5 Day Nile Cruise Luxor and Aswan Hot Air Balloon with Abu Simbel

Introduction

Our review focuses on a popular 5-day Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan that promises a mix of ancient wonders, luxury, and unique experiences like hot air ballooning. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, feedback from travelers and detailed itineraries paint a vivid picture of what you can expect.

What stands out are the well-maintained cruise ships, knowledgeable guides, and breathtaking archaeological sites. The inclusion of a hot air balloon ride over Luxor and a visit to the awe-inspiring Abu Simbel temples makes this trip especially appealing for those wanting a comprehensive adventure.

However, be aware that the hot air balloon experience in Aswan has received mixed reviews; some travelers found it chaotic or less impressive than expected. Still, for history buffs, culture seekers, and those craving a touch of luxury on the Nile, this tour offers very good value for its price of $799.98 per person.

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy guided tours, cultural exploration, and don’t mind early mornings or busy schedules. If you love history, stunning scenery, and thoughtful excursions, you’ll likely find this Nile cruise a memorable journey.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Combines archaeological sites, a luxurious cruise, and unique activities like hot air ballooning.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable Egyptology guides, like Mohamed, bring the history to life.
• Comfort and value: 4 nights on a 5-star cruise with all meals, transfers, and entrance fees included.
• Scenic sailing: Enjoy natural views and local islands during the cruise, passing through the Esna lock.
• Memorable highlights: Visits to Valley of the Kings, Abu Simbel, and the temples of Horus and Karnak.
• Mixed reviews on balloon: While some rave about the experience, others find it chaotic or less scenic than hoped.

The Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: Valley of the Kings and Queen Hatshepsut’s Temple

Your adventure kicks off on the West Bank of Luxor, historic home to ancient tombs and temples. Mohamed, the Egyptologist guide, will pick you up sharp and whisk you down to the Nile to take a motorboat across to the Valley of the Kings. This site is where pharaohs like Tutankhamun were laid to rest, and it’s a must-visit for anyone wanting a tangible connection to Egypt’s royal past.

Travelers consistently mention the fascination of exploring these tombs, though some note that the experience can be rushed if the group is large or weather conditions are challenging. The Queen Hatshepsut Temple offers a striking sight—its terraces and colonnades are among the most elegant in Egypt, and the story of Hatshepsut as Egypt’s first female ruler adds an extra layer of intrigue.

Reviewer insights reveal that visiting Carter’s house on the West Bank enriches the experience, providing context about the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb. Expect this day to be about 7 hours, with admission fees covered, leaving you with a good amount of time to absorb the history.

Day 2: Luxor’s Temples and Hot Air Balloon Over Luxor

Early morning, you’ll be taken via motorboat to the East Bank of Luxor for more iconic sites. The Luxor Temple and the Karnak Temple are the stars of the show. Karnak, known as the largest religious building ever constructed, impresses with its colossal columns and intricate hieroglyphs.

For many, the hot air balloon ride is a true highlight—offering a bird’s-eye view of Luxor’s temples, the Nile, and the surrounding landscape. Reviewers mention that the views during the flight are spectacular, but some found the early start chaotic and the experience somewhat obstructed by landscape views. It’s worth noting that if weather doesn’t cooperate, you’ll get a partial refund of $25 per person.

The cruise begins sailing after the day’s sightseeing, passing through Esna Lock—a fascinating engineering feat—before reaching Edfu. Expect about 7 hours for this day, with all entrance fees included.

Day 3: Edfu and Kom Ombo Temples with Sailing

This day combines adventure and relaxation. The Edfu Temple, dedicated to Horus, is best explored via a traditional horse-carriage, giving you a taste of authentic Egyptian transport and a chance to see the town’s lively streets. The temple’s well-preserved carvings are a highlight for those interested in ancient architecture.

As you sail along the Nile, you’ll enjoy views of rural Egypt and local islands, with plenty of opportunities for photos and to soak in the peaceful river scenery. Around sunset, you’ll arrive at Kom Ombo, famous for its unique double temple dedicated to Sobek and Horus.

Reviewers frequently mention the enjoyment of sipping Egyptian drinks on the sun deck while watching the scenery pass by. The temperatures and weather conditions are generally comfortable, making this a relaxing day on the water.

Day 4: Abu Simbel and Aswan Market

The long drive early in the morning to Abu Simbel is often described as worth the effort. These colossal rock temples, built by Ramses II, are among Egypt’s most iconic monuments. The scale and craftsmanship of Abu Simbel leave many visitors in awe.

