Cruise From Aswan To Luxor,Balloon,Tours 2 nights 3 Days with Flight From Cairo

Traveling through Egypt’s iconic temples, ancient tombs, and scenic Nile landscapes is truly a bucket-list experience. This 3-day tour offers a blend of historical discovery, breathtaking views, and comfortable cruising, all with the convenience of flights and guided excursions. While we haven’t personally taken it, the detailed itinerary and traveler reviews paint a compelling picture of what to expect.

What we love about this experience? First, the seamless combination of a Nile cruise with key archaeological sites. Second, the opportunity to see some of Egypt’s most celebrated temples with knowledgeable guides. Third, the hot air balloon ride over Luxor which promises a unique vantage point of the monuments below. That said, a potential consideration is the extra cost for entrance fees, which adds to the overall expense, and some travelers noted the challenge of managing tipping expectations.

This tour suits those eager to balance comfort with authentic discovery — ideal for history enthusiasts, first-time visitors, or anyone looking to see Egypt’s highlights without the hassle of ground transportation between sites. Now, let’s unpack what makes this journey so appealing (and some points to keep in mind).

Key Points

• All-in-One Experience: Combines a scenic Nile cruise with major temple visits and adventures like hot air ballooning.
• Expert Guides & Convenience: Guided tours with Egyptology experts help interpret the sites.
• Flight Included: Domestic flights from Cairo to Aswan and Luxor save travel time and energy.
• Cost & Value: At $699 per person, it offers a lot — but remember the extra entrance fees.
• Comfort & Amenities: 2 nights aboard a 5-star Nile cruise with meals and Wi-Fi.
• Limited Free Time: The packed itinerary offers rich sights but leaves little room for spontaneous exploration.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1: From Aswan to Kom Ombo

The adventure kicks off in Aswan, where you’ll visit the Temple of Philae. This temple dedicated to goddess Isis is especially atmospheric, perched on its own island with views over the Nile. The guide will likely share stories about the temple’s history and its relation to Egypt’s mythology, making it a highlight for history buffs. Since admission isn’t included, you’ll want to budget for this entrance fee separately.

Next, the Aswan High Dam offers both an engineering marvel and a chance to understand Egypt’s water management. The view of the massive structure stretching 3,600 meters across the Nile is impressive and a symbol of modern Egypt’s development. Reviewers appreciated the guide’s insights here, noting the importance of the dam in controlling floods and generating electricity.

Finally, the day ends with a visit to Temple of Kom Ombo, unique because of its dual dedication to Sobek and Horus. The temple’s design reflects this duality, with symmetrical layouts and distinct chambers for each deity. Travelers will enjoy imagining the ancient rituals that took place here. Entrance fees aren’t included, but the site’s architecture and history make it worth the extra cost.

Day 2: Edfu & Luxor’s Eastern & Western Banks

The early morning begins with a hot air balloon ride over Luxor. While the price of this experience is included, reviews highlight its worth — the floating view of the Nile, temples, and the cityscape offers a fresh perspective on Egypt’s monumental scenery. Expect about 45 minutes of flight time, which is usually enough to appreciate the vast desert and river below.

Following this, the tour moves to Temple of Horus in Edfu. This well-preserved temple is one of Egypt’s most beautiful, with detailed carvings and towering pylons. Guides tend to be knowledgeable about the significance of Horus and the temple’s construction, adding depth to your visit.

Next, the Luxor Temple on the east bank is a sprawling complex dedicated to Amun Ra, Mut, and Khonsu. The guide will likely highlight the grandeur of the structures built by Pharaohs like Amenhotep III and Ramses II. Evening visits here are particularly atmospheric, with the temple lit up against the night sky.

Day 3: Exploring Luxor’s West Bank

The final day is packed with iconic sites. The Valley of the Kings is the star attraction, where you’ll explore the tombs of pharaohs like Tutankhamun and Ramses the Great. Reviewers noted the significance of the detailed tomb artwork and the sheer scale of these burial sites. It’s a 4-hour activity, and entrance fees are not included, so budgeting ahead is wise.

Then, the Temple of Hatshepsut at Deir el-Bahari offers a striking example of ancient Egyptian architecture with its terraced design and statues of the queen-turned-pharaoh. The guide’s stories about Hatshepsut’s reign add a personal touch to this impressive monument.

Finally, the Colossi of Memnon, two colossal statues of Amenhotep III, provide a scenic and photo-worthy pause. Though only these two statues remain of the original complex, their size and history make them a must-see.

