A Nile cruise in December gives you mild days, cool evenings and the most festive atmosphere of the year. Temples are comfortable to explore, but mornings and nights can feel cold, daylight lasts about 10.5 hours and demand rises sharply in the second half of the month. Luxor reaches roughly 22 to 26°C by day and 8 to 11°C at night. Book early, especially for Christmas and New Year, and choose your cabin before the best ones sell out.
Is December Right for You?
December is a very good month for a Nile cruise if you want comfortable sightseeing and a festive trip. Days are mild and rain is rare. Evenings are cool, and daylight is short. Christmas and New Year cruises sell out first, so the main thing to book early is your ship and cabin.
Is December a Good Time for a Nile Cruise?
Yes. December is one of the best months for visiting ancient sites, because daytime temperatures are comfortable and the summer heat is long gone.
The trade-offs are cool mornings, cool evenings and busy ships around the holidays. If you accept these and book early, December is an excellent month.
We have organised Nile cruises since 1978, and December is the month when guests ask us most about layers, cabins and holiday dates. This guide answers those questions. For a month-by-month comparison, see our guide to the best time for an Egypt Nile cruise. If you are comparing the weeks just before the festive season, read our Nile cruise in November guide.
Pros and Cons of a Nile Cruise in December
December has a lot to offer, but the festive season brings real trade-offs. Weigh both sides before you choose your dates.
Advantages of Cruising the Nile in December
- Comfortable weather for temple and tomb visits
- Much lower heat than in summer
- Pleasant sun for sitting on the sundeck by day
- The chance to spend Christmas or New Year on the Nile
Possible Disadvantages
- Higher demand during the holidays
- Higher prices at peak times
- Cold mornings and evenings
- Short daylight hours
- Crowds at the most famous sites
Nile Cruise Weather in December
December is Egypt’s winter, so the weather is mild by day and cool at night. Figures differ between Luxor and Aswan and between the start and the end of the month, so use the ranges below as approximate averages.
Daytime Weather for a Nile Cruise in December
Luxor’s average daytime high is about 26°C on 1 December and about 22°C by 31 December. Aswan weather in December averages around 24°C by day, with about 9 hours of sunshine.
This is Luxor weather in December at its most comfortable. You can walk Karnak or the Valley of the Kings in the middle of the day in light clothing.
Evening and Early-Morning Temperatures
Is Egypt cold in December? Not by day, but nights are chilly. Luxor’s average low is about 11°C early in the month and about 8°C by the end. Aswan weather in December brings lows of about 10°C.
On the Nile, the wind makes it feel cooler, especially at dawn and after dark. You will want a warm layer for the deck.
Does It Rain in Upper Egypt During December?
Rain is very rare. Weather records for Aswan show no rainy days in December, and Luxor receives very little. You do not need a raincoat, though a thin waterproof layer does no harm.
Daylight Hours and Sunset Times
The sun rises at about 6.20 a.m. and sets between about 5.00 and 5.10 p.m. Daylight lasts about 10.5 hours, the shortest of the year.
This shapes your day. Sightseeing starts early, and sunset on deck arrives before dinner.
December Quick Facts for Nile Cruise Travellers
Use this table for a fast overview of what December is like on the river.
| Factor | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Daytime weather | Generally mild and comfortable |
| Evenings | Cool; warm layers are useful |
| Crowd level | Moderate to high, especially during holidays |
| Demand | Higher near Christmas and New Year |
| Clothing | Light daytime clothes plus a jacket |
| Booking | Early booking is recommended |
| Best for | Sightseeing, couples, families and senior travellers |
What to Expect on a Nile Cruise in December
At 6.30 a.m. you stand on the deck with a hot drink. The river is quiet, the air is cold and the sky is turning pink over the palms. By ten you have taken off your jacket at the temple gate. By five the sun is gone, and you are back in your layers. That is the rhythm of a winter Nile cruise.
Daily Sightseeing and Early Departures
Most days start early, with breakfast followed by a guided visit. Your Egyptologist plans the day around the light and the crowds. Departure times are usually confirmed the evening before.
Life Onboard the Cruise Ship
Ships are comfortable and relaxed, and facilities vary by category. In December, many guests spend more time in the lounge and the dining room than in summer.
Meals and Evening Entertainment
Most cruises are full board, with breakfast, lunch and dinner on the ship. Evening entertainment may include music, a show or a themed night. Ask what your ship offers.
Sundeck Time During Winter
The sundeck is best from late morning to mid-afternoon, which is when a winter Nile cruise feels warmest. Is Egypt cold in December on deck? Yes, once the sun drops. After sunset it becomes cold, so bring a warm layer.
Internet and Mobile Coverage
Mobile coverage is usually good near towns and weaker between them. Wi-Fi on a ship may be limited, so ask your operator about your specific ship.
