For many years, River Nile cruises have been carrying travellers on a magical journey back in time along this superb river. A combination of exploring the wonders of historical Egypt coupled with a mellow journey south from Luxor to Aswan is ever favourite with travellers.
A regular River Nile cruise lasts seven nights and run Monday to Monday. Direct flights from Britain bring people to Luxor and then they are taken to their cruise vessel to check in. The next morning, the journey into ancient Egypt begins with a check out to the East Bank of the Nile at Luxor which includes the Temples of Karnak and Luxor.
The next day, the sightseeing moves on to the West Bank of the Nile including the Valley of the Kings before going back to the boat for lunch. Immediately after lunch, the cruise boat departs Luxor heading south for Edfu. Just after an overnight mooring at Edfu, there are further visits to temples at both Edfu and Kom Ombo prior to continuing to Aswan.
The next day, it is time to check out Aswan and a more modern construction; the Aswan High Dam. Built in the 1950s, the Aswan High Dam produced Lake Nasser, itself a cruise place. After lunch, there is time to sail on a traditional Egyptian Felucca along this very scenic part of the river. The Cataract Hotel in Aswan overlooks the River Nile and it is the place where Agatha Christie authored part of her notable book, “Death on the Nile”.
Just after an overnight stay in Aswan, there is free time available to explore the town or otherwise, there is an optional tour to the magnificent Temple of Abu Simbel at the other end of Lake Nasser. It is a long way to Abu Simbel, either 45 minutes by plane or three hours but it is worth the time and effort.
Aswan is the turnaround point for Nile cruises and now the vessel heads back north the 80 miles to Luxor. The journey takes 2 days with an over night stop at Edfu before heading back to Luxor. The week sailing along the River Nile is over and visitors head back to the airport and home.
