4 Days 3 Nights Nile Cruise from Aswan to Luxor With Abu Simbel

A 4-day Nile cruise from Aswan to Luxor offers an ideal way to see Egypt’s most renowned sights while traveling comfortably along the legendary river. While we haven’t personally taken this specific tour, plenty of travelers have shared detailed insights, helping us understand what makes this experience special—and where it might fall short.

What we love most about this cruise is the combination of historical sites, scenic Nile views, and onboard comfort. The inclusion of Abu Simbel, the Valley of the Kings, and the temples of Karnak gives a rich taste of Egypt’s ancient marvels, all while enjoying the ease of organized transportation and guided visits. Plus, the tasty onboard meals and folkloric shows add a lively touch to the journey.

That said, one possible consideration is the price point of just over $700 per person, which balances luxury and value but might feel steep for travelers wary of additional costs like site entrance fees. This tour appears perfect for those eager to combine cultural exploration with relaxing river cruising, especially if you appreciate detailed guided tours and authentic local experiences.

Key Points

• Comfortable 5-star cruise with all meals included, offering a relaxed way to explore Egypt’s ancient sites.
• Guided visits to iconic landmarks including Abu Simbel, the Valley of the Kings, and Karnak Temple, ensuring expert insights.
• Stunning Nile views and a scenic route crossing Esna Lock, perfect for photography lovers.
• Early morning hot air balloon ride offers a unique aerial perspective over Luxor’s West Bank.
• Authentic cultural experiences like folkloric shows and local meals enhance the journey.
• Group size and logistics are tailored for a personal experience, with pickup from your hotel, airport, or train station included.

Booking and Pricing: Does It Offer Good Value?

At around $716 per person, this cruise isn’t the cheapest way to see Egypt, but the comprehensive itinerary, including guided tours and meals, adds significant value. Travelers should also consider additional costs like site entry fees, which, based on reviews, can add up—entrance tickets for Abu Simbel, Valley of the Kings, and other sites are not included in the tour price.

One traveler pointed out the cost of entrance fees for the Abu Simbel trip, which was about 80 USD per person, well above some initial expectations. Still, the value lies in the convenience of organized transportation, expert guides, and all-inclusive meals, saving you the hassle of coordinating each site independently.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect Day-by-Day

Day 1: Aswan Highlights and Philae Temple

Your journey begins with a personal pickup—either from the airport, train station, or hotel—making arrival seamless. After check-in aboard your luxury Nile cruise, the day kicks off with a visit to the Aswan High Dam, an engineering marvel completed in the 1960s, designed to control the Nile’s flow and generate electricity. While the dam’s exterior impresses, the admission ticket isn’t included, so you’ll want to budget for that.

Next, a short motorboat takes you to the Temple of Philae, dedicated to goddess Isis. Travelers often mention the beautiful setting of this temple on Agilkia Island and the sense of stepping back in time. A reviewer remarked that the temple was “fascinating and well-preserved”, though some noted the ticket cost was higher than initially expected.

Day 2: Abu Simbel and Kom Ombo

Early morning, around 4:30 am, your guide picks you up for the trip to Abu Simbel—a highlight of this cruise. The rock-cut temples of Ramesses II are a jaw-dropping sight, especially considering their relocation during the 1960s to save them from flooding caused by the Aswan High Dam. Travelers rave about the impressive size and intricate carvings.

Most reviews highlight the early start as a bit taxing but worth it for the experience. The guide, named Mohamed in some reviews, was praised for his knowledge and friendliness, making the long drive more enjoyable.

By noon, you’re back on the cruise for lunch, then sailing to Kom Ombo. The dual temple of Sobek and Horus is more than just a religious site; it’s a fascinating example of Egypt’s architectural ingenuity, with the symmetrical design and unique carvings. A reviewer described it as “a strange but intriguing place”, noting that the guided tour provided good context.

Day 3: Edfu and Luxor Temples

Morning begins with a horse carriage ride to the Temple of Horus at Edfu, considered one of the best-preserved temples in Egypt. Travelers consistently mention the cleanliness and impressive architecture. The ride offers scenic views of rural Egypt, adding to the authenticity.

