Five days under sail on a dahabiya from Esna to Aswan: El Kab, Edfu, Gebel El Silsila and Kom Ombo, full board, with private guided visits.
About this trip
The Best Dahabiya Nile Cruise with Elevana Tours offers a serene and authentic way to explore Egypt’s ancient wonders from the river. Unlike larger cruise ships, a dahabiya is a traditional, wind-powered sailing vessel that moves quietly along the Nile, bringing you closer to local life, lesser-visited archaeological sites, and scenic riverbank villages. With personalized service, small group comfort, full-board accommodation onboard, private guided tours to exceptional landmarks, and private deluxe transfers, this journey blends culture, beauty, and luxury at a relaxed pace — perfect for travelers seeking an unforgettable Nile experience away from the crowds.
Itinerary
Day 1 · Luxor
Luxor to Esna – Embarkation and Sunset Sailing
Your dahabiya adventure begins with a private transfer from Luxor to Esna, where you board your elegant traditional sailing vessel after a warm welcome drink and settle into your cabin. Enjoy lunch and dinner on deck as the dahabiya sails south, skimming past palm-lined villages and the peaceful banks of the Nile, with sunset views that define the relaxed pace of a classic dahabiya cruise. Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner
Lunch
Dinner
Boat
Day 2
El Kab & Edfu – Temples of the Ancient World
After breakfast, disembark to explore El Kab, once the capital of Upper Egypt, with its fascinating rock-cut tombs and ancient city walls. Continue sailing to Edfu, where you visit the grand Temple of Horus — a remarkable temple renowned for its splendid architecture and mythological carvings. Return to the dahabiya for lunch and enjoy serene sailing under open sails — one of the hallmarks of the best dahabiya Nile cruise experience. Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Boat
Day 3
Gebel el Silsila – A Temple by the River’s Edge
Cruise to Gebel el Silsila, where you disembark to explore the rarely visited archaeological site with cliffside quarries and the rock-cut Temple of Horemheb. This remote walk along the Nile’s edge offers an authentic sense of the ancient world. Tonight, enjoy an atmospheric dinner on the riverbank or beneath the skies on deck, surrounded by silence, stars, and history. Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Boat
Day 4
Kom Ombo – Twin Deities and Riverside Views
Sail onward to Kom Ombo, where you explore the singular twin temple dedicated to both Sobek and Horus the Elder. Visit the nearby Crocodile Museum to see mummified crocodiles and learn about ancient beliefs tied to the Nile. Spend the afternoon cruising toward Aswan, savoring your last full day on board. Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Boat
Day 5 · Aswan
Arrival in Aswan – Farewell to the Nile
After breakfast, disembark in Aswan where your Elevana Tours representative assists with onward travel arrangements. Your unforgettable Best Dahabiya Nile Cruise ends here — leaving you with memories of luxury, history, and the Nile’s quiet magic. Meals Included: Breakfast
Breakfast
Boat
Included and not included
Included
Meet and assist service by Elevana Tours representatives at the airport or railway station.
Accommodation on board the dahabiya with full-board meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner).
Private guided excursions with an expert English-speaking tour guide.
All entrance fees to the sites listed in the itinerary.
Bottled water during tours.
All private transfers by deluxe air-conditioned vehicle.
All service charges and taxes.
Not included
Optional tours not listed in the itinerary.
Personal expenses.
Gratuities (tipping).
Route
Aswan→Luxor
Frequently asked questions
How long is 5- Star Luxury Dahabiya Nile Cruise?
The cruise lasts 5 Days - 4 Nights and sails between Aswan & Luxor. Some cruises are offered in more than one length: the itinerary above lists each option.
How much does 5- Star Luxury Dahabiya Nile Cruise cost?
The price starts at $1,425 per person. The exact price depends on your dates and the number of travellers, so send an enquiry for a quote for your trip.
What is included in the price?
The programme lists: Meet and assist service by Elevana Tours representatives at the airport or railway station; Accommodation on board the dahabiya with full-board meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner); Private guided excursions with an expert English-speaking tour guide; All entrance fees to the sites listed in the itinerary; Bottled water during tours; All private transfers by deluxe air-conditioned vehicle; All service charges and taxes.
What is not included?
Not included: Optional tours not listed in the itinerary; Personal expenses; Gratuities (tipping).
Is a guide included?
Yes. The programme lists: Private guided excursions with an expert English-speaking tour guide.
Can I choose my dates and cabin?
Tell us the month you would like and how many of you are travelling when you enquire. We check the departures and cabins available for those dates and reply with a price.
How do I book 5- Star Luxury Dahabiya Nile Cruise?
Send an enquiry from the form on this page or message us on WhatsApp. It costs nothing to ask, and we reply within 24 hours with a price for your dates.
What is the cancellation policy?
Our cancellation terms are set out in the Cancellation Policy on this website. Ask us about the conditions for your dates before you book.
