booking a flight out of Aswan no earlier than 6pm to allow for of any delays on the road back from Abu Simbel.
We can assist with extra nights' hotel accommodation in Aswan if required as well as international flights into Cairo and out of Aswan (these will return via Cairo with Egypt Air). Please ask for details.
OVERNIGHT:
N/A
MEALS:
Breakfast
EXTRAS:
Abu Simbel overland
included with
- Accommodation on 5-star deluxe cruise boat (Movenpick M/S Darakum)
- Meals as indicated (full board whilst on board the boat)
- All transfers, including 24-hour airport transfer service in Cairo and Aswan
- Tours & guides as indicated on the itinerary with a shared Nile Cruise guide
- All transport required for sightseeing along the way
- All site entrance fees
excluded by
- International flights (available on request)
- Visa fees (USD 25 available on arrival for most nationalities)
- Travel insurance (compulsory, available on request)
- Meals not indicated in the itinerary
- Drinks, snacks and other personal expenses (e.g. laundry)
- Tips
- Cruise boat gala dinners (if charged by the boat on 24 & 31 Dec, see Tour notes)
- Any other items not mentioned above
Detailed Description
DAY 1: Arrive in Cairo, transfer to cruise boat
Upon arrival at Cairo airport, we will meet & greet you and transfer you directly to your Nile Cruise boat. The rest of the day is free for you to settle in and relax on board the boat or start to explore Cairo. The evening is spent moored up on the Nile in Cairo. Extra days in a hotel in Cairo are available if you would like to arrive earlier.
OVERNIGHT:
Nile cruise boat
MEALS:
Dinner, Lunch
EXTRAS:
Single cabin supplement - 15 DAY Cruise (EGSGLN)
Extra day in Cairo (4-star) - pre-tour
DAY 2: Egyptian Museum, Coptic Cairo and the Pyramids and Sphinx
Your day begins with breakfast on board, setting you up for a day of exploration. You'll delve into ancient history with a visit to the renowned Egyptian Museum, home to an extensive collection of artefacts from pharaonic Egypt. Following this, you'll explore Coptic Cairo, taking in the rich history and architecture of the area, including visits to the Hanging Church, the Coptic Museum, and the Ben Ezra Synagogue, offering insights into the diverse religious heritage of Egypt. A break for lunch is scheduled, with an international buffet served on board. The afternoon is dedicated to the iconic Giza Plateau, where you'll witness the majestic Pyramids and the enigmatic Sphinx. As evening approaches, a Lebanese buffet will be served on board for dinner. Finally, you'll settle in for an overnight stay onboard in Cairo.
OVERNIGHT:
Nile cruise boat
MEALS:
Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch
EXTRAS:
None
DAY 3: Exploring Memphis, Saqqara and the Grand Egyptian Museum
Your day starts with breakfast on board, preparing you for a day filled with exploration. You will then visit Memphis and Saqqara, immersing yourself in the ancient history and impressive architecture of these significant sites. A Mediterranean buffet lunch will be served on board. Following lunch, you'll explore the Grand Egyptian Museum, a remarkable institution housing a vast collection of Egyptian antiquities, offering a comprehensive overview of the country's rich past. In the evening, a set menu dinner will be served on board. After dinner, you can enjoy an Oriental Takht show, experiencing traditional music and entertainment.
OVERNIGHT:
Nile cruise boat
MEALS:
Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch
EXTRAS:
None
DAY 4: Start sailing to Beni Suef
Your day commences with breakfast on board, providing sustenance for a full day of sailing. You will spend the entire day sailing towards Beni Suef, a city with a rich history and strategic importance along the Nile. Beni Suef, the capital of the Beni Suef Governorate, is an agricultural centre known for its fertile lands and production of crops like cotton and wheat. Historically, it has served as a vital trading point and has witnessed the passage of countless travellers and goods throughout the ages. While sailing towards Beni Suef, you can relax on deck, soak in the tranquil beauty of the Nile River, and observe the changing landscapes that unfold along its banks. Midday brings a delightful Mexican buffet lunch served on board. As evening descends, a BBQ dinner will be prepared, accompanied by live music from a singer, enhancing the dining experience with local flavours and entertainment. Finally, you will moor in Beni Suef and stay overnight, allowing you to appreciate the city's atmosphere and perhaps explore its local markets or historical sites if time permits, before continuing your cruise the following day.
OVERNIGHT:
Nile cruise boat
MEALS:
Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch
EXTRAS:
None
DAY 5: Sail south towards Minya
Your day begins with an early sail to Minya, a city steeped in ancient Egyptian history and often overlooked by mainstream tourism, offering a more authentic glimpse into Egyptian life. Minya, the capital of the Minya Governorate in Upper Egypt, sits on the west bank of the Nile and was once a vital centre of trade and religious significance. The surrounding area boasts remarkable archaeological sites, showcasing the region's rich past. After settling in, breakfast will be served on board. As the day progresses, a French buffet lunch will be available on board. Minya's historical importance includes its role as the capital of the 16th Upper Egyptian Nome and its association with the pharaoh Akhenaten, who attempted to establish a monotheistic religion. The region is also known for its agricultural productivity, particularly for cotton and sugarcane. In the evening, a set menu dinner will be served on board, followed by a Folkloric Party, providing entertainment and a taste of Egyptian culture. You will then stay overnight in Minya, giving you the chance to experience the unique atmosphere of this historical city.
