From Aswan: Overnight Nile Cruise to Luxor with Meals

Exploring the Nile from Aswan to Luxor on a 1-Night Cruise: An Honest Review

Traveling along the Nile is one of those bucket-list experiences that promises a blend of stunning scenery, ancient temples, and a taste of Egyptian hospitality. We’ve reviewed a popular overnight cruise departing from Aswan and heading to Luxor, and while it isn’t perfect, it offers enough value and memorable moments for many travelers.

What makes this trip special? First, the full-board meal options keep you nourished as you sail past river villages and wildlife. Second, the personalized experience of having your own 5-star cabin adds a layer of comfort to the journey. Lastly, the guided tours of Abu Simbel, Kom Ombo, and Edfu temples bring history vividly to life.

That said, one consideration worth noting is that some reviews mention variability in guide quality and ship comfort, so it’s important to choose your cruise wisely. This tour is best suited for history lovers, those seeking a relaxing river cruise, and travelers wanting an affordable yet immersive way to see key sites along the Nile.

Key Points

• Comfort & Convenience: Pick-up and drop-off at your Aswan hotel simplify logistics.
• Cultural Highlights: Visits to Abu Simbel, Kom Ombo, and Edfu temples showcase Egypt’s ancient marvels.
• Full-Board Meals: Enjoy a variety of delicious food options covering breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
• Scenic Sailing: Glide past towns, wildlife, and passing scenery with options to witness sunrise and sunset.
• Varied Experiences: From temple tours to relaxing on deck, there’s a balance of activity and leisure.
• Mixed Reviews: Guides and ships vary; choose your cruise provider carefully for the best experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Nile Cruise from Aswan to Luxor

How the Itinerary Unfolds and What to Expect

Day 1: Abu Simbel & Sailing Toward Kom Ombo

The day starts early, with a pickup from your Aswan hotel. This is your chance to see the grand Abu Simbel temples, marveling at the colossal statues of Ramesses II. One reviewer, Pat, highlights this tour as “absolutely amazing from start to finish,” praising the guide’s friendly manner and the way history was brought alive.

It’s a long drive, about 4 hours each way, so prepare for a bit of travel time—but the awe of seeing such a monumental site makes it worthwhile. Expect to take your luggage with you, as the tour involves going with a group, and be aware that you need around 10 Egyptian pounds for the loo at Abu Simbel—a small detail that caught some travelers by surprise.

Returning to the cruise ship, you’ll enjoy a welcome onboard, with a spacious, clean room and a variety of meals served full-board. After lunch, the ship sets sail, giving you a scenic view of local towns and wildlife passing by as the Nile curves through Egypt’s landscape.

In the evening, the ship docks at Kom Ombo, where your guide will meet you for a visit to the unique dual-temple dedicated to Sobek and Horus. Pat appreciated the knowledgeable guides who made these ancient sites come alive and added insightful details. Returning onboard, dinner is served as the Nile continues to carry you downstream.

Day 2: Edfu & Luxor Arrival

Early morning, you’ll be picked up to visit Edfu Temple—one of Egypt’s best-preserved shrines—by horse-drawn carriage. This charming ride adds a nostalgic touch, and guides like Nashwa from the reviews have been praised for their storytelling prowess, making the history engaging.

Afterward, you’ll return to the ship for breakfast, with some reviews noting the importance of checking out and leaving luggage in reception during excursions. Mid-morning, the cruise continues down the Nile, with panoramic views as you head toward Luxor.

Arriving in the evening, the cruise will dock, and you’ll have the option to disembark and explore. Comments from travelers like Emma remind future guests to bring water and plan for additional costs, such as 10 EGP for toilet use, since these are not included.

What the Ship & Meals Are Like

Most travelers seem satisfied with the full-board meal service, which includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The menus often feature a variety of Egyptian and international dishes, with some reviewers commenting on delicious buffets and tapas-style offerings. However, some mention that standard ships can have poor food quality and broken-down facilities. The deluxe options, like the “Lady Mary,” tend to have spacious rooms, good food, and attentive staff.

