5 Days from Aswan to Abu Simbel with Nubian Sea
Good to know
- Group size Up to 10
- Languages English, France, Germany, Italy
- Departs Friday
- Start times 12:00 pm
- Meeting point Aswan
Overview
Experience an unforgettable 5 Days from Aswan to Abu Simbel with Nubian Sea and discover the timeless wonders of ancient Nubia in complete comfort. This luxury Nile cruise Egypt alternative offers a unique journey through one of Egypt’s most remote and fascinating regions.
Explore remarkable sites such as the impressive Kalabsha Temple and Wadi El Seboua. Continue to the extraordinary Temple of Amada, the oldest temple on Lake Nasser. The journey reaches its highlight with a visit to the magnificent Abu Simbel temples. It is one of the most iconic landmarks in any Egypt travel itinerary and a must-see on Egypt tours packages.
Sail across the tranquil waters of Lake Nasser, surrounded by dramatic desert landscapes. Enjoy 5 Days from Aswan to Abu Simbel with Nubian Sea in Egypt with comfort and elegance. This experience is perfect for high-end travelers seeking a refined and immersive journey. It blends history, culture, and breathtaking scenery, making it ideal for any Egypt vacation package, private Egypt tour, or unique Nile cruise experience.
Highlights
- Kalabsha Temple
- Beit El-Wali Temple
- Kiosk of Qertassi
- Wadi El-Seboua Temple
- Temple of Dakka
- Temple of Maharraqa
- Temple of Amada
- Temple of Derr
- Tomb of Pennut
- Qasr Ibrim Fortress
- Abu Simbel Temple
- Temple of Queen Nefertari
What’s included
Included
- 4 Nights Lake Nasser cruise on a 5-star ship with full board.
- All transfers in air-conditioned vehicles.
- Private Egyptologist tour guide.
- All entrance fees to the mentioned attractions.
- All service charges and taxes.
Not included
- The flight costs (We are happy to book the flights for you).
- Entry visa.
- Sightseeing not included in the program.
- Sound and light show Abu Simbel (optional)
- Tipping
Day by day
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01 Day 1: Arrival and Check-in
Upon your arrival at Aswan Airport, you will be warmly greeted by our professional tour guide and transferred to your 5-star cruise ship, the Nubian Sea. After check-in, enjoy a delightful lunch on board while soaking in the serene charm of Aswan—where lush green islands and striking red granite rocks meet along the Nile. The remainder of the day is yours to relax and unwind at your own pace. Dinner and overnight stay on board in Aswan.
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02 Day 2: Visit Kalabsha
After a hearty breakfast on board, today in Aswan with your tour guide, you will visit Kalabsha Temple. The city was known in ancient times as Talmis and was relocated to an island and reconstructed due to the construction of the Aswan Dam, which flooded it from Lake Nasser.
You will visit first in Kalabsha:
Kalabsha Temple – A Monument of Many Eras
The majestic Kalabsha Temple, originally dedicated to the Nubian sun god Mandulis and the goddess Isis, stands as the largest free-standing temple complex of Lower Nubia, measuring an impressive 36 by 72 meters. Reconstructed by Emperor Augustus, the temple reflects a blend of Roman and ancient Egyptian architectural influence. In the 6th century AD, parts of the temple were repurposed as a Christian church, a transformation still visible today through the preserved Christian symbols carved into its walls.
Right next to the temple is the:
Kiosk of Kertassi – A Graceful Relic of the Greco-Roman Era
The Kiosk of Kertassi is a small yet striking structure from the Greco-Roman period, originally positioned at the entrance of an ancient quarry in the Nubian town of Kertassi, once a Roman outpost. This elegant temple building was relocated to safety near the Temple of Mandulis after the area was submerged by the waters of Lake Nasser, following the construction of the Aswan High Dam. Today, both monuments stand together as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site recognized since 1979, preserving a glimpse of Nubia's multicultural past.
After your final visit of the day, you will return to your ship, where your dream journey across the Nile truly begins. The Nubian Sea sets sail from Aswan, gliding over the tranquil waters of Lake Nasser toward Wadi El Seboua. As the sun sets over the desert horizon, enjoy a relaxing evening on board, complete with a gourmet dinner and the unique ambiance of the lake’s serene beauty. Spend the night docked at Wadi El Seboua, ready to explore more wonders in the days ahead.
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03 Day 3: Wadi El Seboua / Amada
After a leisurely breakfast on board, you will visit Wadi El Seboua with your tour guide:
Temple of Wadi El Seboua – The Valley of the Sphinxes
Once located in the so-called Valley of the Lions—a name inspired not by wild animals but by the sphinx statues lining its approach—the Temple of Wadi El Seboua is one of the few Nubian temples to preserve such monumental guardians. Built by Ramses II from sandstone, the temple was partially flooded during parts of the year before its relocation. Inside, visitors can admire striking depictions of the pharaoh in various divine forms: as a sphinx, a god in human shape, and a mighty king. The temple is dedicated to the powerful deities Amun-Re and Re-Harakhte, echoing the religious devotion of ancient Egypt’s New Kingdom.
