1Luxor East Bank
Karnak Temple and Luxor Temple
A Luxor to Aswan Nile cruise brings the temples, tombs, and river landscapes of Upper Egypt together in one journey. Begin among the great monuments of Luxor, then sail south through Esna, Edfu, and Kom Ombo before reaching Aswan, where the Nile flows between islands, granite rocks, and Nubian scenery.
Your hotel moves with you, so you unpack once. Meals, guided visits, and transfers are arranged in advance, and the Nile does the driving.
With Respect Tours, Egypt Through Local Eyes, the cruise becomes part of one complete travel plan. Our team can arrange the ship, Egyptologist guide, transfers, hotels, domestic flights, and additional visits before or after sailing. Welcoming travellers since 1978, we help you choose the cruise that suits your dates, comfort level, and budget, with every inclusion clear from the start.
Cruise Details
You land in Luxor and want to unpack only once, yet still see Karnak, the Valley of the Kings, Edfu, Kom Ombo and Aswan. This 4-night Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan does that. It sails every Saturday on a 5-star ship, full board, with a licensed Egyptologist guide at each stop. Abu Simbel is an optional extra on the last morning. Sailing every Saturday, the cruise takes you to some of Egypt’s most iconic historical sites, including Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, Valley of the Kings, Temple of Edfu, Temple of Kom Ombo, and the beautiful city of Aswan, while giving you time to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the Nile between each destination. With full-board accommodation, expert Egyptologist guides, guided sightseeing, and carefully organized transfers included, every part of the journey is designed to feel smooth, comfortable, and enriching from arrival in Luxor to departure from Aswan. With Respect Tours, “Egypt Through Local Eyes,” the weekly departure suits travelers who want temples, rest on the water and a local guide at every stop. Send an inquiry with your dates and we will confirm the rate for your departure. Item Detail Route Luxor to Aswan Length 4 nights (5 days) Departure Every Saturday from Luxor Accommodation 5-star Nile cruise ship Meals Full board, buffet-style Guide Licensed Egyptologist guide during sightseeing Entry Fees Included for the sites listed in the itinerary Abu Simbel Optional morning excursion on Day 5, priced separately Flights Not included Starting Price From $1,110
5 days 4 nights
2 people
This 5 Day Luxor to Aswan cruise is one of the most relaxing ways to discover Upper Egypt, combining famous ancient temples, scenic Nile sailing, and comfortable onboard living in one complete journey. Starting from Luxor and sailing south to Aswan, the cruise includes visits to Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, the Valley of the Kings, Edfu Temple, Kom Ombo Temple, Philae Temple, and other iconic landmarks connected to ancient Egyptian history. Between each destination, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the Nile while passing palm-lined riverbanks, small villages, local boats, and beautiful desert scenery that make the journey feel calm and timeless. With Respect Tours, Egypt Through Local Eyes, this Standard Nile Cruise is carefully organized with guided tours, full-board meals, evening entertainment, and comfortable accommodation on board, offering travelers a smooth experience with one of the best local tour operators in Egypt. This Luxor to Aswan cruise departs every Monday. Important Note Rates are valid until December 20 and do not apply during Christmas, New Year, or other holiday periods. Please contact us for holiday season rates.
5 days 4 nights
1 person
This 5-Day Nile Cruise Luxor to Aswan Egypt, combines famous ancient temples, relaxing Nile sailing, and comfortable onboard living in one unforgettable journey through Upper Egypt. Starting from Luxor and ending in Aswan, the cruise includes visits to Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, the Valley of the Kings, Edfu Temple, Kom Ombo Temple, and Philae Temple while sailing through some of the most beautiful scenery along the Nile. Beyond the sightseeing, one of the best parts of the experience is the journey itself. As the cruise sails between cities, you’ll watch daily life unfold along the Nile, with small villages, farmers, palm trees, fishing boats, and desert landscapes creating scenery that feels calm, authentic, and completely different from Egypt’s busy tourist areas. With Respect Tours, Egypt Through Local Eyes, this Deluxe Nile Cruise is carefully arranged with guided sightseeing, full-board meals, evening entertainment, and comfortable onboard service, offering travelers a smooth experience with one of the best tour companies to visit Egypt. This Deluxe Nile Cruise departs every Saturday from Luxor. Important Note Rates are valid until December 20 and do not apply during Christmas, New Year, or other holiday periods. Please contact us for holiday season rates.
5 days 4 nights
1 person
Route
The cruise follows the Nile south through Upper Egypt, beginning in Luxor and ending in Aswan. Most journeys take five days and four nights, with sightseeing arranged in Luxor before the ship continues through Esna, Edfu, and Kom Ombo.
The ship becomes your hotel and transportation between each stop. Temple visits usually take place in the morning or later in the afternoon, while the hours between them are spent sailing, dining, or relaxing on board.
