Have you ever wondered if a short river trip can unlock the full wonder of ancient Egypt? I ask this because many travelers think long voyages are required to see the best sites — but that is not always true.
I’m your guide from Egypt Cruise Planners, and I design itineraries for curious travelers worldwide. In just three nights, this classic route visits Philae Temple, Kom Ombo, Edfu, and both banks of Luxor — with options like a pre-dawn Abu Simbel add-on.
I handle your arrival, cabin choice, and smooth departure so you can relax and focus on temples and tombs. Pickups from the airport, train station, or hotel are arranged, and drop-off often goes to Luxor Airport.
Below you’ll find a clear day-by-day tour, cabin categories, sample prices per person, and practical booking notes — including date options, seasonal price tips, and cancellation policies. Ready to pick a date and secure your spot?
Key Takeaways
- Short, well-paced itinerary covers major temples and royal tombs.
- I provide pick-up, logistics, and clear briefings for each day.
- Cabin categories and sample prices per person are shown for easy comparison.
- Flexible options include an early Abu Simbel add-on for eager travelers.
- Booking notes cover dates, payment, and common cancellation rules.
Welcome aboard — I’m your guide from Egypt Cruise Planners
I’m your on-the-ground host and your friendly point of contact. From your first message I line up pickup details, cabin assignment, and a quick walk-through so you feel settled right away.
Expect to meet me on arrival at the airport, the train station, or your hotel lobby — I’ll be waiting with a sign and a clear plan. Real guests consistently praise our guiding team for their expert storytelling, warm hospitality, and thoughtful care throughout the journey.
I’ve spent years running this exact route, so I know when to pace visits and when to pause and enjoy the view as the Nile river glides by.
- I brief you each morning and answer questions in plain language.
- I make sure your room is clean, comfortable, and set the way you like it.
- If plans change, I communicate fast and fix issues so you always know what’s next.
My goal is simple: connect you with Egypt’s stories, handle logistics with warm service, and make every tour feel like a relaxed, meaningful visit on board the boat.
Quick trip snapshot: route, rhythm, and highlights
This short voyage packs iconic temples and calm river hours into a tidy, easy-to-follow plan. I guide you through an efficient itinerary that matches sightseeing with relaxed moments on deck.
Day flow and pace: Check-in in Aswan, a first visit to Philae Temple and the High Dam, then lunch and a sunset felucca sail. An optional Abu Simbel early run sits before we head upriver toward Kom Ombo.
Next, morning at Edfu then onward sailing that brings you to grand avenues at Karnak and dusk at Luxor Temple. The final departure morning covers the West Bank — Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut, and the Colossi of Memnon.
- I stagger meals and site times to avoid crowds and keep the tour unhurried.
- Each day balances early starts for cooler time with relaxed afternoons onboard.
- You’ll get clear briefings so you know meeting points and exact departure times.
| Day | Main Sites | Typical Time | Meals |
| 1 | Philae Temple, High Dam, felucca | Check-in morning, sunset felucca | Lunch, Dinner |
| 2 | Optional Abu Simbel, Kom Ombo | Early start (if added), afternoon sail | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
| 3 | Edfu, Karnak, Luxor Temple | Morning visit, evening temples | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
| 4 | Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut | Early morning, then departure | Breakfast |
Who this cruise suits (and how we host travelers from around the world)
This trip fits people who want great sights without long travel days or complicated logistics. I’m your guide from Egypt Cruise Planners, welcoming travelers from the United States and beyond.
Reviews highlight attentive guides and clean, modern cabins. I work to keep the accommodation tidy and your room arranged how you prefer. Children often get reduced pricing, and private supplements are available on request.
I’ll be frank about busy docks and how boats may sit side by side on a given date. When that happens, I choose the best viewpoint and share the plan before each visit.
- Couples: quiet sunsets and well-appointed cabins.
- Families: structured days, safety briefings, extra-bed setups.
- Solo travelers: communal meals and easy introductions to fellow guests.
- Mobility needs: I arrange gentler routes and the right person-to-guide ratio.
| Traveler | Why it fits | Notes |
| Couples | Romantic pace, deck views | Comfortable accommodation |
| Families | Clear schedule, safety | Rooms set for extra beds |
| Photographers | Golden-hour moments | Planned deck time |
You’ll get years of local insight and practical service that make each person’s visit easy and memorable.
3 Night Nile Cruise from Aswan to Luxor
Let me map the days for you — clear, relaxed, and rich with history. I walk you through each day so you know when we move and when we linger. This Nile cruise balances early walks at ruins with peaceful deck time.
