2 Night Sailing Nile Cruise Including Highlights Tours In Luxor From Aswan

Travelers dreaming of Egypt often picture the Nile River, its timeless flow carrying stories of pharaohs and ancient temples. This 2 Night Sailing Nile Cruise promises a taste of that magic, offering a well-rounded glimpse of Upper Egypt’s highlights in a relatively short package. While it’s marketed as a luxury experience, it’s essential to weigh what’s included against real traveler feedback to see if it aligns with your expectations.

What we love about this cruise is the all-inclusive nature that covers meals, transfers, and guided tours—meaning less hassle and more focus on the sights and scenery. The stunning river views from the deck make for memorable moments, especially during sunrise and sunset. The guided temple visits add depth to the experience, and the hot air balloon ride offers a spectacular aerial perspective of Luxor’s West Bank.

However, some travelers have expressed concerns about the price versus value, with a few feeling it’s a bit steep compared to longer or more inclusive packages elsewhere. Also, reviews mention occasional last-minute cancellations and the need to be aware of entrance fees and drinks costs. This tour will suit those who want a taste of Egypt’s treasures in a comfortable, guided setting with a focus on scenery and key sites.

• Comfort and Convenience: Well-appointed cabins, meals, and transfers make for a smooth journey.
• Guided Excursions: Knowledgeable Egyptologists lead temple visits, adding context and storytelling.
• Stunning Views: Cruise scenery provides excellent photo opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset.
• Additional Excursions: Horse-drawn carriage rides and hot air balloon trips are highlights.
• Cost Consideration: The price includes many amenities, but entrance fees and drinks are extra.
• Mixed Feedback: Some reviews praise the crew and views, others warn about cancellations and value for money.

Starting Point and Initial Journey in Aswan

The adventure begins at Aswan Railway Station with a pickup service, which simplifies logistics after your arrival. Our review highlights that travelers will appreciate the early morning transfer and the chance to witness Aswan’s vibrant river scenes. As the boat starts sailing around 1 pm, you’ll be treated to dramatic views of Aswan islands and the bustling river traffic. Reviewers like Alwyn comment on the professional crew and the helpful service that made the transition smooth, noting that the ship’s facilities are comfortable for a two-night stay.

Day 1: Exploring Kom Ombo and Edfu Temples

The cruise’s first stop is the Temple of Kom Ombo, home to the twin temples dedicated to Sobek (crocodile god) and Horus (falcon god). The site’s unique double architecture and riverside location make it a worthwhile visit, especially with a guide explaining its dual religious significance. One reviewer pointed out that entrance ticket costs are not included, so be prepared for additional expenses.

After dinner onboard, the cruise continues to Edfu, where the highlight is the Horse Carriage ride to the remarkably well-preserved Temple of Horus. The guide’s storytelling here is often praised, with travelers appreciating the comprehensive insights about the temple’s history. The temple’s good conservation status makes it one of the most impressive during the trip. The peaceful river voyage at sunset offers excellent photo opportunities.

Day 2: Sailing and Sightseeing on the Nile

The morning begins with a breakfast buffet onboard before heading to Edfu Temple. The guided tour on horseback allows for an immersive experience, bringing to life the stories of ancient Egypt. The sun deck on the cruise provides a relaxing space to watch the landscape pass by, with many reviewers remarking on how beautiful and calming the scenery is as you cross Esna Lock.

Crossing the lock is a notable moment, often seen as a symbol of Egypt’s modern engineering blending with its ancient landscape. The afternoon includes leisure time on deck, with tea and good views of the riverbanks. For travelers like Alwyn, the helpful crew and the food quality made the experience enjoyable, though some mention that getting off at all stops is essential to avoid cabin fever.

Day 3: Luxor’s West Bank and East Bank

The early morning hot air balloon ride is a standout experience, giving a bird’s-eye view of Luxor. One reviewer called it “an incredible trip,” with the sunrise illuminating the colossal statues of Memnon and the temples below. The 30-minute flight is reportedly well-organized, with the ticket included in the package.

Back on the ground, you’ll visit the Valley of the Kings, where the tombs of pharaohs like Tutankhamun reside. Be prepared for an entrance fee, as this is not included in the tour. The Queen Hatshepsut’s temple at Deir el-Bahari is another highlight, offering stunning architecture and a glimpse into the story of one of Egypt’s most influential queens.