Afterwards, you visit the:
Thoth Temple of Dakka
The Temple of Dakka is relatively young, it was built by the Meroitic king Arqamani around 200 BC in the Ptolemaic period. As can be seen from the pylon, the temple was not completed – for example, the final smoothing of the stones and the reliefs are missing. The temple was dedicated to the god of scribes, Thoth – and thus to magic and science:
The last temple you visit in Wadi El Seboua is the
Temple of Dakka – Sanctuary of Thoth, God of Wisdom
The Temple of Dakka, though relatively young in comparison to other ancient monuments, was built around 200 BC by the Meroitic king Arqamani during the Ptolemaic period. Dedicated to Thoth—the god of wisdom, writing, magic, and science—the temple served as a center of intellectual and spiritual reverence. Though impressive in scale, the temple was never fully completed, as evidenced by the unfinished pylons and unsmoothed reliefs. Even in its incomplete state, the Temple of Dakka stands as a remarkable testament to the fusion of Nubian and Greco-Egyptian artistry..
After the visit, the ship continues to Amada where it docks.
In Amada, you will visit with your tour guide:
Temple of Amada – The Oldest Treasure on Lake Nasser
The Temple of Amada, carved from sandstone, is the oldest standing monument on Lake Nasser. It was built during the reigns of Thutmose III, Amenophis II, and Thutmose IV of the 18th Dynasty, and dedicated to the sun gods Amun-Re and Re-Harakhte. Renowned for its exquisite and well-preserved reliefs, it is considered one of the most beautifully decorated temples in Lower Nubia. To protect this ancient masterpiece from the rising waters of Lake Nasser, a remarkable engineering effort was made: the entire temple was moved intact to its new location, preserving its fragile artwork for future generations.
Afterwards, you visit:
Temple of Derr – Ramses II in the House of Re
Commissioned in the 30th year of Ramses II’s reign, the Temple of Derr stands as a tribute to the gods Ptah and Amun—and to Ramses II himself, honored as a deified ruler. Known in ancient times as the “Temple of Ramses in the House of Re,” this rock-cut sanctuary was originally carved into a cliff along the Nile. Today, what remains includes two colonnaded halls leading to the inner sanctuaries, still echoing the grandeur of the New Kingdom and the divine legacy of one of Egypt’s greatest pharaohs.
As the last item on the agenda of the day, you visit:
Tomb of Pennut – The Last Legacy of Ancient Aniba
The rock-cut Tomb of Pennut is a unique survivor of the ancient fortress town of Aniba, once known as Miam. It is the only monument from this site that was not surrendered to the rising waters of Lake Nasser. Pennut, a high official during the reign of Ramses VI, is honored here through a wealth of inscriptions and vivid wall scenes that reveal his prestigious role in the administration of Nubia. The tomb stands as a rare and invaluable testament to the lives of elite officials during Egypt’s 20th Dynasty.
Afterwards, this impressive day ends and you will be taken back to the ship.
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04 Day 4: Abu Simbel
Today the ship continues to Abu Simbel, where you can admire the former fortress Kasr Ibrîm from the sun deck on the way, the only archaeological site that was not buried by the waters of Lake Nasser.
After lunch on board in Abu Simbel, you will visit with your tour guide the highlight of Upper Egypt, the legacy of Ramses II:
Abu Simbel Temples
The two temples of Abu Simbel were built by Ramses II in 1260 BC and were under the sand until 1817 when the Italian Belzoni freed the two temples from the sand. The Ramses Temple extends 60 m directly into the rock and is 30 m high. The Temple of Nefertari is 21 m deep and 12 m high. After the construction of the dam, both temples were moved approximately 62 m higher between 1964 and 1968 to protect them from flooding by the reservoir.
Dinner & overnight on board in Abu Simbel. Enjoy your last evening on board and reflect on the unforgettable impressions.
Tip of the day:
In the evening, you have the opportunity to enjoy the impressive sound and light show in the temples of Abu Simbel. (optional)
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05 Day 5: Disembarkation
Today your Nile cruise ends. You disembark and have a transfer from Abu Simbel to Aswan Airport.
Availability
This tour departs on the following days. Send us your preferred date and we will confirm availability for you.
- Friday
Room & Cabin Occupancy and Single Supplement
- All tour prices are based on two guests sharing a twin or double room/cabin, unless otherwise stated.
- Guests requesting a private room or private cabin will be required to pay a single supplement.
- For Nile cruises, the single-cabin supplement is normally an additional 70% of the per-person twin-sharing rate.
- Hotel single-room supplements vary depending on the hotel, travel dates, availability, and season.
- Single rooms and cabins are subject to availability and final confirmation.
- The exact single supplement will be clearly stated in your quotation and booking confirmation.
- If one traveler cancels and the remaining guest occupies the room or cabin alone, the applicable single supplement may be added to the booking.
By confirming your booking, you acknowledge and accept the applicable room/cabin occupancy and single-supplement conditions.
