Steigenberger Minerva Nile Cruise: Nile River Boat Between Luxor and Aswan
Tours Overview
Navigate the heart of ancient Egypt aboard one of the most accomplished five-star nile river boat experiences on the Egyptian Nile — the Steigenberger Minerva Nile Cruise, a modern ultra-deluxe vessel of genuine quality and character whose 77 carefully appointed cabins, intimate small-group approach, and comprehensive monument programme set it apart from the crowded field of vessels operating the Luxor to Aswan corridor. This is a ship that carries the Steigenberger name — one of the most trusted in international hospitality — and delivers on that name not through spectacle but through the consistent, pervasive quality of every element it brings to the nile river boat experience. From the generous proportions of the double cabins and suites to the attentiveness of the crew, the expertise of the Egyptologist guides, and the unhurried rhythm of a daily programme designed to feel both full and restful, the Steigenberger Minerva Nile Cruise represents the ultra-deluxe category of Nile cruising at its most considered and most rewarding.
The ship operates two programmes on the same extraordinary corridor. The 4-day nile river boat sailing departs from Aswan every Monday and travels northward to Luxor, opening with Aswan's island temples and ancient quarries before the river carries the ship through Kom Ombo and Edfu toward the overwhelming monument density of the Theban landscape. The 5-day programme departs from Luxor every Thursday and reverses the sequence, opening with the grand East Bank religious complexes before crossing to the West Bank's royal burial grounds, navigating the Esna Lock, and sailing south through the same remarkable temples toward the warm granite landscape of Aswan. Both programmes cover the full portfolio of Upper Egyptian monuments with the same depth of guiding and the same standard of on-board hospitality, and both conclude with the option of an Abu Simbel excursion that adds one final, overwhelming encounter with ancient ambition to a programme already of extraordinary range.
What makes the Steigenberger Minerva Nile Cruise a particularly compelling nile river boat for the discerning traveller is the combination of scale and intimacy that it achieves. Seventy-seven cabins make this a ship of genuine size — large enough to offer the full range of amenities, the large sun deck with swimming pool and pool bar, the beauty salon, the fitness facilities, the meeting space, and the round-the-clock reception that a premium vessel should provide. Yet the guided excursion programme maintains a maximum group size of eight guests per Egyptologist, which means that every site visit retains the intimacy, the pace, and the personal depth of commentary that distinguish a genuinely private encounter with the ancient world from a conventional group tour. This balance — ship-scale comfort, small-group guiding — is one of the defining qualities of the Steigenberger Minerva Nile Cruise nile river boat experience.
The monument programme that the Steigenberger Minerva Nile Cruise covers is the most complete available on the Luxor–Aswan route. Karnak Temple, the largest religious complex ever built, is explored with the scholarly depth it demands — the progressive chronological layers of construction, the theological significance of the hypostyle hall, the sacred lake, and the inner sanctuaries all illuminated by an Egyptologist whose knowledge transforms the site from an impressive ancient ruin into a comprehensible and genuinely fascinating historical narrative. The Valley of the Kings on the West Bank receives the same quality of engagement — three royal tombs explored with commentary that brings the painted narratives of the ancient Egyptian afterlife into vivid and accessible focus. The Temple of Horus at Edfu, the most completely preserved ancient Egyptian temple in existence, is explored in the full depth its remarkable integrity rewards. The double sanctuary of Kom Ombo at its dramatic river bend, the island temple of Philae at Aswan, and the colossal engineering statement of the Unfinished Obelisk in the ancient granite quarries all receive the unhurried, expert-guided attention that this nile river boat programme consistently provides.
The river passages between these sites are among the most genuinely pleasurable aspects of the Steigenberger Minerva Nile Cruise experience. The large sun deck — with its swimming pool, pool bar, and generous lounging space — provides the perfect vantage point for watching Upper Egypt pass by at the pace the Nile sets naturally. The landscape changes as the ship moves south: the wide agricultural plains around Luxor give way to narrower gorges around Edfu, and the desert reasserts itself more insistently around Aswan until the extraordinary granite formations of the First Cataract announce the southernmost reach of the programme with unmistakable geological drama. These river passages are not intervals between the real experience but a significant part of it, and the Steigenberger Minerva Nile Cruise is designed to make them as pleasurable as they are visually rewarding. This is the nile river boat experience at its most complete — monuments in the morning, river in the afternoon, stars over the water in the evening, and a ship of genuine quality surrounding you throughout.
