8 Days Dahabiya Nile River Cruise From Luxor

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  • Duration8 Days - 7 Nights
  • PickupLuxor
  • AvailabilityEveryday

Overview

Embark on an extraordinary 8-day journey through the heart of ancient Egypt on our Dahabiya Nile cruise. Commencing in Luxor, your adventure begins with visits to the awe-inspiring Karnak and Luxor Temples, steeped in millennia of history. As you drift along the Nile, each day unveils a series of remarkable encounters. Explore the remarkably well-preserved Edfu Temple, uncover the splendor of the Abu Simbel Temples, and discover the marvels of Aswan, which include the High Dam, the Unfinished Obelisk, and the Philae Temple.

Your voyage continues with visiting the unique Kom Ombo Temple before returning to Luxor to explore the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut Temple, and the Colossi of Memnon. Throughout your expedition, you’ll relish comfortable accommodations aboard the Dahabiya, savor exquisite meals, and benefit from the insights of your personal Egyptologist guide. Immerse yourself in the timeless wonders of Egypt’s ancient civilization, from monumental temples to awe-inspiring landscapes, and leave with a treasure trove of lifelong memories.

Tour highlights:

  • Begin your Dahabiya journey in Luxor with guided visits to Karnak Temple and Luxor Temple on the East Bank.
  • Explore Karnak’s vast complex, including the Avenue of Sphinxes, Amun-Re precinct, and the great hypostyle hall.
  • Discover Luxor Temple, the birthplace of kingship, dedicated to Amun, Mut, and Khonsu.
  • Relax and enjoy the scenic sail toward Edfu aboard your traditional Dahabiya.
  • Visit the exceptionally preserved Edfu Temple, where Horus’ mythological battle with Set is immortalized.
  • Embark on a special excursion to Abu Simbel, Ramses II’s monumental temples honoring gods and Queen Nefertari.
  • Tour Aswan’s highlights: the engineering marvel of the High Dam, the colossal Unfinished Obelisk, and Philae Temple of Isis.
  • Discover Kom Ombo Temple, a rare double temple dedicated to Sobek and Horus the Elder.
  • Journey to Luxor’s West Bank to explore the Valley of the Kings, with tombs of pharaohs including Tutankhamun and Ramses II.
  • Admire Hatshepsut’s stunning mortuary temple and the iconic Colossi of Memnon before concluding your cruise in Luxor.

Day-to-day Itinerary

Day 1: Luxor East Bank Exploration

Your adventure commences in the morning as you rendezvous with your dedicated tour guide. Together, you’ll set sail on an extraordinary 7-night Dahabiya Nile cruise from Luxor, embarking on a journey to explore the historical wonders of Luxor’s East Bank, including:

Karnak Temple: Travel through time at the venerable Karnak Temple, known by various names during its 2000-year history. Whether called Ipet-isu, “The Most Select of Places,” during the Middle Kingdom, or Pr-Imn, the “House of Amun,” this sprawling complex, spanning 247 acres of sacred land, has stood as the world’s largest and most ancient religious center since its construction between 2000 BC and 30 BC. It’s a masterpiece of ancient art connected to Luxor Temple by the magical Avenue of Sphinxes, and it boasts architectural wonders like the Precinct of Amun-Re and the awe-inspiring great hypostyle hall.

Luxor Temple: Journey to the hallowed Luxor Temple, the birthplace of kingship. Erected in 1400 BC, this temple pays homage to the Theban triad of Amun, Mut, and Khonsu. It hosts the Opet festival, celebrating kingship’s rejuvenation and the harmonious union of the human and divine realms.

Later in the day, you’ll be transported from Luxor to Esna, where your Dahabiya awaits. Here, you’ll enjoy a delectable dinner on board your Nile boat, savoring the first of many memorable evenings.

Overnight On Dahabiya

Meals: Lunch & Dinner

Day 2: Sailing Toward Edfu

On the second day of your 8-day Dahabiya Nile River cruise from Luxor, you have the freedom to revel in the joys of the Dahabiya while gracefully sailing toward the historic city of Edfu.

Overnight on Dahabiya

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 3: Edfu Temple Exploration - Voyage to Aswan

Awaken to a delightful breakfast, followed by a unique experience. You’ll journey with your personal Egyptologist in a horse-drawn carriage to explore:

Edfu Temple: Discover the divine tale in Edfu Temple, a mythical narrative of Horus seeking vengeance against his evil uncle Set. Erected between 237 BC and 57 BC on the west bank of the Nile in Upper Egypt, this temple is renowned for its exceptional preservation and archaeological significance.

