Taking a cruise along Egypt’s iconic Nile River is often top of mind for travelers eager to see the country’s famous temples, tombs, and landscapes. This 2-night Luxor and Aswan Nile cruise package offers a blend of guided archaeological visits and relaxing river vistas, all with the convenience of hotel transfers from Hurghada. While it’s a solid choice for those wanting an affordable, guided overview of Upper Egypt’s highlights, it’s worth unpacking what this tour really offers—and what it might leave out.
We love that this trip combines professional Egyptologist guides, scenic sailing, and comprehensive sightseeing. The included luxury cruise with its amenities, along with door-to-door transfers, makes it a convenient way to tick off major sites without the hassle of separate bookings. The opportunity to sail the Nile while soaking up views of local villages and islands is undeniably appealing. However, the tour’s three-day duration and group format might feel a bit rushed for those wanting a more leisurely, in-depth experience.
This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy structured guided excursions, appreciate the comfort of a 5-star cruise, and want to see key sights like the Valley of the Kings without spending too much time planning logistics. If you’re on a tight schedule or traveling from Hurghada, this package offers a practical, value-packed option—just keep your expectations calibrated for a busy itinerary wrapped in comfort.
Key Points
- All-inclusive package: transport, cruise, guided tours, and meals.
- Convenient transfers: door-to-door pickup from Hurghada hotels.
- Expert guides: knowledgeable Egyptologists who enrich the experience.
- Comfortable cruise: 5-star ship with amenities like a swimming pool.
- Cultural immersion: visits to key sites like Luxor, Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Aswan.
- Fast-paced itinerary: multiple sites in three days, with some optional extra costs.
The Itinerary in Detail: What to Expect
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Day 1: From Hurghada to Luxor and Sailing Begins
Your adventure kicks off early, with a pickup from your Hurghada hotel around 7 to 8 am, depending on your location. The A/C bus ride to Luxor takes approximately four hours, giving you scenic glimpses of Egypt’s countryside and local villages—think small boats, donkeys, and bustling villages, creating authentic snapshots of Egyptian life.
Once in Luxor, you’ll check into your cruise cabin, which promises all the comforts of a five-star vessel. After a delicious lunch onboard, the boat sets sail, drifting from Luxor towards Aswan. The cruise’s sun deck provides stunning views of the Nile’s islands and the lively scene of boats and traditional Egyptian villages along the banks. Many reviewers noted how peaceful and photogenic this part of the journey is, especially with the chance to capture authentic scenes of Egyptian rural life.
Passing the Esna lock—a highlight for many—marks a key point in the voyage. The journey from Luxor to Edfu takes about six hours, giving plenty of time to relax and enjoy the scenery. One guest mentioned how they appreciated the “unique photos of real Egyptian nature,” from cows grazing near the river to local boats bustling across the water.
Day 2: Temples, Sailing, and Stunning Views
The day begins with breakfast aboard as the cruise continues to Edfu. Here, you’ll visit the Temple of Horus, one of Egypt’s most well-preserved temples. The guided tour with a horse and carriage adds a charming, old-world touch. According to reviews, guides like Aly and Summer are very helpful, sharing detailed insights that make the visit more meaningful.
In the afternoon, the cruise sails towards Kom Ombo, where you’ll stop at the Kom Ombo Temple. The site is famous for its dual design, dedicated to both Sobek and Horus, which makes for some striking photo opportunities. Many travelers appreciate the in-depth commentary from guides, which helps bring the ancient stones alive.
Throughout sailing, guests often enjoy Egyptian tea on the sun deck—an ideal moment to relax and soak in the Nile’s gentle breeze while watching the landscape drift by. The overall consensus is that the cruise provides a comfortable, scenic, and culturally rich experience, with many guests noting how clean and well-maintained the ship is, including its swimming pool.
Day 3: Luxor’s West and East Banks, and Return
After breakfast, the cruise docks in Aswan, where you disembark for a day of exploration. The tour begins with a drive to the Valley of the Kings, home to the tombs of pharaohs like Tutankhamun. A guided visit provides fascinating stories and details, with many reviewers commenting on the expert knowledge of guides like Aly, who make history come alive.
Next, you’ll visit Queen Hatsheput’s temple, a stunning example of ancient architecture. Photos of the colossi of Memnon and the sprawling Karnak Temple round out the day. The guide’s insights, as noted by travelers, significantly enhance the experience, helping you understand the significance of each site.
After a full day of sightseeing, you’ll return to Hurghada via the air-conditioned bus, ending a whirlwind tour packed with history, scenic views, and cultural insights. Many reviews mention the ease of transfer and how smoothly everything runs—an important factor when dealing with a busy itinerary.
