5 Days Nile Cruise with Merit Dahabeya
Good to know
- Duration 5 days
- Group size Up to 10
- Languages English, France, Germany, Italy
- Departs Saturday
- Start times 8:00 am
- Meeting point Luxor
Overview
Embark on an unforgettable 5-days journey aboard the elegant Merit Dahabiya, where luxury, serenity, and Egypt’s greatest ancient treasures blend seamlessly. Your experience begins in Luxor with visits to the majestic Karnak and Luxor Temples, followed by exploration of the legendary Valley of the Kings and the beautiful Temple of Hatshepsut. As you sail the Nile in comfort and privacy, you’ll discover the impressive Edfu Temple and the unique Kom Ombo Temple, dedicated to both Sobek and Horus. Continue to Aswan to explore the enchanting Philae Temple and the famous Unfinished Obelisk, before concluding your journey with a remarkable tour of the awe-inspiring Abu Simbel Temples. Combining history, culture, personalized service, and tranquil river sailing, this Merit Dahabiya cruise offers a truly luxurious and authentic way to experience Egypt’s most iconic sites.
Highlights
- Karnak Temple
- Luxor Temple
- Valley of the Kings
- Temple of Queen Hatshepsut
- Colossi of Memnon
- Edfu Temple
- Kom Ombo Temple
- Crocodile Museum
- Aswan High Dam
- Philae Temple
- Unfinished Obelisk
- Elephantine Island
What’s included
Included
- 4 Nights Nile cruise with full board.
- Private Egyptologist tour guide.
- All transfers in air-conditioned vehicles.
- 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.
- Excursion to Abu Simbel (optionally bookable).
- Tipping.
Day by day
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01 Day 1: Arrival and Check-in / Luxor East
Upon your arrival at Luxor Airport, our guide, a qualified private Egyptologist, will warmly welcome you. You’ll be escorted to the Merit Dahabeya, where you’ll board and settle in.
A qualified Egyptologist will accompany you throughout the journey, guiding all your sightseeing tours and enriching your Nile cruise experience with expert insights into Egypt’s ancient history.
After lunch on board, you’ll visit one of Luxor’s highlights with your guide:
Karnak Temple Complex
Located in Luxor, the Karnak Temple Complex spans over 2,000 years of construction. It features grand sites like the Precinct of Amun-Re and Hypostyle Hall, symbolizing ancient Egypt’s religious devotion and architectural brilliance..
Afterward, visit another immortal structure in Luxor:
Luxor Temple By Night
Built around 1400 BC, Luxor Temple honors the renewal of kingship and was central to the Opet Festival. Expanded by famous pharaohs, its grand statues and night illuminations showcase Egypt’s spiritual and architectural heritage.
After the extensive visit, you will be taken back to the Dahabyea.
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02 Day 2: Visit The Valley of the kings & Hatshepsut temple
After a leisurely breakfast on board, you will travel with your guide to Thebes-West. The first highlight of the day awaits you:
The Valley of the Kings
The Valley of the Kings holds 65 royal tombs from Egypt’s New Kingdom, including Tutankhamun’s. Carved into rock and richly decorated, these tombs reveal ancient beliefs about the afterlife and Egypt’s artistic heritage.
The Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut
Carved into Deir El Bahari cliffs, the Temple of Hatshepsut honors one of Egypt’s most powerful female pharaohs. Built between 1473–1458 BC, its terraces and symmetry symbolize divine devotion and her lasting legacy.
The Colossi of Memnon
The Colossi of Memnon are two 18-meter-tall statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III, built around 1350 BC to guard his temple. Later linked to the Greek hero Memnon, they symbolize Egypt’s royal grandeur and legacy.
Afterward, you will be escorted back to your Dahabeya. Following lunch on board, the ship sets sail towards Edfu through the Esna Lock.
