Crucero Al Hambra por el Nilo

Arrival in Luxor

Upon arrival at Luxor Airport or station, a representative from Travel Joy Egypt greeted the guests and swiftly transferred them aboard the luxurious Nile cruiser MS Alhambra. Embarkation was before 12pm, allowing time to fully settle into the plush and spacious cabins. The attentive staff ensured all guests felt right at home on the splendid vessel that would be their floating residence through an unforgettable Egyptian experience.

Discover Karnak Temples

The first site on the itinerary was the awe-inspiring Karnak Temples Complex. References trace structures as far back as Egypt’s 3rd dynasty, yet the present buildings remain a colossal testament to the glory of ancient Thebes. Guests spent hours wandering through the immense hypostyle halls and avenues of ram-headed sphinxes reaching far into the horizon. They learned from their guide how the site was devoted to chief Theban deity Amun-Ra and left feeling truly humbled by such a monumental religious marvel.

Majestic Luxor Temple

In the afternoon light, visitors explored the almost as grand Luxor Temple established by 12th dynasty pharaohs. Later reconstruction under the renowned King Ramses II revealed even more intricately carved details. Wandering through the massive pylons and entrance avenues filled all with wonder at how the lively site would have appeared in its heyday. Returning to the vessel satiated their thirst for history in the “world’s largest open air museum”.

Nourishing Nile Sustenance

Aboard the cruise, guests indulged in a variety of local delicacies for each meal. For lunch that day, a buffet included salads with olives and feta, vegetable tagines and rice, stews of meat and lentils, and fresh bread. Dinner saw grilled fish served with aromatic herbs and accompaniments of stuffed vine leaves alongside home-brewed beers. After every meal, guests relaxed and digested their meal while taking in dazzling sunsets on the sundeck with fellow passengers.

Exploring Aswan’s Highlights

Following a lavish breakfast, the next port of call awaited – Aswan. Here, explorations began at the immense High Dam, a landmark feat by President Nasser. A short boat ride then transported all to the sacred Isle of Philae and its Ptolemaic temple to goddess Isis. Finally, wanderings led to the colossal Unfinished Obelisk, intended tribute for the almighty Amun-Ra. Through such enriching sights, travelers left Aswan feeling they had unearthed the very spirit of ancient Egyptian life along the Nile.

Optional Abu Simbel Excursion

Some guests choose to participate in an optional day tour to the legendary temples at Abu Simbel. An early morning drive through lush landscapes brought them face to face with the iconic rock-cut structures – truly among Egypt’s most renown. Both the expansive Great Temple of Ramses II and his smaller dedication to himself and Nefertari left all awestruck up close. After taking advantage of the opportunity to see such iconic structures, the return to Aswan capped off an thoroughly satisfying first half of the holy land adventure.

Home on the Nile

Back aboard their home on the Nile, travelers relaxed and bonded over another afternoon of scrumptious meals, traditional folkloric entertainment, and leisurely observing the ever-changing river scenery drift by from private sundecks. Each night brought new constellations to gaze at from the ship’s comfortable outer decks while docked in port. As guests drifted off to sleep, anticipation built for the next day’s discoveries in this evocative land where ancient history continually revealed more of its mysteries.