Luxor to Aswan Nile Cruise with Hot Air Balloon & Abu Simbel

Summary

4-Day Nile Cruise: Valley of the Kings, Edfu, Kom Ombo & More

You’ll float down the Nile between Luxor and Aswan, waking up to ancient tombs one day and soaring above them in a hot air balloon the next. This trip blends history with real moments—like sipping tea on deck or hearing Nubian music echo across the water—that make Egypt feel close-up instead of distant.

What’s the experience like?

The first morning in Luxor hit me with that dry warmth you only get in Upper Egypt. Our Egyptologist guide met us right on time—he knew every shortcut through the city’s early traffic. We zipped down to the river and hopped onto a little motorboat. The Nile at sunrise is quiet except for the slap of water against the hull and a few fishermen already out. On the west bank, we walked into the Valley of the Kings. The tombs are cooler inside than you’d think; there’s this faint smell of dust and old stone. Our guide pointed out tiny carvings I’d never have noticed—one looked like it was scratched in yesterday. Hatshepsut’s temple stands out against the cliffs, all sharp lines and shadows by mid-morning. After seeing those giant Memnon statues (they really do tower over you), we checked into our cruise ship back on the east bank. The cabins were surprisingly comfy—AC humming quietly—and after a quick rest, I wandered through Luxor’s market streets where vendors called out in Arabic and French. That night, there was a disco party on board; not my usual scene but honestly, everyone got into it.

The next day started before dawn—still dark as we crossed to the west bank again for the hot air balloon ride. There’s this odd hush before takeoff, just burners hissing and people whispering. Floating above Luxor as sunlight spills over fields and temples is something you don’t forget; everything looks smaller but somehow more alive from up there. Back on land, we explored Karnak Temple (it really does feel endless) and then Luxor Temple itself before setting sail southward. Watching green fields slip by from a deck chair with sweet tea in hand became my new favorite way to travel.

By day three, we’d reached Edfu—horse-drawn carriage rides here are still how you get around near the temple. The horses wear these jingling harnesses that sound almost musical bouncing over cobblestones. Edfu Temple is massive; falcon gods everywhere you look. Later that afternoon, we drifted past small islands and kids waving from riverbanks until Kom Ombo appeared at sunset—the light turns everything gold for about ten minutes before dusk falls fast. Local tea on deck tasted extra sweet after all that walking.

The last morning came early—breakfast packed up to go as we set off for Abu Simbel while it was still cool outside (bring a scarf or something for the bus AC). Those temples are even bigger than photos suggest; standing in front of Ramses II feels surreal when you realize how far south you’ve come. Back in Aswan by lunchtime, we finished with Philae Island’s temple (reached by another short boat ride) and a quick stop at the High Dam before saying goodbye to our group at Aswan station.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Luxor West Bank Tour and Cruise Check-in

• Visit Valley of the Kings
• Visit Queen Hatshepsut Temple
• See Memnon Colossi
• Explore Luxor markets
• Evening disco party on cruise

Day 2 — Hot Air Balloon and East Bank Tour

• Hot air balloon ride over Luxor
• Visit Karnak Temple
• Visit Luxor Temple
• Cruise sails to Esna and Edfu

Day 3 — Edfu and Kom Ombo Temples

• Horse carriage to Edfu Temple
• Cruise sails to Kom Ombo
• Visit Kom Ombo Temple at sunset
• Cruise sails to Aswan

Day 4 — Abu Simbel and Aswan Highlights

• Visit Abu Simbel Temples
• Visit Philae Island Temple
• Visit Aswan High Dam
• Transfer to Aswan airport or hotel

Top questions

Is this tour suitable for families with young children?

Yes! Kids can join most activities (except hot air balloon rides for under-6s). Prams and infant seats are available if needed.

What happens if weather cancels Abu Simbel or balloon rides?

If either trip is canceled due to weather, you'll get $30 USD refunded per person for each missed activity.

Are meals included during the cruise?

All meals are covered from lunch on your first day through breakfast on your last morning onboard.

Can I request a different language guide?

Guides speak English by default, but other languages can be arranged ahead of time for an extra fee.

What’s included

Your cruise cabin comes with full facilities plus all meals onboard—from lunch your first day to breakfast at journey’s end. Guided tours cover every major site listed: Valley of the Kings, Karnak & Luxor Temples, Edfu & Kom Ombo Temples, Philae Island, Abu Simbel excursion (with transport), plus transfers between hotels or stations in both cities. Hot air balloon ride over Luxor is included too (weather permitting). Horse carriage ride at Edfu? That’s part of it! Licensed drivers handle all transfers so you can relax and enjoy each stop along the way.