Read the full Booking, Payment & Cancellation PolicySingle supplements may vary by supplier and are always confirmed before payment.
Frequently asked questions
What Are the Types of Egypt’s Nile River Cruises?
There are two main types of Nile River cruises in Egypt to choose from, depending on your travel style and preferences. The first is the private Dahabiya Nile cruise, a traditional sailboat offering an intimate experience with around 8 to 10 luxurious cabins, ideal for small groups or couples seeking privacy and elegance. The second and more common option is the standard large Nile cruise ship, which typically features 100 to 150 cabins, modern amenities, entertainment, and guided excursions. Both options provide unforgettable journeys along the Nile, with comfort and cultural discovery at their core.
What Are the Top Attractions to Visit on a Nile River Cruise?
A Nile River cruise between Luxor and Aswan (or vice versa) offers travelers the chance to explore some of Egypt’s most iconic ancient attractions. Highlights include the magnificent Karnak Temple Complex, the royal tombs in the Valley of the Kings, the elegant Temple of Hatshepsut, and the well-preserved Temple of Edfu dedicated to Horus. You’ll also visit the unique Kom Ombo Temple, the enchanting Philae Temple of Isis, and the impressive Unfinished Obelisk in Aswan. These landmarks reflect Egypt’s glorious past and make a Nile cruise a truly unforgettable journey through history.
What Are the Best Activities to Do in Egypt?
Egypt offers an incredible variety of activities for every traveler. One of the top experiences is sailing on a Nile River Cruise between Luxor and Aswan, exploring ancient temples along the way. For breathtaking views, enjoy a hot air balloon ride over Luxor or scenic aerial tours by plane. Dive into Egypt’s rich flavors by sampling authentic Egyptian cuisine and shopping in the bustling streets of Old Cairo. For adventure lovers, snorkeling and diving in the Red Sea—especially in resorts like Hurghada—offer a glimpse into vibrant marine life. Don’t miss the chance to embark on a desert safari in the Western Desert, where you can experience the magic of Egypt’s landscapes under star-filled skies.
What Are Egypt’s Festivals and Public Holidays?
Egypt celebrates a variety of public holidays and festivals, both religious and national. Among the most significant are the holy month of Ramadan, a time of fasting and spiritual reflection for Muslims, which ends with the joyful celebration of Eid Al-Fitr. Other major holidays include Eid Al-Adha, Islamic New Year, and Mawlid Al-Nabi (the Prophet’s birthday). On the national and cultural side, Christmas (January 7), New Year’s Eve, Revolution Day (July 23), and Sinai Liberation Day (April 25) are widely observed. These festivals offer visitors a rich cultural experience and a deeper look into Egypt’s heritage.
Is it safe to go on a tour in Egypt right now?
Egypt offers a wide range of tours to suit every travel style, interest, and budget. Some of the most popular options include a 6-day tour covering Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, and Abu Simbel; an 8-day package that explores Cairo, Luxor, Abu Simbel, and Hurghada; a 9-day journey combining Cairo, a Nile Cruise, and Alexandria; and a 10-day tour featuring Cairo, Aswan, Luxor, and Hurghada. Whether you're drawn to ancient history, cultural landmarks, or relaxing by the Red Sea, there's a tour perfectly tailored for you.
How Much a trip to Egypt costs?
Tour prices in Egypt vary based on length, comfort, and inclusions. Budget tours start around $600–$900 USD for a week, mid-range packages range from $1,000–$1,800, and luxury tours can exceed $2,000 USD. Prices usually include hotels, guided tours, and domestic transport, but not international flights.
What are the visa requirements for Egypt?
To visit Egypt, most travelers require a visa. Citizens from over 180 countries, including the U.S., UK, Canada, and EU nations, can apply for a 30-day tourist visa. This can be obtained either online via Egypt’s official eVisa portal or on arrival at Egyptian airports for a fee of approximately $25 USD. However, travelers heading to Sharm El Sheikh, Dahab, Nuweiba, or Taba resorts can enter visa-free for up to 15 days, here’s the www.visa2egypt.gov.eg
How long should my passport be valid to travel to Egypt?
Passport validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your intended arrival date in Egypt.
What do I need to pack for my tour to Egypt?
You will need to pack lightweight, breathable clothing, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, a reusable water bottle, a scarf or shawl (for sun and temple visits), and a basic first aid kit. Don’t forget your passport, travel documents, and any personal medications.
What is the best time to visit Egypt?
The best time to visit Egypt is during the cooler months from October to April, when temperatures are mild and comfortable for sightseeing. Avoid the peak summer months (June to August) as it can get extremely hot, especially in desert and southern regions.
How is the summer time weather in Egypt?
Summer in Egypt (June to August) is very hot, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F), especially in desert areas and southern cities like Luxor and Aswan. Coastal areas like Alexandria and the Red Sea are a bit cooler with sea breezes.
What about Winter Time in Egypt?
Winter in Egypt (December to February) is mild and pleasant, with daytime temperatures around 20–25°C (68–77°F). Nights can be cool, especially in the desert, so light jackets are recommended. It's a great time for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
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