5 Days 4 Nights at Cairo in New Year & Christmas with Nile Cruise

Introduction

Taking a Christmas and New Year holiday in Egypt on a Nile cruise sounds like a dream, and this 5-day package promises just that—an immersive journey through Egypt’s iconic sites aboard the luxurious Mövenpick Royal Lily. While we haven’t traveled this exact route ourselves, the detailed itinerary and glowing reviews suggest it’s a thoughtfully crafted experience that combines history, comfort, and festive cheer.

Three things we love about this tour: First, the combination of sightseeing and leisure—you get to explore legendary temples and enjoy relaxing cruise moments. Second, the expert guidance—an Egyptian-speaking tour guide ensures you won’t miss any of the historical gems or their stories. Third, the festive atmosphere with onboard entertainment like belly dancing, galabya parties, and folkloric shows, all set against a stunning Nile backdrop.

A possible drawback? The fixed schedule and group setting might feel a little rushed for history buffs who prefer more time at each site or travelers seeking complete privacy. Still, for most, the value of visiting major sites in just five days is impressive. This tour suits those who want a well-organized, all-in-one holiday that blends sightseeing, comfort, and celebration—ideal for first-time visitors or those celebrating the holidays in style.

Key Points

• All-inclusive itinerary: From Luxor’s temples to Aswan’s Dam and Philae Temple, covering major highlights.
• Comfort & convenience: Luxurious Nile cruise with private transfers and guided tours.
• Festive onboard activities: Belly dancing, galabya parties, and folkloric shows add holiday spirit.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable Egyptian-speaking guides enhance the experience.
• Flexible booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the trip.
• Affordable luxury: At $1,100 per person, the package offers good value for a comprehensive holiday experience.

Exploring the Itinerary: A Day-by-Day Breakdown

Day 1: Arrival in Luxor & Temples

Your journey begins with a meet and assist at Luxor Airport—a smooth introduction that sets the tone for hassle-free travel. After embarking on the Mövenpick Royal Lily cruise before lunchtime, you’ll settle into your floating hotel, which promises comfort over the next four nights.

In the afternoon, the tour guides take you to two of Luxor’s most famous sites: Karnak Temple and Luxor Temple. Expect to walk through vast columns and intricate hieroglyphs, feeling the weight of history. The evening wraps up with afternoon tea, a relaxing pause before the lively belly dance show and dinner. The night on board is perfect for unwinding while watching the Nile’s gentle flow.

Day 2: West Bank & Sailing to Esna

Early morning wake-up calls mean an energetic start, with a visit to the West Bank, home to the Valley of the Kings, Memnon Colossi, and Hatshepsut Temple. These sites are packed with history, and guides are praised for their knowledge, making complex stories accessible.

By late morning, you’ll sail towards Esna, enjoying the scenery as the Nile winds through the lush landscape. Lunch is served onboard, and after some downtime, the ship anchors in Esna overnight. The evening’s highlight? A captain’s welcome cocktail and a lively disco night, perfect for making new friends or simply dancing away the holiday.

Day 3: Edfu & Kom Ombo

Day three begins with a visit to Edfu Temple, considered one of the best-preserved temples in Egypt, dedicated to Horus. Expect to walk through a grand complex with detailed carvings—it’s a highlight for history lovers.

Later, the cruise sails to Kom Ombo, famous for its dual Falcon and Crocodile temples. The visit is scheduled for the late afternoon, giving you time to enjoy the elegant river scenery. Dinner is followed by a Galabya Party—a fun, casual costume night that adds a lighthearted touch to the holiday.

Day 4: Aswan’s Wonders

Early morning sets sail to Aswan, where the tour explores some of Egypt’s most iconic sights: The High Dam, Granite Quarries, and Philae Temple. These sites reveal the engineering marvels and spiritual history of Egypt.

After lunch, you might enjoy views of the Nile’s wide waters and the colorful Nubian culture. The evening includes a folkloric Nubian show, immersing you further into local traditions. Overnight in Aswan allows for a relaxed start the next day, with a deep sense of connection to Egypt’s vibrant culture.

