From Luxor: 7-Day Nile Cruise to Aswan with Hot Air Balloon

Traveling through Egypt’s Nile River on a 7-day cruise offers a blend of comfort, history, and stunning scenery. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a vivid picture of what you can expect. This experience promises to reveal some of Egypt’s most iconic sites, all while traveling in style and comfort.

What makes this cruise particularly appealing? First, the opportunity to see both Luxor and Aswan in a week—covering the major temples and landmarks. Second, the inclusion of a hot air balloon ride over Luxor, which offers a breathtaking perspective of the ancient city. Third, the thoughtful itinerary that balances guided visits with relaxing cruising time.

One potential consideration is the cost—$800 per person may seem steep, but when you factor in the all-inclusive nature, guided tours, and the luxury cruise experience, it begins to look like good value. This tour suits travelers who appreciate historical sites but also want comfort, authentic local encounters, and scenic moments on the Nile.

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Key Points

Comprehensive 7-day itinerary covering Luxor, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Aswan, and Luxor again.
Expert guides and assistance enhance the experience, making historical sites accessible and engaging.
Luxurious accommodations on a 5-star cruise with full-board meals included.
Unique experiences like a hot air balloon ride and Nubian village visit.
Rich cultural insights at sites like Philae Temple, the Unfinished Obelisk, and Valley of the Kings.
Flexible booking options with pay-later and cancellation policies.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

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Day 1: Exploring Luxor’s East Bank and a Felucca Ride

Your journey begins with a pickup from your Luxor hotel. The first stop is the famous Karnak Temple, Egypt’s second most visited site. This sprawling complex, with its towering columns and detailed hieroglyphs, offers a vivid glimpse of ancient religious life. While only part of the temple is open, the sheer scale and detail left us in awe.

Following this, you’ll enjoy a traditional Felucca ride on the Nile. This small sailboat provides a tranquil way to see Luxor’s riverbanks from a different angle—watching villagers, palm trees, and the city’s skyline drift by. It’s a peaceful, scenic interlude before settling into your luxury 5-star cruise cabin for a restful night.

Day 2: Edfu, Kom Ombo & Aswan

This day packs in some incredible sights. After breakfast, a carriage ride takes you to the temple of Horus in Edfu, one of Egypt’s best-preserved monuments. The temple’s intricate carvings and impressive size remind you why Egypt’s ancient builders are still admired today.

Next, sail to Kom Ombo, where the double temple dedicated to Sobek and Haroeris awaits. The site’s symmetry and unique design make it visually fascinating, and having a guide explain the significance of each deity adds depth to the visit.

As you approach Aswan later in the day, the scenery along the Nile is captivating—lush greenery, traditional villages, and the shimmering water. Dinner onboard puts you in a relaxed mood for the evening.

Day 3: Aswan’s Historic Marvels

Start with a visit to the High Dam, an engineering marvel that transformed Egypt’s landscape. The tour continues with a short boat ride to Philae Temple, dedicated to Isis. The temple’s location on an island makes it especially picturesque—an ideal spot for memorable photos.

Later, the Unfinished Obelisk offers a tangible connection to Egypt’s stone-carving craftsmanship. Its massive size leaves you pondering the skill of ancient artisans. After the visits, enjoy a leisurely lunch on the ship and an afternoon tea—because why not? You’ll overnight in Aswan, fully immersed in its tranquil charm.

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Day 4: Abu Simbel and the Power of Pharaohs

An early morning departure takes you to Abu Simbel, one of Egypt’s most iconic temples. Built by Ramesses II, its towering statues and intricate carvings are awe-inspiring. This site often feels like a highlight for travelers, and reviewers highlight the guided tour’s professionalism and deep knowledge that brings the history alive.

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Day 5: Nubian Culture and Local Life

The day begins with a visit to a Nubian Village, where vibrant colors, cheerful locals, and traditional music create a lively atmosphere. The trip offers a genuine glimpse into a culture quite different from the rest of Egypt, emphasizing architecture and a cheerful, welcoming community.