Returning to Aswan around mid-afternoon allows for some leisure time. Most travelers recommend exploring the local market or enjoying the charming atmosphere of this city. It’s a great opportunity to pick up souvenirs and experience local Nubian culture.

Day 5: Aswan Highlights and Departure

The final day involves visiting the Aswan High Dam, an impressive feat of modern engineering and a symbol of modern Egypt’s development. A boat ride to the Philae Temple completes the trip, offering a scenic and historical farewell.

Afterward, you’ll be transferred to your hotel, train station, or airport, marking the end of a memorable journey filled with sights, history, and culture. The entire day lasts about 5 hours, with entrance fees included.

What We Love About This Tour

Comprehensive archaeological visits: From the Valley of the Kings to Abu Simbel, the tour packs in Egypt’s most famous sites with expert guides making the history accessible and engaging. Reviewers appreciate Mohamed’s knowledge and passion, which makes the experience more authentic.

Luxury and comfort: Staying aboard a 5-star cruise ship means you’ll indulge in comfortable, well-maintained cabins, delicious meals, and a relaxing atmosphere after busy days of sightseeing. Many reviews praise the cleanliness, spaciousness, and friendly crew.

Unique experiences: The hot air balloon ride offers a rare perspective on Luxor’s landscape, and many find it a highlight despite some mixed reviews. The Abu Simbel visit is another standout — an awe-inspiring monument that truly exemplifies Egypt’s grandeur.

Scenic sailing: Traveling along the Nile, with views of local islands and rural scenes, provides a peaceful contrast to the bustling archaeological sites. Passes through the Esna lock add an interesting touch of engineering marvel.

Why the Tour Offers Good Value

At $799.98 per person, the package includes all meals, entrance fees, transfers, and expert guides, which adds up to significant savings compared to booking each component separately. The luxurious cruise combined with all activities means you get a lot of bang for your buck.

However, some reviews mention that early mornings and crowded sites can be tiring, so this trip is best for active travelers comfortable with a packed schedule. The group size of up to 15 ensures personalized attention without feeling crowded.

Practical Considerations and Tips

• Book well in advance: The tour is popular and tends to be booked about 46 days ahead.
• Prepare for early mornings: The Abu Simbel trip starts around 5:00 AM, so pack accordingly.
• Weather awareness: The hot air balloon ride depends on weather; if canceled, a partial refund applies.
• Group size: Limited to 15 travelers, ensuring more personalized experiences.
• Single rooms and group bookings: Solo travelers can book a private room, while groups of three will share a triple room.
• Tipping and extras: Not included, so bring some cash for guides and crew.

Final Thoughts

This Nile cruise ticks many boxes for those eager to explore Egypt’s most iconic sites in comfort. It balances culture, luxury, and adventure, making it suitable for first-time visitors and seasoned travelers alike.

While some may find the hot air balloon ride a bit chaotic or underwhelming, the overall package offers fantastic value. The combination of expert guides, scenic sailing, and memorable landmarks makes this a well-rounded option for anyone craving a richer understanding of Egypt’s treasures.

If you’re ready for a comfortable, informative, and adventure-packed journey through the land of the Pharaohs, this tour could be your perfect escape.

FAQ

How early does the trip start?
Most activities, including the Abu Simbel trip, start early in the morning—around 5:00 AM—so pack your alarm clock.

Is the hot air balloon ride worth it?
Many find it memorable for the views and experience, but some reviews mention it can be chaotic or less scenic than expected. It’s a highlight for most, though.

Are all meals included?
Yes, the tour provides breakfast, lunch, and dinner on the cruise, which helps with planning and budgeting.

Can I book a solo room?
Yes, solo travelers can opt for a single room at an additional cost. Groups of three will enjoy a triple room.

What if the Abu Simbel trip gets canceled?
You’ll receive a $25 refund per person if the hot air balloon is canceled due to weather.

Are entrance fees included?
Absolutely, all entrance fees for scheduled visits are covered in the package.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to maximum 15 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Is pickup offered?
Yes, pickup is included, making transfers smooth and hassle-free.

How flexible is the itinerary?
While the schedule is quite packed, guides like Mohamed are known for offering engaging commentary and making the most of each stop.

What should I pack?
Bring comfortable clothing, sun protection, and a camera to capture the stunning scenery and monumental sites.

To sum it up, this Nile cruise offers a compelling mix of history, comfort, and adventure. It’s an excellent choice for travelers wanting a well-organized, immersive journey through Egypt’s greatest sights, with the added thrill of a hot air balloon experience and luxurious onboard amenities. Perfect for those who enjoy guided tours, scenic sailing, and exploring ancient wonders in style.