OVERNIGHT:
Nile cruise boat
MEALS:
Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch
EXTRAS:
None
DAY 6: 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
DAY 7: Tel El Amarna & sail towards Asyut
Your day begins early as you set sail for Tel El Amarna, a site of immense historical significance, offering a unique glimpse into the 'Amarnian period. At Tel El Amarna, you will experience the legacy of the pharaoh Akhenaten's revolutionary reign. Breakfast will be served on board as you journey. Upon arrival at Tel El Amarna, you will visit the northern tombs, including the Royal Tomb of Akhenaten, though much of its decoration has been lost, its very presence speaks to the radical changes of his rule. You'll also explore the Northern Palace, offering a sense of the royal court's life, and the Small Temples of Aten, dedicated to the sun disc, the focus of Akhenaten's monotheistic religion. These sites provide invaluable insights into the art, architecture, and religious beliefs of this fascinating era. Aboard the ship, an English buffet lunch will be served as you continue sailing towards Assyut. As you sail, you'll make a stop in front of the Prince Tawdrous Monastery. While you will view the monastery from the boat, your guide will provide commentary on its historical and religious importance. This Coptic monastery, nestled on the cliffs, stands as a testament to the enduring Christian presence in Egypt. The day concludes with a BBQ dinner on board, accompanied by a lively Galabia Party, offering a chance to experience Egyptian culture. You will stay overnight in Assyut.
OVERNIGHT:
Nile cruise boat
MEALS:
Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch
EXTRAS:
None
DAY 8: Sailing day to Sohag
Your day starts early as you set sail for Sohag. After a few hours of cruising along the Nile, breakfast will be served on board, providing sustenance for the day ahead. The journey to Sohag itself offers opportunities to observe the changing landscapes of Upper Egypt, with glimpses of rural life and the fertile banks of the river. Sohag, a city with a rich history, serves as a gateway to exploring the surrounding area. Aboard the ship, an international buffet lunch will be served. As evening approaches, an Oriental buffet dinner will be available on board, offering a taste of local flavours and cuisine. Finally, you will stay overnight in Sohag, ready for the next leg of your journey.
OVERNIGHT:
Nile cruise boat
MEALS:
Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch
EXTRAS:
None
DAY 9: Abydos visit & sail to Naga Hammadi
Your day begins very early as you set sail for El Balyana. After a few hours of sailing, breakfast will be served on board, preparing you for the day's explorations. You will then visit the Abydos temple, a significant archaeological site and once a holy city dedicated to Osiris, the god of the dead. Abydos holds immense historical and religious importance, and you will have the opportunity to explore the impressive Temple of Seti I, a remarkable example of New Kingdom architecture, known for its well-preserved reliefs and intricate carvings. This temple offers a fascinating insight into the religious beliefs and artistic skills of the ancient Egyptians. Following your visit to Abydos, you will return to the boat and continue sailing towards Naga Hammadi. This journey involves navigating the Naga Hammadi lock and bridges, an interesting experience in itself, showcasing modern engineering alongside the timeless flow of the Nile. A Moroccan buffet lunch will be served on board as you cruise. In the evening, a BBQ dinner will be available on board. You will then arrive and stay overnight in Naga Hammadi.
OVERNIGHT:
Nile cruise boat
MEALS:
Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch
EXTRAS:
None
DAY 10: Tour of Dendera, sail to Luxor
Your day begins with breakfast on board, preparing you for an excursion to the Dendara Temple complex. Following breakfast, you will travel to the Dendara Temple, a relatively short drive from the ship. This magnificent temple, dedicated to Hathor, the goddess of love, music, and motherhood, is remarkably well-preserved and offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient Egyptian religious practices. The temple's intricate carvings and astronomical ceilings are particularly noteworthy, showcasing the advanced skills and knowledge of the ancient Egyptians. You'll have time to explore the various chambers and courtyards of the temple, taking in its grandeur and absorbing the atmosphere of this sacred site. After your visit to Dendara, you will return to the boat and set sail for Luxor. A delicious Asian buffet lunch will be served on board as you cruise along the Nile. As evening approaches, a more casual dining experience awaits, with a "sandwich street food" themed dinner offered on board. Finally, you'll stay overnight in Luxor, ready to explore the wonders of this ancient city.
OVERNIGHT:
Nile cruise boat
MEALS:
Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch
EXTRAS:
None
DAY 11: Luxor, West Bank tours
Your day begins with breakfast on board, preparing you for a day of exploration on Luxor's West Bank. You will then visit the Valley of the Kings, a vast and awe-inspiring burial ground for pharaohs of the New Kingdom. Here, you'll have the opportunity to explore several richly decorated tombs, each offering a glimpse into the beliefs and funerary practices of ancient Egypt. The vibrant colours and intricate hieroglyphics adorning the walls provide a sense of the power and wealth of these rulers. Following the Valley of the Kings, you will visit the Temple of Hatshepsut, a stunning mortuary temple dedicated to the female pharaoh Hatshepsut. Its unique, terraced architecture blends seamlessly into the surrounding cliffs, creating a visually impressive monument. The temple's design and decorations reflect Hatshepsut's reign and her attempts to legitimise her rule. A light buffet lunch will be served on board. As evening falls, an Indian buffet dinner will be available. After dinner, you can enjoy a captivating belly dancer show, a traditional Egyptian performance that showcases skill, grace, and cultural heritage. You will then stay overnight in Luxor.