Cruise Facilities
In-Cabin Amenities
77 spacious modern cabins across the ship — 73 double cabins at 19 sqm, 2 single cabins at 16 sqm, and 2 suites at 39 sqm — each designed with the contemporary comfort and functional refinement of the Steigenberger standard
Marine satellite television with a wide selection of international channels and an in-cabin video and music system
In-cabin personal safe for the secure storage of valuables and travel documents
In-cabin minibar and refrigerator stocked and maintained throughout the sailing
Private en-suite bathroom with shower and hair dryer
Individual climate control system allowing each guest to set their own preferred cabin temperature
International direct-dial telephone and fax access
High-speed internet connection available in-cabin and throughout the ship
Ship Services & Facilities
Round-the-clock reception desk staffed for any guest need at any hour of the day or night
Full laundry and dry cleaning service available on request throughout the sailing
Professional beauty salon with hairdressing and grooming services
Fitness room with modern exercise equipment
Dedicated meeting space for group briefings or private use
Gift shop carrying Egyptian handcrafts, keepsakes, and travel essentials
Qualified physician available on call around the clock for any medical needs during the sailing
Wireless internet access throughout all public areas of the ship
Dining & Outdoor Facilities
Main restaurant serving full-board breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily with Egyptian and international menus
Large sun deck with outdoor swimming pool and Jacuzzi, open throughout the sailing
Sun deck pool bar serving refreshments, cold drinks, and light snacks in the open air
Full air conditioning across all public areas and cabins
Included
- Warm personal meet-and-assist reception at the point of arrival — Luxor or Aswan Airport or Train Station — with dedicated private representative support throughout embarkation and all departure formalities
- Complimentary pickup and drop-off from and to the airport, train station, or any hotel on the East Bank of Luxor or Aswan
- All private, air-conditioned ground transportation between arrival points and the ship, and between the ship and all shore excursion sites throughout the programme, with fully qualified drivers throughout
- Full-board accommodation throughout the sailing — 3 nights for the 4-day programme, 4 nights for the 5-day programme — aboard the five-star ultra-deluxe Steigenberger Minerva Nile Cruise, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily in the ship's main restaurant
- Private licensed English-speaking Egyptologist guide during all shore excursions, with a maximum group size of 8 guests, providing expert historical, archaeological, and cultural commentary at every site throughout the nile river boat programme
- Guided visit to the High Dam, with contextual commentary on its engineering significance and its impact on Egypt's archaeological landscape
- Motor launch boat transfer to Agilkia Island and guided visit to the Temple of Philae, dedicated to the goddess Isis, including commentary on the UNESCO stone-by-stone relocation project
- Guided visit to the Unfinished Obelisk in Aswan's ancient granite quarries, with full engineering and historical commentary
- Guided visit to the double Temple of Sobek and Haroeris at Kom Ombo, including the ancient Nilometer, the carved surgical instrument reliefs, the ancient calendar, and the mummified crocodile museum
- Traditional horse-drawn carriage transfer and guided visit to the Ptolemaic Temple of Horus at Edfu, the most completely preserved ancient Egyptian temple in existence
- Navigation through the Esna Lock, with on-board explanation of the lock system and its role in Nile river management (5-day southbound programme)
- Guided visit to the Valley of the Kings on the West Bank of Luxor, including entry to three royal tombs selected for their historical and artistic range
- Guided visit to the mortuary Temple of Queen Hatshepsut at Deir el-Bahari, with full historical and architectural commentary
- Stop at the Colossi of Memnon on the West Bank of Luxor, with commentary on Amenhotep III's mortuary complex
- Guided visit to Karnak Temple Complex on the East Bank of Luxor, including the Great Hypostyle Hall, sacred lake, and inner sanctuaries
- Guided visit to Luxor Temple on the East Bank, including the processional colonnade of Amenhotep III and the entrance pylon of Ramesses II
- Complimentary one bottle of mineral water per person per day during all shore excursions and land transfers
- Admission fees to all listed monuments and archaeological sites throughout the nile river boat programme
- All applicable local taxes, cruise service charges, and handling fees
Not Included
- International airfare to and from Egypt
- Egyptian entry visa (available on arrival for most nationalities; applicable fees apply)
- Travel insurance and medical insurance (strongly recommended for all travellers)
- Optional excursions including hot air balloon over Luxor, felucca sailing in Aswan, Nubian village visit by boat, and Abu Simbel temples excursion (all available at additional cost)
- Optional entry to the tomb of Tutankhamun or Seti I in the Valley of the Kings (available at additional cost)
- Additional meals or beverages consumed outside the full-board arrangement on board
- Personal expenses including laundry, telephone calls, and minibar charges
- Gratuities for the Egyptologist guide, drivers, and Steigenberger Minerva Nile Cruise crew (customary and warmly appreciated)
- Pickups and drop-offs on the West Bank of Luxor or Aswan, including Gharb Sohail and Elephantine Island
Itinerary
Day 1 - Aswan Embarkation: The Nile River Boat Journey Begins
Your nile river boat experience aboard the Steigenberger Minerva Nile Cruise begins at Aswan Airport or Aswan Train Station, where your private representative is waiting to welcome you and transfer you directly to the ship with the same smooth efficiency that characterises every element of this programme. Embarkation before lunch allows generous time to settle into your cabin — one of the 73 spacious double cabins or two suites that the Steigenberger Minerva Nile Cruise offers, each designed with the modern comfort and functional elegance that the Steigenberger standard of hospitality demands. Lunch is served on board as the ship comes to life around you and the warm Aswan air drifts through the sun deck above. The afternoon programme opens with three of Aswan's most significant ancient and modern sites.
The High Dam — constructed in the 1960s and completed in 1971 — is visited first, its panoramic views of Lake Nasser providing both a sense of the engineering scale involved and an essential context for understanding how the construction of this twentieth-century achievement necessitated one of the greatest archaeological rescue operations in history.
The Unfinished Obelisk in the ancient granite quarries follows immediately — a block of pink granite still partially attached to the quarry floor, abandoned when a flaw was discovered mid-extraction, that would have weighed 1,200 tonnes and stood forty-two metres tall had the project been completed. Its presence here, caught in the moment of a three-thousand-year-old interruption, offers the most direct and unmediated encounter with pharaonic engineering ambition available anywhere along the nile river boat route.
A motor launch then carries you across to Agilkia Island and the Temple of Philae, dedicated to the goddess Isis and rebuilt stone by stone on its current island following the flooding of the original site by the High Dam's reservoir — one of UNESCO's most celebrated and precisely executed rescue operations.