The accommodation on the cruise varies: some guests found rooms spacious, comfortable, and clean, especially on deluxe ships, while others noted noise from engines or rooms near the noise sources. It’s worth considering an upgrade if you value a quieter, more comfortable stay.

Guides & Tours: The Heart of the Experience

According to the reviews, guided temple visits are generally highlights, with guides bringing stories to life. Nashwa from Nice Tours, for instance, was singled out for her smooth coordination and engaging storytelling. One guest, Arol, recommended the Abu Simbel guide, Ahmed Achraf, as “really, really good,” emphasizing the importance of a knowledgeable guide for such a long and busy day.

Some travelers, like Emma, pointed out that guides booked last-minute can vary in quality, and that more experienced guides enhance the experience. The visits to Kom Ombo and Edfu are particularly praised for their unique architecture and historical significance, making them well worth the early mornings or late evenings.

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The Sailing Experience: Views & Relaxation

Gliding down Egypt’s iconic Nile River, passengers will enjoy passing towns, villages, and local wildlife. The opportunity to view sunrise or sunset over the river adds a special touch of tranquility. Many reviewers mention that the scenery is stunning and provides a refreshing break from city sightseeing.

Onboard amenities vary. Some ships include swimming pools and sun decks, offering a chance to relax between excursions. One reviewer, Johana, appreciated the spectacular views during the cruise, especially enjoyed by families or those seeking a leisurely pace.

Value for Money & Practicalities

While prices can vary depending on the ship and options selected, reviews highlight good value, especially considering that meals, transfers, and guided tours are included. The cost of additional extras, like $10 for pickup from certain areas or extra night stays**, should be factored in when planning.

A recurring tip is to book deluxe rooms if possible; some guests on standard boats experienced poor food quality and breakdowns—not ideal for a relaxing experience. Guests also note the importance of bringing cash for tips and incidental expenses like toilet fees.

WiFi is available at a cost (€10 for a few hours), but many find it slow and limited, so plan accordingly. Also, avoid relying on onboard ATMs or card payments for everything, as some reviews report issues with payment systems.

Who Should Consider This Nile Cruise?

This experience is perfect for history enthusiasts eager to explore Egypt’s iconic temples in an intimate setting. It also suits budget-conscious travelers who want a comfortable, guided river journey with meals included.

If you prefer luxury and quiet or dislike variable guide quality, it’s worth considering upgrading to a deluxe cruise. Families and travelers with kids will appreciate the onboard amenities like pools and spacious rooms, but should also be prepared for early mornings and full days of sightseeing.

Those seeking a relaxing escape combined with culture will enjoy the balance of guided visits, scenic sailing, and time to unwind on deck. However, if you’re looking for high-end luxury or nightlife, this might not be the best fit.

FAQs

Is airport or hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour provider offers pickup and drop-off at your Aswan hotel, making transport hassle-free.

Are Abu Simbel, Kom Ombo, and Edfu temples included in the tour?
Yes, guided visits to these sites are part of the itinerary, with experienced guides making their history engaging and accessible.

What should I bring for the excursions?
Bring water, comfortable walking shoes, and some cash for tips and small expenses like toilet fees (around 10 EGP).

Can I go on this cruise if I have dietary restrictions?
Yes, vegan, vegetarian, and halal diets can be accommodated, so notify your provider in advance.

How long is the Abu Simbel trip?
Travel to Abu Simbel takes about 4 hours each way, so be prepared for a long day but one packed with impressive sights.

Is WiFi available onboard?
Yes, WiFi can be purchased for around €10 per 2-3 hours, but reviews suggest it’s often slow and limited, so plan to disconnect.

To sum it up, this Nile cruise from Aswan to Luxor offers a blend of history, relaxation, and scenic beauty that can be perfect for travelers seeking an immersive yet affordable Egypt experience. While quality may vary depending on the ship and guides, many guests find the overall value, delicious meals, and stunning views outweigh the minor inconveniences. If you’re looking for a comfortable way to explore Egypt’s ancient treasures and enjoy the river’s peaceful flow, this cruise could be just what you need.

You can check availability for your dates here: