5 Days Nile Cruise Luxor Aswan Hot Air Balloon with Abu Simbel

This 5-day Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan, including a hot air balloon ride and a visit to Abu Simbel, offers a blend of luxury, history, and adventure. While I haven’t personally taken this trip, reviews and detailed itinerary insights paint a picture of a well-rounded, value-packed experience that appeals to history lovers, comfort seekers, and culture explorers alike.

What immediately catches the eye are the stunning scenery of the Nile Valley, the impressive array of ancient temples and tombs, and the luxury onboard experience. We love how this tour combines iconic sites like Luxor’s Karnak and Luxor Temples with the thrill of soaring above the city’s rooftops in a hot air balloon. Plus, the exclusive visit to Abu Simbel offers a jaw-dropping glimpse into ancient Egypt’s grandeur.

One caveat to consider is that the admission fees for Abu Simbel and hot air ballooning are not included, meaning you’ll want to budget extra for these experiences. This tour seems best suited for travelers wanting a seamless blend of history, comfort, and adventure—especially those who enjoy guided tours and luxury amenities.

Key Points

• Luxury and Comfort: The cruise ship is rated 5-star, with spacious rooms, delicious meals, and attentive staff.
• Rich Historical Stops: From Luxor’s impressive temples to Abu Simbel, you’ll explore Egypt’s most iconic archaeological sites.
• Unique Experiences: The hot air balloon ride offers panoramic views of temples and Nile scenery, a must for memorable photos.
• All-Inclusive Feel: Guided tours, entrance fees, and transfers are included, making for a smooth trip.
• Additional Costs: Hot air balloon and Abu Simbel entry fees are not covered, so plan accordingly.
• Authentic Local Culture: In the evenings, enjoy Nubian shows, belly dancing, and Galliabiyah parties onboard, giving you a taste of Egypt’s vibrant culture.

This cruise is designed as a comprehensive and immersive experience that balances sightseeing, relaxation, and local entertainment. Let’s walk through what makes each part of this trip special—and sometimes, what might surprise you.

The Luxor Experience: Gateway to Ancient Egypt

Starting in Luxor, the first days are a feast for lovers of history. The Luxor Temple is the first stop, a sprawling complex built circa 1400 BCE, dedicated to the rejuvenation of kingship. It’s a beautifully preserved site that provides insight into Egyptian spiritual life. The Temple of Karnak follows, an even larger complex with pylons, chapels, and an atmosphere thick with history. Reviewers mention that guides like Mohammed Al-Dahesh are professional and convey the stories behind these monuments with engaging detail, making the experience both informative and lively.

The next morning, an optional hot air balloon ride offers a breathtaking view of Luxor’s skyline at dawn. Reviewers raved about the spectacular scenery, with one noting how the sunrise over the Nile and the Theban Necropolis made a “magnificent” impression. It’s a 45-minute flight, providing ample time to marvel at the scale and beauty of Luxor’s archaeological landscape from above. Keep in mind, the balloon ride is not included in the price, and weather can affect availability, but it’s highly recommended for the visual impact.

Exploring the Tombs and Temples of Thebes

The Valley of the Kings is next, a must-see for anyone interested in Egypt’s burial traditions. During a 3-hour visit, you’ll see the tombs of pharaohs like Tutankhamun and Ramses the Great. Reviewers point out that the tombs are carved into natural rock, and their preservation allows for awe-inspiring wall paintings and hieroglyphs—even if some tombs are closed or restricted.

The Temple of Hatshepsut at Deir el-Bahari is a highlight, praised for its striking terraced design and grandeur. It’s a masterclass in ancient Egyptian architecture, and guides bring its stories to life. The Colossi of Memnon, though just two massive statues, offer a photo-worthy moment and are free to visit.

Cross the Nile: From Edfu to Kom Ombo

The cruise continues with visits to Edfu Temple dedicated to Horus, one of Egypt’s best-preserved temples. The 3-hour guided tour reveals how this temple was constructed during the Ptolemaic period and later Roman additions. Its imposing façade and intricate carvings leave many visitors in awe, with some mentioning it as a highlight.

Next, the Temple of Kom Ombo offers a rare dual worship site. Here, you can see the unique design dedicated to Sobek (crocodile god) and Horus. The Roman-era modifications are visible, and the site offers a fascinating glimpse into the religious practices of the time.

The Nubian and Aswan Experience

The journey to Aswan brings you to Philae Temple, located on an island in Lake Nasser, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The experience is enhanced by the boat ride to the island and the temple’s beautifully preserved hieroglyphs. Reviewers appreciate the guided explanations that bring this site to life.

