Aswan/Luxor 4Days Nile cruise include Abu Simbel, Hot air Balloon

Traveling through Egypt’s ancient heart on a 4-day Nile cruise promises an adventure filled with iconic temples, breathtaking landscapes, and memorable moments. While we haven’t personally set sail, reviews and detailed itineraries reveal an experience that balances comfort, culture, and a touch of thrill — especially with the hot air balloon over Luxor.

What we love about this tour is its well-structured itinerary, the knowledgeable guides, and the value for money considering the inclusions and the quality of experiences. A possible consideration is the early start for Abu Simbel, which might be a challenge for night owls or those with sensitive mornings, but the awe-inspiring temple makes it worthwhile.

This tour is ideal for history buffs, first-time Egypt visitors, and anyone eager to see the highlights of Upper Egypt without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s also perfect for travelers seeking a balance of guided experiences and free time to explore.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Experience: Full board, guided sightseeing, and transport included.
• Authentic and Relaxed: Combines cultural visits with leisure time onboard.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable Egyptologists enhance the understanding of each site.
• Value for Money: Well-priced at $760 per person for four days.
• Diverse Activities: Temples, markets, a hot air balloon ride, and Abu Simbel.
• Early Starts: Abu Simbel tour begins at 5:00 am, suitable for those who enjoy sunrise adventures.

What the Tour Entails and How It Flows

This 4-day Nile cruise starts in Aswan and ends in Luxor, with a carefully planned itinerary that hits key highlights of southern Egypt. The tour is operated by Sunrise Tours, a company with solid reviews and a reputation for reliability, which is reassuring when booking a multi-day experience in a foreign country.

Day 1: Welcome to Aswan

Your journey begins with a pickup from Aswan airport, train, or bus station, which is a helpful touch—no need to worry about transfers after a long travel day. Once aboard your cruise, you’ll have lunch and then head into the city to visit the Aswan High Dam and Philae Temple.

The High Dam is a marvel of modern engineering, built between 1960 and 1970 to control the Nile’s floodwaters and generate hydroelectric power. Spending about an hour here, you’ll appreciate how this structure transformed Egyptian life and agriculture.

A short motorboat ride takes you to Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis. This site, on an island, offers a charming setting for ancient ruins and a chance to learn about the goddess Isis’s revered role. Reviewers mention the boat ride as a highlight, noting it adds a magical touch to what is already a visually stunning site.

Day 2: Abu Simbel and Onward to Edfu

The early morning start at 5:00 am for Abu Simbel can seem demanding, but this is a highlight for many travelers. The colossal statues of Ramses II are among Egypt’s most famous monuments. The tour includes a breakfast box, making the early rise more manageable. Reviewers rave about the awe of these carved sandstone temples, especially noting the impressive size and the intricate carvings of deities.

After returning to the cruise around lunchtime, the vessel sails towards Kom-Ombo. Here, you’ll visit the Kom-Ombo Temple, known for its unique dual design dedicated to both Sobek and Horus, and the crocodile museum—a fascinating glimpse into ancient Egypt’s relationship with its crocodile gods.

The cruise then sets sail towards Edfu, where you’ll overnight. Many reviews highlight the relaxing sailings, with passengers enjoying the sunset views and the chance to unwind amid the lush scenery.

Day 3: Exploring Edfu and Luxor

A horse carriage ride takes you to the Edfu Temple, dedicated to Horus, the falcon-headed god. The temple’s well-preserved hieroglyphs and the atmospheric setting make it one of the most intact temples in Egypt. Guides, such as those reviewed, are praised for their detailed explanations, enriching your understanding of the site.

Sailing from Edfu, the cruise passes through Esna Lock, a fascinating engineering feature that raises and lowers ships in the narrow river sections. This experience, along with the scenic views en route to Luxor, is often described as a calming and picturesque journey.

In Luxor, you’ll get to visit the Karnak Temple complex, the largest religious site in Egypt. Guided by an Egyptologist, you’ll learn about the multiple temples, the Sacred Lake, and the significance of each. Reviewers mention the sound and light show at Karnak as a captivating optional addition.

Then, it’s on to Luxor Temple, an impressive structure built by King Amenhotep III and later added to by Ramses II. The obelisk of Rameses II and the statues of Khons face the Nile, making it a perfect spot to soak in the ancient atmosphere.

