Amazing Sailing Nile Cruise From Aswan For 2 Nights 3 Days Including Balloon

Exploring the Nile: A Detailed Look at the 3-Day Sailing Cruise from Aswan

Planning an Egyptian adventure? If you’re seeking a blend of historic grandeur, relaxing river views, and a touch of adventure, this three-day Nile cruise from Aswan to Luxor ticks all those boxes. While we haven’t personally sailed these waters, reviews and detailed itineraries give us a clear picture of what travelers can expect.

What we love about this experience is the opportunity to see iconic temples like Kom Ombo and Edfu, enjoy spectacular sunsets from the deck, and the chance to take a hot air balloon ride over Luxor. Plus, the included guides and transportation make it a practical choice.

One possible drawback? Some reviews mention organizational hiccups and delays, especially with the balloon ride or guided activities. So, if you’re someone who prefers strict schedules, it’s worth keeping this in mind.

This cruise suits history buffs, relaxation seekers, and adventure lovers who want to experience Egypt from a different perspective—on the water, amidst ancient marvels.

Key Points

• Authentic Nile Experience: Enjoy a relaxing cruise along the legendary river with stunning views and culture.
• Historical Highlights: Visit renowned temples like Kom Ombo, Edfu, and Karnak with expert guides.
• Unique Activities: Hot air balloon ride over Luxor offers breathtaking perspectives of the ancient sites.
• Comfort and Convenience: Hotel pickup, drop-off, and Wi-Fi included for a stress-free, connected journey.
• Value for Money: At $450 per person, this all-inclusive experience offers good value, especially with multiple meals and activities.
• Mixed Reviews: While many loved the views and guides, some experienced organizational delays—plan accordingly.

The Itinerary: Step-by-Step Journey Through Egypt’s Ancient Heart

Day 1: From Aswan to Kom Ombo

The adventure kicks off with hotel pickup early in the morning, where you’ll be transferred via air-conditioned mini bus—an appreciated comfort, especially after a long journey. Once on board, you’ll settle into your cabin, which, according to reviews, comes equipped with all necessary facilities for a comfortable stay.

Your first stop is the Temple of Kom Ombo, a site that draws attention thanks to its unusual double entrance and the story behind its dedication. Overlooking the Nile, this temple is perched on high ground, offering excellent photo opportunities. The experience is enhanced by the chance to sip Egyptian tea on the sun deck as you watch the river’s flow—something travelers praise for its peacefulness and scenic beauty. One reviewer, Debbie, mentioned, “The view was amazing, and the staff was wonderful.”

After exploring Kom Ombo, your cruise continues sailing downstream. Expect to see small boats, traditional villages, cows, and donkeys along the banks—real Egyptian life unfolding in front of you. The cruise’s sun deck is the perfect spot to take photos of the passing scenery, capturing the authentic vibe of the Nile.

Day 2: Edfu and the Majesty of Horus

The next morning, your journey takes you to the Temple of Horus in Edfu, considered one of the best-preserved cult temples in Egypt. The temple’s intricate hieroglyphs and grand columns truly showcase ancient craftsmanship. Expect a 2-hour visit, where your guide will explain the mythological significance—like how Horus avenged his father Osiris.

Many reviews highlight the expert guides, with one reviewer mentioning, “Our Egyptology guide was very knowledgeable, which made the visit even more fascinating.” Keep in mind, entrance tickets are not included, so you’ll need to purchase those separately if you wish to explore further.

The cruise then continues its peaceful drift south, with ample opportunities to relax, snap photos, and enjoy the river views. The atmosphere onboard is described as relaxing and scenic, perfect for those who want a slower pace amid historic sites.

Day 3: Luxor’s Treasure Trove

On the final day, after breakfast, you’ll disembark in Luxor and proceed to a series of highlights on the West Bank. The day begins with a hot air balloon ride, a truly memorable experience that offers aerial views of the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut’s Temple, and the surrounding desert landscape. One traveler called this “an unforgettable moment,” noting that the adventure is worth the extra cost.

Next, the tour takes you to the Valley of the Kings, where Pharaohs buried their treasures in mountain tombs. It’s a site that leaves many visitors speechless—particularly with the intricate wall paintings and the sense of stepping into history.

Following this, you’ll visit Hatshepsut’s Temple, a stunning structure carved into the rock face that tells the story of one of Egypt’s most intriguing queens. A stop at the Colossi of Memnon offers a chance for iconic photos before heading to the Karnak Temple, an enormous complex that took centuries to build. Here, you’ll find towering pillars and imposing obelisks—perfect for wandering and imagining the ancient worship that once took place.

Finally, the day concludes with an evening visit to Luxor Temple, a site that blends Egyptian, Christian, and Islamic features. You’ll enjoy dinner onboard, with some cruises offering entertainment such as belly dancing, adding a festive touch to the trip.

What Makes This Cruise Stand Out?

The combination of historical sites, scenic river views, and cultural activities creates a well-rounded experience. The guides are frequently praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm, turning complex myths and history into engaging stories. The hot air balloon ride is consistently highlighted as a highlight — offering a picture-perfect perspective of Luxor’s monuments from above.

The included transportation and Wi-Fi are practical touches, making it easier to relax and stay connected during your adventure. The meals—covering lunch, dinner, and breakfast—are a good value, especially since they are served in a setting that’s both scenic and comfortable.

However, some travelers have expressed frustrations with organisational delays and timing issues—notably, the balloon ride’s late start and the lack of a guide for some activities. These are important considerations if you’re a traveler who values punctuality and a tightly organized schedule.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise suits history enthusiasts eager to see Egypt’s most famous temples from a unique vantage point. It’s also ideal for those seeking a relaxed, scenic experience with plenty of opportunities to take photos and enjoy the Nile’s tranquility.

Adventurers will appreciate the hot air balloon, while culture lovers can dive into the stories of gods, pharaohs, and queens. If you prefer structured, no surprises itineraries, be prepared for minor delays. Meanwhile, travelers looking for a value-packed experience combining transportation, meals, and guided tours** will find this offers a lot for its price.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This Nile cruise offers a comprehensive glimpse into Egypt’s past with a comfortable, scenic journey. The value for money is strong, especially considering the inclusion of meals, transportation, and some activities like the hot air balloon.

The scenic river vistas and iconic temples make it a memorable adventure, perfect for travelers who want a blend of relaxation and culture. The knowledgeable guides and authentic sites add depth that enriches the visit.

On the downside, organizational hiccups may cause some frustration, so patience and flexibility are advised. If you’re someone who enjoys a leisurely pace, appreciates expert storytelling, and wants to experience Egypt’s highlights from its waters, this cruise will likely meet your expectations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off via air-conditioned mini bus for a hassle-free start and end to your trip.

Are entrance fees included?
No, the entrance tickets to sites like Kom Ombo, Edfu, and others are not included, so you’ll need to buy those separately if you wish to explore each monument thoroughly.

How long is the hot air balloon ride?
The balloon ride lasts about 1 hour and offers stunning views of Luxor’s ancient sites from above—a highlight according to many reviews.

What kind of accommodation is provided onboard?
You’ll stay in a cabin with facilities on a 5-star Nile cruise ship, ensuring comfort during your journey.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included, making this a convenient and cost-effective package.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start date, with a full refund.

In summary, this Nile cruise balances historic exploration with relaxing river vistas, making it a compelling choice for those who want a well-rounded Egyptian experience. Just keep in mind minor organizational issues and plan accordingly to maximize your time enjoying the ancient wonders.