1Karnak Temple and Luxor Temple
2Valley of the Kings, Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, and Colossi of Memnon
3Sailing through the Esna area and passing the lock, depending on river traffic
4Temple of Horus, usually reached from the cruise dock
5The riverside Temple of Kom Ombo and, on some programs, the Crocodile Museum
6Philae Temple, Aswan High Dam, and other visits according to the selected package
The exact order and timing can change according to the ship’s sailing schedule, Esna Lock traffic, docking arrangements, and local conditions. Your confirmed itinerary will show the visits included with your chosen cruise.
Compare
Both directions usually cover the main temples in Luxor, Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Aswan. The main differences are the number of nights, the pace of the journey, and the city where your cruise ends.
| Luxor to Aswan | Aswan to Luxor | |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 5 days / 4 nights | 4 days / 3 nights |
| Pace | Relaxed, with more time on deck | Quicker, because the ship sails downstream |
| You finish in | Aswan | Luxor |
| Best if | Travellers who prefer a longer cruise and want to continue farther south | Travellers with less time or plans that finish in Luxor |
| Best next step | Abu Simbel, Lake Nasser, or extra time in Aswan | More time in Luxor, the Red Sea, or a flight from Luxor |
See our Aswan to Luxor Nile cruise options.
If Abu Simbel is part of your plan, finishing in Aswan is easier. See our Lake Nasser cruises for a quieter route beyond the dam.
On the ship
Days follow an easy rhythm. They usually begin with a guided temple visit, followed by lunch and time to relax as the ship sails towards the next stop. From the sun deck, watch villages, farmland, fishing boats, and desert scenery pass along the Nile.
Most cabins include air conditioning, a private bathroom, storage, and a river-facing window. Cabin size, window type, deck position, and facilities vary by ship, so check the confirmed cabin details before booking.
Full board covers breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with Egyptian and international dishes. Many ships also offer afternoon tea, a swimming pool, a lounge, and a bar. Evening activities may include a welcome cocktail, live music, or a galabeya party, depending on the cruise.
The ship does not sail continuously. It stops for excursions, may wait at Esna Lock, and can remain docked overnight. Wi-Fi may be limited, so a local SIM card is useful if you need a more reliable connection.
Compare
Both options sail between Luxor and Aswan, but the experience is different.
| Nile Cruise Ship | Dahabiya | |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Larger vessel with more cabins | Smaller sailing boat with fewer cabins |
| Facilities | Usually includes a pool, restaurant, lounge, bar, and entertainment | More limited facilities with shared indoor and outdoor spaces |
| Atmosphere | Social and lively | Quiet and intimate |
| Schedule | Fixed sailing days and organized excursions | Slower pace with more flexible sailing arrangements |
| Stops | Main sites such as Edfu and Kom Ombo | Main temples plus possible smaller riverside stops |
| Best for | First-time visitors, families, and travellers who prefer more onboard facilities | Couples, private groups, and travellers seeking privacy and a slower experience |
| Price | More cabin categories and a wider price range | Often higher per person because fewer guests share the boat |
Choose a Nile cruise ship if you want a swimming pool, more dining and entertainment facilities, and a structured schedule.
Choose a dahabiya if you prefer fewer passengers, quieter sailing, and more time to enjoy the river.
Available stops, facilities, and flexibility depend on the selected vessel. Compare the full itinerary and inclusions rather than choosing by the boat type alone.
Explore Dahabiya Nile CruisesPlan your dates
The best time for a Nile cruise is usually from October to April, when temperatures are comfortable for walking around open temples and sitting on deck. In Aswan, December averages a daytime high of about 26°C and a night low of about 13°C. January is slightly cooler. October and April are warmer but still pleasant. July averages about 42°C in Aswan, and the record is 48°C. Cruises do run in summer, but days are hot, and midday sightseeing is shorter.
Warm days, comfortable evenings
Coolest weather, busiest season, highest prices
Warming up, quieter
Very hot at midday, lower prices, early starts
Christmas, New Year, and Easter sailings fill first, and some travellers book four to six months ahead. See our Egypt Christmas Tours and Egypt Easter Tours.
Visiting around 2 August 2027?Totality passes near Luxor. See our Solar Eclipse 2027 Tours.
Inclusions & price
Most packages include accommodation, meals, guided temple visits, and the main services you need while sailing. Exact inclusions vary by ship and package, and Respect Tours confirms everything in writing before you book.
Prices depend on ship class, cabin, date, and season. December to February is the most expensive.
Before you book
The cabin can affect your comfort as much as the ship itself. Before booking, compare its deck, position, window type, size, and distance from busy or noisy areas.
Do not choose based only on the ship’s star rating. Ask for the exact cabin category and deck position included in your quotation.