Later, the Karnak Temple and Luxor Temple reveal the grandeur of Egyptian religious sites, with towering columns and intricate carvings. As the day winds down, the cruise concludes with dinner onboard, featuring a belly dance show that keeps the evening lively.

While many emphasize the beauty and convenience of the cruise, review snippets reveal some practical tips. For example, some guests warn about last-minute cancellations, which can be frustrating, especially if you’ve traveled long distances expecting a smooth experience. One traveler mentioned that they had to pay extra for entrance tickets and drinks, so budgeting accordingly is smart.

On the upside, several reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides and the delicious food, describing the meals as “tasty and freshly prepared.” The hot air balloon ride is consistently highlighted as a fantastic highlight, offering a breathtaking view of Luxor’s monuments and the Nile’s flow.

A common thread in positive reviews is the helpful crew and the ease of navigating the itinerary with organized transfers and guided tours. Conversely, critics note that the value can vary depending on what you’re comparing it to—some feel the price is high relative to the experience, especially considering optional entrance fees and drinks.

• Pricing: At $450 per person, this cruise offers a mid-range option in terms of cost but includes many amenities like meals, transfers, and excursions. It’s a good deal for those wanting a hassle-free, guided experience.

• Booking and Availability: The cruise is usually booked about 18 days in advance, indicating decent popularity. Be aware of potential last-minute cancellations, as noted in reviews, so flexible plans are advisable.

• Inclusions and Extras: Meals are included, starting with lunch on the first day, with dinner, breakfast, and lunch on subsequent days. However, entrance fees to temples and drinks are extra, and tipping is not included.

• Transportation: Transfers from and to the ship are done via air-conditioned mini bus, making the journey between sites comfortable. This is especially important given the distances and heat in Egypt.

• Activities: The hot air balloon ride is a major extra, but it’s worth booking early. Horse carriage rides and guided temple visits enrich the experience, giving context to the ancient sites.

This cruise is perfect for first-time visitors or those with limited time who want a convenient, guided overview of upper Egypt’s highlights. It’s suited for travelers who value comfortable transportation, well-organized tours, and scenic river views.

Those looking for deep archaeological exploration or a luxurious, all-inclusive package with no extra costs might want to compare other options. Keep in mind that some reviews suggest the value may be slightly uneven considering optional expenses.

This 2 Night Sailing Nile Cruise offers a practical, scenic way to see some of Egypt’s most famous landmarks without the hassle of multiple bookings or long waits. Its well-coordinated itinerary, stunning views, and engaging guides make it an attractive option for those seeking a taste of the Nile’s magic in a short timeframe.

While it’s not without flaws—some mention last-minute cancellations and extra costs—the overall experience provides a solid balance of comfort, culture, and scenery. It’s most suited for travelers who want a guided, comfortable introduction to Egypt with memorable moments like the hot air balloon flight and temple visits.

If you’re dreaming of drifting along the Nile, catching sunrise over Luxor, and learning about Egypt’s ancient wonders from passionate guides, this cruise could be just the ticket.

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included via air-conditioned mini buses. Transfers are arranged to make your journey smooth and comfortable.

Are meals provided?
Meals are included from lunch on the first day through breakfast and lunch on the last day. Drinks and additional entrance fees are extra.

Can I cancel this cruise if my plans change?
Yes, a full refund is available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled start. Cancellations less than 24 hours in advance are not refunded.

What are the main sites visited?
The tour visits Kom Ombo Temple, Edfu Temple (with horse carriage ride), Valley of the Kings, Temple of Hatshepsut, Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, and includes a hot air balloon ride over Luxor.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but be prepared for early mornings and walking on uneven surfaces, especially at temple sites.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees for sites like the Valley of the Kings, temples, and hot air balloon are not included and should be budgeted separately.

To sum it up, this cruise offers a practical, scenic snapshot of Egypt’s Nile and ancient sites, perfect for travelers seeking guided comfort and memorable views without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. It’s a good choice for those who want a well-rounded experience, with highlights like the hot air balloon and temple visits making it a memorable journey along the Nile.