The colonnaded halls, deeply carved sanctuary walls, and some of Egypt's last surviving hieroglyphic inscriptions create an atmosphere of quiet sanctity that the island setting deepens considerably. The evening returns you to the Steigenberger Minerva Nile Cruise for dinner as the first night on the river begins and the ship prepares for its northward sailing.
Overnight: Aboard the Steigenberger Minerva Nile Cruise, Aswan
Day 2 - Kom Ombo and Edfu: Two Temples, One Remarkable River Day
The second day of the nile river boat programme carries the Steigenberger Minerva Nile Cruise northward through the agricultural heartland of Upper Egypt toward two of the Nile Valley's most rewarding Ptolemaic temples, encountered in succession as the river moves between wide plains and narrowing desert escarpments.
Breakfast on the sun deck opens the morning in the particular calm of the early Nile hours, with sugarcane fields lining the banks, water birds standing in the shallows, and the quiet of the countryside before the heat of the day fully establishes itself. Kom Ombo arrives as the Nile bends dramatically, the temple appearing directly on the bank with a visual immediacy that the approach by nile river boat makes uniquely powerful — the carved sandstone walls rising from the water's edge with a theatrical directness that land-based approaches cannot replicate.
Your licensed Egyptologist, working with the intimate focus that the Steigenberger Minerva Nile Cruise's small group format affords, leads the exploration of this one-of-a-kind double sanctuary dedicated in perfect architectural symmetry to Sobek the crocodile god and Haroeris the elder form of Horus. Every hall, every court, and every inner sanctuary is duplicated in parallel — an architectural expression of theological precision that your guide brings into full and fascinating clarity. The celebrated panel of surgical instrument carvings, the ancient calendar etched into the walls, and the adjacent museum of mummified crocodiles all add layers of depth to a visit that consistently rewards genuine curiosity.
Lunch is served on board as the afternoon sailing to Edfu continues, the sun deck offering the finest vantage point for watching the landscape shift. At Edfu, a traditional horse-drawn carriage ride from the riverbank to the temple entrance provides an appropriately unhurried approach to the most completely preserved ancient Egyptian temple in existence.
The twin pylons of the Temple of Horus, still standing at their full original height of thirty-six metres, frame an entrance whose scale announces immediately the ambition of the Ptolemaic builders who raised this sanctuary in honour of the falcon god of kingship.
The great outer courts, the vast hypostyle hall, the offering hall, and the darkened inner sanctuary where the golden barque of Horus once stood are all explored with the depth of commentary that this exceptional site rewards, before the carriage returns you to the Steigenberger Minerva Nile Cruise for dinner and the continuation of the northward sailing.
Overnight: Aboard the Steigenberger Minerva Nile Cruise, sailing toward Luxor
Day 3 - Luxor West Bank: Royal Tombs and Sacred Cliffs
The third day of the nile river boat programme crosses the Nile to the West Bank of Luxor — the ancient Egyptians' realm of the setting sun and the dead, where the limestone cliffs of the Theban hills conceal the most extraordinary assembly of royal burial monuments in the world.
The Valley of the Kings receives you with the authority of a place that has held the mortal remains of Egypt's greatest pharaohs for more than three thousand years — a narrow desert ravine whose unassuming entrance gives no indication of the painted underground world concealed within the cliffs. More than sixty royal tombs line its passages, each one carved and painted for a specific pharaoh during the New Kingdom period of Egyptian civilization, their walls covered from floor to ceiling with scenes of theological depth and artistic quality that three thousand years of dry desert air have preserved with astonishing integrity.
Your Egyptologist guide selects the three tombs most suited to the range and depth of your interest, and the commentary provided at each one — on the painted narratives of the Book of the Dead, the religious logic of the afterlife journey, and the specific history of the pharaoh interred within — transforms each visit from an encounter with impressive ancient decoration into a genuine act of historical understanding.
The optional entry to the tomb of Tutankhamun or Seti I, available at additional cost, extends the visit for those who wish to include the most celebrated or most elaborately painted burial in the Valley.
The mortuary temple of Queen Hatshepsut at Deir el-Bahari follows — three colonnaded terraces emerging from the limestone cliff face with an architectural composure and restraint that continues to draw the admiration of architects and historians alike, painted with scenes of her divine birth as the daughter of Amun and her legendary trading expeditions to the land of Punt, and offering panoramic views across the necropolis that reward the walk to the upper terrace with genuine visual drama.
The Colossi of Memnon bring the West Bank visit to its appropriately monumental close — two seated giants of Amenhotep III standing nearly eighteen metres tall, their surfaces worn by millennia of wind and curiosity, gazing across the plain with an authority that three thousand years of standing have done nothing to diminish. The return to the Steigenberger Minerva Nile Cruise is followed by lunch and a pleasantly unhurried afternoon before dinner and a final night on the river as Luxor glows on the bank outside the cabin window.
Overnight: Aboard the Steigenberger Minerva Nile Cruise, Luxor
Day 4 - Luxor East Bank and Departure
The final morning of the 4-day nile river boat programme brings the Steigenberger Minerva Nile Cruise experience to its conclusion with the two most important religious complexes of the ancient Egyptian East Bank — a conclusion whose scale and quality make it an entirely appropriate ending to a programme of consistent depth and richness.
Breakfast on board and check-out from the ship are followed immediately by the visit to Karnak Temple, the largest religious building ever raised by any civilization at any point in history. The processional avenue of ram-headed sphinxes, the colossal first pylon, and the Great Hypostyle Hall — its one hundred and thirty-four columns reaching twenty-three metres, every surface covered with carved and painted reliefs of divine ceremony and royal achievement accumulated over more than a thousand years of continuous construction — constitute one of the most overwhelming architectural and historical encounters available anywhere in the world.
