Exploring the enchanting Nile River has long been a dream for many travelers. This 4-day, 3-night cruise from Luxor to Aswan promises to deliver an unforgettable experience, blending sought-after activities like a hot air balloon ride over Luxor and a visit to the iconic Abu Simbel temples. With 5-star accommodations, seamless transportation, and an English-speaking Egyptology guide, the cruise offers a convenient and comprehensive way to uncover the region’s rich history and stunning landscapes. While the reviews point to a few areas for improvement, the cruise’s appealing combination of services and experiences makes it a compelling option for those seeking to enjoy the wonders of ancient Egypt.
Key Points
- 4-day 3-night cruise from Luxor to Aswan with full board accommodation on a 5-star cruise.
- Includes a hot air balloon ride over Luxor and a visit to the Abu Simbel temples.
- Convenient pick-up and drop-off arrangements from/to Luxor and Aswan hotels, airports, and train stations.
- Knowledgeable English-speaking Egyptology guide throughout the cruise experience.
- Average accommodations and food quality, with lack of COVID-19 safety measures reported by some reviewers.
Trip Details
This 4-day 3-night cruise from Luxor to Aswan includes a hot air balloon ride over Luxor and a visit to the renowned Abu Simbel temples.
With 38 reviews and a Badge of Excellence, this cruise offers an exceptional experience.
The package includes 3 nights’ accommodation on a 5-star cruise with full board, all transfers, and an English-speaking Egyptology guide.
Travelers will enjoy a 35-45 minute hot air balloon ride over Luxor and a trip to the impressive Abu Simbel temples.
The cruise also provides motorboat transportation to Philae Temple and Wi-Fi onboard.
This comprehensive package ensures a memorable journey along the Nile River.
Included in the Package
The cruise package includes 3 nights’ accommodation on a 5-star cruise, where travelers will enjoy full board. Plus, all transfers and pick-up and drop-off transportation by air-conditioned vehicle are provided.
During the excursion, guests will be accompanied by a professional English-speaking Egyptology tour guide. The package also features:
- A 35-45 minute hot air balloon ride over Luxor
- A trip to the renowned Abu Simbel temples, with an English guide
- Entrance fees to all mentioned sightseeing, and tipping to the guide, drivers or cruise crew
The package also includes a motorboat ride to the Philae Temple, as well as onboard WiFi for the duration of the cruise.
Pickup and Drop-off
The cruise package offers pick-up from Luxor East Bank hotels, Luxor Airport, or Luxor Train Station.
Travelers will then be dropped off at their choice of location in Aswan, including Aswan Airport, train station, or hotels in Aswan East Bank.
This convenient transportation arrangement ensures a seamless start and end to the cruise experience. Guests can relax and enjoy the journey without worrying about logistics.
The included transfers by air-conditioned vehicle provide a comfortable and hassle-free way to reach the embarkation and disembarkation points.
Whether arriving by plane, train, or staying in Luxor, the package caters to various travel needs, making the overall experience more enjoyable for guests.
Additional Information
Booking for the cruise comes with confirmation at the time of reservation, ensuring guests have secured their spot for the journey.
Infants must sit on laps, while strollers and wheelchairs are accessible, accommodating families and those with mobility needs.
The child rate applies when sharing with two paying adults, making it an affordable option for families.
Minimum age for the hot air balloon ride is 6 years, and pregnant women aren’t allowed on the balloon due to safety concerns.
Guests have a 24-hour cancellation policy and are eligible for a full refund, providing flexibility and peace of mind.
The cruise offers a well-rounded experience, catering to various traveler preferences and needs.
Review Highlights
Reviewers highlight the well-organized transportation and tours provided by the cruise, commending the efficient logistics. The knowledgeable tour guide received praise, though some felt the schedule was a bit rushed.
Cruise staff provided good service, but the accommodations and food quality were considered average.
Disappointingly, reviewers noted a lack of COVID-19 safety measures on the cruise, raising concerns about health precautions.
Hot Air Balloon Ride
One of the highlights of the cruise from Luxor to Aswan is the included 35-45 minute hot air balloon ride over Luxor, providing guests with a breathtaking aerial perspective of the ancient city and its iconic landmarks.
The hot air balloon experience offers:
- Stunning panoramic views of Luxor’s temples, including the famous Karnak and Luxor Temples
- A serene and peaceful journey as you float peacefully over the Nile River and surrounding countryside
- An unparalleled opportunity to witness the sunrise and watch the city below come to life
This unforgettable activity is a must-do for any traveler seeking to capture the true essence of Luxor from above.
Visit to Abu Simbel
The cruise package also includes a trip to the iconic Abu Simbel temples, allowing travelers to marvel at the colossal stone statues of Ramses II and explore this remarkable archaeological site.
Guests will embark on a shared group excursion with an English-speaking guide, where they’ll learn about the temples’ impressive history and the remarkable engineering feat that went into their relocation to higher ground in the 1960s.
The journey to Abu Simbel takes approximately 3 hours each way, but the experience of witnessing these massive structures up close is well worth the visit. Travelers will have ample time to wander the site, take photos, and soak in the grandeur of this ancient wonder.
Cruise Accommodations and Dining
The cruise accommodations and on-board dining offer a mixed experience, according to guest reviews.
While the cruise staff provided good service, the overall quality of the accommodations and food was merely average. As one reviewer noted, ‘The rooms were decent, but not up to the 5-star standard we expected.’
Another guest commented, ‘The food was hit-or-miss – some meals were quite good, others were forgettable.’
Plus, the lack of COVID-19 safety measures on the cruise was a concern for some travelers.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the cruise remains a popular choice for its inclusive package and unique sightseeing opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Time Is the Hot Air Balloon Ride Scheduled?
The hot air balloon ride is scheduled for 35-45 minutes, according to the trip details. It’s included as part of the 4-day, 3-night cruise package from Luxor to Aswan.
Can I Request a Specific Cabin Type on the Cruise?
Yes, you can request a specific cabin type on the cruise, though availability may be limited. The package includes 3 nights’ accommodation on a 5-star cruise with full board, so you can discuss your preferences with the tour operator.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Cruise Meals?
The cruise meals offer a variety of options to accommodate dietary restrictions. Guests can request vegetarian, halal, kosher, or other special meals when booking the trip. The cruise staff is attentive to guests’ dietary needs.
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Fit My Schedule?
The package generally includes a set itinerary, but the tour operator may be able to accommodate minor customizations to fit the traveler’s schedule. It’s best to discuss any requests for changes directly with the tour operator.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Larger Group Bookings?
The cruise provider may offer group discounts for larger bookings, usually starting at 4 or more passengers. Discounts typically range from 5-15% off the total package price. It’s best to inquire directly to get the current group rates.
Recap
This 4-day, 3-night Nile River cruise from Luxor to Aswan offers a comprehensive experience, including a hot air balloon ride and a visit to the iconic Abu Simbel temples.
While some guests have noted a rushed schedule and average dining, the cruise’s 5-star accommodations, knowledgeable guides, and convenient transportation make it an appealing option for those seeking a convenient and immersive exploration of Egypt’s ancient wonders.