If time permits, you’ll visit Karnak Temple, a vast complex dedicated to Amun, featuring monumental columns and obelisks. While the entry isn’t included, it is often considered Egypt’s most impressive temple complex.

What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides who share detailed stories about each site, making the ancient monuments come alive. One reviewer, Yun_L, appreciated the friendly staff and smooth communication, which made the trip enjoyable despite some logistical challenges.

Another traveler, JoseAlejandro_C, mentioned the long travel hours and the difficulty managing tips, but emphasized the overall quality of the experience and the stunning views from the balloon ride.

The reviews highlight that the scenic Nile cruise itself is comfortable, with many noting the quality of the onboard amenities and meals, which start with lunch and end with breakfast on the third day. Wi-Fi access up to 4GB was also appreciated for staying connected during the journey.

Transportation & Logistics

The trip includes domestic flights from Cairo to Aswan, and from Luxor back to Cairo, which significantly cuts down on travel time and fatigue. The transfer between sites is via air-conditioned mini buses, ensuring comfort despite the busy schedule. For local site visits, horse and carriage rides are often included, adding a charming touch to the sightseeing.

The tour is designed for small groups, generally up to 10 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and personalized. Pickup and drop-off are included, making logistics straightforward, especially for travelers unfamiliar with Egypt’s transportation network.

Pricing & Value

At $699 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive package that covers most major highlights and includes hot air balloon rides, flights, accommodations, and guided tours. The value is heightened by the quality of guides and the convenience of combining multiple sites without the need for separate bookings.

However, the total cost doesn’t include entrance fees (around $78 USD for all sites), which are paid separately. Travelers should budget for this additional expense, along with tips, which some found to be a challenge due to cultural differences in tipping customs.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited to history buffs and cultural explorers who appreciate guided tours with detailed narrations. It’s perfect for those who want a comfortable, all-inclusive adventure that minimizes the hassle of booking individual tickets and transportation.

Plus, travelers who enjoy scenic views and unique experiences like hot air balloon rides will find this trip particularly memorable. It’s great for first-timers to Egypt who want a well-rounded, immersive experience without the stress of planning every detail.

Final Thoughts

This 3-day Nile cruise from Aswan to Luxor, with flights from Cairo, offers a well-balanced mix of comfort, history, and scenery. The guided excursions provide rich context, making the monuments come alive beyond just their photo-worthy facades. The hot air balloon ride adds a magical element that many travelers rave about, offering a different perspective on Egypt’s sprawling landscapes.

Though the itinerary is packed, it hits the main highlights efficiently, making it ideal for those keen to see Egypt’s must-visit sites without sacrificing comfort or convenience. The small group size and knowledgeable guides ensure a more personalized experience, which is often reflected in the positive reviews.

While additional costs like entrance fees and tips are factors to consider, the overall package delivers strong value for anyone eager to explore Egypt’s legendary history with ease and style.

FAQ

Are flights from Cairo included?
Yes, the tour includes domestic flights from Cairo to Aswan and Luxor back to Cairo, simplifying travel logistics.

What are the main sites visited on this tour?
You’ll visit the Temple of Philae, Aswan High Dam, Temple of Kom Ombo, Temple of Horus in Edfu, Luxor Temple, Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut Temple, Colossi of Memnon, and Karnak.

Is the entrance fee included?
No, entrance fees totaling around $78 USD are not included and need to be paid separately.

What is the accommodation like?
You’ll stay on a 5-star Nile cruise ship for 2 nights, with cabins that include all facilities, meals, and Wi-Fi up to 4GB.

How long are the tours at each site?
Most site visits range from 1.5 to 4 hours, depending on the site and group pace.

Is tipping expected?
Yes, some reviewers mentioned that tipping was expected at various sites, which can be an additional expense to plan for.

What is the hot air balloon ride like?
The balloon ride lasts about 45 minutes and offers a stunning aerial view of Luxor’s monuments and surrounding landscapes.

Who is this tour best suited for?
Ideal for travelers interested in history, culture, and scenic views, especially those who prefer guided, all-inclusive experiences.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available if you cancel at least 24 hours prior to the start.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues or fear of heights might find some activities challenging.

This detailed tour review hopefully helps you see whether this Egypt adventure aligns with your travel style. Whether you’re marveling at ancient temples or floating above the Nile, this trip offers a memorable way to experience Egypt’s timeless allure.