Your Egyptologist guide navigates the complex's extraordinary chronological layering with precision and genuine interpretive skill, making the contribution of each successive pharaoh — from Thutmose I through Ramesses III and beyond — both distinct and comprehensible. Luxor Temple follows as the morning continues — positioned with ceremonial elegance directly on the Nile's edge, its long colonnade of Amenhotep III, the great entrance pylon of Ramesses II still bearing its carved military campaigns, and the processional axis that once connected it to Karnak by a three-kilometre avenue of human-headed sphinxes all explored with the same quality of guided engagement.
Your private transfer to Luxor Airport or Luxor Train Station departs at the appropriate time, and you leave carrying the full satisfaction of a nile river boat programme that delivered the ancient world without reservation — site by site, river passage by river passage, from the granite shores of Aswan to the imperial monuments of Thebes.
Departure from Luxor
Day 1 - Luxor Embarkation: Welcome Aboard the Nile River Boat
The 5-day nile river boat programme begins in Luxor — the city that the ancient Egyptians called Thebes, that served as the most powerful capital on earth during the New Kingdom period, and that continues to hold more ancient monuments per square kilometre than anywhere else on the planet.
Your representative meets you at Luxor Airport or Luxor Train Station and transfers you to the Steigenberger Minerva Nile Cruise, where embarkation before lunch is handled with the attentive efficiency that defines this ship's approach to the guest experience from the first moment to the last. The cabin — whether a 19 sqm double or one of the two 39 sqm suites — provides an immediate and genuine sense of the comfort level that will accompany you throughout the nile river boat sailing.
Lunch in the ship's restaurant is followed by a relaxed afternoon to settle in before the evening opens the programme with Karnak Temple and Luxor Temple, both visited in the warm amber light that belongs to the East Bank of Luxor at its most atmospheric. The hypostyle hall at Karnak in the fading sun — its carved columns casting long, dramatic shadows across three thousand years of royal achievement — and the processional grandeur of Luxor Temple reflecting the last light off the Nile behind it set a standard for the programme that everything that follows is designed to sustain and deepen. Tea time on the sun deck after the return to the Steigenberger Minerva Nile Cruise, and dinner in the main restaurant as the river moves quietly past the hull, bring a finely composed close to the first day of the sailing.
Overnight: Aboard the Steigenberger Minerva Nile Cruise, Luxor
Day 2 - West Bank and Southbound Sailing Through the Esna Lock
The second morning of the nile river boat programme crosses to the West Bank for the royal burial grounds and sacred cliff temples that represent ancient Egypt's most sustained and profound engagement with the themes of mortality, judgement, and the possibility of eternal life.
The Valley of the Kings receives you first, with three royal tombs explored in the intimate depth that the Steigenberger Minerva Nile Cruise's small group format makes consistently possible — each tomb bringing a different dimension of New Kingdom funerary art and religious belief into focus through its painted narrative programme and its individual relationship to the pharaoh interred within.
The optional hot air balloon ride over the Theban monuments, available at additional cost for those who arrange it in advance, offers an early morning perspective on the Valley of the Kings, the temples, and the Nile itself that is genuinely transformative in its beauty and breadth.
Hatshepsut's mortuary temple at Deir el-Bahari follows with its three refined colonnaded terraces, and the Colossi of Memnon provide their customary powerful farewell to the West Bank before the return to the ship for lunch.
The afternoon sailing southward is the nile river boat experience at its most meditative — the Steigenberger Minerva Nile Cruise moving through a landscape of palms, egrets, and riverside villages, with the sun deck providing the finest possible vantage point for watching Egypt pass by at the pace the river sets. The navigation of the Esna Lock — where the ship descends through a controlled water-level transition as the Nile drops toward Aswan — is one of the programme's most practically fascinating moments, and one that consistently surprises guests with the scale of its mechanics and the drama of watching a large vessel navigated through such a precise and ancient-feeling channel.
Overnight: Aboard the Steigenberger Minerva Nile Cruise, sailing toward Edfu
Day 3 - Edfu and Kom Ombo: The Great River Sanctuaries
The third day of the Steigenberger Minerva Nile Cruise programme delivers two of the Nile Valley's most remarkable ancient temples in a single day of sailing and exploration that exemplifies what makes the nile river boat format so superior to any land-based alternative.
The Temple of Horus at Edfu arrives first, reached by traditional horse-drawn carriage from the riverbank in an approach whose unhurried charm sets exactly the right tone for what follows. The temple's twin pylons — the best preserved of any ancient Egyptian temple, still standing at full height after two thousand years — frame an entrance of extraordinary authority, and the exploration that follows takes you progressively through the vast outer courts, the elaborately carved hypostyle hall, the offering hall, and the inner sanctuary where the golden statue of Horus once resided behind sealed doors accessible only to the king and the highest-ranking priests. Your Egyptologist guide's account of the myth of Horus and Seth — the eternal battle between cosmic order and chaos that this temple was constructed to enact and celebrate — gives the carvings throughout a narrative depth that rewards every minute of attention.