Day 5: Disembarkation & Departure

The cruise concludes with disembarkation after breakfast, and transfers take you either to Aswan Airport or train station. It’s a straightforward end to a packed, memorable trip.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

This 5-day Nile cruise at $1,100 per person includes deluxe accommodation, all sightseeing as per the itinerary, three meals daily, and guided tours. The fact that all transfers are by private air-conditioned vehicle adds comfort and reduces logistical stress—crucial when traveling over such a packed schedule.

The guided tours are private, giving your group personalized attention, while the onboard entertainment ensures you enjoy the holiday spirit. Keeping in mind the inclusive meals and entertainment, this package provides a solid blend of culture, relaxation, and festivity.

Authentic Experiences & Highlights

Travelers have praised the knowledgeable guides—one reviewer specifically mentioned their Egyptologist, Ahmed Yassin, as “organizing an amazing trip in a very short time.” The quality of the excursions on both banks of Luxor was highlighted, and many found the scenic Nile views during sailing segments to be particularly memorable.

The onboard disco, folkloric shows, and belly dancing add a lively, festive dimension that makes the trip feel special during the holiday season, creating memorable moments beyond just sightseeing.

Practicalities & Considerations

Timing-wise, the cruise is well-structured, covering the major sites efficiently without feeling overly rushed. The itinerary’s start time at 8:00 am and the evening activities on board help balance sightseeing with relaxation.

The free cancellation policy offers flexibility, an important factor for holiday planning. Keep in mind that personal expenses and tips are not included, so it’s wise to budget a little extra for souvenirs or gratuities.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This cruise is perfect for travelers seeking a comprehensive, guided experience that combines Egypt’s top sights with onboard entertainment and festive activities. It’s ideal if you value comfort and convenience, want a balanced schedule, and appreciate the insights of knowledgeable guides.

It’s also great for those wanting to celebrate the holidays in a unique setting, blending the magic of Egypt’s ancient wonders with the joy of holiday festivities. If you’re after a well-organized, all-in-one Nile adventure that caters to first-timers and seasoned travelers alike, this tour ticks all the boxes.

The Sum Up

Traveling through Egypt on this 5-day Nile cruise combines history, scenery, and celebration perfectly. You’ll visit some of Egypt’s most iconic temples, enjoy scenic boat rides along the Nile, and partake in festive onboard entertainment—all woven into a manageable, well-paced schedule.

The inclusion of expert guides, luxury accommodations, and organized excursions means you won’t have to worry about logistics, allowing you to focus on soaking in the sights and sounds of Egypt. The price offers good value, especially considering the all-inclusive nature and the quality of the experience.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive holiday experience—those eager to explore Egypt’s historic sites while enjoying comfort and festive cheer. Whether celebrating Christmas or New Year, you’ll find this cruise offers a memorable holiday combining culture, relaxation, and fun.

FAQ

Is pickup included in this tour?
Yes, pickup is offered, ensuring a smooth start from Luxor Airport.

Are all sightseeing tours guided?
Yes, all excursions are private guided tours with an Egyptian-speaking guide, providing insights into Egypt’s history.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Absolutely. The tour features a free cancellation policy, allowing full refunds if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

What meals are included?
You’ll enjoy breakfast on two mornings, and lunch and dinner on three days, with onboard meals included in the price.

Are transfers by air-conditioned vehicle?
Yes, all transfers are private and air-conditioned, making travel between sites comfortable.

What activities are onboard?
You can expect belly dancing, galabya parties, and Nubian folkloric shows, adding lively entertainment to your trip.

How long do the excursions last?
Most sightseeing stops are scheduled for 8-hour blocks, giving ample time to explore without rushing.

Is the cruise suitable for families or solo travelers?
Yes, the experience is flexible and welcoming for various travelers, with group discounts available.

What should I consider before booking?
Personal expenses and tips are not included, so budget accordingly. Also, check the schedule for early mornings and evening activities to plan your packing and rest.

This Nile cruise offers a well-rounded, culturally enriching, and festive holiday experience, perfect for making your Christmas or New Year special in Egypt.