Returning to the ship for lunch, you get an afternoon of sailing—so you can relax and absorb the Nile’s peaceful vibes.

Day 6: Relaxation and Reflection

This day is mostly for unwinding. You’ll enjoy the scenery from the deck, watching life along the river and soaking in the sun. It’s a good break after the busy days, giving you time to reflect on what you’ve seen so far.

Day 7: Luxor’s West Bank & Hot Air Balloon Ride

The final day begins early with a hot air balloon ride over Luxor. This experience is frequently praised for its breathtaking views of the Valley of the Kings and surrounding landscape. From above, you get a sense of the scale and grandeur of Egypt’s ancient burial sites.

Back on the ground, your guide leads a tour of Valley of the Kings, where tombs of pharaohs like Tutankhamun are hidden beneath the sands. The Temple of Queen Hatshepsut and the Colossi of Memnon follow, providing a fitting end to your Nile adventure.

Afterward, you’re transferred to your hotel or further travel plans.

What Travelers Say

Reviews confirm the high quality of the experience. One traveler, Jean Charles, said, “The guides were very nice and accompanied us very well. The boat was beautiful and very well maintained,” emphasizing the care taken in the cruise’s upkeep and guide professionalism. The hot air balloon ride was described as “a magical moment,” highlighting its unique value.

The expert guides helped make the ancient sites understandable and engaging, transforming what might be overwhelming ruins into stories and marvels. The well-maintained boat and attentive crew also drew praise, as does the overall smooth organization.

The Value of This Tour

At $800, this tour offers quite a package: luxurious accommodations, guided visits, and scenic Nile cruising, all bundled together. The full-board meals and assistance throughout add to the convenience, meaning you don’t need to worry about extra costs or logistics.

While the price might seem high for some, the level of comfort, expert guidance, and unique experiences like the hot air balloon make it worthwhile for those wanting an all-in-one Egypt adventure. For travelers who prefer a relaxed pace coupled with immersive history, this trip balances sightseeing and comfort well.

Who This Tour Is Best For

If you’re seeking a comprehensive, comfortable way to explore Egypt’s most famous sites, this cruise fits the bill. It’s perfect for those who appreciate guided tours with expert commentary and enjoy luxury accommodations. The added experience of the hot air balloon over Luxor makes it especially suitable for adventurous travelers wanting a unique view of the Nile Valley.

This trip might not suit budget travelers or those craving a fully independent experience, but for those wanting ease, style, and a focus on iconic sights, it hits the mark.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers meet and assist services, all transfers, accommodation on a 5-star cruise with full-board meals, all scheduled excursions, and professional guides in English.

Are guides available in other languages?
Yes, guides are available in Spanish, French, and German for an additional cost.

What sights will I visit during the cruise?
You’ll explore Karnak Temple, Edfu Temple, Kom Ombo Temple, High Dam, Philae Temple, Unfinished Obelisk, Abu Simbel, Valley of the Kings, Queen Hatshepsut Temple, and Colossi of Memnon.

Is the hot air balloon ride included?
Yes, the hot air balloon experience over Luxor is part of this package, providing a memorable aerial view of the city and surroundings.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if plans change.

Are there any extra costs I should be aware of?
Entrance fees to sights aren’t included, so budget accordingly if you want to visit additional attractions not covered in the itinerary.

What should I wear and bring?
Comfortable clothing for sightseeing, some layers for early mornings, sun protection, and a camera for capturing the stunning views.

How long are the cruise days?
Most days include guided visits in the mornings, with sailing and relaxing intervals in the afternoons. Days are structured to balance activity and leisure.

Is this experience suitable for families or solo travelers?
Yes, with group sizes typically manageable and the itinerary flexible, it suits both families and solo explorers looking for a guided cultural experience.

This Nile cruise blends the comfort of modern travel with the grandeur of ancient Egypt. Whether you’re gazing at temples from a hot air balloon or wandering through tombs deep in the valley, this journey offers a well-rounded, memorable adventure for history buffs and leisure travelers alike.