The Aswan High Dam is equally impressive—a colossal feat of engineering that transformed the region and provides power and irrigation. The Unfinished Obelisk in the quarries offers insight into ancient stone-carving techniques, and many find this a fascinating stop for understanding Egyptian craftsmanship.

The Grand Finale: Abu Simbel

The trip’s highlight is the Abu Simbel Temple Complex. Carved into a mountainside, these colossal statues of Ramses II and the intricate interiors are a visual marvel. The journey here is about 3 hours from Aswan, but reviews note that the experience and the awe of standing before such monuments make it worth the effort.

Admission fees for Abu Simbel are not included, so travelers should budget this separately. Many reviews mention it as a “must-see,” with one traveler calling it “a once-in-a-lifetime experience.” The temples’ relocation in the 1960s, due to Lake Nasser’s formation, adds to their historical significance and the story of modern archaeological preservation.

The Onboard Experience and Evening Entertainment

The luxury cruise itself offers more than just sightseeing. Guests rave about the friendly staff, spacious rooms, and delicious meals—a combination that turns a sightseeing tour into a relaxing vacation. The onboard spa, pool, and evening entertainment such as belly dancing, Nubian shows, and Gallabiyah parties provide a genuine taste of Egyptian culture.

Reviewers highlight that the guides are knowledgeable, often mentioning specific individuals like Mohammed Al-Dahesh or Mr. Ahmed Gabr, whose storytelling adds depth to the tour. The local guides help connect the historical dots, making the experience more than just a visit—it’s an education.

Practical Considerations and Cost Analysis

The price point of approximately $999.89 per person offers good value considering the inclusions: four nights on a 5-star cruise, guided tours, entrance fees, and some meals. However, extras like hot air balloon rides and Abu Simbel entrance fees are additional, so budget around $50 for the balloon (with a possible refund if canceled due to weather) and extra for Abu Simbel tickets.

Many reviewers emphasize the quality of the food and service, with descriptions of gourmet dining and attentive staff. The group size is private, making for an intimate experience, and transfers are modern and air-conditioned, adding to the comfort.

What Reviewers Say

The feedback from past travelers is overwhelmingly positive, with an average rating of 5 stars from 20 reviews. Guests praise the professional guides, stunning landscapes, and well-organized itinerary. Many describe the hot air balloon ride as a “breathtaking” experience and the cruise as “luxurious,” with some saying it was “the highlight of their trip to Egypt.”

One reviewer mentioned, “The service was impeccable, and the facilities were excellent,” emphasizing how smoothly everything ran. Another appreciated the delicious local dishes served onboard, adding a culinary dimension to the experience.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This Nile cruise appeals primarily to history enthusiasts who want to see Egypt’s most famous temples and tombs without fuss. It’s also perfect for those looking for a luxurious, all-in-one package that combines sightseeing with comfort. If you enjoy guided tours, cultural shows, and scenic flights, this trip ticks many boxes.

Travelers who seek a well-organized, hassle-free experience will appreciate the included transfers, guided excursions, and comfortable accommodations. It’s ideal for those willing to pay a bit more for a high-end, authentic Egyptian adventure with memorable highlights.

FAQ Section

Is airport pickup included?
Yes, meet and assist services are provided upon arrival and departure, making transfers smooth.

Are the entrance fees to Abu Simbel and hot air balloon rides included?
No, these costs are extra. Expect to pay around $50 for the balloon ride, and Abu Simbel entrance fees are paid separately.

What is the tour duration?
The entire experience lasts about 5 days, with four nights on the cruise and a full day at Abu Simbel.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Yes, the tour can cater to vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary needs if specified at booking.

What if the hot air balloon ride is canceled?
If canceled due to weather, a refund of $50 per person is available.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely, but solo travelers should note that a single supplement might apply if they want their own room.

How many people typically participate?
Since it’s a private tour, only your group will be involved, ensuring an intimate experience.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of luxury accommodations, expertly guided archaeological sites, scenic Nile views, and unique experiences like the balloon ride and Abu Simbel visit set it apart.

Final Thoughts

This 5-day Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan offers a luxurious, educational, and visually stunning journey through Egypt’s most celebrated sites. With knowledgeable guides, excellent onboard amenities, and the thrill of a hot air balloon flight, it’s a trip that promises both comfort and adventure.

It’s a fantastic choice for history lovers, luxury travelers, or anyone eager to see Egypt’s ancient wonders without the hassle of organizing logistics themselves. Just remember to budget for the extras like Abu Simbel and ballooning to fully enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

For those craving an authentic, memorable, and seamless Nile adventure, this tour genuinely hits the mark. Just pack your camera, a sense of wonder, and an appetite for both history and comfort.