A Nile cruise is one of the most iconic and relaxing ways to explore Egypt's treasures.
Sailing between Luxor and Aswan, you’ll uncover timeless temples, scenic river landscapes, and unforgettable sunsets; all from the comfort of your floating hotel.
In this guide, discover the best Nile cruise tickets, routes, and practical advice to help you plan the perfect trip.
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Also read:
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eSIM for Egypt
Quick Comparison of the Best Nile Cruises
Choosing the right Nile cruise depends on how much time you have, what kind of journey you’re looking for, and where you want to start your trip, whether from Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, or the Red Sea.
Below is a comparison of the most popular Nile cruises in Egypt, based on traveler reviews and recent bookings, making it easy to find the one that best fits your travel style.
4-Day Aswan to Luxor | 4-Day Cairo to Aswan + Balloon | 5-Day Luxor to Aswan + Balloon | 5-Day Hurghada to Luxor + Abu Simbel | 8-Day Egypt Tour + Cruise | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Nile Cruise |  |  |  |  |  |
RATING | 4.1/5 (460+ reviews) | 4.3/5 (20+ reviews) | 4.3/5 (100+ reviews) | 4.4/5 (10+ reviews) | 4.3/5 (170+ reviews) |
DURATION | 4 days | 4 days | 5 days | 5 days | 8 days |
ROUTE | Aswan → Luxor | Cairo → Luxor → Aswan → Cairo | Luxor → Aswan | Hurghada → Luxor → Aswan → Hurghada | Cairo → Luxor → Aswan → Cairo |
KEY INCLUSIONS | Guided tours, full-board, optional Abu Simbel tour | Domestic flights, Balloon ride, guided tours, full-board, Horse carriage to Temple of Horus | VIP Balloon ride, guided tours, full-board, Felucca ride | Beach transfer, guided tours, meals, Horse and carriage to Edfu Temple | Domestic flights, Cairo tours + 3 night accommodation in Cairo, 4-night accommodation on cruise, tours |
BEST FOR | Travelers already in Aswan or planning a classic Nile cruise route | First-time Egypt visitors starting from Cairo who want to see the highlights in one trip | Slow travelers, photographers, and those starting in Luxor | Travelers staying in Hurghada who want to explore Ancient Egypt | Travelers who want a fully planned Egypt vacation with flights, hotels, and guided tours |
PRICE FOR ADULTS | From $380 | From $700 | From $500 | From $689 | From $1400 |
Best Nile Cruises in Egypt: Details & Tickets
Here’s a closer look at the Nile cruises from the table above, including what’s included, who they’re best for, and insider tips for each route.
1) 4-Day Nile Cruise from Aswan to Luxor
A classic four-day journey from Aswan to Luxor, visiting Kom Ombo, Edfu, Karnak Temple, and the Valley of the Kings. Includes full-board meals and guided temple visits.
- ✅ Guided tours, full-board meals, optional Abu Simbel tour
- 🔎 Insider tip: Ask for a cabin on the upper deck for better views.
- 🎯 Best for: Travelers already in Aswan or planning a classic Nile cruise route
🎟️ See our handpicked 4-Day Nile Cruise from Aswan to Luxor ➤ See Details
2) 4-Day Cairo to Aswan Nile Cruise + Balloon Ride
Fly from Cairo to Luxor, then cruise from Luxor to Aswan with stops at all the major temples. The tour ends with a flight back to Cairo, making it a great round trip.
- ✅ Domestic flights, balloon ride, guided tours, full-board, horse carriage to Edfu
- 🔎 Insider tip: Book your balloon ride early to secure your sunrise slot.
- 🎯 Best for: First-time Egypt visitors starting from Cairo who want to see the highlights in one trip
🎟️ See our handpicked 4-Day Cairo to Aswan Nile Cruise + Balloon Ride ➤ See Details & Book in Advance!
3) 5-Day Luxor to Aswan Nile Cruise + Balloon Ride
This relaxed one-way five-day cruise from Luxor to Aswan includes all the must-see temples plus a magical hot air balloon ride. Extra time on board makes it perfect for slow travel.
- ✅ VIP balloon ride, guided tours, full-board meals, felucca ride in Aswan
- 🔎 Insider tip: Bring small cash for optional temple entrances.
- 🎯 Best for: Slow travelers, photographers, and those starting in Luxor
🎟️ See our handpicked 5-Day Luxor to Aswan Nile Cruise + Balloon Ride ➤ See Details & Book in Advance!
4) 5-Day Hurghada to Luxor + Abu Simbel Nile Cruise
Combine a Red Sea beach holiday with a cultural cruise. Start in Hurghada, transfer to Luxor, then sail to Aswan with stops at all major temples, including Abu Simbel.
- ✅ Beach transfer, guided tours, meals, horse carriage to Edfu Temple
- 🔎 Insider tip: Perfect way to combine beach time with Egypt’s ancient highlights.
- 🎯 Best for: Travelers staying in Hurghada who want to explore Ancient Egypt
🎟️ See our handpicked 5-Day Hurghada to Luxor + Abu Simbel Nile Cruise ➤ See Details & Book in Advance!
5) 8-Day Egypt Tour Package with Nile Cruise
A complete Egypt experience. Start in Cairo, fly to Luxor, cruise to Aswan, and return to Cairo. Includes Cairo’s top attractions, flights, hotels, and a full 4-night cruise.
- ✅ Domestic flights, Cairo tours, 3 nights in Cairo, 4-night cruise, guided tours
- 🔎 Insider tip: Great for first-timers who want everything arranged for them.
