Luxury Nile Cruise: Luxor to Aswan 5-Day Journey
Overview
Indulge in a 5-day luxury Nile cruise aboard the elegant Movenpick MS Royal Lily. Discover Luxor & Aswan's ancient wonders with expert guides.
This five-day, four-night Nile cruise aboard the Mövenpick MS Royal Lily sails from Luxor to Aswan, covering the full run of Upper Egypt's major temples including Abu Simbel.
The cruise opens at Luxor's Karnak Temple before boarding, then crosses to the West Bank for Hatshepsut's Mortuary Temple and the Valley of the Kings. A horse-drawn carriage ride to the well-preserved Temple of Edfu and a stop at Kom Ombo's twin sanctuary follow as the ship sails toward Aswan, where the Aswan High Dam, the Unfinished Obelisk and Philae Temple are covered before a final excursion by private vehicle to Abu Simbel's rock-cut temples ahead of departure.
An expert, fluent English-speaking Egyptologist guide accompanies every excursion, and the cruise includes all taxes and fees, pickup and drop-off transfers, entrance fees to every listed site, and full-board accommodation aboard the Royal Lily. International or domestic airfare, gratuities for guides, drivers and cruise staff, and any excursion beyond the program are not included. The route keeps Abu Simbel as part of the set itinerary rather than a costly optional add-on.
- Five days, four nights, sailing Luxor to Aswan
- Abu Simbel built into the route on the final day
- Deluxe air-conditioned transfers for every excursion
Trip at a Glance
Duration
5 Days
Price
From $495
Availability
Every day
Tour Type
Private
Route
Luxor → Aswan → Abu Simbel
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Itinerary
Karnak TempleYour adventure begins in Luxor, where your expert Egyptologist guide warmly welcomes you. We'll dive immediately into the epic scale of Karnak Temple, a sprawling complex that served as the heart of ancient Egypt's religious life. Afterward, we'll escort you aboard the luxurious 5-star Movenpick MS Royal Lily. Savor a gourmet open buffet lunch as you settle into your elegant cabin. As twilight descends, we venture to Luxor Temple, experiencing its illuminated grandeur firsthand. A sumptuous dinner awaits you back on the Royal Lily, followed by a serene night on board.
- Karnak Temple — Explore this immense religious complex showcasing millennia of pharaonic devotion.
- Luxor Temple (Evening Visit) — Witness the captivating beauty of this ancient urban sanctuary under dramatic lighting.
After a delightful onboard breakfast, your guide leads you to the West Bank. Our first stop is the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut, a stunning example of New Kingdom architecture carved into the cliffs. Next, we journey into the fabled Valley of the Kings, where many pharaohs, including Tutankhamun, found their eternal rest. You'll then encounter the enigmatic Colossi of Memnon. Return to the cruise for lunch as we begin our picturesque journey north, sailing towards Edfu. The afternoon invites relaxation on the sundeck, taking in the ever-changing riverside landscape. Dinner is served on board, followed by a peaceful overnight stay as we continue sailing.
Awaken to breakfast before a charming horse-drawn carriage ride to the remarkably preserved Edfu Temple, dedicated to Horus. Our journey then continues to Kom Ombo, where you'll explore its unique double temple, honoring both Sobek and Horus. Lunch and dinner are served on board as we sail onward, arriving in the beautiful Nubian city of Aswan for a restful overnight stay.
- Edfu Temple — Discover this perfectly preserved Ptolemaic temple, reached by traditional carriage.
- Kom Ombo Temple — Explore the unique 'double temple' dedicated to two distinct deities.
Today, we delve into Aswan's fascinating history and modern marvels. Your morning includes visits to the monumental Aswan High Dam, a testament to 20th-century engineering, followed by the ancient sites of the Unfinished Obelisk and the serene Philae Temple, romantically situated on its own island. Lunch and dinner are enjoyed on board the Movenpick Royal Lily, with another tranquil night spent in Aswan.
- Aswan High Dam — See this pivotal modern engineering achievement. (No entry to dam itself, view point only)
- Unfinished Obelisk — Witness the colossal scale of ancient Egyptian quarrying techniques.
- Philae Temple — Explore the exquisite island temple relocated to preserve its beauty.
Abu Simbel TemplesAfter checking out from the Movenpick Royal Lily, we embark on an unforgettable journey by private air-conditioned vehicle to Abu Simbel, an awe-inspiring testament to Ramses II's legacy. Marvel at the sheer scale and intricate carvings of the Great Temple, dedicated to Ramses himself, and the smaller, elegant temple honoring his beloved Queen Nefertari. These temples, famously relocated to save them from flooding, are a miracle of modern engineering and ancient art. Following our visit, we return to Aswan. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local deluxe restaurant before your private transfer to your onward destination in Aswan.
- Abu Simbel Temples — Witness the monumental rock-cut temples of Ramses II and Nefertari.
Highlights
Immortal Grandeur of Luxor
- Wander through the colossal pylons and sacred avenues of Karnak Temple
- Experience the mystical ambiance of Luxor Temple under the evening sky
- Descend into the vibrant tombs of pharaohs in the Valley of the Kings
- Marvel at the pioneering architecture of Hatshepsut's Mortuary Temple
- Stand in awe before the towering Colossi of Memnon
Mysteries & Engineering of Aswan
- Behold the extraordinary rock-cut temples of Abu Simbel
- Explore the serene Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis
- Understand modern Egypt's ingenuity at the Aswan High Dam
- Discover the well-preserved Ptolemaic artistry of Edfu Temple
- Uncover the unique double sanctuary at Kom Ombo Temple
Included
- Comprehensive service, including all taxes and fees.
- Seamless pick-up and drop-off services throughout your journey.
- Comfortable transportation and tours in deluxe, air-conditioned vehicles.
- All entrance fees to the historical sites specified in the itinerary.
- Expert, fluent English-speaking Egyptologist guides for all tours.
- Full-board accommodation aboard the Movenpick MS Royal Lily.
Excluded
- Gratuities for guides, drivers, and cruise staff.
- International or domestic airfare.
- Any optional excursions or activities not listed in the program.
What to Pack
- Lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for warm weather.
- Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring ancient sites.
- A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high SPF sunscreen.
- Insect repellent, especially for evenings on the Nile.
- A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
- Personal medications and a basic first-aid kit.
- A camera to capture unforgettable moments.
- A light jacket or shawl for cooler evenings or air-conditioned spaces.
- Modest attire for temple visits (shoulders and knees covered).
Why Choose Us
Expert Local Guides
Professional, English-speaking Egyptologists.
Licensed Experts
Fully bonded and licensed Egyptian tour operator.
No Hidden Fees
Transparent pricing and clear inclusions.
24/7 Support
Always available via WhatsApp throughout your trip.
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Plan Your Journey
Everything you need to know about this experience in Egypt.
Egyptologist Insights: Making the Most of Your Journey
Expert Tip: Navigating the Archeological Wonders
Every trip to Egypt is a journey through history. To get the most out of your holiday, check our comprehensive Egypt travel guide for packing lists, visa updates, and local customs. If you are looking for single-day activities, browse our list of recommended Egypt day tours or contact us to customize a private trip.