The afternoon sailing to Kom Ombo delivers the Steigenberger Minerva Nile Cruise to the dramatic bend in the river where the double temple stands directly on the bank, and the one-of-a-kind sanctuary dedicated simultaneously to Sobek and Haroeris — its entire plan duplicated in perfect symmetry — is explored with the full scholarly engagement it rewards. The ancient calendar, the Nilometer, the surgical instrument reliefs, and the mummified crocodile museum all contribute to a visit of genuine intellectual richness that brings the third day of this nile river boat programme to a deeply satisfying close. A festive evening on board follows, with traditional entertainment and dinner under the open sky as the ship continues southward toward Aswan.
Overnight: Aboard the Steigenberger Minerva Nile Cruise, sailing toward Aswan
Day 4 - Aswan: Ancient Quarries, Island Temples and the Southern Nile
Aswan announces itself on the fourth morning of the nile river boat programme with the dramatic geological shift that distinguishes this southernmost city from everything north of it along the corridor — the green agricultural banks give way to the extraordinary pink and grey granite formations of the First Cataract, and the Steigenberger Minerva Nile Cruise arrives in a landscape of an entirely different and strikingly beautiful character.
The morning opens at the High Dam and continues to the ancient granite quarries and the Unfinished Obelisk — that remarkable monument of interrupted ambition that confronts the visitor directly with the scale and process of pharaonic stone-working in a way that no completed monument can. The afternoon programme takes you by motor launch across the still reservoir waters to Agilkia Island and the Temple of Philae, whose colonnaded halls, painted sanctuaries, and island setting make it one of the most affecting and beautifully positioned sites on the entire nile river boat corridor.
The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure — the optional felucca ride on the quiet waters of the Nile at Aswan is one of the most peaceful and visually beautiful ways to experience the river, and the optional visit to a traditional Nubian village by boat adds a warm, genuinely human encounter with the living culture of Egypt's deep south to a programme that has otherwise been focused on the ancient. A farewell dinner on board the Steigenberger Minerva Nile Cruise brings the fourth day of the nile river boat experience to a warm and celebratory conclusion.
Overnight: Aboard the Steigenberger Minerva Nile Cruise, Aswan
Day 5 - Departure and Optional Abu Simbel
The final morning of the 5-day nile river boat programme begins with breakfast on board the Steigenberger Minerva Nile Cruise as Aswan wakes around the ship — the granite formations already lit by the early sun, the river moving with its characteristic quiet authority past the hull.
Disembarkation is handled smoothly and without urgency, and your representative ensures a comfortable private transfer to Aswan Airport or Aswan Train Station for your onward journey. For those with the time and appetite for one final, overwhelming encounter with ancient Egypt, the optional excursion to the temples of Abu Simbel — carved directly into the sandstone cliffs of Nubia by Ramesses II and relocated in one of the twentieth century's most ambitious and precisely executed UNESCO operations — is available by road or flight at additional cost. The two temples, overlooking Lake Nasser with a grandeur that places them in a category entirely their own within the ancient world, bring the Steigenberger Minerva Nile Cruise nile river boat experience to its most powerful and memorable possible conclusion.
Departure from Aswan
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should I book my Egypt tour?
We recommend securing your reservation 3 to 6 months prior to your intended travel date. This is particularly important during Egypt's peak season, which runs from October through April. Booking early not only guarantees availability but also gives our team ample time to craft a truly personalised experience tailored to your preferences.
Do you offer discounted rates for group travel?
Yes, we are pleased to offer preferential rates for groups of 6 or more travellers. As every group has unique requirements, we invite you to contact us directly so that we may prepare a customised quotation suited to your party size, itinerary, and interests.
What is included in the tour price?
Our tour packages are designed to provide a seamless, all-encompassing experience. Inclusions typically cover accommodation, guided excursions, select meals, and all transportation within Egypt. Specific inclusions vary by package, and a full breakdown is provided at the time of booking so you know exactly what to expect.
Is travel insurance required to book with you?
Travel insurance is not a mandatory requirement; however, we strongly advise all clients to obtain comprehensive coverage prior to departure. International travel can bring unforeseen circumstances — from medical emergencies to flight disruptions — and adequate insurance ensures that your journey is protected from the unexpected.
Is Egypt actually safe for tourists in 2026?
Egypt is genuinely safe for travelers, and millions visit each year without incident. Tourist police are a highly visible presence at every major site, resort town, and transport hub. The Egyptian government treats tourism as a national priority — and that protection is real, not just on paper. Common sense applies as it would anywhere: stay aware of your surroundings, avoid unsanctioned political gatherings, and stick to well-traveled areas after dark. The Egyptian people themselves are famously warm and hospitable toward visitors.
Can I get a visa on arrival, or do I need to apply in advance?
Most nationalities — including those from the US, UK, EU, Australia, and Canada — can purchase a single-entry tourist visa on arrival at Cairo International Airport. The cost is USD $25 or the equivalent in Euros, paid in cash only (cards are not accepted at the visa desk). Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your travel date. Alternatively, Egypt's e-Visa portal (visa2egypt.gov.eg) lets 41 nationalities apply online before departure. However, many travelers find it simpler to just buy it at the airport.
Is it safe for women to travel solo in Egypt?
Solo female travel in Egypt is increasingly common, and many women do it comfortably with proper preparation. Dress modestly outside of Red Sea resort areas, be confident in your manner, and don't hesitate to be firm with anyone who is overly persistent. Harassment does occur, particularly in busy tourist markets, but it is usually verbal and easily managed by moving on. Booking tours with reputable operators removes a lot of friction and lets you focus on the experience itself. Many female solo travelers describe Egypt as one of their most memorable journeys.
Can I extend my tourist visa if I want to stay longer?