Day 1 begins when I meet you in Aswan. We take a short boat ride to Philae temple, then return for check-in, lunch, and a felucca sundowner that eases you into the tour.
Day 2 offers the abu simbel option. If you choose it, we leave pre-dawn and I arrange snacks and a comfy vehicle. Back aboard, we sail toward kom ombo for the double sanctuary and its crocodile displays.
Day 3 we visit Edfu temple at opening, then head upriver for Karnak and an evening at Luxor Temple.
Day 4 we cross for the valley kings (optional Tut), Hatshepsut temple, and the Colossi of Memnon before your transfer.
- I plan cooler walking slots and relaxed sail times.
- I flag great photo spots and highlight key reliefs.
- Every visit is paced so the temples feel memorable, not rushed.
| Day | Main Sites | Timing |
| 1 | Philae Temple, High Dam, felucca | Morning check-in, sunset sail |
| 2 | Optional Abu Simbel, Kom Ombo Temple | Early start if chosen, afternoon sail |
| 3 | Edfu Temple, Karnak, Luxor Temple | Morning opening, evening temples |
| 4 | Valley Kings, Hatshepsut Temple, Colossi | Early visits, then disembark |
What’s included and excluded in your cruise package
I believe clear booking details make travel easier — here’s what’s covered and what isn’t. I spell out inclusions so you can pack, plan, and relax.
I include a private meet-and-greet at the airport, train station, or hotel and all transfers by modern A/C vehicle. A professional Egyptologist joins the tour and entrance fees for the published highlights are covered.
Your stay is three nights on a quality 5-star boat with full-board meals. Expect breakfast, lunch, and dinner on board, plus all service charges and taxes.
- Included: meet-and-greet, transfers, guide, entrance fees, three nights on board, full-board meals, taxes.
- Excluded: optional excursions (for example Abu Simbel), beverages, personal expenses, and gratuities.
Discover what is included in a Nile Cruise package and understand exactly what you get before you choose your ship.
I’ll confirm exactly which meals are served each day — including the touring day in Luxor — so you always know what’s covered. Need a specific hotel drop-off or a domestic flight connection? Tell me early and I’ll coordinate it.
| Item | Status | Notes |
| Entrance fees | Included | Listed highlights only |
| Meals (breakfast, dinner) | Included | Some lunch arrangements may vary |
| Optional tours | Excluded | Booked and paid separately |
If you have dietary needs or want clear tipping guidance, I’ll handle it — I keep incidental costs transparent so your trip feels easy and honest.
Ships and cabin categories you can choose from
Every cruise ship has its own character, and I match your preference to the right category. Below I outline the typical accommodation levels so you know what to expect when you book.
I offer three main tiers, each named for clarity and comfort. Prices are quoted per person and single supplements apply when relevant.
- Standard Nile Cruise— reliable service, classic décor, and solid value. Examples: Princess Sarah, Royal Princess, Semiramis II, Zeina, Nile Quest.
- Deluxe Nile Cruise— upgraded finishes, nicer lobbies, and a broader buffet. Think Blue Shadow I Nile Cruise, Esmeralda Nile Cruise, Jaz Crown Jewel Nile Cruise, Al Kahila, Nile Style.
- Ultra Deluxe Nile Cruise— refined dining, softer linens, and attentive crew routines. Brands include Steigenberger, Movenpick, and Sonesta vessels.
Cabins range across lower and upper decks with picture windows; suites are available on many boats. Tell me if you want a quieter room mid-ship or a view-forward room for sunrise — I’ll advise which room suits light sleepers or view lovers.
| Category | Sample boats | What improves |
| 5* Standard | Princess Sarah, Nile Quest | Price-friendly, basic comforts |
| 5* Deluxe | Blue Shadow, Esmeralda | Better finishes, expanded buffet |
| 5* Ultra Deluxe | Steigenberger, Movenpick | Fine dining, polished service |
I’ll confirm the exact boat and room layout before departure, and as your tour guide I coordinate a smooth check-in so your luggage and room are ready when you arrive.
Onboard facilities and cabin comforts you’ll enjoy
You’ll notice the difference the moment you cross the gangway: calm decks, bright cabins, and the steady rhythm of the Nile river nearby.
Bright, tidy rooms make downtime easy. Large panoramic windows, crisp linens, and smart storage keep your gear neat. Every room has A/C, an LCD TV, a mini-bar, and a private bathroom with a bathtub and hairdryer.
On the sun deck you’ll find loungers, a small pool, and open views — perfect for coffee at breakfast or a quiet hour before dinner.
- Housekeeping keeps cabins spotless; tell me if you want extra water or pillows.
