An Aswan to Luxor cruise in December suits most travellers: days are mild for temple visits, evenings are cool and daylight is short. Our standard 4-day, 3-night cruise leaves Aswan every Friday and sails north to Luxor. Christmas and New Year dates sell out first, so book your ship and cabin early. This guide covers the route, weather, clothing, cabins, festive supplements and how to arrive in Aswan and leave from Luxor.
Is December a Good Time for an Aswan to Luxor Cruise?
Yes. December is one of the most comfortable months for an Aswan to Luxor Nile cruise. Temple visits are pleasant by day, and evenings and sundeck time can feel cool.
Demand rises near Christmas and New Year. Our cruise pages state that standard rates are valid until 20 December and do not apply during Christmas, New Year or other holiday periods. Holiday dates are quoted separately.
Aswan to Luxor Cruise in December at a Glance
| Factor | What to expect |
| Direction | Aswan to Luxor, sailing north |
| Typical duration | 4 days / 3 nights |
| Departure (our standard cruise) | Every Friday from Aswan |
| Main stops | Aswan, Kom Ombo, Edfu, Esna and Luxor |
| Weather | Mild days and cooler evenings |
| Demand | Higher near Christmas and New Year |
| Best for | First-time visitors and shorter itineraries |
| Booking advice | Confirm the sailing date before you book flights |
What Is the Aswan to Luxor Cruise Route?
The route runs north from Aswan to Luxor, about 4 days with stops at Kom Ombo, Edfu and Esna. You unpack once and visit a temple each day.
Starting the Cruise in Aswan
You begin with sightseeing in Aswan, then board in the afternoon. Lunch and dinner are served on board.
Sailing From Aswan to Kom Ombo
On day 2 you sail through Upper Egypt. You visit Kom Ombo Temple around midday, then continue towards Edfu.
Edfu and the Temple of Horus
The ship docks at Edfu overnight. You visit the Temple of Horus the next morning, one of the best-preserved temples in Egypt.
Arriving in Luxor
After Edfu you sail to Esna and pass through the Esna Lock, a river gate that raises the ship. You reach Luxor in the afternoon.
East Bank and West Bank Sightseeing
Luxor has two sides. The East Bank has Karnak and Luxor temples. The West Bank has the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut Temple and the Colossi of Memnon.
Sample 4-Day Aswan to Luxor Cruise Itinerary
This is a sample based on our Friday cruise. The order of visits and sailing times can change with the ship and the navigation schedule, so confirm your final programme.
Day 1: Aswan sightseeing and cruise check-in
- Philae Temple, reached by boat
- Aswan High Dam
- Unfinished Obelisk
- Check-in, lunch and dinner on board
Day 2: Kom Ombo and sailing to Edfu
- Sailing through Upper Egypt
- Kom Ombo Temple around midday
- Overnight at Edfu
Day 3: Edfu, Esna and arrival in Luxor
- Temple of Horus at Edfu
- Esna Lock
- Karnak and Luxor temples in the afternoon
- Dinner and a Galabeya Party on board, a themed evening with traditional clothes and music
Day 4: Luxor’s West Bank and disembarkation
- Check-out after breakfast
- Valley of the Kings
- Hatshepsut Temple
- Colossi of Memnon
- Transfer for your departure from Luxor
You can compare this plan with our 4-day Nile cruise every Friday, which lists what each day includes.
Main Attractions Along the Cruise
Seven sites make up most of the cruise. Each one covers a different era and style.
Philae Temple
Philae is a temple of Isis on an island near Aswan. You arrive by boat, which is part of its appeal.
Kom Ombo Temple
Kom Ombo sits on the river bank and is dedicated to two gods, Sobek and Horus. The double design is unusual.
Edfu Temple
Edfu is the Temple of Horus. Its walls and courtyard are well preserved, so guides can explain how a temple worked.
Karnak and Luxor Temples
Karnak is a vast temple complex and Luxor Temple stands beside the river. Late-afternoon light makes both comfortable to visit in December.
Valley of the Kings
The Valley of the Kings holds the royal tombs of the New Kingdom. Our standard cruise includes entry to 3 tombs.
Hatshepsut Temple
Hatshepsut Temple is cut into cliffs on the West Bank. The terraces are striking in the morning.
Colossi of Memnon
The Colossi of Memnon are two giant seated statues on the West Bank. They make a short, easy stop.