Yes — a standard tourist visa is valid for 30 days, but extensions are obtainable. Visit the Mogamma building in Cairo's Tahrir Square, or go to the passport offices in Luxor, Alexandria, or Aswan. Extensions allow you to stay for an additional month. Come prepared with your passport, a photo, and a small fee. If you're leaving Egypt and re-entering (for example, via Jordan), you'll need a fresh visa on your return — your original is cancelled at departure.
What currency is used, and how much cash should I carry?
The Egyptian Pound (EGP) is the local currency. Hotels, large restaurants, and most shops in tourist areas accept major credit cards and US dollars or Euros at a reasonable rate. That said, always keep some Egyptian Pounds on hand — local markets, small cafés, taxi drivers, and tips all run on cash. ATMs are widely available at airports, banks, and shopping centers across all major tourist cities, and they dispense Egyptian Pounds directly.
How does tipping work in Egypt, and how much is expected?
Tipping — known locally as "baksheesh" — is a well-established part of Egyptian culture and an important part of service workers' income. At restaurants, 10–15% is standard. For private guides, EGP 100–200 per day is appreciated. Drivers typically receive EGP 50–100 for a full day. At major sites like the Pyramids, you may encounter unofficial "helpers" who offer unsolicited assistance and then expect payment — it's perfectly fine to politely decline any help you didn't ask for.
Is bargaining expected in the markets?
Absolutely — bargaining is part of the experience in Egypt's bazaars and souks. Opening prices at markets like Cairo's Khan el-Khalili are usually two to three times what a seller expects to receive. Approach it with good humor, don't take the first price, and feel free to walk away — that often brings a better offer. Fixed-price shops and mall stores are the exception: what you see is what you pay. The goal is always a fair deal, not a "win," so keep it friendly.
What should I wear while exploring Cairo and Luxor?
Lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that covers your shoulders and knees is ideal — both for cultural respect and practical comfort in the heat. Think linen trousers, long cotton skirts, and breathable tops. Men should avoid shorts at historic and religious sites. Flat, closed-toe shoes are strongly recommended when walking around temples and pyramids — the ground is uneven and dusty. Red Sea resort towns like Hurghada and El Gouna are far more relaxed; beach attire is completely normal there.
What are the rules for visiting mosques and religious sites?
Shoes must be removed before entering any mosque — bring a bag to carry them if you prefer not to leave them at the door. Women are asked to cover their hair and wear clothing that covers arms and legs; a large scarf in your day bag solves this easily. Men in shorts may be lent a wrap at the entrance of some mosques. Most mosques are closed to non-Muslim visitors during prayer times, so check in advance for the five daily prayer schedules, especially Friday midday prayers when many sites close temporarily.
Is alcohol available in Egypt?
Yes, alcohol is legal and available — but selectively so. You'll find beer, wine, and spirits at hotels, upscale restaurants, licensed bars, and duty-free shops. Outside of tourist establishments and resort areas, alcohol is rarely sold. Drinking in public streets is not acceptable and is technically prohibited. You may bring up to 2 liters of alcohol into Egypt duty-free. The legal drinking age is 21.
Can I go inside the Great Pyramids of Giza?
Yes — entry to the interior of the Pyramids is possible but limited. Only a fixed number of tickets are released each day and they sell out quickly, especially at peak season. Tickets must be purchased in person at the main entrance; online booking is not available for interior access. Arrive early — ideally before 8 AM. Be aware that the passages inside are narrow, low, and warm. If you're claustrophobic, the experience of the exterior and plateau is every bit as spectacular.
Can I take photos inside the tombs in the Valley of the Kings?
Photography inside the tombs is prohibited — a rule that is actively enforced. Cameras and phones are typically required to be put away before entering. The reason isn't arbitrary: flash photography, even from smartphones, accelerates the deterioration of thousands-of-years-old paint and pigment on tomb walls. Respect the rule. What you can do is photograph everything outside, and the imagery inside is so vivid it will remain in your memory long after the visit.
Is a Nile cruise worth it, and what type should I choose?
A Nile cruise between Luxor and Aswan is one of the finest ways to experience Upper Egypt — watching temples emerge from the riverbanks as you sail is genuinely unlike anything else. Classic motor cruises (3–5 nights) are the most common and affordable. For a more intimate, slower experience, a Dahabiya — a traditional wooden sailing vessel accommodating only 8–16 guests — offers unhurried access to small villages and lesser-visited temples. Lake Nasser cruises, sailing south of Aswan toward Abu Simbel, are for the truly adventurous.
When is the best time of year to visit Egypt?
October through April is the golden window — temperatures are comfortable (15–28°C / 60–82°F) and the light is extraordinary. December and January are peak season with the highest hotel rates and crowds. March to May is a sweet spot: warm but not oppressive, with fewer crowds and lower prices. Summer (June–September) is intensely hot in Cairo and Upper Egypt — up to 45°C (113°F) — though the Red Sea resorts remain pleasant due to sea breezes and are significantly cheaper to visit.
Optional Add-On Experiences
Enhance your journey with these exclusive additional experiences.
Egyptian Cooking Experience
Cook, share, and taste Egypt's soul.
Marriage Proposal Experience
A private, unforgettable moment crafted in a setting of your choice.
Hot Air Balloon in Luxor
Sunrise over ancient temples from the sky.
Professional Photographer
Capture your journey with a professional eye.
Egyptian Cooking Experience
Cook, share, and taste Egypt's soul.
