Dahabiya Nile Cruise — Luxor to Aswan
- 5 Days - 4 Nights
Description
Step back in time as you journey through ancient Egypt aboard a Dahabiya, cruising the Nile in classic 19th-century style infused with modern luxury. This exclusive Nile cruise invites you to experience the river at a serene pace, stopping at peaceful moorings and immersing yourself in authentic local culture. Unlike larger vessels, the Dahabiya offers a tranquil, sophisticated way to uncover Egypt’s legendary temples, lesser-known archaeological wonders, and vibrant riverside communities between Luxor and Aswan. Revel in the unique blend of historical charm and contemporary comfort for an unforgettable Nile adventure.
Itinerary
Option 1: 4 Days / 3 Nights
Day 1Aswan – Philae Temple – Cruise to Herdiab
Your adventure begins as you board the Nile Dahabiya in Aswan. Settle into your cabin and enjoy a freshly prepared lunch as you take in the tranquil atmosphere of the Nile, setting the pace for your cruise.
Later in the day, explore the enchanting Philae Temple, beautifully relocated to Agilkia Island. Devoted to the goddess Isis, this sacred site is renowned for its graceful columns, intricate carvings, and idyllic riverside setting. After your visit, return to the Dahabiya and set sail toward the peaceful anchorage at Herdiab, away from the usual docking crowds.
In the evening, savor dinner beneath the stars and unwind in the peaceful ambiance of the Nile.
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Onboard at Herdiab
Day 2Herdiab – Kom Ombo – Gebel el-Silsila – Edfu
After breakfast, cruise to Kom Ombo to discover the unique twin temple dedicated to Sobek, the crocodile god, and Horus, the falcon god. Its symmetrical design and striking riverside position make it one of the Nile’s most distinctive monuments.
Return to the Dahabiya for lunch as you continue to Gebel el-Silsila, famed for its ancient sandstone quarries. Here, you’ll explore a rock-cut temple honoring Horemheb and stroll through the historic quarries that once supplied stone for Egypt’s grandest temples.
Later, set sail for Edfu, where dinner will be served onboard and the Dahabiya will anchor for the night.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Onboard at Edfu
Day 3Edfu – El Kab – Sailing toward Luxor
Begin your day with a visit to the spectacular Temple of Horus at Edfu, one of the best-preserved ancient temples in Egypt. Its towering pylons, impressive halls, and elaborate reliefs offer a window into the rituals and festivals of the past.
Return to the Dahabiya and enjoy lunch as you cruise towards El Kab, one of Egypt’s oldest settlements. Here, you’ll discover rock-cut tombs—including those of Ahmose and Paheri—famous for vibrant depictions of daily life, military victories, and ceremonial scenes.
In the evening, the journey continues northward toward Luxor. Dinner will be served onboard as you enjoy another tranquil night on the Nile.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Onboard on the Nile
Day 4Esna – Luxor (East Bank)
After breakfast, arrive in Luxor and begin your final explorations. Visit the awe-inspiring Karnak Temple Complex—the largest religious site ever constructed—and continue to Luxor Temple, beautifully set along the Nile and once connected to Karnak by the Avenue of Sphinxes.
With your sightseeing complete, your Dahabiya Nile cruise from Aswan to Luxor concludes, leaving you with unforgettable memories of your journey.
Meals: Breakfast
Overnight: Luxor
Option 2: 5 Days / 4 Nights
Day 1Luxor – Karnak Temple & Luxor Temple
Upon arrival at Luxor Airport or train station, you will be warmly greeted and assisted with your transfer to your Dahabiya. After settling into your cabin and enjoying lunch on board, your guided exploration of Luxor begins.
Your first stop is the awe-inspiring Karnak Temple, renowned for its immense columned halls, sacred lake, and grand sanctuaries. Continue to the Luxor Temple, the spiritual heart of ancient religious festivals and ceremonies.
Following your tour, return to the Dahabiya for a relaxing dinner and your first night on the Nile as you settle into the river’s gentle rhythm.
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: On board in Luxor
Day 2Luxor West Bank – Valley of the Kings – Hatshepsut Temple – Sail to Edfu
After breakfast, venture to the West Bank for an in-depth exploration of the Valley of the Kings, the burial ground of Egypt’s legendary pharaohs. Next, visit the magnificent mortuary temple of Queen Hatshepsut, a marvel carved into the cliffs at Deir el-Bahari, followed by a photo stop at the colossal statues of Memnon.
Return to your Dahabiya to sail through Esna Lock, heading southwards toward Edfu.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: On board in Edfu
Day 3Edfu – Ramady Island
Begin the day with a visit to Edfu’s Temple of Horus, traveling by traditional horse-drawn carriage. Afterward, cruise to Ramady Island, where you can experience the simple beauty of Nile village life, interact with local residents, and soak in the tranquil rural scenery.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: On board at Ramady Island
Day 4Gebel el-Silsila – Kom Ombo – Herdiab Beach
Today, cruise to Gebel el-Silsila to discover ancient quarries and the rock-cut temple of Horemheb. Continue your journey to the distinctive Kom Ombo Temple. Later, unwind on the pristine sands of Herdiab Beach, a secluded Nile sandbank perfect for swimming and relaxation.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: On board at Herdiab
Day 5Aswan – Philae Temple
After breakfast, set out to visit the enchanting Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis and surrounded by the sparkling waters of the Nile. With this final highlight, your Dahabiya cruise from Luxor to Aswan concludes in style.
Meals: Breakfast
Overnight: Aswan
Included/Excluded
- Personal meet-and-greet at Luxor airport or train station
- Full-board accommodation on the Iris Dahabiya
- Private sightseeing tours with a multilingual tour guide (English, Portuguese, German, or Spanish)
- All guided excursions as detailed in the itinerary
- Admission fees to all listed attractions
- Bottled water provided during tours
- All transfers in a private, air-conditioned luxury vehicle
- Service charges and all applicable taxes
- Optional tours or excursions not mentioned
- Personal expenses
- Gratuities
Attractions
Durations
Languages
Cities
Frequently asked questions
How long is Dahabiya Nile Cruise — Luxor to Aswan?
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.
What is included in the price?
The programme lists: Personal meet-and-greet at Luxor airport or train station; Full-board accommodation on the Iris Dahabiya; Private sightseeing tours with a multilingual tour guide (English, Portuguese, German, or Spanish); All guided excursions as detailed in the itinerary; Admission fees to all listed attractions; Bottled water provided during tours; All transfers in a private, air-conditioned luxury vehicle; Service charges and all applicable taxes.
What is not included?
Not included: Optional tours or excursions not mentioned; Personal expenses; Gratuities.
Is a guide included?
Yes. The programme lists: Private sightseeing tours with a multilingual tour guide (English, Portuguese, German, or Spanish); All guided excursions as detailed in the itinerary.
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 Dahabiya Nile Cruise — Luxor to Aswan?
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 ❤️.”





