Dahabeya Fayrouz Sanctuary on the Nile
- 6 Days - 5 Nights
Description
Dahabeya Fayrouz Sanctuary offers a unique floating retreat crafted for those who seek harmony between opulence and the soul of the Nile. Measuring 53 meters in length and spread across three decks, this vessel glides quietly along the river, delivering an experience where tranquility is intentional and comfort feels effortless. Every detail is thoughtfully designed to ensure stability and foster a deep bond with the rhythm of the Nile.
With accommodation for only 20 guests, the cruise provides an intimate and discreet environment. A remarkable feature enhances its restorative ambiance: natural salt crystals are embedded beneath the floors throughout, promoting a sense of balance and calm with each step you take.
Dahabeya Fayrouz Sanctuary sets course for seldom-seen destinations, including the villages of Bisaw and Fares or the lush banks of Watermelon Island, offering encounters that transcend ordinary travel. Staying true to a “Dry Sanctuary” philosophy, the journey encourages a true reconnection with the Nile’s ancient spirit, transforming each day of sailing into a sacred path to inner peace.
Itinerary
Option 1: 6 Days / 5 Nights
Day 1Philae Temple Visit & Candlelit BBQ Dinner Under the Stars
Your journey begins in Aswan with an exploration of the enchanting Philae Temple, devoted to the goddess Isis and perched on its own island. After boarding Dahabeya Fayrouz Sanctuary, the cruise heads north while you enjoy lunch on board. In the evening, you’ll anchor at a secluded Nile island for a magical BBQ dinner by candlelight along the riverbank.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Aswan
Day 2Kom Ombo Temple & Gebel El-Silsila Quarries
Start your morning with breakfast onboard before visiting Kom Ombo Temple, a unique double temple dedicated to both Sobek and Horus. In the afternoon, the boat reaches Gebel El-Silsila, the ancient sandstone quarries where lofty cliffs plunge directly into the Nile, creating an atmosphere of untouched serenity.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Gebel El-Silsila
Day 3Bisaw Island: Walk Among Plantations & Immerse in Local Life
Experience a slower pace as you stroll through plantations of bananas and mangoes on Bisaw Island. Visit a local home for traditional tea and genuine cultural exchange. The afternoon invites you to unwind, swim in the Nile, try kayaking, or enjoy traditional fishing, followed by an evening of live local music.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Bisaw Island
Day 4Edfu Temple & Reflection at the Sufi Saint's Hill
Begin with a guided tour of the Temple of Horus at Edfu, Egypt’s most well-preserved temple complex. Afterwards, continue to a tranquil site for a walk to the burial spot of a revered Sufi saint, offering panoramic views ideal for quiet contemplation.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Edfu
Day 5Khnum Temple in Esna & the Historic Market
Arrive in Esna to visit the Temple of Khnum, renowned for the vivid astronomical artwork adorning its ceilings. After exploring the bustling local market, Dahabeya Fayrouz Sanctuary passes through the Esna lock and continues toward Luxor.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Esna
Day 6Karnak Temple Complex & Departure
Enjoy your final breakfast onboard, then disembark for a guided visit to the magnificent Karnak Temple, one of the largest and most impressive religious complexes ever built. The journey concludes with a private transfer to Luxor International Airport (recommended flights depart after 3:00 PM).
Meals: Breakfast
Overnight: Luxor
Option 2: 5 Days / 4 Nights
Day 1Boarding in Luxor and Sailing Toward Esna
Your journey begins with embarkation between 12:00 and 14:00. Once welcomed and settled into your cabin, Dahabeya Fayrouz Sanctuary sets sail southward. Spend your afternoon unwinding on deck, soaking in views of lush palm groves and riverside villages as the Nile sets the pace for your adventure.
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Esna
Day 2Khnum Temple at Esna & El Kab Tombs
After navigating through the Esna lock in the morning, visit the Khnum Temple, renowned for its vividly preserved astronomical ceilings. Stroll through Esna's bustling local market before heading in the afternoon to explore the cliff-carved tombs at El Kab, dating back to the early dynastic periods of Ancient Egypt.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: El Kab
Day 3Bisaw Island & Gebel El-Silsila Quarries
Savor breakfast on deck before wandering among the fertile plantations on Bisaw Island, followed by a traditional tea inside a local home. In the afternoon, journey to the sandstone quarries of Gebel El-Silsila, the ancient source of stone for Egypt’s monumental temples. As night falls, enjoy live music beneath the star-studded sky.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Gebel El-Silsila
Day 4Kom Ombo Temple, Daraw Market & Candlelit BBQ Dinner
The day opens with a visit to the Kom Ombo Temple, dedicated to Sobek and Horus. Next, experience the vibrant camel and livestock market in Daraw, offering a genuine glimpse into local life. As the journey nears its end, delight in a magical candlelit BBQ dinner beside the Nile’s edge.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Kom Ombo
Day 5Philae Temple & Departure from Aswan
After a final leisurely breakfast and disembarkation, visit the enchanting Philae Temple, a sanctuary for the goddess Isis set on a scenic island. The journey concludes with a transfer to Aswan International Airport (recommended flight time after 15:00).
