4 days Aswan and luxor Nile cruise with hot air balloon,abu simbel from hurghada

Traveling to Egypt often means dreaming of iconic temples, majestic rivers, and ancient tombs, and this 4-day Nile cruise from Hurghada promises just that. While the tour has its highlights—like a hot air balloon ride over Luxor, visits to UNESCO sites, and a trip to Abu Simbel—the overall experience offers a mix of awe-inspiring sights and practical convenience.

What we love about this journey? First, the chance to explore some of Egypt’s most famous landmarks on a comfortable cruise with full board makes it easy to relax and focus on the sights. Second, the small group setting (max 15 travelers) ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience. Third, the variety of excursions, from temples to a hot air balloon, offers a well-rounded adventure.

A potential downside could be the price, which at $850 per person, includes a lot but also expects you to cover additional entrance fees. Also, the long travel days and early starts won’t suit everyone, especially those seeking a more leisurely pace. But if you’re eager to pack in the highlights of Upper Egypt in a short time, this tour is likely to satisfy.

This trip works best for history buffs, adventurous souls, and travelers who want a comprehensive experience without the hassle of organizing each visit independently. It’s ideal for those comfortable with long days, early mornings, and a group dynamic.

Key Points

• Includes multiple UNESCO World Heritage sites like Abu Simbel, Valley of the Kings, and Karnak Temple
• Small group size provides more personal attention from guides
• Comfortable 5-star cruise with full board enhances the experience
• A hot air balloon ride over Luxor offers stunning aerial views of ancient monuments
• Transport logistics are handled, including bus, boat, and train travel between sites
• Additional costs include entrance fees (~$70) and tipping

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: From Hurghada to Aswan

The journey begins early, with a 7 am pickup in Hurghada followed by a comfortable air-conditioned bus ride. This part of the trip is quite scenic, offering views of Egyptian villages, mountains, and countryside. It’s a good opportunity to get a feel for the local culture and landscape before arriving in Aswan.

Once in Aswan, you’ll check into the cruise, which is described as luxurious with a pool and private cabins. The first excursion takes you to the Philae Temple, accessible by a motorboat, which is praised for its picturesque setting beside the Nile. A visit to the Aswan High Dam follows, providing insight into Egypt’s modern engineering marvels.

Reviewers mention that the guides are knowledgeable, breaking down the historical context without overwhelming. One reviewer specifically highlights the professional staff and comfortable rooms, emphasizing that the cruise is well-equipped for comfort after a day of travel and sightseeing.

Day 2: Abu Simbel and Journey South

The early start—around 5 am—for the trip to Abu Simbel is well worth it, despite the early wake-up call. The temples are among Egypt’s most iconic, with massive statues and intricate carvings. Many travelers note that the trip is long but rewarding, with the experience being well-organized, even if it involves a substantial travel time.

After returning to Aswan around 1 pm, the cruise sails towards Kom Ombo, where you’ll visit the Kom Ombo Temple. The anatomy of this ancient site, dedicated to two gods, offers a slightly different perspective compared to other temples, and it’s worth noting that the journey here includes some “rare photos” of scenic views along the Nile, appreciated by photographers.

Day 3: Luxor’s East Bank Temples

The morning begins with a ride to Edfu Temple, reached by horse and carriage, which adds an authentic touch to the experience. The guide’s commentary helps bring the site’s history to life. Passing through the Esna Lock during sailing is a fun, unique moment for many travelers.

Upon arrival in Luxor, your exploration kicks off with the Karnak Temple, which is the largest religious complex in the world, and the Luxor Temple, both steeped in history and architectural grandeur. The reviews mention how the guides make these sites engaging, emphasizing the grandeur of Karnak and the impressive size of Luxor Temple.

Day 4: Luxor West Bank and the Hot Air Balloon

This day is packed with some of Egypt’s most famous archaeological sites. The hot air balloon ride at dawn offers spectacular views of the Nile, the temples, and the surrounding desert—an experience praised for its “beautiful perspectives” and “once-in-a-lifetime” feel, despite the early hours.

Back on the ground, the Valley of the Kings is a highlight—home to Tutankhamun’s tomb and other royal burial sites. Reviewers note that the guide provides detailed explanations, making the visit both educational and engaging. Following that, the Queen Hatsheput Temple offers a different kind of story—one of a powerful woman ruler—adding depth to the trip.

The final stop, the Colossi of Memnon, provides a relaxing photo opportunity before heading back to the bus for the transfer back to Hurghada.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Your booking covers hotel/port pickup, transportation, 3 nights on a 5-star cruise, and meals—lunch, dinner, and breakfast on designated days. All site visits listed in the itinerary are included, and you’ll benefit from the expertise of a qualified Egyptology guide.

Extras include entrance fees (roughly $70), which are paid separately, and tips, which are recommended but not obligatory. The tour also covers motorboat rides and horse and carriage excursions, adding to the authentic feel of the experience.

Pricing: Is it Worth It?

At $850 per person, the price reflects a luxury cruise experience combined with guided sightseeing. The overall value hinges on the quality of the cruise, guided tours, and included activities. Reviewers mention the excellent food onboard and professional staff, which enhance the value. However, costs for entrance fees are extra, so budget accordingly.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is perfect for those interested in history and archaeology who want an all-in-one package to see Egypt’s iconic temples and tombs. It’s also suited for adventurers eager for early mornings and long days, and for travelers who appreciate comfort, given the luxury cruise setting.

If you’re comfortable with group travel, long travel days, and paying a little extra for the sights, this trip offers a compelling balance of convenience and adventure. However, those seeking a slow-paced, leisure-focused holiday might find it too hectic.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This 4-day Nile cruise from Hurghada offers a whirlwind tour of Egypt’s ancient monuments, with enough comfort and guided insight to make it memorable. The combination of luxury accommodations, guided sightseeing, and unique experiences like the hot air balloon make for a well-rounded adventure.

The trip is best suited for history lovers, adventurers, and those who want a comprehensive but manageable snapshot of Egypt’s archaeological treasures. While the price may seem steep, the inclusion of transportation, guided tours, and a top-tier cruise ship adds value for travelers keen to see the highlights without the hassle of planning each detail independently.

If you’re prepared for early mornings, long travel days, and extra entrance fees, this tour could be exactly what you need for a rich, immersive Egyptian experience—with plenty of comfort and authenticity woven into the journey.

FAQ

Is pickup offered from Hurghada hotels?
Yes, the tour includes hotel/port pickup and drop-off, making it convenient to start and end your trip smoothly.

What’s the best part of the itinerary?
Many travelers find the hot air balloon ride over Luxor to be a standout, offering breathtaking aerial views of temples and tombs.

How long are the travel days?
Expect early mornings, especially for Abu Simbel, and long days filled with sightseeing and cruising, but the comfort of the cruise helps relax after busy days.

Are meals included?
Yes, full board is provided on the cruise, covering lunches, dinners, and breakfasts, ensuring you’re well-fed after each day’s activities.

What extra costs should I budget for?
Entrance fees (~$70) and tips are not included in the price, so plan accordingly.

Is this experience suitable for everyone?
While most travelers can participate, it’s best suited for those comfortable with group travel, early mornings, and long days of sightseeing.

In all, this Nile cruise from Hurghada offers a thoughtfully curated mix of history, adventure, and comfort. It’s a fantastic way to tick off Egypt’s most famous sites in just four days—perfect for travelers eager for a rich experience packed into a manageable trip.