OVERNIGHT:
Nile cruise boat
MEALS:
Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch
EXTRAS:
Hot air balloon in Luxor
DAY 12: Luxor, East Bank tour, sail to Edfu
Your day begins with breakfast on board, preparing you for a morning of exploration. You will then visit the East Bank, a treasure trove of ancient Egyptian wonders. Here, you will experience the grandeur of the Karnak Temple complex, an immense and awe-inspiring site dedicated to the Theban Triad. This sprawling complex, built over centuries, features colossal columns, intricate hieroglyphics, and towering statues, offering a glimpse into the religious and political heart of ancient Egypt. Also on the East Bank, you will visit the majestic Luxor Temple, connected to Karnak by the Avenue of the Sphinxes. Luxor Temple, with its elegant colonnades and impressive architecture, was dedicated to the god Amun and served as a place of worship and celebration. Following your exploration of these magnificent temples, an international buffet lunch will be served on board. After lunch, passengers ending their cruise in Luxor will disembark. The ship will then set sail for Edfu, navigating through the Esna lock, an experience in itself, showcasing the engineering prowess required to traverse the changing water levels of the Nile. As evening approaches, a set menu dinner will be served on board. You will then stay overnight in Edfu, ready for the next day's adventures.
OVERNIGHT:
Nile cruise boat
MEALS:
Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch
EXTRAS:
None
DAY 13: Edfu & Komombo temple, sail to Aswan
Your day begins with breakfast on board, preparing you for a day of exploration. You will then visit the Temple of Edfu, a remarkably well-preserved ancient Egyptian temple dedicated to the falcon god Horus. This impressive structure, built during the Ptolemaic period, offers a fascinating glimpse into the religious beliefs and architectural prowess of the time. Its intricate carvings and detailed reliefs provide valuable insights into the rituals and mythology associated with Horus. Following your visit to Edfu, the ship will sail to Kom Ombo. The journey along the Nile provides scenic views of the Egyptian countryside. Lunch, featuring an Egyptian meal, will be served on board. In the afternoon, you will explore the unique Kom Ombo Temple. Unusually, this temple is dedicated to two deities: Sobek, the crocodile god, and Haroeris, a form of Horus. The temple's dual dedication is reflected in its symmetrical design, with separate sections dedicated to each god. Its location overlooking the Nile adds to its dramatic setting. As evening approaches, a BBQ dinner will be served on board. Finally, you will stay overnight in Aswan.
OVERNIGHT:
Nile cruise boat
MEALS:
Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch
EXTRAS:
None
DAY 14: Sightseeing in Aswan
Your day begins with breakfast on board, preparing you for a day of exploration in Aswan. You will then visit the High Dam, a modern engineering marvel that significantly altered the flow of the Nile and provides irrigation and hydroelectric power. The sheer scale of the dam is impressive, and it offers panoramic views of Lake Nasser, one of the largest man-made lakes in the world. Following this, you'll explore the Philae Temple, a beautiful temple complex dedicated to the goddess Isis. Originally located on the island of Philae, the temple was moved to Agilkia Island to save it from the rising waters of Lake Nasser after the construction of the High Dam. The intricate carvings and impressive architecture of Philae Temple offer a glimpse into ancient Egyptian religious beliefs and practices. A seafood buffet lunch will be served on board. In the afternoon, you will visit the Nubian Museum, which showcases the rich history and culture of the Nubian people, who have inhabited the region for thousands of years. The museum's collection includes artefacts, traditional clothing, and exhibits that highlight the unique customs, art, and history of Nubia. For dinner, a flambé will be prepared on board, providing a delightful culinary experience. The evening culminates in a Nubian party, offering a chance to experience Nubian music, dance, and traditions, providing a vibrant and immersive cultural experience. You will stay overnight in Aswan.
OVERNIGHT:
Nile cruise boat
MEALS:
Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch
EXTRAS:
None
DAY 15: Tour ends in Aswan, transfer to airport
Your tour end today after breakfast, but you may consider taking an optional sunrise tour to the stunning temples of Abu Simbel, situated on the shores of Lake Nasser. This optional tour requires a very early start and should expect to arrive back into Aswan by 1pm. We recommend booking a flight out of Aswan no earlier than 6pm to allow for of any delays on the road back from Abu Simbel.
We can assist with extra nights' hotel accommodation in Aswan if required as well as international flights into Cairo and out of Aswan (these will return via Cairo with Egypt Air). Please ask for details.
OVERNIGHT:
N/A
MEALS:
Breakfast
EXTRAS:
Abu Simbel overland