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Transport & Comfort
The door-to-door pickup from your Hurghada hotel simplifies logistics, especially if you’re busy or unfamiliar with local transport. The A/C bus from Hurghada to Luxor is comfortable enough for the four-hour drive, and the A/C train from Aswan to Luxor ensures a cool, smooth return. The cruise ship itself is described as luxurious and clean, with amenities including a swimming pool, entertainment options, and spacious cabins.
Guided Tours & Expertise
Having an Egyptologist guide is a major plus, as they offer detailed narratives that bring the sites to life. Reviewers appreciated guides like Aly and Summer, who answered questions and added rich context. Expect in-depth commentary on the Valley of the Kings, Hatsheput’s temple, and Karnak, which significantly enhances your understanding and appreciation.
Meals & Inclusions
Meals are included from lunch on Day 1 through breakfast on Day 3. The cruise’s meals were described as good quality, with some travelers mentioning the “delicious lunch” and well-maintained dining facilities. However, entrance fees, drinks, and Wi-Fi are not included, so plan accordingly for extra expenses.
Flexibility & Additional Options
The itinerary is flexible, and guides can modify it if needed. Optional extras like hot air balloon rides or Abu Simbel trips are available but require prior planning and separate bookings. If you wish to stay longer or explore more, consider adding nights in Luxor or Aswan.
Cost & Value
At $450 per person, this tour offers a cost-effective way to see some of Egypt’s most famous sites without the hassle of multiple bookings. While some review comments suggest that the schedule can be busy, the inclusion of transportation, guided tours, and a comfortable cruise make it a good value for those wanting an organized, scenic experience.
Who Would Love This Tour?
This cruise suits history enthusiasts eager to explore Egypt’s ancient monuments with expert guidance. It’s ideal for travelers who prefer comfort and convenience over independent travel, and those wanting to combine cultural sightseeing with relaxing Nile views. The organized nature makes it perfect for first-timers or visitors short on time, looking to maximize their experience in a few days.
Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?
If you’re craving a well-organized, comfortable journey through Egypt’s famed sites, this Nile cruise from Hurghada delivers. The scenic sailing, coupled with insightful guides and access to iconic temples, makes it a memorable adventure. While the busy schedule might not suit travelers seeking a slow, in-depth exploration, it offers an excellent overview that balances relaxation and discovery.
For those on a budget yet wanting a taste of Upper Egypt’s treasures, this tour provides great value—especially considering the included transport, meals, and guiding services. Keep in mind the extra costs for entrance fees, drinks, and Wi-Fi, and plan accordingly to ensure a smooth experience.
This cruise is a solid choice for travelers who want to see the highlights without the stress, enjoy authentic views along the Nile, and benefit from the expertise of seasoned guides.
FAQ
What is included in this tour?
The tour includes door-to-door transfers, a 5-star Nile cruise with all cabins and facilities, guided tours of major sites, meals from lunch Day 1 to breakfast Day 3, and visits to key temples and tombs.
How long is the transfer from Hurghada to Luxor?
The A/C bus from Hurghada to Luxor takes approximately four hours, providing a comfortable start to your journey.
Are guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews highlight guides like Aly and Summer as very helpful and well-informed, making the visits engaging and informative.
Can I customize the itinerary?
The itinerary is described as flexible, and guides can make amendments based on requests, which can be useful if you want to prioritize certain sites.
Are there options for additional excursions?
Extras like hot air balloon rides or Abu Simbel trips are available but require prior planning and separate arrangements.
What facilities are on the cruise?
The cruise boasts a swimming pool, entertainment, spacious cabins, and scenic sun decks perfect for relaxing or taking photos.
What is not included?
Entrance fees, drinks, Wi-Fi, and tips are not included and should be considered extra expenses.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Children aged 6-11 sharing with parents are considered adults for pricing, and family groups are welcome, but note that some sites involve walking and stairs.
How do I cancel or reschedule?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Changes less than 24 hours before are not permitted.
Would I recommend this tour?
If you seek a well-organized, scenic, and informative way to experience Egypt’s Nile and ancient sites, this cruise offers good value, comfort, and expert guidance, making it a strong choice for many travelers.
This detailed review aims to give you a complete picture of what to expect from the 2-night Luxor and Aswan Nile cruise from Hurghada. With scenic sailing, expert guides, and a focus on key highlights, it’s a practical, enjoyable way to see Egypt’s most famous treasures—just be ready for a full, action-packed journey.
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