Overnight on Dahabiya

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 4: Abu Simbel Temple Expedition

Early in the morning, enjoy your breakfast boxes before embarking on a private guided tour of the awe-inspiring Abu Simbel temples:

Abu Simbel Temples: Marvel at the majestic Temples of Abu Simbel, constructed by the illustrious Pharaoh Ramses the Great in 1200 B.C. These temples pay homage to Amun, Ra, and Ptah while showcasing the Pharaoh’s military prowess, particularly in the Battle of Kadesh. The grand temple of King Ramses II serves as the focal point for the celebrated sun festival, occurring on the 22nd of October and February each year. The second temple is a testament to his beloved Queen Nefertari.

Overnight On Dahabiya

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 5: Aswan Discovery

Savor a delightful breakfast and embark on the next leg of your 7-night Dahabiya Nile cruise as you explore the highlights of Aswan:

Aswan High Dam: Bear witness to the remarkable Aswan High Dam, a triumph of advanced engineering from the 1960s, designed to harness the annual floodwaters of the Nile while generating electricity.

The Unfinished Obelisk: Uncover the compelling mystery of the Unfinished Obelisk of Hatshepsut (1508-1458 BC), a colossal structure measuring 42 meters in height, abandoned in the bedrock before reaching its intended destination at Karnak Temple. It stands as a testament to what could have been the most magnificent obelisk ever created.

Philae Temple: Delve into the divine narrative of Philae Temple, crafted between 380-360 BC during the Ptolemaic era to honor the revered Isis, goddess of motherhood and healing. Its monumental walls tell the epic saga of Osiris’s wife and her son Horus.

Overnight On Dahabiya

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 6: Kom Ombo Temple Expedition - Return to Luxor

As you set sail to Kom Ombo in the morning, relish a sumptuous breakfast on board your Dahabiya. Upon arrival, join your knowledgeable tour guide to explore:

Kom Ombo Temple: Experience the splendor of Kom Ombo Temple, a unique architectural marvel divided into two temples featuring two entrances, two hypostyle halls, and two sanctuaries. Built between 180 BC and 47 BC, it pays tribute to Haroeris, “Horus the Elder,” and Sobek, the crocodile god of the Nile.

Overnight On Dahabiya

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 7: Luxor West Bank Expedition

Continue your enriching journey with your expert tour guide as you explore Luxor’s West Bank, commencing with:

Valley of the Kings: Embark on a voyage of discovery in the extraordinary Valley of the Kings, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers profound insights into the beliefs and mindset of one of the world’s most influential ancient civilizations. Unearthed within the Theban necropolis hills are 63 magnificent royal tombs, the final resting places of illustrious Pharaohs, including Ramses the Great, Hatshepsut, Seti I, Tutankhamen, and many more.

Hatshepsut Temple: Step into the mythical and elegant mortuary temple of Queen Hatshepsut (1507–1458 BC), a divine masterpiece of architectural artistry known as the “holy of the holies.” Erected in 1479 BC, it is a remarkable example of classical architecture from the New Kingdom, immortalizing her achievements and paying homage to the sun gods Amun, Hathor, and Anubis.

Colossi of Memnon: Marvel at the illuminating Colossi of Memnon, attributed to Pharaoh Amenhotep III (1386 – 1349 BC), which existed around 1350 BC. These imposing quartzite sandstone structures have witnessed historical renovations and bear intricate decorations depicting the Pharaoh’s family, accomplishments, and the likeness of the Nile god Hapi.

Overnight On Dahabiya

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 8: Departure

Check out after breakfast and transfer anywhere in Luxor to end your experience through the heart of Egypt.

Meals: Breakfast

Price Include
  • Pick up from and drop off From the Hotel or Airport
  • All transfers in a modern private air-conditioned vehicle
  • Accommodation on 5* Nile Cruise
  • English-speaking tour guide on board the cruise
  • Entrance fees to all sights in the itinerary
  • One complimentary bottle of water per person per day
  • All transfers are by A-C vehicles with qualified drivers
  • All service charges and taxes
Price Excludes
  • Any Extra meals and beverages.
  • All personal expenses.
  • Any Optional tours.
  • Tipping

Nile Cruise Booking Policy

Price Policy

At Book Nile Cruise, all prices are quoted in US Dollars (USD) per person, per trip. However, payment is also accepted in other major international currencies, calculated at the official daily exchange rate on the day of payment.

Our rates include:

  • Nile Cruise accommodation in your selected cabin type
  • Daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner on board
  • Guided sightseeing tours as per the cruise program
  • Transfers to/from the airport, train station, or hotel upon arrival

Important Notes on Pricing

  • A Triple Cabin is a standard double cabin with an extra bed or sofa bed.
  • Rates are subject to change in case of fluctuations in government taxes, transportation costs, or cruise rates.
  • Prices do not include travel insurance or Egypt entry visas.
  • Rates are not valid during Christmas, New Year, or Easter holidays.