Lady Egypt also invites our guests to connect with Egypt through its rich and soulful cuisine by offering authentic Egyptian cooking courses as part of our journeys. In an intimate 90-minute hands-on experience, clients cook side by side with our talented Egyptian chefs, learning to prepare traditional home-style dishes using fresh local ingredients, aromatic spices, and time-honoured techniques passed down through generations. More than a class, it's a cultural exchange filled with stories, flavours, and warmth allowing travellers to taste Egypt not only on the plate, but through its people and traditions.
Marriage Proposal Experience
A private, unforgettable moment crafted in a setting of your choice.
Let us help you plan a marriage proposal that feels personal and cinematic — from a quiet Nile-side dinner to a sunrise surprise by the temples. Our team coordinates timing, discreet photography, flowers, and local touches so you can focus on the moment while we handle the details with care and discretion.
Hot Air Balloon in Luxor
Sunrise over ancient temples from the sky.
Float above the West Bank as the sun paints the Valley of the Kings and the Nile in gold. This early-morning balloon ride is one of Egypt’s most iconic experiences — peaceful, breathtaking, and worth the wake-up call. We arrange transfers and timing to fit your itinerary so the experience feels effortless.
Professional Photographer
Capture your journey with a professional eye.
Bring home more than memories: add a professional photographer to key days of your trip. Whether candid moments at the pyramids or styled portraits at sunset, you will receive edited images that tell the story of your Egypt adventure with clarity and artistry.
Explore our Packages
Discover our wide range of packages and find the perfect one for you.
Step aboard the Movenpick Hamees and journey through the heart of ancient Egypt on one of the most rewarding Nile river cruises available today. Over 4 or 5 days between Aswan and Luxor, discover iconic temples, royal tombs, and timeless monuments — all with full-board dining, a private Egyptologist guide, and seamless service from embarkation to farewell.
Experience a refined Nile Cruise aboard the elegant Jaz Viceroy Nile Cruise, sailing between Luxor and Aswan while discovering ancient temples, royal tombs, and breathtaking Nile landscapes. Enjoy full-board comfort, guided archaeological tours, and relaxing river views as your luxury floating hotel carries you through the heart of ancient Egypt.
Discover the magic of a Luxor Aswan Nile Cruise, sailing through the heart of ancient Egypt while visiting iconic temples, royal tombs, and breathtaking Nile landscapes. Enjoy a relaxing Nile cruise experience with expert-guided tours, full-board comfort, and unforgettable views along the legendary river.
Journey along the legendary Nile aboard the elegant Jaz Regent Nile Cruise from Luxor on a carefully curated 4 or 5 day journey from Luxor to Aswan. Explore the colossal temples of Karnak and Luxor, descend into the royal tombs of the Valley of the Kings, and discover the sacred sanctuaries of Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Philae — all in refined comfort with a private Egyptologist guide and full-board luxury throughout.
Sail the legendary Nile aboard the distinguished Tamr Henna Nile Cruise on a carefully curated 4 or 5 day nile cruise ship voyage between Luxor and Aswan. Explore the colossal temples of Karnak and Luxor, descend into the royal tombs of the Valley of the Kings, and discover the sacred sanctuaries of Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Philae — all in refined comfort with a dedicated private Egyptologist guide and full-board hospitality throughout.
Uncover the beauty of Upper Egypt aboard the elegant Sonesta Moon Goddess Nile Cruise on a thoughtfully curated 4 or 5 day luxor nile cruise between Aswan and Luxor. Discover the sacred temples of Philae, Kom Ombo, and Edfu, walk through the awe-inspiring halls of Karnak, and descend into the royal tombs of the Valley of the Kings — all in a setting of refined comfort with a dedicated private Egyptologist guide and full-board hospitality throughout.
Sail the legendary Nile aboard the luxurious Farah Nile Cruise on a 4 or 5-day guided expedition between Aswan and Luxor. Discover iconic temples, royal tombs, and timeless monuments with a private Egyptologist — all on a fully inclusive basis.
Set sail on an unforgettable luxurious Nile cruise aboard the Sonesta Star Goddess, one of Egypt's most prestigious river vessels. Whether you choose the 4-day voyage from Aswan to Luxor or the 5-day southbound journey from Luxor to Aswan, every moment is crafted for discovery and indulgence. From the towering pylons of Karnak to the silent valleys of the royal necropolis, experience the wonders of ancient Egypt in all-suite comfort, with full-board dining, expert Egyptologist guidance, and seamless service every step of the way.
Embark on an extraordinary Nile cruise in Egypt aboard the elegant Soleil Nile Cruise, sailing through one of the most historically rich corridors on earth. Whether you choose the 4-day northbound voyage from Aswan to Luxor or the 5-day southbound journey from Luxor to Aswan, every day brings you face to face with the wonders of ancient Egypt. From the royal tombs of the Valley of the Kings to the island sanctuary of Philae, experience it all in comfort and style — with full-board dining, expert Egyptologist guidance, and warm, attentive service throughout your entire journey on the Nile.
Discover the magic of the Nile aboard the Sonesta Sun Goddess Nile Cruise, a luxury journey connecting Luxor and Aswan. Explore ancient temples, sail through timeless landscapes, and enjoy elegant accommodation, fine dining, and expert-guided excursions at every stop.
Enjoy a 5 star Nile cruise aboard the Movenpick Sunray Nile Cruise, sailing between Luxor and Aswan with luxury accommodation, fine dining, and guided tours to Egypt’s most iconic ancient sites.