Meals: Breakfast
Overnight: Aswan
Option 3: 4 Days / 3 Nights
Day 1Philae Temple and Kom Ombo Temple
Your adventure begins in Aswan with a guided visit to Philae Temple, a mesmerizing sanctuary honoring the goddess Isis on a picturesque island. After boarding Fayrouz Sanctuary and savoring a gourmet lunch, the cruise continues toward Kom Ombo Temple, an extraordinary dual temple dedicated to the crocodile god Sobek and Horus. The day concludes with a sophisticated dinner beneath a star-lit sky.
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Kom Ombo
Day 2Gebel El-Silsila Quarries and Besheer Island
Following breakfast on deck, delve into the ancient sandstone quarries of Gebel El-Silsila, once the source of blocks for Egypt’s grandest temples. This peaceful, seldom-visited site offers a uniquely intimate atmosphere. Later, cruise to Besheer Island to stroll among banana and mango groves, immersing yourself in the authentic rhythms of rural Egyptian life.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Besheer Island
Day 3Khnum Temple in Esna and the Historic Market
The journey carries on to Esna, where you’ll tour the Khnum Temple, renowned for its vibrantly painted astronomical ceiling. Afterward, wander through bustling local markets and the city’s ancient lanes. The dahabeya then passes through the Esna lock, gently floating toward Luxor as sunset bathes the riverbanks in golden light.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Esna
Day 4Karnak Complex and Departure from Luxor
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast on your final morning before disembarking. The journey concludes with a tour of the awe-inspiring Karnak Temple, one of the largest religious complexes ever constructed. Once your visit ends, you’ll be transferred to Luxor International Airport (recommended flights after 3:00 PM).
Meals: Breakfast
Overnight: Luxor
Included/Excluded
- Personal assistance and private transfers to and from Luxor and Aswan airports or train stations
- Full-board accommodation on Dahabeya Fayrouz Sanctuary, with gourmet breakfasts, lunches, and dinners crafted from fresh ingredients
- All entry fees to temples and historical sites listed in the itinerary
- Expert Egyptologist guide to illuminate the wonders of Egypt’s history at every site
- All ground transportation in modern, air-conditioned vehicles
- International and domestic flights (can be arranged on request)
- Entry visa (about USD 30 on arrival, paid in cash)
- Personal expenses and gratuities
- Optional tours or services not specifically mentioned as included
Attractions
Durations
Languages
Cities
Frequently asked questions
How long is Dahabeya Fayrouz Sanctuary on the Nile?
The cruise lasts 6 Days - 5 Nights and sails between Aswan & Luxor. Some cruises are offered in more than one length: the itinerary above lists each option.
What is included in the price?
The programme lists: Personal assistance and private transfers to and from Luxor and Aswan airports or train stations; Full-board accommodation on Dahabeya Fayrouz Sanctuary, with gourmet breakfasts, lunches, and dinners crafted from fresh ingredients; All entry fees to temples and historical sites listed in the itinerary; Expert Egyptologist guide to illuminate the wonders of Egypt’s history at every site; All ground transportation in modern, air-conditioned vehicles.
What is not included?
Not included: International and domestic flights (can be arranged on request); Entry visa (about USD 30 on arrival, paid in cash); Personal expenses and gratuities; Optional tours or services not specifically mentioned as included.
Is a guide included?
Yes. The programme lists: Expert Egyptologist guide to illuminate the wonders of Egypt’s history at every site.
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 Dahabeya Fayrouz Sanctuary on the Nile?
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.
What travellers say
5.0 on Google · 7 reviews of Elevana Tours
“This is one of the best tours we had definitely doing it again and again”
“Great experience and great people. Highly recommend it to anybody going to Egypt”
“My family and I were very happy/satisfied to use this agency. We were thrilled to visit every single treasure in Egypt ❤️.”
