Aswan to Luxor: Nile Cruise with Guide & All Sights

Summary

Travel by Nile cruise from Aswan to Luxor with guided visits

You’ll float down the Nile from Aswan to Luxor, stopping for ancient temples and markets with a local guide who brings Egypt’s stories to life. Expect fresh meals onboard, horse carriage rides to Edfu Temple, and time exploring places like Valley of the Kings and Karnak — moments you’ll remember long after you’re home.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the way the river looked at sunrise — kind of milky blue, with little boats sliding past while we waited for breakfast on the deck. Our guide, Ahmed, waved us over and handed out strong coffee (I needed it after that early flight into Aswan). He had this easy way of explaining things — like at the High Dam, he pointed out how it changed life for everyone along the Nile, not just rattling off dates. The air smelled faintly of diesel and sweet tea from a nearby vendor. I tried to say “shukran” to him and got a big grin in return.

We spent most days drifting between temples — Philae first, then Kom Ombo and Edfu. The horse carriage ride to Edfu Temple was bumpier than I expected (my friend nearly lost her hat), but honestly it made me laugh. Inside, you could still see centuries-old carvings if you squinted through the dust motes in the sunlight. Lunches were always back on the boat, usually something simple like grilled chicken and rice, but I swear those tomatoes tasted different here — sweeter maybe? Or maybe it was just being hungry after wandering through so much history.

By the time we reached Luxor, I’d stopped trying to keep track of which pharaoh built what. Ahmed joked that even locals get confused sometimes. The Valley of the Kings felt quiet in a way that surprised me — cool stone corridors and our footsteps echoing as we followed our guide’s flashlight beam deeper inside. There was one moment at Hatshepsut’s temple when a breeze kicked up dust and I caught myself just standing there, staring at those cliffs. I still think about that view sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Arrival and Aswan Tour

• Arrival and transfer to Nile Cruise
• Visit Aswan High Dam
• Visit Philae Temple

Day 2 — Cruise to Kom Ombo and Edfu

• Relax and cruise to Kom Ombo
• Visit Kom Ombo Temple
• Optional Abu Simbel tour

Day 3 — Edfu Temple and Luxor Sailing

• Visit Edfu Temple by horse carriage
• Sail to Esna and cross Esna lock
• Optional Sound and Light Show at Karnak Temple

Day 4 — Luxor West Bank and Temples

• Visit Valley of the Kings
• Visit Temple of Hatshepsut
• Visit Karnak and Luxor Temples
• Transfer to departure point

Top questions

Is pickup included for this Nile cruise from Aswan?

Yes, pickup is included from Aswan airport, train station, or bus station.

How many nights is this Nile cruise between Aswan and Luxor?

The cruise lasts 4 days and 3 nights.

Are meals provided during the cruise?

Yes, meals are included onboard during your stay on the Nile cruise boat.

Which temples are visited on this tour?

You’ll visit Philae Temple, Kom Ombo Temple, Edfu Temple, Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, Hatshepsut Temple, and Valley of the Kings.

Is there a local guide during sightseeing?

Yes, a local tour guide accompanies you throughout all major sites.

Is this tour suitable for wheelchair users?

Yes, it is wheelchair accessible.

Does this day trip include entry fees?

The description does not specify entry fees; check with your provider for details.

Can I join optional tours like Abu Simbel?

An optional excursion to Abu Simbel is available; ask your guide onboard about booking it.

What’s included

Your journey includes pickup in Aswan (from airport or station), all transfers between sites by private air-conditioned car or carriage where needed, accommodation on board the Nile cruise ship with daily meals provided onboard, guided visits at each temple or attraction along the route from Aswan to Luxor (including Valley of the Kings), plus support from your local guide throughout your trip before drop-off in Luxor.