3 Nights Nile cruise Aswan and Luxor includes Hot Air Balloon

Travelers looking to explore Egypt’s legendary Nile River in style and comfort often find themselves drawn to the 3-night Nile cruise from Aswan to Luxor, especially when it includes an unforgettable hot air balloon ride. This tour, rated a perfect 5.0 based on five reviews, promises a blend of luxury, history, and adventure, all at a reasonable price point of $540 per person.

What makes this experience stand out? We love the expert Egyptology guides, the delicious buffet meals on a 5-star vessel, and the aerial vistas from the hot air balloon—a true highlight. However, potential travelers should consider that entrance fees are not included, and the schedule can be quite packed, which might feel rushed for some.

Designed for those yearning for an authentic yet comfortable way to see Luxor and Aswan’s famous landmarks, this cruise caters well to history buffs, culture seekers, and adventure lovers alike.

• Luxury and Comfort: Stay on a 5-star cruise with buffet meals, air-conditioned cabins, and attentive staff.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Stops at iconic sites like the High Dam, Philae Temple, Valley of the Kings, and Luxor Temple.
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable Egyptologists lead the tours, ensuring rich insights into each monument and temple.
• Unique Experiences: Hot air balloon ride over Luxor offers breathtaking views and a memorable perspective.
• Transport and Convenience: Door-to-door transfers, motorboat rides, and horse-drawn carriage in Edfu add to seamless travel.
• Value for Money: All meals, guiding, and excursions included make this a competitive package for the price.

Arrival in Aswan and First Impressions

Your journey begins in Aswan, where you’ll be picked up by a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle and transferred directly to your cruise boat. This private transfer sets a relaxing tone, helping you shake off any travel fatigue. Once aboard, you’ll quickly realize this is not just any cruise—it’s a luxury vessel with a 5-star rating, promising a refined experience amid the grandeur of Egypt’s scenery.

The first day arrives with visits to the High Dam and Philae Temple, both of which are accessible via motorboat, adding an element of fun and practicality. The High Dam impresses with its scale and engineering marvel, while the Philae Temple, situated on an island, offers a picturesque setting complemented by the boat ride.

Day 2: Abu Simbel and Kom Ombo

Early morning, around 4:00 a.m., the tour departs for Abu Simbel—arguably the trip’s highlight. Guests flock to this site before dawn to beat the crowds and enjoy the cooler temperatures. The temples carved into the mountainside are awe-inspiring, especially when viewed at sunrise. The reviews frequently mention how this early start is well worth the effort, with many saying it “made the experience unforgettable.”

After returning to Aswan, the cruise sails to Kom Ombo, where you’ll explore the Kom Ombo Temple. This dual-function temple dedicated to Sobek and Horus offers fascinating insights into ancient Egyptian religion and architecture. The motorboat ride to the temple adds an extra layer of excitement, and the guided tour ensures you don’t miss the significance of each carving and monument.

Day 3: Edfu and Luxor

The morning begins again early, with a visit to the Edfu Temple around 5:30 a.m. This well-preserved site dedicated to Horus is notable for its grand columns and intricate hieroglyphs. The horse carriage ride in Edfu is a charming detail that transports you back in time and adds to the authentic feel of the day.

Later that afternoon, the cruise arrives at Luxor, where you’ll explore some of Egypt’s most iconic monuments. The Luxor Temple is a magical sight during the evening, especially with the optional guided walk.

Day 4: Hot Air Balloon & Temple Tours

The final day is packed with adventure. At sunrise, you’ll take a hot air balloon ride over Luxor. As one reviewer described, “Michael, our guide, was very knowledgeable and created a fun, relaxed atmosphere,” and the balloon ride offers panoramic views of the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut Temple, Colossi of Memnon, and Karnak Temple.

Following the balloon, you’ll check out of the cruise and continue sightseeing with guided tours of the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut Temple, and Karnak, each revealing more about Egypt’s ancient splendor. The guides are praised for their enthusiasm and knowledge, turning what can be just a sightseeing day into a genuinely engaging experience.

Meals and Onboard Comfort

Throughout the cruise, guests feast on buffet lunches, dinners, and breakfasts. The meals are described as delicious, with many reviewers highlighting the quality and variety of the food served onboard. The air-conditioned cabins provide a comfortable retreat after busy days of exploration. The staff is consistently described as friendly and attentive, making the overall experience smooth and enjoyable.

Additional Perks and Practical Details

• Door-to-door transfers are included, making logistics hassle-free.
• Egyptologist guides lead all the sightseeing, ensuring you gain meaningful context from each site.
• The hot air balloon ride is a highlight, offering a serene yet thrilling perspective of Luxor’s ancient landscape.
• Tickets and fees are additional, so budget accordingly—something many reviewers mention as a minor extra cost.
• The tour is private, meaning only your group will be part of this experience, adding a personal touch.

Reviewers consistently mention the knowledgeable guides, especially highlighting Michael, who is described as professional, helpful, and passionate about Egyptology. His ability to balance informative explanations with free exploration time is highly appreciated.

Comments about the food emphasize its quality—“delicious and plentiful,” making long days more enjoyable. The scenic views during the balloon ride are frequently described as breathtaking, with one guest noting they “didn’t want the cruise to end.”

Some guests point out the early start times as a challenge but agree that the experience justifies the effort. The seamless logistics, from transfers to site visits, mean travelers can focus fully on enjoying each moment.

• Price vs. Value: At $540 per person, the tour offers great value considering meals, guided tours, and the hot air balloon ride are included. Entrance fees are not, so budget for those separately.
• Timing: Booking about a month in advance is recommended, given the tour’s popularity and the early start times.
• Group Size: The tour operates privately for your group, which means a more personalized experience without crowded group tours.
• Suitability: Perfect for history enthusiasts, couples, or small groups seeking a mix of luxury and adventure. Not ideal if you prefer a more relaxed pace or are sensitive to early mornings.

This 3-night Nile cruise from Aswan to Luxor offers a balanced blend of comfort, culture, and adventure. The inclusion of a hot air balloon ride sets it apart, providing unforgettable aerial views of some of Egypt’s most famous sites. The expert guides and chef-quality meals make it not just a sightseeing tour but a memorable journey through history in style.

For travelers who want to see Egypt’s highlights without sacrificing comfort or authenticity, this cruise makes an excellent choice. It’s especially well-suited for those eager to explore with knowledgeable guides and enjoy a touch of luxury along the way.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, as long as they are comfortable with early mornings and some physical activity like horse carriage rides and ballooning.

Are airport transfers included?
The tour features door-to-door transfers to and from the cruise port, making logistics straightforward.

What meals are included?
Guests enjoy breakfast three times, lunch and dinner three times, served on the cruise. The food is generally praised for its quality.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees are not included in the tour price, so plan to budget extra for site admissions.

How early should I book?
Booking approximately 34 days in advance is typical, especially during peak seasons from September to April.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, providing flexibility.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s a private experience, with only your group participating, ensuring a more personalized flow.

What is the main highlight of the trip?
Many guests cite the hot air balloon ride over Luxor and visits to Abu Simbel as the most memorable parts.

This Nile cruise offers a fantastic way to experience Egypt’s iconic sites with comfort, insight, and a touch of adventure. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a memorable journey, it’s worth considering for your Egypt itinerary.