3 nights Nile Cruise with Hot air Balloon From Aswan

Traveling along the Nile is one of those bucket-list experiences that promises a mix of stunning scenery, ancient wonders, and a touch of adventure. The 3 Nights Nile Cruise with Hot Air Balloon from Aswan offers precisely that—a comprehensive journey through Egypt’s most iconic sights, with the added thrill of a sunrise hot air balloon ride. While we haven’t experienced it firsthand, reviews and detailed itineraries paint a picture of a well-rounded, memorable expedition.

What we love about this tour is the blend of luxury and authenticity—staying aboard a comfortable cruise, visiting legendary temples like Philae and Abu Simbel, and taking in the breathtaking views from high above in a hot air balloon. The small group Abu Simbel tour stands out for its personalized touch, ensuring you get detailed explanations without feeling rushed. Plus, the value for the price of $750 per person, which includes accommodation, transfers, and multiple excursions, makes it a compelling choice for seasoned travelers and first-timers alike.

One potential consideration is that admission fees are not included, so you’ll need to budget for entrance tickets to various sites. Also, the itinerary involves early mornings and long travel days—typical of Egypt’s sightseeing pace but not for everyone. This tour works best for those eager for an immersive, culturally rich experience with comfortable logistics and a bit of adventure on the side.

This tour fits travelers who love history, stunning landscapes, and a touch of adrenaline—perfect whether you’re visiting Egypt for the first time or returning to tick off more bucket-list sights.

Key Points

• Authentic experience blending luxury with culture
• Includes iconic sites like Abu Simbel, Valley of the Kings, and Philae Temple
• Hot air balloon ride provides exceptional views of the Nile and surrounding landscapes
• Small group tour for personalized guidance, especially at Abu Simbel
• No entrance fees included, so budget accordingly
• Flexible drop-off options at Luxor train station or hotel

Exploring the 4-Day Nile Cruise Itinerary

Day 1: Aswan’s Historic Landmarks and a Relaxing Start

The tour kicks off with a pick-up in Aswan, easing travelers into this historic city. Visiting the Aswan High Dam, you’ll get a glimpse of Egypt’s engineering marvel—an enormous embankment dam that controls the flow of the Nile and supplies electricity. While the admission is not included, the dam’s size and its role in Egypt’s development make it a worthwhile stop for those interested in modern Egyptian achievements.

Next, the Unfinished Obelisk offers a fascinating look into ancient Egyptian craftsmanship. It’s the largest known obelisk, and seeing it in the quarries where it was carved makes you appreciate the skill and effort involved in these monolithic structures.

Then, a boat ride takes you to the Philae Temple, an elegant site dedicated to Isis. The temple’s relocation during the 1960s due to the dam’s construction is a story of modern archaeological effort, which adds a layer of respect for Egypt’s preservation work. The guide’s explanations bring the site’s Greco-Roman period to life, offering insights that go beyond just admiring the stonework.

After these visits, you’ll board your cruise, enjoy a relaxed lunch, and settle into your floating hotel. Dinner on board provides a scenic, peaceful start to your Nile adventure.

Day 2: Abu Simbel and Kom Ombo’s Ancient Marvels

Early mornings are the hallmark of this trip, and this day is no exception. The visit to Abu Simbel is a highlight. The 8-hour round trip with a small group guarantees personalized attention, and the guide’s storytelling helps you appreciate the grand scale of Ramses II’s temple complex, carved into solid rock. The reviews commend the guide’s knowledge and friendly approach, making the long journey feel worthwhile.

Back on the cruise, a leisurely lunch prepares you for the visit to Kom Ombo Temple. This unique double temple dedicated to Sobek and Horus offers a glimpse into Egyptian religious practices. The guided tour highlights the temple’s distinctive layout and well-preserved carvings, which travelers have praised for their clarity and detail.

Day 3: Edfu and the Final Night

In the early morning, a horse carriage ride to Edfu Temple adds a charming touch. Known as one of Egypt’s best-preserved temple complexes, Edfu’s colossal columns and intricate hieroglyphs make it a highlight. The guide’s knowledge helps you understand the significance of this Ptolemaic-era site.

Returning to Aswan, the evening is free for relaxing or enjoying the ship’s amenities. The final night onboard offers a chance to reflect on the journey and enjoy the Nile’s tranquil views.