Discover the historia nile cruise, a refined luxury Egypt cruise sailing between Luxor and Aswan, where elegant accommodation, expert-guided excursions, and the timeless beauty of the Nile come together to create an unforgettable journey through Egypt’s most iconic ancient wonders.
Discover the esmeralda nile cruise, a luxury Nile cruise to Luxor and a relaxing Nile cruise in Aswan, combining elegant accommodation, guided excursions, and unforgettable views along Egypt’s timeless river.
Enjoy a refined nile cruise tour aboard La Fayan Nile Cruise, combining elegant accommodation, expert-guided excursions, and the timeless beauty of the Nile between Luxor and Aswan.
Redefine the way you see ancient Egypt aboard the Movenpick Royal Lotus Nile Cruise — a five-star floating sanctuary navigating the world's most historically charged river corridor. With a carefully crafted nile cruise itinerary, expert Egyptologist guidance, and full-board luxury, this luxor aswan cruise delivers the ancient world at its most vivid and genuinely unforgettable.
Drift through the heart of ancient Egypt aboard the Acamar Nile Cruise — a premium five-star ship that sets the standard for the finest egypt nile cruise experience on the river. Whether you follow the 4-day or 5-day sailing program, every day combines expert-guided monument visits, full-board dining, and the unhurried rhythm of the Nile into a single, seamless journey through one of the world's greatest civilizations.
Step aboard one of the river's most distinguished vessels and experience a luxurious nile cruise that sets an entirely different standard for travel through ancient Egypt. The Sonesta Saint George Nile Cruise combines the grandeur of a golden age of river travel with every refinement of contemporary five-star hospitality — full-service spa, panoramic private cabins, world-class dining, and expert-guided shore excursions — across a 4 or 5-day programme between the imperial monuments of Luxor and the warm granite shores of Aswan.
Glide through the most monument-rich corridor on earth aboard the Blue Shadow Nile Cruise — a refined five-star ship that brings a new standard of comfort and care to the nile river egypt cruise experience between Luxor and Aswan. Whether you choose the 4-day or 5-day sailing programme, every day on board delivers the same commitment to expert-guided shore excursions, attentive full-board hospitality, and the incomparable pleasure of watching ancient Egypt pass by from the quiet surface of the river.
Anchor your Egyptian adventure to the finest nile cruise luxor egypt experience available — the Mayfair Nile Cruise, a five-star ultra-deluxe vessel of five beautifully appointed decks sailing the most monument-rich corridor on the Nile between Luxor and Aswan. With private guided shore excursions, attentive full-board hospitality, French balcony cabins, and a maximum group size of eight guests, this luxor and aswan nile cruise delivers a standard of intimacy, comfort, and historical depth that larger vessels simply cannot match.
Navigate the heart of ancient Egypt aboard the Steigenberger Minerva Nile Cruise — a five-star nile river boat among the finest egypt nile cruises operating between Luxor and Aswan. With 77 spacious cabins, a maximum of eight guests per Egyptologist guide, and a 4 or 5-day programme covering every major monument on the corridor, this is Upper Egyptian sailing at its most intimate and complete.
Embark on a nile cruise trip of genuine distinction aboard the Chateau Lafayette Nile Cruise — a fully renovated five-star vessel featuring 17 suites, 6 superior suites, and 33 double cabins, each appointed with the care and comfort that a premium nile cruise trip demands. With private Egyptologist-guided shore excursions, a maximum group size of eight guests, and a 4 or 5-day programme covering the full range of Upper Egyptian monuments between Luxor and Aswan, the chateau lafayette nile cruise delivers a depth and quality of experience that leaves a lasting impression from the first day to the last.
What Our Travelers Say
Trusted by travelers worldwide for seamless, memorable journeys across Egypt.
My husband and I had an excellent time in Egypt for 5 days thanks to Lady Egypt. With thanks to Nadin for being our point of contact, every step of the way was very well planned and executed in a smooth manner. Shams was our guide in Cairo, and she’s extremely knowledgeable and knows how to navigate her way through Cairo’s history. Ahmed in Luxor went out of his way to help us with logistical arrangements when our hotel wasn’t up to the mark. Mohammed in Hurgadha was great as well. Overall, a lovely place to visit, with thanks to Lady Egypt for their help, planning and coordination from the minute we landed to when we took off, and big hugs to Shams and Nadin. ❤️
Amazing 2 Week Tour with Lady Egypt! I recently did a 2-week tour of Egypt with Lady Egypt Tours and had an incredible experience from start to finish. Our guide, Mahmoud, was absolutely brilliant – like having a personal ancient history teacher by our side every day. His knowledge, passion, and storytelling brought Egypt’s history to life in the most fascinating way. Everything was well-organised, the itinerary was fantastic, and I felt completely looked after the whole time. I can’t recommend Lady Egypt and Mahmoud highly enough for anyone wanting to explore this beautiful country!
An amazing 9 day visit to Cairo, Luxor and Aswan, the whole experience was incredible in every aspect, the weather was windy and cool but the clear skies made a view to remember, overall a trip to remember one that is necessary to do in a lifetime. Mr.Ahmed our guide was excellent in helping us through international barriers that you may face in foreign countries, helping us immerse ourselves in the culture.
Lady Egypt Tours guides were incredible! Everyone was extremely helpful, knowledgeable, enthusiastic, outgoing and friendly. From the moment we met Nadine at the airport everything was taken care of and we didn't have to worry at all. All our guides for our tours throughout our stay in Egypt went above and beyond to ensure we received the best experience possible. We couldn't fault them and we have told all our friends that if they are to go to Egypt then they have to book through this company.