6 Days Cruise Aswan to Luxor, Abu Simbel&Sleeper Train Round-trip

Traveling through Egypt’s iconic Nile Valley is an experience that promises breathtaking scenery, ancient wonders, and a glimpse into the life of the Pharaohs. This 6-day tour, operated by Egypt Gift Tours, combines a luxurious Nile cruise with a memorable sleeper train journey from Cairo, making it a comprehensive way to learn about Egypt’s history and culture.

What makes this trip stand out? For starters, the luxury 5-star cruise offers full-board comfort with plenty of evening entertainment, including belly dancing and Nubian shows. The Abu Simbel visit is a highlight—reachable by a scenic 3-hour drive—and the round-trip sleeper train adds an authentic touch to the adventure. Plus, the itinerary covers key temples and tombs, ensuring you see the best of Luxor and Aswan.

However, it’s worth noting that the schedule can be tight, especially with early departures and long travel days. Travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace might want to plan some rest days afterwards. This tour suits those who love history, vibrant scenery, and don’t mind a bit of travel time, especially on the train.

Key Points

• Luxury Experience: 5-star Nile cruise with full-board meals, nightly entertainment, and modern comforts.
• Authentic Travel: Overnight sleeper train from Cairo adds a traditional Egyptian touch.
• Rich Itinerary: Visits to Abu Simbel, Kom Ombo, Edfu, and iconic temples including Luxor and Karnak.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable Egyptologists enhance your understanding of each site.
• Balanced Schedule: A mix of sightseeing, travel, and relaxing onboard.
• Value for Money: For around $950, you gain a comprehensive, guided experience with all transfers included.

An In-depth Look at the 6-Day Nile Adventure

Day 1: From Cairo to Aswan by Sleeper Train

Your journey begins with being picked up from your Cairo or Giza hotel and transferred to the train station to board the overnight sleeper train to Aswan. This is a unique aspect of the tour, blending traditional travel with comfort—complete with meals onboard. The train ride lasts approximately 12 to 14 hours, giving you plenty of time to relax and prepare for the adventures ahead.

Travelers often appreciate the experience; as one reviewer noted, the round-trip train tickets contribute to the authenticity of the trip and eliminate the need for separate booking. Plus, the chance to watch Egypt’s rural landscape from your cabin makes for memorable scenery.

Day 2: Arrival in Aswan and First Sightseeing

Once in Aswan, a licensed guide will meet you at the station and you’ll be transferred by air-conditioned van to the 5-star Nile cruise. After checking in and enjoying a delicious lunch onboard, the day’s sightseeing begins with a visit to the Aswan High Dam—a marvel of modern engineering completed in 1960 to control the Nile’s flow and generate electricity.

Next, you’ll hop onto a motorboat to the Temple of Philae, dedicated to the goddess Isis. Many reviews mention how the boat ride adds a charming touch to the visit. While admission fees aren’t included, reviewers like one who described the temple as “beautiful and well-preserved” found the visit well worth it. The day ends with a relaxing dinner and a folkloric show onboard, setting a lively tone for your Nile adventure.

Day 3: Abu Simbel and Kom Ombo

The standout activity today is the trip to Abu Simbel, famed for its colossal rock-cut temples built by Ramesses II. The early start (around 4:30 am) is a bit challenging but worth it; reviewers rave about how awe-inspiring the temples are. One traveler described the experience as “impressive” and appreciated the small-group sharing, which made the long drive more manageable.

After returning to the cruise around noon, you’ll enjoy lunch and then sail toward Kom Ombo. Here, the dual temple dedicated to Sobek and Horus offers a fascinating glimpse into Egypt’s religious complexity. Evenings onboard include dinner and the chance to unwind as the Nile gently slides past.

Day 4: Edfu and Luxor

Today is dedicated to visiting Edfu Temple, the best-preserved temple in Egypt, reached via a traditional horse carriage ride. Guides often mention how well-maintained and impressive this site is, with one reviewer calling it “the highlight of the day.”

