5 Days Luxor Aswan Nile Cruise Ultra Deluxe

Traveling along Egypt’s Nile River on a luxury cruise does sound dreamy—and from what we’ve gathered, this 5-day Luxor to Aswan cruise offers just that. The review of this Ultra Deluxe Nile cruise from Bastet Travel paints a picture of comfort, history, and scenic beauty wrapped into one well-rounded package.

What makes this trip appealing? First, the expert Egyptologist guides really elevate the experience, helping you understand the significance of each site. Second, the stunning temples and archaeological sites—from Karnak to Abu Simbel—are absolute highlights for history buffs and casual travelers alike. Lastly, the full-board luxury on a carefully appointed ship, complete with pools and onboard entertainment, promises a relaxing atmosphere after busy days exploring.

A potential consideration? The full itinerary and long days mean a somewhat packed schedule—so it’s best suited for those eager to maximize sightseeing. If you’re after a more leisurely pace or off-the-beaten-path adventures, you might want to consider this carefully. Nonetheless, for travelers wanting a comprehensive, all-in-one Egypt experience, this cruise fits the bill.

This tour seems ideal for those who want to blend luxury with authentic archaeological exploration, especially if you’re eager to see Egypt’s most iconic sites with knowledgeable guides. Let’s explore what makes this trip such a compelling choice.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Comfort: Full-board meals, onboard entertainment, and a swimming pool make for a relaxing cruise experience.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable Egyptologist guides help bring the sites to life with rich insights.
• Rich Itinerary: Visits to Karnak, Luxor, Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut, Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Aswan offer a deep dive into Egypt’s ancient marvels.
• Flexible Optional Tours: Abu Simbel can be added for a more exclusive experience.
• Seamless Transfers: Pickup from train stations, airports, or hotels ensures smooth transitions.
• Authentic Experience: Private, small-group style tour with a focus on personalized attention.

Exploring the Full Itinerary

Luxor: The Gateway into Ancient Egypt

The journey begins with a warm pickup from your Luxor arrival point—be it train station, airport, or hotel. From there, you’re transferred to your luxury Nile cruise, where a hearty lunch sets the tone for a relaxing start. The first day’s focus is on the magnificent Karnak Temple, a sprawling complex dedicated to Theban gods. It’s more than just a temple—it’s a vast hush-hush of sanctuaries, pylons, and statues that evoke awe. Expect two hours of wandering through this archaeological wonder, with tickets included, so you can focus on soaking in the atmosphere.

Next, the Luxor Temple, built over 3,400 years ago, offers a glimpse into Egypt’s grandeur. The site was constructed by King Amenhotep III and later added to by Ramses II. You’ll have about two hours here, guided by someone who can decode the hieroglyphs and stories etched into the stones. After the tours, you’ll return to your ship, where the evening is free to enjoy the ship’s amenities or relax with a view of the Nile.

Day 2: Luxor’s Ancient Necropolises

The second day is packed with iconic sites. The Colossi of Memnon—two massive, silent statues—are the first stop. As one reviewer pointed out, they’re “the first monuments you’ll see,” and their sheer size makes them a striking photo opportunity. Then, onto the Valley of the Kings, where the tombs of the pharaohs—like Ramses X—are carved deep into the mountains. Expect around two hours of exploration, guided by someone who can illuminate the fascinating burial customs and stories behind each tomb.

Later, the Hatshepsut Temple at Deir el-Bahari impresses with its terraced design and cliffside setting. Built for one of Egypt’s most powerful queens, the structure’s architecture is considered a masterpiece. The guide will help you understand its significance and how Hatshepsut’s reign challenged traditional gender roles.

Day 3: Edfu and Kom Ombo

The third day takes you farther south, first to the remarkably well-preserved Temple of Horus at Edfu. Its impressive state of preservation makes it one of Egypt’s most popular temples. Expect about two hours exploring the complex, with the guide sharing stories about Horus and the temple’s unique features.

In the afternoon, the Temple of Kom Ombo offers a different flavor: a double temple dedicated to Sobek, the crocodile god, and Horus. This unusual design provides a fascinating insight into ancient religious practices. The site is well-preserved and provides excellent photo opportunities, especially with the Nile and the surrounding landscape as a backdrop.

Day 4: Aswan and the Nubian Wonders

After breakfast, you’ll visit the Aswan High Dam, a marvel of modern engineering that transformed the Nile. Though the visit lasts around 30 minutes, it’s a chance to see how Egypt harnesses the river’s power for agriculture and energy.