- Most boats offer laundry, room service, a gym, and in-room safes for passports and valuables.
- Evenings often include a fun galabia party — a light cultural moment for everyone aboard the board.
I’ll brief you about mooring. Boats sometimes tie side-by-side and window views can change by night. I work with the crew to secure the best outlook and clear instructions for shore visits.
| Facility | Location | Guest benefit | Note |
| Panoramic windows | All guest rooms | Natural light and scenic views | Visibility may vary when moored alongside other vessels |
| Sun deck & pool | Top deck | Relaxation and skyline views | Great for morning coffee and sunset photos |
| Private bathroom | Each room | Comfort and privacy | Bathtub and hairdryer included |
| Dining & kitchen | Main deck | Varied meals, vegetarian options | Tell me your needs early and I’ll coordinate with the chef |
Meals on board: breakfast, lunch, and dinner rhythm
Meals aboard set the rhythm of our days and keep you fueled for every temple visit. I plan meal time so you get coffee and a quick bite before early starts and a relaxed lunch after morning touring.
Breakfast tends to be early on site days — I arrange wake-up calls so you have time for fruit, fresh bakes, and coffee. If you choose the Abu Simbel option, I organize boxed breakfasts so your morning starts strong.
Lunch is timed around sailing windows. Back on the boat you’ll find salads, grills, and regional classics served buffet-style. Dinners can be buffet or set menu; I’ll confirm the plan each morning so you know what to expect.
I balance heavy walking with meal breaks. That way you never feel rushed between plates and pillars. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-light choices are easy to arrange — tell me your preferences and I’ll pass them to the chef.
Explore Nile Cruise food offerings—from local Egyptian dishes to international cuisine served on deck.
- Water, tea, and coffee are available throughout; other beverages depend on the boat and package.
- On long sailing stretches we may add a light snack hour on deck for a small treat.
| Meal | Typical time | Example dishes | Notes |
| Breakfast | Early morning | Fresh bread, fruit, eggs, coffee | Wake-up calls for site days; boxed option for early excursions |
| Lunch | Midday after touring | Salads, grilled fish, Egyptian stews | Served on board during sailing windows |
| Dinner | Evening | Buffet or set menu, desserts | I confirm format each morning; special diets accommodated |
Seamless arrivals and departures: where we meet you
From the moment you step off the plane or train, I take care of the details. Upon arrival in Aswan I’ll be waiting with a sign, your name, and a clear plan for the day.
I coordinate pickups at the train station, airport, or your hotel — whichever fits your schedule. Transfers run in modern A/C vehicles and include door-to-door luggage service so you walk aboard hands-free.
When the tour ends, your departure is simple. I arrange timely drop-offs to luxor airport or local hotels and confirm each person’s transfer in writing.
- I confirm vehicle type, guide contact, and backup plans before your date.
- If flights or plans change, tell me early and I’ll re-time transfers and touring windows.
- Need domestic flights arranged? Share passports and preferences and I’ll present options that fit the tour flow.
Everything is built for clarity, comfort, and zero guesswork. I handle logistics so you focus on the temples, photos, and moments that matter during the cruise aswan and the nile cruise experience.
| Service | Where | What I provide |
| Meet-and-greet | Airport / Train station / Hotel | Sign, name pickup, welcome briefing |
| Transfers | To and from ship | Modern A/C vehicle, door-to-door luggage handling |
| Final drop-off | Luxor Airport / Local hotels | On-time transfer, written confirmation for each person |
| Flight help | Domestic connections | Options arranged on request; passports and preferences needed |
Abu Simbel as an optional excursion: is it worth the early start?
An early start can turn a long road into one of your favorite travel memories. If you choose the Abu simbel visit, you meet the twin temples of Ramses II and Nefertari at first light. Their size and the relocation story still amaze visitors and engineers alike.
Practical plan: We leave pre-dawn with a boxed breakfast and coffee. I arrange comfortable vehicles, planned rest stops, and a clear schedule so you return in time for the afternoon sail toward Kom Ombo on most itineraries.
Inside the temples, I point out key reliefs quickly, then give you space for photos or quiet awe. If you prefer to sleep in, you’ll still enjoy a relaxed morning, deck time, and a later visit at Kom Ombo.
- If you have the curiosity and energy, this optional excursion is a day to remember.
- Families may split choices; I coordinate so each person gets the day they want.
