For a long time, cruises on the River Nile have been taking holidaymakers on a magical journey back in time along this wonderful river. A combination of exploring the wonders of age-old Egypt combined with a peaceful journey south from Luxor to Aswan is ever sought after with travellers.
A regular River Nile cruise lasts seven nights and operate Monday to Monday. Direct flights from Britain bring visitors to Luxor and then they are moved to their cruise ship to check in. The next morning, the journey into ancient Egypt begins with a have a look at to the East Bank of the Nile at Luxor such as the Temples of Karnak and Luxor.
The following day, the sightseeing heads over to the West Bank of the Nile which includes the Valley of the Kings prior to returning to the boat for lunch. Immediately after lunch, the cruise leaves Luxor proceeding south for Edfu. Soon after an overnight mooring at Edfu, there are further excursions to temples at both Edfu and Kom Ombo just before sailing on to Aswan.
The following morning, its time to explore Aswan and a more advanced construction; the Aswan High Dam. Built in the 1950s, the Aswan High Dam created Lake Nasser, itself a cruise choice. After lunch, there is time to sail on a traditional Egyptian Felucca along this very scenic section of the river. The Cataract Hotel in Aswan looks out onto the river and it is the place where Agatha Christie authored part of her celebrated novel, “Death on the Nile”.
Immediately after an overnight stop in Aswan, there is some time available to explore the town or alternatively, there is an optional visit to the impressive Temple of Abu Simbel at the southern end of Lake Nasser. It is quite a distance to Abu Simbel, either 45 minutes by air or three hours but it is worthwhile the time and effort.
Aswan is the turnaround point for cruises and now the cruise boat heads back north the 80 miles to Luxor. The journey lasts 2 days with an overnight stop at Edfu just before heading back to Luxor. The week sailing along the River Nile is over and holiday makers return to the airport and home.
