5-Day Luxor and Aswan Nile Cruise with Abu Simbel and Hot Air Balloon

Travelers dreaming of exploring Egypt’s iconic temples, ancient tombs, and scenic river views might find this 5-day Nile cruise an excellent choice. While I haven’t personally sailed on this exact tour, based on the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary, it promises a seamless blend of comfort, history, and adventure.

What do we love about this experience? First, the fact that it replaces busy hotel stays with a luxury cruise along the Nile, offering both relaxation and culture. Second, the expert guides—noted for their knowledge and enthusiasm—bring Egypt’s history vividly to life. Third, the variety of activities, from hot air balloon rides over Luxor to visits to world-famous temples, makes each day feel filled with discovery.

One potential consideration is the price point—at $714.26 per person, it’s a solid value considering the all-inclusive meals, guided tours, and high-quality accommodations. However, some travelers might want to be aware of the group size (max 15), which keeps things intimate but might not suit those seeking total privacy.

This tour seems perfect for history buffs, luxury travelers, or anyone looking for a well-organized, culturally rich experience in Egypt. If you’re after a blend of sightseeing, comfort, and authentic Egyptian charm, this could be a fantastic pick.

• All-Inclusive Comfort: Meals, transfers, and sightseeing fees are included, making it easy to relax and focus on the sights.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable Egyptologists like Mohamed enrich the experience with detailed stories and insights.
• Highlights of Egypt: Temple visits at Valley of the Kings, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Abu Simbel, plus a hot air balloon ride.
• Scenic Sailing: Enjoy beautiful views of the Nile, passing local islands and the Esna lock.
• Authentic Experiences: Horse-drawn carriage rides and visits to Carter’s house add personal touches.
• Limited Group Size: Max 15 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1: Valley of the Kings & Queen Hatshepsut Temple

Your adventure begins with a pickup from your accommodation by Mohamed, a guide praised for his deep knowledge and friendly attitude. Traveling by motorboat across the Nile to Luxor’s west bank, the first stop is the Valley of the Kings, where you’ll explore the tombs of ancient pharaohs. Reviewers highlight Mohamed’s storytelling skills here, making the site come alive with vivid explanations about royal burial practices and hidden treasures.

Next, you visit Queen Hatshepsut’s Temple—a stunning mortuary temple built by Egypt’s first female ruler. The story of Hatshepsut’s rise to power and her impressive architectural achievements are well conveyed by guides, according to reviews. For fans of Egyptology, seeing Carter’s house and learning about the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb add a fascinating layer of context.

Day 2: Luxor and Karnak Temples, Hot Air Balloon Ride

Early morning pickup leads you to the Luxor Temple, a site renowned for its grandiosity and illuminated nighttime beauty. But the real highlight of this day is the hot air balloon ride—a review favorite. Participants describe it as a “magical” way to see the Nile and surrounding landscapes from above, with some mentioning that weather cancellations are possible but refunded at $25 per person.

Later, you sail on the Nile, passing local islands and the Esna lock. The cruise’s design is praised for its elegance, with cozy cabins and panoramic windows perfect for relaxing after busy sightseeing.

Day 3: Edfu and Kom Ombo Temples

The day starts with a traditional horse-drawn carriage ride to the Edfu Temple, dedicated to Horus, the falcon-headed god. Reviewers mention that the guided tour adds depth, explaining the temple’s mythology and architecture. Sailing continues downstream, giving travelers a chance to appreciate Egyptian culture along both banks.

In the late afternoon, you arrive at Kom Ombo, famous for its dual temple dedicated to Sobek (crocodile god) and Horus. The sunset visit is especially praised for its atmospheric setting and impressive ruins.

Day 4: Abu Simbel and Aswan Market

The early start for Abu Simbel (around 5:00 AM) is a highlight for many. Located about 3 hours from Aswan, this UNESCO site’s colossal statues and intricate carvings are awe-inspiring. Reviewers emphasize the value of the guide’s detailed explanations, making the visit both educational and emotionally moving. The return to Aswan around lunchtime allows some free time, and the evening visit to the bustling local market is a favorite for those wanting to experience modern Egyptian life.

