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Luxury Nile Cruises in Egypt: All You Need to Know

Have you started planning your vacation to Egypt, and are you struggling to choose the best Nile River cruise? I was in this situation before and I wanted someone to guide me through this process from asking about the cost, the timing, and if it is safe. I always see cruises that sail from Aswan and some sail from Luxor, and I didn't know the differences and what is better for my plan. All those questions came to my mind when I was planning my first vacation to visit Egypt, and I know that a vacation in Egypt without Nile Cruise Trip is not worth it, so I want to share with you my experience, providing you with valuable insights to ensure your experience exceeds expectations.

 

The Best Time to Visit Egypt:

Starting with the first thing that might come to your mind. "When should I travel to Egypt?" or "What is the perfect time that can give me the full enjoyment from my vacation?"

The answer is the optimal time for an Egypt vacation is from the end of October to the middle of April when temperatures are mild and comfortable for sightseeing. During this period, you'll avoid the scorching summer heat and enjoy pleasant weather ideal for exploring ancient temples and archaeological sites along the riverbanks of Luxor and Aswan. But keep in mind that this is the peak season, which means that the prices will be high and there will be a lot of people in each sightseeing you are going to visit. If you are someone who likes your own piece, going in these months will frustrate you.

Is the Nile River cruise a worthwhile activity?

Absolutely! A Nile River cruise offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Luxor and Aswan's rich history and culture while enjoying the utmost luxury and convenience from visiting ancient tombs and temples to witnessing breathtaking landscapes, a Nile cruise provides an unforgettable experience that's worth every penny. 

Why do some cruises sail from Aswan and others sail from Luxor, and what is the difference?


No matter which direction you sail, the river remains unchanged, and most tours are similar; it also depends on the company you are traveling with.

The main distinctions:

  • If you are sailing from Aswan to Luxor, the current can potentially lead to longer docking times, seen by some as less captivating
  • The 4-day Nile cruise itinerary starts from Aswan and the 5-day itinerary starts from Luxor

What is the newest Nile cruise ship?

The latest addition to the fleet of Nile cruise ships is the Viking Osiris, which was launched in 2023. This state-of-the-art vessel combines Scandinavian elegance with Egyptian charm, offering passengers a sophisticated and immersive journey along the storied river.

What are the different types of cruises on the Nile?

Nile cruises come in various classifications, including Affordable Nile Cruises, Standard Nile Cruises, Premium Nile Cruises, Luxury Nile Cruises, and private Dahabiya cruises. Each type caters to different preferences and budgets, with options ranging from intimate sailing experiences to lavish, all-inclusive voyages.

My recommendation for each category:


Affordable Nile Cruises: Chateau Lafayette, Princess Sarah

Standard Nile Cruises: Blue Shadow, Alyssa, Nile Style, Esmeralda, Nile Premium

Premium Nile Cruises: Sonesta Moon Goddess, Movenpick Royal Lily, Mayfair, Le Fayan

Luxury Nile CruisesFarah, Historia, Oberoi Zahra

private Dahabiya cruises: Nour El Nil Dahabiya, Merit Dahabiya, Sonesta Amirat Dahabiya

 

Is it safe to take a river cruise in Luxor & Aswan?

River cruises in Egypt are generally safe, with cruise lines implementing rigorous safety measures to ensure the well-being of passengers. Additionally, Egypt's tourism industry adheres to strict regulations and standards to maintain a secure environment for travelers.

Where is the best place to start a cruise on the Nile?

The most popular starting points for Nile cruises are Luxor and Aswan, two cities renowned for their historical significance and cultural attractions. Whether you begin your journey in Luxor, known as the "world's greatest open-air museum," or in Aswan, the gateway to ancient Nubia, you're guaranteed to encounter captivating sights and experiences along the way.

How many days do you need on a Nile cruise?

The duration of a Nile cruise varies depending on the itinerary and personal preferences. While some travelers opt for shorter 3 or 4-day cruises, others choose longer 7 or 8-day voyages to fully immerse themselves in the wonders of ancient Egypt. Ultimately, the ideal duration of your Nile cruise depends on the sites you wish to explore and the pace at which you prefer to travel.

In conclusion, a luxury cruise on the Nile offers an unparalleled blend of opulence, history, and adventure, making it a must-do experience for discerning travelers. With careful planning and consideration of factors such as timing, cost, and itinerary, you can embark on a journey of a lifetime along Egypt's iconic river.