Sailing toward Luxor, you’ll cross the Esna Lock, a fun experience for those interested in how modern barriers work alongside ancient sites. The afternoon visit to Luxor Temple is a fitting end to the day, with some reviews mentioning the possibility of visiting Karnak temple if arriving earlier in the afternoon. The bustling night market and lively atmosphere of Luxor’s East Bank leave many travelers eager to explore more.

Day 4: West Bank Wonders and Hot Air Balloon Ride

The early morning hot air balloon ride, often described as “breathtaking”, offers incredible aerial views of Luxor’s West Bank, including the Valley of the Kings. While some note the timing (around 5 am) is early, the panoramic photo opportunities are worth the wake-up call.

Next, the tour takes you to the Valley of the Kings, where pharaohs’ tombs have been hidden for over 3,000 years. Visitors often mention the mysterious atmosphere and the impressive tomb decor. A review highlighted that while the entrance fees are separate, the guided explanation made the experience more meaningful.

Following, the Temple of Hatshepsut is noted for its striking terraced design and fascinating history, including her rise to power and influence. The gigantic statues of Memnon on the way back provide a perfect photo opportunity before returning to Luxor for departure.

Practical Tips for the Best Experience

• Travel light: You’ll be walking and riding carts quite a bit; a small backpack is most convenient.
• Book your entrance tickets in advance if possible, to avoid surprises.
• Be prepared for early mornings—the hot air balloon, Abu Simbel trip, and dawn visits require waking up before sunrise.
• Bring sunglasses and sunscreen; the Egyptian sun can be relentless, especially on the boat deck and during outdoor tours.
• Consider tipping: the tour mentions that staff, guides, and drivers expect tips, so factor this into your budget.
• Stay flexible. The itinerary is packed, but delays can happen, especially around site visiting times or crossing locks.

Authentic Experiences from Reviews

Many travelers appreciated the professionalism of guides like Mohamed, who provided detailed insights into each site, enriching the overall experience. Others shared that the onboard meals were tasty, with some describing the food as “delicious and well-prepared”, elevating the comfort of the cruise.

However, not all reviews were glowing. One guest expressed disappointment with the cruise cabin’s condition, describing it as “old and worn,” and felt the broadly advertised five-star experience did not fully match reality. It’s worth noting that the cruise ship, Dolphins, had mixed reviews, with some travelers mentioning that the cabins didn’t quite match the pictures.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Nile Voyage?

This cruise is a great pick for travelers who want a structured, guided experience of Egypt’s most famous sights without the hassle of planning each detail. The combination of luxury onboard amenities, expert guides, and the chance to see incredible sites like Abu Simbel and the Valley of the Kings makes it a compelling option.

It’s best suited for those who value comfort and convenience but are also eager to enjoy Egypt’s history and culture. The early mornings and additional entrance fees might not suit every traveler, but if you’re prepared for that, this tour offers a memorable and scenic way to explore the Nile.

While some reviews highlight inconsistencies in accommodation quality and extra costs, the overall value of guided tours and included meals tends to balance out these concerns. Just keep your expectations realistic and be ready for a busy, enriching adventure through one of the world’s most iconic landscapes.

Are airport transfers included?
Yes, the tour offers a personalized pickup from the airport, train station, or your Aswan hotel.

What sites are included in the guided visits?
You will visit Aswan High Dam, Temple of Philae, Abu Simbel, Kom Ombo, Edfu, Luxor Temple, Valley of the Kings, Temple of Hatshepsut, and Karnak Temple.

Are meals provided during the cruise?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included on board, allowing you to enjoy local cuisine while relaxing.

Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but early mornings and walking tours may be challenging for some. Confirm your ability to handle a busy schedule.

Are site entrance fees included?
No, entrance tickets are not included in the tour price. Be prepared to pay separately for sites like Abu Simbel and the Valley of the Kings.

Can I have a private room?
Yes, if you prefer your own space, book as a single traveler. Group bookings for three will enjoy a triple room.

What is the typical group size?
While the tour is private for your group, the Abu Simbel trip is shared with a small group, making it more intimate.

How early should I book?
Most travelers book about 38 days in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure availability.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

This Nile cruise offers a well-rounded taste of Egypt’s ancient marvels with the comfort of guided tours and scenic river travel. For history lovers, cultural explorers, and those seeking a convenient way to see the highlights, it’s a journey worth considering.