Tip of the Day: You may choose to enjoy an optional sunrise hot air balloon ride over Thebes West, offering a breathtaking aerial view of Luxor’s ancient temples, tombs, and the stunning Nile landscape.
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03 Day 3: Edfu / El Ramady Island
On this day, you will begin your morning by enjoying your breakfast then you go by horse and carriage to the Temples of Kom Ombo and Edfu where you will meet your Egyptologist Tour Guide:
Edfu Temple
Dedicated to the falcon god Horus, Edfu Temple is one of Egypt’s best-preserved temples. Built during the Ptolemaic period, it features grand columns and detailed reliefs depicting Horus’s victory over Set, offering a vivid look into ancient Egyptian religion and architecture..
Continue the journey to El Ramady Island, where the Dahabeya docks for dinner and overnight stay.
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04 Day 4: Kom Ombo & Sail to Aswan
Enjoy breakfast while sailing along the Nile to Kom Ombo. In the afternoon, explore:
Kom Ombo Temple
Built in the Ptolemaic period, Kom Ombo is a unique double temple dedicated to Sobek and Horus. Known for its symmetrical design, ancient surgical carvings, and a museum of mummified crocodiles, it offers insight into Egyptian religion and daily life.
After the temple visit, sail to Sheikh Fadel Island.
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05 Day 5: Check-out & Aswan Highlights
As you savor a delicious breakfast on your Nile Cruise& you will Check-out From the Dahabyia you will have the opportunity to explore the amazing sights of Aswan with your expert Egyptologist Tour Guide. You will discover the rich history and culture of this ancient city, as you visit some of its most famous attractions, such as:
Philae Temple
Philae Temple, dedicated to Isis, was built during the Ptolemaic and Roman eras. Famous for its elegant reliefs, it was relocated to Agilkia Island to protect it from flooding. It stands today as a symbol of ancient faith and preservation.
Next, visit the imposing High Dam, which impounds the Nile to Lake Nasser, with both positive and negative effects.
Aswan High Dam
The Aswan High Dam, completed in 1970, controls Nile floods, generates power, and creates Lake Nasser. It advanced Egypt’s development but required relocating ancient sites like Abu Simbel.
then you will be transferred to your hotel or Aswan Airport
Availability
This tour departs on the following days. Send us your preferred date and we will confirm availability for you.
- Saturday
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 Is the Best Time for a Nile River Cruise in Egypt?
The best time to enjoy a Nile River Cruise in Egypt is between late October and mid-April, when the weather is pleasantly mild and ideal for sightseeing. This period offers the most comfortable climate for exploring ancient temples and cruising along the Nile without the intense summer heat. However, keep in mind that Christmas and Easter are considered peak seasons, with higher prices and increased demand. To enjoy a magical and affordable Nile cruise experience, it's best to plan around these holidays—and with our tailored packages, you’ll always get the best value, no matter the season.
What Are the Best Prices for a Nile River Cruise in Egypt?
Sailing the Nile River is one of Egypt’s most unforgettable travel experiences, and there are a variety of Nile cruise options to suit every budget. The most popular and recommended categories are 5-star and 5-star High Deluxe Nile cruises, offering luxurious comfort, guided tours, and top-tier amenities. Prices vary depending on the cruise type, facilities, and travel season—especially during peak times like Christmas and Easter when rates are higher. For the best Nile River cruise prices and exclusive deals, explore our handpicked packages tailored to give you the perfect balance of quality and value.
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 Facilities on a Nile River Cruise?
A luxury Nile River cruise in Egypt is essentially a fully equipped floating hotel, offering all the comfort and amenities you would expect from a 5-star resort. Onboard facilities typically include a sun deck with panoramic views, an indoor swimming pool, spa and beauty center, restaurant, lounge bar, discotheque, and even gift shops. Guests can also enjoy services like laundry, a safe deposit box, and a variety of entertainment options, ensuring a relaxing and enjoyable journey as you cruise between Egypt’s most iconic ancient landmarks.
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.
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