Respect Tours can compare the available cabin options for your dates and explain the differences before you confirm your cruise.
Upper decks may provide wider views but usually cost more. Lower decks can offer better value.
Midship cabins generally experience less movement. Cabins near the engines may be noisier.
Confirm whether the cabin has a fixed window, panoramic window, opening window, or balcony.
Cabins close to the restaurant, lounge, reception, or stairs may experience more foot traffic.
Ask about lifts, steps, bathroom layout, and the route between your cabin and the main facilities.
Confirm whether you need twin beds, a double bed, a triple cabin, or connecting rooms.
Solo travellers should check the single supplement and cabin size before booking.
Good to know
Egypt’s visa requirements depend on your nationality. Some travellers can apply for an e-Visa or get a visa on arrival, while others must arrange one before travelling. Your passport should generally stay valid for at least six months from arrival. Check the official requirements before booking flights.
Carry Egyptian pounds and small notes for personal purchases and tips. Gratuities for the cruise crew, guide, and drivers are normally not included unless stated in your package.
Bring light cotton clothes for the day, a jacket for cool evenings, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Women can read our guide on what to wear in Egypt.
Nile cruises can suit different types of travellers because accommodation, meals, transportation, and guided visits are arranged together. Explore our Egypt Solo Woman Tours, Egypt Family Tours, and Egypt Honeymoon Tours.
River traffic, Esna Lock, docking arrangements, and local conditions can affect sailing times. The order of visits may change while the cruise operator works to maintain the confirmed program.
Mobile coverage is available along much of the route but may weaken between towns. Wi-Fi availability and charges vary by ship, so check before booking. A local SIM card is often more reliable.
Booking guide
Start with the dates you will be in Egypt. Cruises run all year, with higher demand around Christmas, New Year, and Easter.
Decide whether to sail from Luxor to Aswan or from Aswan to Luxor. Your arrival city, onward travel plans, and available sailing dates will usually make one direction more suitable.
Send us:
We check suitable ships and send sailing dates, cabin choices, inclusions, and the total price. The available ship may depend on your dates.
Review the payment and cancellation terms before you confirm. After booking, you will receive the cruise details, meeting arrangements, and final itinerary.
Connect your cruise with Cairo, Abu Simbel, Lake Nasser, or the Red Sea. We bring hotels, transfers, flights, and tours together in one plan.
Why us
Respect Tours has organized journeys across Egypt for more than 45 years, welcoming over 140,000 travellers from around the world.
Your guide is a licensed Egyptologist who connects Karnak, Edfu, Kom Ombo and Philae to the story of the Nile Valley.
We arrange more than the cruise itself. Flights, hotels, private transfers, Abu Simbel, and the rest of your itinerary come together in one plan.
Respect Tours is IATA and ASTA affiliated and licensed by the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism. See our license and credentials.
Read our payment policy and terms and conditions before you book. Learn more about who we are.
Ships, cabins, and dates vary. We compare the options for your dates, preferences, and budget, then explain the differences clearly before you choose.
Speak directly with our team before and during your cruise. If sailing arrangements change, we help coordinate the next steps with the cruise operator.
Questions before you book? Our team is a message away.
Guides & articles
It is a multi-night journey through Upper Egypt that combines accommodation, meals, Nile sailing, and guided visits. The ship travels from Luxor through Esna, Edfu, and Kom Ombo before finishing in Aswan.
Most sailings from Luxor last four nights (five days). Sailing from Aswan to Luxor usually takes three nights (four days), because the ship travels downstream.
Yes, especially if you want to visit the main archaeological sites of Upper Egypt without changing hotels between cities. The cruise combines sightseeing with time to rest and enjoy the Nile scenery.
October to April offers the most comfortable weather for sightseeing. Cruises also operate during summer, but visits may start earlier because temperatures are much higher.
It can be, but temple visits involve steps, uneven ground, and boarding gangways. Tell Respect Tours about any age-related or mobility requirements before booking so we can check the ship and daily program.
Most programs visit Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut Temple, Edfu Temple, Kom Ombo Temple, and Philae Temple. Additional visits depend on the selected package.
No. Abu Simbel is not located on the standard Luxor–Aswan sailing route. Respect Tours can arrange a separate visit by road or air from Aswan after your cruise.
The sightseeing route may be similar, but the ships differ in cabin size, furnishings, dining, service, facilities, and price. These labels are not always applied consistently, so compare the exact ship and cabin rather than the category name alone.
Wi-Fi availability, speed, and charges vary by ship. Mobile coverage is available along much of the river but may weaken between towns. A local SIM card is useful if you need a more reliable connection.
Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Check your eligibility and current entry requirements through Egypt’s official e-Visa portal or the nearest Egyptian consulate before travelling.