Day 4: The West Bank and a Hot Air Balloon Ride

The final day starts early with a hot air balloon ride over Luxor, often highlighted as a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Flying at sunrise, visitors get a panoramic view of the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut’s Temple, and the Colossi of Memnon. Reviewers note that the balloon offers incredible photo opportunities and a unique perspective of the West Bank’s archaeological sites.

After breakfast onboard, the tour continues with visits to the Valley of the Kings, where you’ll see the tombs of pharaohs including Tutankhamun, and the Hatshepsut Temple, which showcases the story of Egypt’s most famous female ruler. The Colossi of Memnon provide a dramatic farewell to the West Bank before your transfer to the bus, train, or airport.

While $760 might seem steep at first glance, the details reveal a well-rounded experience. The full-board accommodation means no extra worries about meals, which are included for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, often featuring local flavors. The guides are identified as expert Egyptologists, adding depth and context that make each site more meaningful.

Many reviews highlight the professionalism of Sunrise Tours, with travelers praising the responsiveness, especially for personalized arrangements like private guides or special requests. The early start for Abu Simbel is a small sacrifice for the stunning sight and the chance to beat the crowds—many find it worth the effort.

The sailing experience itself—covering key sites from Aswan to Luxor—provides a relaxed way to see Egypt without the constant hustle. The combination of scheduled visits and free time onboard means you get a taste of local life and leisure.

Transportation and Comfort

All transfers are done via air-conditioned modern vehicles, which is much appreciated after long flights or train journeys. The cruise ships are described as comfortable, spacious, and well-maintained, and the included nightly entertainment and teatime add to the relaxing atmosphere.

Dining and Included Activities

Meals are primarily local and include breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The onboard dining experience is generally praised, with some reviewers mentioning the quality of food exceeded expectations. The excursions, such as the motorboat ride to Philae or the horse carriage to Edfu, add an authentic touch that many travelers value.

Accessibility and Flexibility

The tour is suitable for most travelers, with most participants able to join. The option for group discounts and private arrangements makes it flexible for different preferences. Note that guides in languages other than English are available at a surcharge, and outside Aswan, pickup is available for an extra fee.

This tour suits history enthusiasts eager to see Egypt’s most iconic sites with expert guidance. It’s also ideal for those wanting a comfortable, all-in-one experience that combines sightseeing, relaxation, and adventure. If you’re up for an early start to catch Abu Simbel or a hot air balloon ride, this tour delivers unforgettable memories.

Travelers who prefer a tailored or private experience might need to check additional options, but for most, the mix of guided visits, leisure time onboard, and scenic cruising hits the right balance.

Final Thoughts

For a price of $760, you’re getting a thoughtfully curated journey through Egypt’s most famous temples, tombs, and landscapes. The combination of expert guides, comfortable vessels, and well-organized logistics means you can focus on soaking in the sights rather than worrying about the details.

While the early mornings may be a challenge, they are offset by the extraordinary sights, especially Abu Simbel and the hot air balloon ride. This experience is best suited for travelers who appreciate history, comfort, and authenticity—all wrapped into one memorable Nile adventure.

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are offered via air-conditioned modern transportation, and outside Aswan city, there are additional charges.

What meals are included?
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included, served onboard the cruise. The quality is generally good, with some reviewers mentioning the food exceeded expectations.

Are guides available in languages other than English?
Yes, guides in other languages are available at a supplement of $20 per group, payable in cash.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 6 days in advance for a full refund. Less than 6 days, and the refund policy varies, with no refund less than 2 days before the start.

What activities are part of the tour?
Visits include Aswan High Dam, Philae Temple, Abu Simbel, Kom-Ombo Temple, Edfu Temple, Luxor temples, Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut Temple, and Colossi of Memnon, plus optional sound and light shows.

Is the hot air balloon ride included?
Yes, the hot air balloon over Luxor’s West Bank is part of the tour, starting at sunrise on Day 4, and is highly recommended for the stunning aerial views.

What is the cruising experience like?
Sailing between sites allows for scenic, relaxed travel with onboard amenities such as entertainment and teatime, blending sightseeing with leisure.

Are extra tombs or sites included?
Tickets to some tombs, like Tutankhamun or Seti I, are extra and not included in the package.

This Nile cruise combines the magic of ancient Egypt with modern comfort and expert guidance, making it a captivating experience for those ready to explore the land of pharaohs in style.