Recommended Luxury Nile Cruise Packages:

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Egypt has many historical sites that you can visit and enjoy. Each tour is different and unique. If you go on a Nile cruise, you can visit Abu Simbel, Aswan, and Luxor in the South and enjoy the temples, tombs, and the treasures of the Nile. In the North, enjoy the Pyramids of Giza, The Egyptian Museum, Sakkara. Mosques, churches in Cairo, and many landmarks located in the city of Alexandria. On the East, Enjoy a beach tour for diving, snorkeling, and swimming in the Red sea. Every city has its charm, history, and flavor where you can do many tours and activities.

Your Egypt Tours is one of Egypt’s leading and most trusted travel agencies, known for its personalized service and expert care. As a top-rated company for Egypt tour packages, we ensure every Egypt trip is safe, seamless, and unforgettable,  offering competitive prices, excellent customer service, and the highest standards of quality. With us, you’re always in good hands.

The average cost of a one-week trip in Egypt is around 1600 USD, including visits to tombs, temples, and a Nile cruise. Prices vary depending on the Egypt tours and the level of luxury you choose.

It’s not recommended to drink tap water in Egypt, as it’s highly chlorinated and may cause stomach issues for travelers. During your Egypt tours, it’s best to drink bottled water and use tap water only for washing or brushing your teeth.
 

The best time to enjoy Egypt tours is from September to March, when the weather is mild and pleasant. During these months, temperatures are ideal for sightseeing and Nile cruises. Summer (May to September) can be very hot, but it’s also a good time for budget travelers.

Egypt is generally hot and sunny most of the year, with winter falling between November and January, and summer peaking from June to August. Winters are mild, while summers can get very hot, especially in Luxor and Aswan. The pleasant weather from September to March makes it the best time to enjoy Egypt tours and explore the country's top attractions comfortably.

Yes, Egypt is a very safe country to visit, with a low crime rate and strong security measures in all tourist areas. The government ensures that accommodations and attractions remain clean and well-monitored for travelers’ comfort. When you book Egypt tours, you’ll find professional guides and organized arrangements that make your trip worry-free and enjoyable.

Egypt offers adventures for every traveler. Explore the majestic Pyramids of Giza, sail along the Nile on a Luxury cruise between Luxor and Aswan, and discover ancient temples and tombs that tell the story of the Pharaohs. Dive or snorkel in the Red Sea at Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh, or enjoy a relaxing beach escape. Book one of our Egypt tours to experience the perfect mix of history, culture in one unforgettable journey.

Yes, you can, summer is still a great time to explore Egypt! While temperatures can rise to around 45°C, seaside resorts like Hurghada, Sharm El Sheikh, and Marsa Alam offer refreshing escapes with diving and snorkeling opportunities. Sightseeing in the early morning or evening helps you avoid the midday heat. Summer also brings great deals on hotels and services, making it ideal for travelers on a budget. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, Egypt tours during summer can still be an enjoyable and memorable experience.

 

Egypt has a modest dress code, especially for women, since it’s a Muslim country. Light, comfortable clothing is fine, but avoid short shorts or skirts. When visiting religious sites, cover your shoulders and knees. During Egypt tours, you can dress casually and comfortably; formal wear is optional unless you want to make your Nile cruise dinner extra special.

You can easily obtain a visa upon arrival at Cairo Airport, the process is simple for USA, UK, Canadian, Australian, and European citizens. The visa costs $25 USD and can be purchased at the visa office before immigration. You can also apply for an E-Visa through the official portal: www.visa2egypt.gov.eg. During your Egypt tours, our team can assist you with all visa-related inquiries to make your arrival smooth and stress-free.

Your Egypt Tours travel agency recommends two weeks so that you can enjoy the temples and tombs of Luxor and Aswan, explore the sights of Cairo, and relax in the Red Sea islands and nature reserves.

The best Egypt Nile River cruise depends on your preferences, budget, and how many nights you wish to spend on board. For a truly unforgettable experience, we recommend a 5-star luxury Nile cruise that offers exceptional comfort and service. If you prefer a more private and intimate journey, choose a Dahabiya Nile cruise, ideal for small groups of around 15 people. For adventurous travelers, the traditional Felucca boats provide a simple and authentic way to sail the Nile during your Egypt tours, though they offer fewer amenities.

The best time to visit Egypt is generally from October to April where it is suitable for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
 

Egypt travel usually have guided tours to archaeological sites, museums, and historical landmarks. Also have optional activities may include hot air balloon rides over Luxor, snorkeling in the Red Sea, or desert safaris.