Day 5: Aswan Highlights and Departure

Your final day begins with a trip to the Aswan High Dam, a feat of modern engineering with stunning views of Lake Nasser. Then, a boat ride takes you to the Philae Temple, dedicated to Isis, set on an island in the Nile. The tour ends with your transfer to the hotel, train station, or airport, leaving you with unforgettable memories and countless photos.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

Expert Guidance: Many reviewers point out guides like Mohamed and Mahmoud, whose storytelling, depth of knowledge, and engaging personalities elevate the experience. They often add small insights—like the story behind Carter’s discovery or the symbolism in temple carvings—that aren’t in typical guidebooks.

Luxury and Comfort: The cruise’s 5-star rating ensures cozy cabins, good food, and attentive staff. Travelers mention the quality of meals and the entertainment onboard, such as belly dancing and cultural performances.

Authentic Cultural Encounters: Horse-drawn carriage rides, visits to Carter’s house, and markets in Aswan offer a taste of real Egypt beyond the ruins.

Scenic Diversity: From soaring in a hot air balloon over Luxor to sailing past local villages, the views are frequently described as “breathtaking” and “serene,” making the journey visually captivating.

The Value of the Tour

Considering the price of $714.26 per person, this package offers excellent value for those wanting a comprehensive experience. The costs include all meals, guided entries to key sites, transfers, and a unique hot air balloon ride—each adding layers of memorable moments. The use of an all-inclusive approach means you won’t need to worry about hidden costs or logistics, allowing you to relax fully.

On top of that, reviews repeatedly mention the professionalism of the crew, the cleanliness of the ship, and the well-organized itinerary, which together justify the price tag. For history lovers and those craving a taste of Egypt’s most famous sights in comfort, this is a compelling option.

Practical Details and Tips

• The group size is small (max 15), ensuring a more personalized experience but also meaning early booking is recommended—average bookings happen about 66 days in advance.
• The cancellation policy is flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, which is reassuring if plans change.
• For solo travelers wanting their own space, a single booking is necessary, while groups of three can enjoy a triple room.
• During busy periods like Christmas and New Year (Dec 20 – Jan 7), expect an additional fee.
• If the hot air balloon ride is canceled due to weather, you are refunded $25 per person.

This cruise suits travelers who want to combine luxury with cultural exploration, providing an easy way to see Egypt’s highlights without the hassle of arranging logistics. History buffs will appreciate the guided visits to sites like the Valley of Kings and Abu Simbel, while those seeking comfort will enjoy the onboard amenities and scenery.

It’s ideal for small groups or couples looking for an intimate, enriching experience, and for anyone wanting a relaxed pace with plenty of memorable sights.

If you value expert guides, good food, and scenic river views, this tour offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Egypt’s ancient and modern worlds.

Is pickup offered included? Yes, pickup is included, with transfers in an air-conditioned vehicle during the trip.

What is the price per person? The tour costs approximately $714.26 per person, which covers all meals, guided site entries, transfers, and accommodation on a 5-star cruise.

Are all sightseeing fees included? Yes, all entrance fees to sites between Luxor and Aswan are included in the package.

What happens if the hot air balloon ride is canceled? If canceled due to weather, you will be refunded $25 per person.

How many travelers will be on the cruise? The maximum group size is 15, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Can I have a private room? Yes, if you prefer your own space, you should book a single room, which may mean a higher cost.

What is the disembarkation time? Check-out is at 13:00 on the last day, allowing you to plan your onward travel accordingly.

In essence, this Nile cruise offers a thoughtfully curated, comfortable way to explore Egypt’s iconic sites, all while enjoying the scenic beauty of the river. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply eager to relax and soak in breathtaking views, this tour is likely to leave you with unforgettable memories.