- 🎯 Best for: Travelers who want a fully planned Egypt vacation with flights, hotels, and guided tours
🎟️ See our handpicked 8-Day Egypt Tour Package with Nile Cruise ➤ See Details & Book in Advance!
How to Book a Nile Cruise
Booking your Nile cruise in advance is highly recommended, especially during the peak travel season from October to April, when cruises often sell out. You can easily compare itineraries, read verified traveler reviews, and secure your preferred departure dates through trusted platforms like GetYourGuide.
Many cruise tours include helpful extras such as hotel pickup, domestic flights, guided temple visits, and even hot air balloon rides. Always check what’s included before confirming your booking to avoid extra costs later.
- Tip: Keep in mind that some ships, although rated 5-star, are older and may offer lower service quality—always check recent reviews before booking.
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Where Do Nile Cruises Depart From?
Most Nile cruises sail between Luxor and Aswan, visiting Egypt’s top temple sites along the way.
- Luxor to Aswan: The most popular route (3–5 days)
- Aswan to Luxor: Same highlights, reversed
- Cairo to Aswan: Longer, less common route (7–8 days)
- Hurghada to Luxor: Cruise with transfer from the Red Sea
Travel tip: Cairo is the main international gateway. Domestic flights and trains connect Cairo with Luxor and Aswan.
What to Expect on a Nile Cruise?
A Nile cruise is the perfect blend of cultural discovery and relaxing slow travel. Here’s what your experience typically includes:
Life on Board
- Comfortable cabins: Most ships offer air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms and river views.
- Full-board meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are usually served buffet-style, featuring Egyptian and international dishes.
- Rooftop sundecks: Great for relaxing between excursions and watching life along the Nile.
- Evening entertainment: Some cruises feature local music, dance performances, or themed nights.
Guided Excursions
- Egyptologist guides: Lead daily visits to temples like Karnak, Philae, Edfu, and Kom Ombo.
- Efficient touring: You'll often visit temples in the early morning to avoid the midday heat.
- Optional tours: Many cruises offer add-ons like Abu Simbel tours or hot air balloon rides over Luxor.
Cruise Styles
- Standard Nile cruises: Larger ships with 40–80 cabins, ideal for most travelers.
- Luxury Nile cruises: 5-star vessels with spa services, fine dining, and upgraded amenities.
- Dahabiya cruises: Smaller, traditional sailboats offering an intimate and quiet experience, perfect for private groups.
Practical Tips
- Cruise ships dock near the major sights, but some walking and transfers are still required.
- Expect a relaxed onboard pace, with busy mornings and free afternoons.
- Wi-Fi may be available, but is often limited and slow.
What is the Best Time to Cruise the Nile?
The ideal time for a Nile cruise is October to April, when daytime temperatures are cooler for sightseeing.
June to August: Hot and dry, but with fewer crowds and lower prices
What to Pack for a Nile Cruise?
Pack light but smart for your Nile cruise, keeping Egypt’s sun, temple visits, and cooler evenings in mind.
Essentials:
- Breathable clothing: Light cotton or linen for daytime, plus a light jacket for evenings.
- Modest outfits: Cover shoulders and knees for temple visits.
- Comfortable walking shoes: For uneven temple paths.
- Swimsuit & sandals: For the cruise pool and relaxing on deck.
- Sun protection: Hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen.
- Reusable water bottle & power bank: Stay hydrated and charged during tours.
- Small backpack: Carry essentials during excursions.
Useful Extras:
- Hand sanitizer & tissues for temple stops
- Basic medication for sun, dust, or stomach discomfort
- Binoculars or camera for landscapes and temples
- Travel adapter (Type C or F, 220V)
Pro Tip: Most Nile cruise ships offer laundry services—no need to overpack.
Are Nile Cruises Safe?
Nile cruises are considered safe when booked through licensed tour operators. Tourist areas along the Nile are well-secured, and cruises follow strict safety standards. The Tourism and Antiquities Police are present at major sites and along the cruise routes, providing additional protection for travelers (official travel advice).
- Health tip: Drink only bottled water and follow your guide’s advice during excursions.
FAQ - Nile Cruise
Most travelers choose a 4 to 5-day cruise between Luxor and Aswan, which covers the major temples and allows time to enjoy the river scenery. If you want a more relaxed pace or to combine Cairo and the Nile, consider an 8-day tour that includes flights and hotels.
Yes, a Nile cruise is one of the best ways to explore Egypt’s ancient sites in comfort. You’ll visit temples that are difficult to reach on your own, enjoy expert-guided tours, and relax on board while sailing through scenic landscapes. It combines culture, relaxation, and convenience in one trip.
Egypt has several luxury cruise ships, with some of the most renowned being the Mövenpick MS Royal Lily, the Sonesta St. George I, and the Oberoi Zahra. These ships offer fine dining, spa services, spacious cabins, and top-tier service for a 5-star experience. Dahabiya boats also provide a boutique luxury option.
>> See our recommended cruises above for the most popular options with great reviews.
Prices vary by ship, season, and inclusions. On average:
- Standard 4–5 day cruises: Start from $380 to $700 per person with full-board meals and guided tours.
- Luxury cruises: Range from $900 to $2,000+ per person, depending on the ship and services.
- Budget options: May be available for under $350, but usually with fewer inclusions.
For the best experience, book a mid-range or luxury cruise that includes all your tours and transport.
Plan Your Nile Cruise in Egypt
A Nile cruise is more than just a journey — it’s a chance to experience Egypt’s ancient wonders in comfort and style. Whether you’re looking for a short escape or a full cultural tour, there’s a cruise to match your travel style.