Next stop is the Temple of Philae, located on an island that was relocated to save it from flooding caused by the dam. The temple’s intricate hieroglyphics and beautiful setting make it a highlight. Guided tours here often include stories about the UNESCO Nubia Campaign, which saved these monuments from submersion.

Day 5: Abu Simbel (Optional) and Departure

The final day offers an optional trip to Abu Simbel, around a 4.5-hour journey each way. The rock-cut temples of Ramses II are among Egypt’s most iconic monuments, famous for their massive statues and detailed carvings. While optional, many travelers consider this the pinnacle of their Nile cruise experience.

Once the visit concludes, you’ll be transferred to Aswan Airport for your departure, with plenty of memories—and photos—ready to share.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour provides full-board accommodation on a deluxe cruise, with all meals, transfers, and guided sightseeing included. The guides are professional Egyptologists, ensuring you get accurate and engaging commentary. The cruise also boasts a swimming pool and onboard entertainment, adding a touch of leisure to your archaeological adventures.

However, tips and gratuities for staff or guides are not included, nor are any personal expenses or optional activities, like the Abu Simbel trip. This means you should budget extra if you want to indulge in souvenirs or additional excursions.

The Authentic Touch: Insights from Reviews

From the reviews, it’s clear that the guides make a big difference. One reviewer specifically mentioned Ahmed Ali as “the trip supervisor,” who was “with us,” implying attentive and helpful service. Others highlighted the stunning views and “beautiful sites” that made the days memorable.

Travelers also appreciated the seamless organization of the cruise, noting that everything from transportation to site visits ran smoothly. The general consensus was that the experience felt genuine and well-managed—a crucial aspect for a trip that involves several sites over multiple days.

Several reviewers commented on the knowledgeability of guides, with one saying a guide named Amro was “incredible,” which suggests that the tour’s success heavily relies on the guides’ expertise.

Why Choose This Cruise?

This Nile cruise offers a rich, immersive experience with a perfect balance of guided visits and relaxation. It’s ideal for travelers who want to see Egypt’s most famous sites without the hassle of organizing transportation and tickets themselves. The full-board setup means you won’t have to worry about meals, and the onboard amenities make for a comfortable stay.

The large, well-preserved temples and expert guides ensure you’ll learn as much as possible, making this more than just sightseeing—it’s an educational journey. The option to visit Abu Simbel adds a layer of exclusivity for those eager to see one of Egypt’s most famous landmarks.

Who is it best suited for?

If you love history, appreciate comfortable travel, and prefer an organized, informative experience, this cruise is a winner. It suits travelers who want a comprehensive package that hits all the key highlights in one trip. It’s also great for those keen on photography, thanks to the impressive temples and river views.

The Sum Up

This 5-day Luxor to Aswan Nile cruise delivers a satisfying mix of Egypt’s iconic sights, guided by knowledgeable experts in a comfortable setting. It’s a fantastic way to explore the temples, tombs, and landscapes that make Egypt so captivating—without sacrificing comfort.

The onboard amenities and full-board meals make it a stress-free experience, especially for those who value convenience. The carefully curated itinerary ensures you’ll see the best sites, from Karnak to Abu Simbel, with enough time to appreciate each one without feeling rushed.

While it’s a full schedule, the combination of history, scenery, and luxury makes it a compelling choice. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned Egypt traveler, this cruise offers a well-rounded, authentic adventure on the Nile.

FAQ

Is airport and hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from Luxor train station, airport, or hotel, ensuring a smooth start to your trip.

Are all meals included?
Yes, the package includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner for four days, all on a full-board basis.

Can I visit Abu Simbel?
Abu Simbel is an optional tour, usually lasting around 9 hours. You’ll need to opt in and arrange it separately if interested.

What sites are visited on this cruise?
Tour stops include Karnak, Luxor Temple, Valley of the Kings, Queen Hatshepsut temple, Edfu Temple, Kom Ombo, Philae Temple, and the Aswan High Dam.

Are guides experienced?
Yes, the guides are qualified Egyptologists, ensuring insightful and accurate explanations at each site.

What amenities are available onboard?
The cruise features a swimming pool, onboard entertainment, and full meal service, making it comfortable for relaxing after sightseeing.

Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues should consider the walking involved at various sites.

What is the cost per person?
The tour costs approximately $1,600 per person, which includes accommodation, transportation, guided tours, and meals.

This detailed review should help you decide whether this Nile cruise fits your travel dreams—combining comfort, culture, and adventure on one of the world’s most legendary rivers.