What’s Included in Our Packages

Our published package prices for Nile Cruises typically cover:

  • Comfortable cruise accommodation (as outlined in your chosen itinerary)
  • Private or group transportation to and from the cruise
  • Professional, licensed tour guides during sightseeing tours
  • Daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner (as specified in your itinerary)
  • Entry tickets to the included attractions listed in the cruise program
  • Transfers to/from airports, train stations, or hotels (where applicable)
  • 24/7 on-ground support during your stay in Egypt

Please refer to your booking confirmation and itinerary for a precise list of inclusions and exclusions.

Holiday Supplement

A 25% surcharge applies to all Nile Cruises scheduled during Christmas, New Year, and Easter holidays due to peak season demand.

Children Policy

Book Nile Cruise welcomes families on board. Our child pricing is as follows:

  • Infants under 3 years: Free of charge
  • Children aged 3–11 years: Pay child rate when sharing a cabin with parents
  • Children 12 years and above: Charged the full adult rate

Children’s discounts apply only when sharing a cabin with two paying adults.

Booking Confirmation Policy

We aim to make booking simple and secure:

  • A 50% deposit is required to secure your Nile Cruise cabin.
  • The remaining balance must be paid at least 2 days before your arrival or in cash upon arrival to your tour manager.
  • Once your booking is confirmed, you will receive a confirmation voucher by email within 24 hours.

This ensures your cabin is guaranteed and reserved for your trip.

Cancellation & Refund Policy

We understand that travel plans may change. Our cancellation terms are:

  • More than 30 days before cruise date: 10% cancellation fee of the total package
  • 30–20 days before cruise date: 25% cancellation fee
  • 19–15 days before cruise date: 50% cancellation fee
  • 14–11 days before cruise date: 75% cancellation fee
  • 10 days or less before cruise date: 100% cancellation fee (no refund)

Refunds, where applicable, are processed within 14 working days upon receiving written cancellation notice.

Additional Expenses to Consider

While our packages are comprehensive, please budget separately for:

  • Beverages during meals, unless explicitly included
  • Personal purchases (souvenirs, snacks, etc.)
  • Optional activities or upgrades not listed in your package
  • Gratuities (tipping is customary on Nile Cruises)

Tipping Guidelines on Nile Cruises

Tipping, or baksheesh, is a well-established tradition in Egypt and a gesture of appreciation for good service. While not mandatory, it is highly encouraged. Below are suggested tipping amounts for Nile Cruise travelers:

  • Nile Cruise Crew: $5–$10 per person, per night (pooled among staff)
  • Tour Guides: $15–$20 per day (per group)
  • Drivers: $5–$10 per day (per group)
  • Hotel or Cruise Staff (porters, housekeeping): $1–$2 per service

Unless specifically stated, tipping is not included in your package price. We recommend preparing small bills in USD or Egyptian Pounds (EGP) for convenience.

Related FAQs

Can I get a refund if I cancel the tour?

The correct refund policy for tour cancellations depends on factors such as the tour operator, the agreed booking conditions, and the context of the cancellation. See our dedicated terms and conditions page or contact us directly to understand the details. Revealing the nuances of our cancellation and refund policy ensures a seamless experience.

Can I change the travel date?

It is usually possible to change your travel date, but specific conditions and fees may apply. A notable example is that airlines often expand date change options, albeit with change fees and fare spreads.

Scrutinizing the words of your ticket, along with the airline or agency’s policies, is vital to understanding your choices. Accommodations share this complexity and have different change policies. Some allow cost-effective changes within a set time frame, while others impose stricter fees or rules.

I recommend contacting the airline, hotel, or agency to gauge possible date changes and possible expenses. They will provide accurate, up-to-date details tailored to your situation. Before making travel arrangements, always evaluate our cancellation and change policies to understand your alternatives to unexpected modifications.

Do I need to apply visa?

Embarking on trips abroad often requires obtaining a visa in advance. The visa acts as an authorization approved by the host government and grants access and residence for a specified period. Some countries extend visa-waiver privileges to selected nationalities, allowing visa-free entry within specified time frames. However, these exemptions generally include conditions, such as the intention to travel or the length of stay.

Stay abreast of evolving visa requirements; It is wise to check for updates before confirming travel plans. Make sure to allow enough processing time, as visa issuance can take weeks or even months. If you need assistance obtaining a visa, do not hesitate to contact us. Your smooth travel experience is our priority.

How do I pay for the tour?

To book a tour with us, we require that it be paid at the time of booking. This is the only guarantee for you to book the tour.

Daily excursions:

We welcome cash payments at the start of the round if you prefer.

Multi-day trips:

A deposit is necessary for long-haul flights once the itinerary has been confirmed. This down payment ranges from 10% to 100% and depends on the tour and its duration, ensuring that you confidently venture.

Is gratuity included in the price?

On our offers and holidays, gratuities are excluded and are entirely at the discretion of our passengers. Although it is not mandatory, it carries the notable importance of the dedicated personnel who ensure your comfort and service throughout your journey. Your thoughtful acknowledgment of their efforts is deeply appreciated.

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