As you sail to Luxor, you’ll enjoy the scenic river views and have opportunities for relaxing on the sun deck. Crossing Esna Lock adds a touch of maritime history, and the onboard lunch allows you to enjoy the scenery in comfort. Arriving in Luxor late afternoon, you’ll visit the Luxor Temple, a blend of Egyptian, Christian, and Islamic architecture, with a lively atmosphere that visitors enjoy. The evening entertainment, including belly dancing, adds a fun cultural flavor.

Day 5: West Bank Archaeology and Karnak

The focus shifts to the West Bank of Luxor, starting with the Valley of the Kings. Many guests find the guided tour enriching—one reviewer was impressed by the knowledge of their Egyptologist guide, who shared stories about the tombs’ hidden secrets. Entrance fees are not included, but the experience of exploring these tombs carved into the mountains is unforgettable.

Next, you’ll visit the Temple of Hatshepsut, a stunning mortuary temple that exemplifies ancient Egyptian architecture. The guide’s storytelling about Queen Hatshepsut’s rule adds a personal touch. The day concludes with a visit to Karnak Temple, covering about 63 acres—fascinating for its massive size and intricate hieroglyphs.

After a full day of sightseeing, you’ll board the overnight sleeper train back to Cairo. Guests often appreciate the chance to experience Egyptian train travel and reflect on their adventures.

Day 6: Return to Cairo

Arriving at Cairo or Giza, a driver will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel. This seamless end to the tour allows you to decompress or plan your next adventure in Egypt, knowing you’ve experienced the country’s highlights in comfort and style.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

For $950 per person, this package packs in a lot. You’re paying for a well-organized itinerary that combines luxury, history, and authentic travel moments. The full-board cruise ensures you’re well-fed with local and international cuisine, and the on-board entertainment adds a lively element to your evenings.

The guided visits are a significant plus, especially with the knowledge of Egyptology experts who bring the sites to life. Many reviews highlight how guides like Heba Haggag make a difference, being professional, attentive, and helpful. The inclusion of round-trip train tickets simplifies logistics, saving you the hassle of separate bookings.

However, note that admission fees to many sites are not included, and you should be prepared for some expenses on top of your tour fee. Also, the early start for Abu Simbel requires an alert traveler, but most find the effort worthwhile given the sight’s awe-inspiring scale.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers seeking a comprehensive, guided exploration of Egypt’s most iconic sites. It suits those who enjoy a mix of luxury and adventure, with some long travel days balanced by moments of cultural richness and scenic beauty. It’s ideal for history buffs, first-time visitors, or anyone wanting a well-rounded package without the stress of planning every detail.

FAQ

Is the sleeper train comfortable?
Yes, the train offers first-class seating and a sleeper option, providing a restful journey with meals included. It’s a traditional way to experience Egypt’s travel culture.

Are all entrance fees included?
No, most site entrance fees are paid separately, often in cash, except for the High Dam and Philae motorboat. Be prepared for some additional costs.

What is the group size?
The tour accommodates up to 20 travelers, with many reviews mentioning small, sharing groups for Abu Simbel, which enhances the experience.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children from 6 to 11 years old sharing with an adult are considered adults for pricing, making it suitable for family trips.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in case plans change unexpectedly.

Are airport transfers included?
Transfers to Cairo or Giza hotels are included, but pickups at airports or from other locations are available for an extra fee.

Final Thoughts

This 6-day cruise from Aswan to Luxor offers a solid balance of comfort, culture, and sightseeing—perfect for those who want to see Egypt without sacrificing style or authenticity. The combination of a luxury Nile cruise, iconic temples, and the adventure of sleeper train travel creates a memorable experience, full of vibrant scenery and fascinating stories.

While it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy structured tours with expert guides and don’t mind a few early mornings, the value offered makes it a smart choice for first-timers or those eager to tick Egypt’s must-see sights off their bucket list. The high praise from past travelers about the knowledgeable guides and stunning views underscores this tour’s appeal.

If you’re ready for an adventure filled with history, culture, and scenic beauty—all in a comfortable setting—this tour provides a well-organized and immersive way to explore Egypt’s legendary Nile Valley.