- The extra cost is shown clearly before you book — I handle confirmations and logistics.
| Item | Start time | What I provide | Return |
| Abu Simbel visit | Pre-dawn | Boxed breakfast, transport, guide | Mid/late afternoon, ready for Kom Ombo sail |
| Sleep-in alternative | Morning | Leisurely breakfast, deck time, later temple visit | Same afternoon sailing schedule |
| Family split option | Varied | Coordinated pickups, separate transfers | Everyone rejoins ship before departure |
Prices and seasons: sample per-person rates and what affects your total
I’ll show sample rates and explain what changes the final total so you can compare quickly.
How pricing works: Prices vary by boat category — Standard, Deluxe, and Ultra Deluxe — and by the season. Peak holiday periods (Christmas, New Year, Easter) push rates up and cabins sell fast.
Sample market rates (per person):
| Category | Low season (per person) | Peak season (per person) |
| 5* Standard | $420 | $620 |
| 5* Deluxe | $560 | $820 |
| 5* Ultra Deluxe | $760 | $1,150 |
| Notes | Boats are usually assigned about a week before departure; exact totals include optional extras. |
- I quote a clear base price and list optional add-ons so your final amount is transparent.
- Rates are per person; single supplements and child discounts often apply.
- Free cancellation up to 48 hours is common outside peak dates — I’ll confirm your policy at booking.
- If your dates are flexible, I’ll suggest quieter windows on the aswan luxor route for better value.
Ready to lock a date? Book early for choice and steadier prices. I’ll send a simple invoice and a payment link with no hidden fees.
Find out how much a Nile River Cruise costs and compare packages to suit your budget and preferences.
Real guest experiences: what recent travelers loved (and what we improved)
Real traveler stories show what works well on board and where I keep improving. Guests consistently praise our guides for their knowledge, kindness, and attentiveness. Their warmth often turns a tour moment into a lasting memory.
People frequently mention clean, modern cabins and varied buffets. A bright room and good food make long days feel easy. Many say the long Edfu–Luxor sail is their favorite calm time.
I plan site timing to avoid crowds whenever possible. A small shift in time gives quieter access at key temples and deeper enjoyment of the ruins.
I also listen to what needs fixing. Side-by-side mooring sometimes limits views. Clusters of diesel boats can bring engine noise or smell. Once, a morning schedule shifted and we had a short idle — I apologized and adjusted the rest of the day.
- I brief you the night before when port congestion is likely.
- I aim for lighter-traffic windows and ask crews to minimize idling.
- I communicate changes early and offer clear backup plans.
| What guests love | Examples | What I improved |
| Guides | Our expert team provides attentive care and engaging storytelling throughout your Nile Cruise. | Clear daily briefings |
| Cabins & food | Modern rooms, varied buffets | Better room positioning requests |
| Relaxed sailing | Quiet deck time | Reduced idling where possible |
If you want honest tips before you book, ask me — I’ll share my recommendations for the Best Time for a Nile Cruise and the ideal windows for a smooth Aswan experience.
Booking your dates, payments, and flexible cancellation
Booking is easy — tell me your preferred date and I’ll hold space while we confirm details. Choose a cabin category, complete the booking form, and I’ll reply with a clear price per person and a summary of what’s included.
Deposits are secure and simple. Balance timing aligns with your departure so there are no surprises. Outside peak holidays, many operators offer free cancellation up to 48 hours before travel.
If you need help arranging domestic flights, I’ll present options that fit your tour windows and connect smoothly with transfers.
- I quote the total cost per person, confirm inclusions, and outline cancellation terms before payment.
- Once paid, you receive an instant confirmation and a practical pre-departure brief.
- You’ll have my contact details for quick questions — visas, room requests, or timing tweaks.
| Step | What I do | Benefit |
| Choose date & category | Hold space, confirm add-ons | Fast reservation |
| Pay deposit | Secure booking, note balance | Predictable payments |
| Pre-departure | Send briefing and contacts | Stress-free arrival |
The process is fast and human — reserve in minutes, then let me carry the planning load so you can look forward to the experience.
Conclusion
Imagine stepping aboard and finding the river’s history unfolding by the hour as you relax on deck.
This short cruise visits Philae, Kom Ombo, Edfu, Karnak, Luxor Temple, the Valley of the Kings, and Hatshepsut — with an optional Abu Simbel add-on for early risers.
I handle pick-up in Aswan and the final drop-off in Luxor, so logistics are simple and your departure is smooth.
Tell me your preferred date, cabin style, party size, and must-see stops. I’ll confirm a clear price per person and secure rooms and transfers right away.
If you want the essence of the river in just a few days, this aswan luxor route is the sweet spot. Message me and I’ll set everything in motion — one guide, one plan, no guesswork. I can’t wait to welcome you aboard and show you these timeless sites.