December Weather From Aswan to Luxor
December days are mild and nights are cool, and rain is very rare. Aswan averages about 24°C (75°F) by day and 10°C (50°F) at night. Luxor is roughly 22 to 26°C (72 to 79°F) by day and 8 to 11°C (46 to 52°F) at night.
For a fuller guide to weather and clothing, read our Nile cruise in December guide.
Daytime Weather During Temple Visits
Daytime is comfortable for walking around temples. Sun is still strong, so wear a hat.
Early Mornings and Evenings
Mornings and evenings feel cold, especially on deck and at sunrise excursions. Bring a warm layer.
Rain and Winter Conditions
Rain is very rare, and a light waterproof layer is optional.
Daylight and Early Sunset
Daylight lasts about 10.5 hours, and sunset in Luxor falls around 5:00 PM. Plan temple visits for the morning and early afternoon.
What to Wear on an Aswan to Luxor Cruise in December
Pack layers: light clothes for the day and a jacket for the evening.
- Lightweight clothes for daytime: breathable cotton or linen
- A jacket or fleece for evenings: especially for the sundeck
- Comfortable shoes for ancient sites: temples have uneven stone floors
- Smart-casual clothes for dinner: especially if there is a festive dinner
- Modest clothing for religious sites: cover shoulders and knees
What to Expect Onboard
Facilities differ from ship to ship, so treat these as typical rather than guaranteed.
Cabins and Nile Views
Cabins usually have private bathrooms, and many have river-view windows. Confirm the cabin type when you book.
Full-Board Meals
Our standard 4-day cruise is full board, with all onboard meals included. Drinks are extra.
Sundeck and Swimming Pool
Most ships have a sundeck, and some have a pool. The sundeck is warmest from late morning to mid-afternoon.
Evening Entertainment
Evening entertainment may include music or a themed night such as the Galabeya Party. Programmes differ by ship and date.
Wi-Fi and Mobile Coverage
Wi-Fi may be limited on the river. Do not plan to work from the ship.
Early-Morning Excursions
Some excursions start early to avoid crowds. Pack a jacket and expect an early breakfast.
How to Choose the Right Cruise for December
Make these decisions before you pay. For a full comparison of ships and categories, read our guide on how to choose a Nile cruise.
- Confirm the exact sailing date.
- Ask for the ship’s category in writing.
- Choose the right cabin deck.
- Avoid cabins near the engines or entertainment areas.
- Compare private and shared sightseeing.
- Confirm which entrance fees are included.
- Ask whether the pool is heated.
- Review Christmas and New Year supplements.
Standard, Deluxe or Luxury Cruise?
| Cruise category | Best for | What to check |
| Standard | Value-focused travellers | Cabin condition, meals and facilities |
| Deluxe | Travellers wanting more comfort | Renovation date and cabin category |
| Luxury | Couples and special occasions | Suite type, service and inclusions |
Pick Standard for value, Deluxe for comfort and Luxury for a special occasion.
Is the Cruise Suitable for Families?
Yes, for children who enjoy sightseeing. Days are mild, but evenings are cool and early starts are tiring for young children. Our cruise page describes the cruise as suitable for families, couples, solo travellers and seniors.
Cabin Arrangements for Families
Ask about triple cabins and connecting rooms, because availability differs by ship.
Early Excursions With Children
Early excursions can be hard on young children. Ask your guide to shorten the day if needed.
Meals and Dietary Requirements
Tell us about allergies and dietary needs when you book. The ship then plans meals in advance.
Private Guide vs. Shared Group
A private guide lets you set the pace, which helps with children. See our Egypt family tours for family itineraries.
How Much Does an Aswan to Luxor Cruise Cost in December?
The price depends on dates, ship category and how you sightsee. Our standard 4-day Friday cruise lists rates from $780 for dates up to 20 December, and those rates do not apply during Christmas and New Year. Confirm the basis of that price (per person or per group) on the page before you compare.
The price changes with:
- Ship category
- Cabin type and deck
- Number of travellers
- Private or shared sightseeing
- Entrance fees
- Domestic flights and transfers
- Travel date
- Christmas and New Year supplements
Send Respect Tours your December dates, number of travellers and preferred cruise category to receive an accurate quotation.