Day 4: A Thrilling Sunrise Balloon Ride and Luxor’s Ancient Wonders

The experience launches with an early wake-up for the hot air balloon ride. This 3-hour adventure offers panoramic views of the Nile, Luxor, and the surrounding desert—an unforgettable way to start your day. The included ticket and the glowing sunrise create a picture-perfect moment.

After landing, you’ll visit the Valley of the Kings, where tombs of pharaohs like Tutankhamun await. The guided tour provides historical context, making each tomb’s intricate artwork and symbolism more meaningful. Next, the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut and the Colossi of Memnon offer impressive photo opportunities and insights into Egypt’s history.

Finally, the tour concludes with visits to the Karnak Temple and Luxor Temple, ending your journey with the grandeur of ancient Egyptian architecture. You’ll be transferred to Luxor station or your hotel, ready to share stories of your adventure.

What’s Included and What to Consider

The tour provides luxury on the Nile, with three nights onboard a cruise ship, allowing you to relax while traveling through Egypt’s heartland. The pickup and drop-off service simplifies logistics, especially if you’re arriving in Aswan independently.

Included are meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), which save you time and money, and transfers in a private vehicle, ensuring comfortable movement between sites. The small group Abu Simbel trip stands out for its intimacy and detailed guidance, which many reviewers appreciated.

However, admission fees are not included, so you’ll need to budget for entrance tickets for sites like Abu Simbel, Edfu, and the Valley of the Kings. The price of $750 offers a solid value considering the accommodation, meals, transfers, and special experiences like the hot air balloon.

The hot air balloon ride is a major highlight, providing incredible views of the Nile, Luxor, and surrounding landscape. The 3-hour duration offers enough time to soak in the scenery without feeling rushed.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

Reviewers consistently praise the guides’ knowledge—notably Mustafa at Abu Simbel and David in Luxor—who bring Egyptian history to life with engaging storytelling. One reviewer mentioned, “David was very patient and professional, allowing us plenty of time to take photos and explaining the importance of each site.”

The scenery from the balloon is a big hit, with travelers describing the sunrise as “really good and exiting,” especially suited for December’s mild weather. The cruise itself was described as “a unique experience,” with the Nile’s peaceful waters and the impressive temples creating a truly memorable backdrop.

The Sum Up

This Nile cruise offers a fantastic mix of luxury, adventure, and cultural discovery. It’s a great choice for travelers who want to see Egypt’s most famous sites without the hassle of constant planning, especially since the tour includes many highlights and a hot air balloon ride for that extra wow factor.

If you’re eager to combine history with a touch of thrill—like soaring over the Nile at sunrise—this trip fits the bill perfectly. The small-group excursions ensure a more personal experience, and the comfortable onboard stay means you can unwind after long days of sightseeing.

While the cost isn’t insignificant, the included experiences, comfortable accommodations, and expert guidance make it a worthwhile investment. This tour is best suited for history buffs, couples, or solo travelers seeking a well-rounded, authentic Egyptian adventure with memorable views and meaningful insights.

FAQ

Are entrance fees included in the tour price?
No, the tour price doesn’t include entrance fees. You’ll need to pay for sites like Abu Simbel, Edfu, and the Valley of the Kings separately.

Is the hot air balloon ride included?
Yes, the sunrise hot air balloon flight is included in the tour. It lasts about 3 hours and offers incredible aerial views of Luxor and the Nile.

What transportation is provided during the tour?
All transfers are in a private car, and you’ll travel between sites and the cruise ship comfortably. The transportation to Abu Simbel is part of the small group tour.

How many nights do I stay on the cruise?
You’ll spend three nights aboard the cruise ship, enjoying meals, scenic views, and relaxation between sightseeing days.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues or who dislike early mornings might find some parts challenging, especially the Abu Simbel trip and balloon ride.

What meals are included?
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included across all four days, making it easier to enjoy local flavors without extra planning.

How far in advance should I book?
The tour is typically booked about 81 days in advance, so planning ahead is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons in Egypt.

This detailed, balanced review highlights the real value and unique aspects of this Nile cruise with hot air balloon experience. Whether you’re after history, scenery, or a bit of adventure, it’s an option that checks many boxes for a memorable Egyptian journey.