Christmas and New Year Cruises From Aswan to Luxor
Festive dates cost more and sell out sooner. Plan your Christmas or New Year sailing early and ask for the details in writing. See our Egypt Christmas tours for the festive programmes we currently list.
What Changes During the Festive Period?
Prices, availability and programmes all change. Standard rates stop before Christmas, and holiday rates are quoted separately.
Gala Dinners and Onboard Entertainment
A festive dinner or special entertainment may be offered, depending on the selected ship and departure date.
Compulsory Festive Supplements
Some ships charge a compulsory supplement for the Christmas or New Year dinner. Ask whether it is included before you pay.
Limited Cabin Availability
Cabins sell out first on Christmas and New Year dates. Book early if you need a specific cabin.
How to Prepare for the Cruise
Do these before you travel:
- Arrive in Aswan before embarkation.
- Confirm your flights after the cruise date.
- Share dietary and mobility requirements.
- Keep your passport and confirmation available.
- Carry cards and small Egyptian cash for tips and drinks.
- Pack medication and a power bank.
How to Reach Aswan and Leave Luxor
The cruise is one-way, so you start in Aswan and finish in Luxor. Book your travel to match.
Flying From Cairo to Aswan
A domestic flight is the quickest way to reach Aswan from Cairo. Check the schedule and baggage allowance before you buy.
Arriving by Train
A train also runs to Aswan. Check timetables and classes before you book.
Airport and Hotel Transfers in Aswan
Our cruise includes meet and assist in Aswan and transfers in air-conditioned vehicles. Confirm the exact pickup point when you book.
Flying or Taking the Train From Luxor
You can fly or take the train onward from Luxor. Keep your onward ticket for after the day 4 sightseeing.
Aswan to Luxor vs. Luxor to Aswan in December
Choose the direction by time and where you want to start.
| Aswan to Luxor | Luxor to Aswan |
| Typically 4 days / 3 nights | Typically 5 days / 4 nights |
| Better for limited time | Better for more time onboard |
| Starts in Aswan | Starts in Luxor |
| Finishes in Luxor | Finishes in Aswan |
Compare the longer option on our Luxor to Aswan cruises page.
Can You Add Abu Simbel or Lake Nasser?
Yes, as extensions. They are not part of the standard route.
Abu Simbel Before Embarkation
Abu Simbel is an optional extra and is not included in the price. It can usually be arranged before the cruise leaves Aswan. See our Abu Simbel day trip from Aswan.
Lake Nasser Cruise as a Separate Journey
Lake Nasser is a different cruise, not a stop on this route. Read the Lake Nasser cruise route if you want to add it.
Extra Nights in Aswan
Extra nights give you time for Abu Simbel and the Aswan sights without rushing.
Cairo or Red Sea Extension
You can add Cairo before the cruise or the Red Sea after it. Use our custom itinerary planner to build it.
Who Is This December Cruise Best For?
It suits several kinds of traveller, but not all.
- First-time visitors: the route covers the main temples in 4 days.
- Couples and honeymooners: cool evenings and sunsets suit couples.
- Families: see the family section above.
- Senior travellers: a ship means you unpack once.
- Short winter holidays: 3 nights fits a tight schedule.
If you want more time on the river, the 5-day Luxor to Aswan cruise is the better choice.
Book Your December Cruise With Respect Tours
Sail north from Aswan to Luxor through the landscapes and ancient sites of Upper Egypt. Respect Tours, a local operator since 1978, can arrange your cruise, transfers, guided visits, domestic travel and extensions according to your December dates.
View Aswan to Luxor Cruises Check December Departures
FAQs
Is it cold onboard at night?
Yes, nights on deck are cold, with Luxor falling to roughly 8 to 11°C (46 to 52°F). Bring a jacket and scarf for the deck, and ask whether your cabin has heating and extra blankets.
Are swimming pools heated in December?
Not usually. Some ships have a pool, and the water is typically unheated, so it is best used around midday. Ask your operator whether your ship has a pool and whether it is open in December.
Is a private guide included?
Our cruise page lists an English-speaking Egyptologist guide and entrance fees to the listed sites. Whether sightseeing is private or shared depends on the programme and group size, so confirm this in your written quotation before you pay.
Are Christmas dinners included?
It depends on the ship and the departure date. A festive dinner or special entertainment may be offered, and some ships charge a compulsory supplement. Ask for the festive details in writing before you pay.