Best Nile Cruise Routes in December
The classic Luxor and Aswan routes work well in December. The choice depends on your flights and how much time you have. Whichever you pick, the Nile cruise itinerary is similar: temples by day, sailing in between and rest in the evening.
Luxor to Aswan Nile Cruise
The southbound route usually takes 5 days and 4 nights. See our Luxor to Aswan Nile cruises for current programmes.
Aswan to Luxor Nile Cruise
The northbound route usually takes 4 days and 3 nights. See our Aswan to Luxor Nile cruises to compare departures.
Nile Cruise With an Abu Simbel Extension
Abu Simbel is an extra trip from Aswan, not a stop on the traditional cruise between Luxor and Aswan. It involves an early start by road or a short flight. See our Abu Simbel trip from Aswan page.
Cairo, Nile Cruise and Red Sea Combination
Many December trips combine Cairo, a Nile cruise and a few days at the Red Sea, which makes a complete Egypt winter holiday. Our Cairo travel packages show how the pieces fit together.
What Will You See During a December Nile Cruise?
A December Nile cruise visits the same great temples as any other month, in the most comfortable weather of the year.
Karnak and Luxor Temples
Karnak Temple is the largest temple complex in Egypt, and Luxor Temple stands beside the river. Both are lit at night, which is a good reason to stay out after dark.
Valley of the Kings and Hatshepsut Temple
The Valley of the Kings holds royal tombs cut into the hills. See our Valley of the Kings guide and our page on Hatshepsut Temple.
Edfu Temple
The Temple of Horus at Edfu is one of the best-preserved temples in Egypt.
Kom Ombo Temple
Kom Ombo is a double temple shared by two gods, Sobek and Horus, on a bend of the river.
Philae Temple and Aswan
Philae is the island temple of Isis near Aswan. Aswan also offers the High Dam and the Nile islands.
Optional Abu Simbel Temples
Abu Simbel is the optional highlight after Aswan, and it suits a day without other visits.
Christmas and New Year Nile Cruises
A Christmas Nile cruise or New Year Nile cruise is the main thing that sets December apart. It is Christmas in Egypt with the river as your backdrop. The river is busier, the ships are decorated and dates sell out early.
A Christmas Nile cruise suits travellers who want a winter Egypt holiday without the summer heat. Our Egypt Christmas tours page lists the festive programmes we currently offer.
What Is Different During the Festive Season?
The festive season brings higher demand, fuller ships and special evenings. Some programmes have fixed dates and set itineraries, and rates are different from the rest of the month.
For background on local traditions, read how Egypt celebrates Christmas.
Christmas Eve and New Year Celebrations Onboard
Celebrations on board may include a special dinner, music, decorations or a gala evening. These differ by ship and programme.
For example, our 8-day Egypt Christmas tour lists a themed welcome dinner, a festive dinner on Christmas Eve and a Christmas dinner on board. Our Sail into 2027 Nile cruise lists a New Year’s Eve gala dinner with live entertainment.
Holiday Supplements and Minimum-Stay Conditions
Some operators add holiday supplements or minimum stays over Christmas and New Year. Ask for both in writing.
On our own cruise pages, standard rates are valid until 20 December and do not apply to Christmas, New Year or other holiday periods. Holiday rates are quoted separately.
When Should You Book a Festive Nile Cruise?
Book as early as you can. Our Nile cruise pages recommend booking four to six months ahead for Christmas, New Year and Easter.
Follow these steps:
- Choose your dates, including the days before and after Christmas or New Year.
- Decide on the direction (Luxor to Aswan or Aswan to Luxor) and the ship category.
- Ask for a written quotation that names the cabin category and any holiday supplement.
- Confirm what is included, including meals, tickets, transfers and flights.
- Pay the deposit only when the dates, cabin and conditions match your quotation.
Compare Our Festive Programmes
These are the Christmas and New Year programmes currently listed on our site. Prices are “from” prices as shown on each page, and the group size differs, so check each page.
| Programme | Duration | Route | Listed Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4-day Christmas holiday package | 4 days, 3 nights | Aswan to Luxor cruise | $920 (1 person) |
| Sail into 2027 on the Nile | 5 days, 4 nights | Luxor to Aswan cruise | $2,350 (2 people) |
| 8-day Christmas tour | 8 days, 7 nights | Cairo, Luxor, Aswan | $2,499 (1 person) |
| 10-day Christmas holiday | 10 days, 9 nights | Cairo, Aswan, Luxor, Hurghada | $2,210 (2 people) |
What to Do Onboard in December
Onboard life is calm, and activities depend on the ship. Use “may include” as the rule.
Relax on the Sundeck During the Day
The sundeck is warm at midday, so it is the best place to rest between visits.
Watch the Nile at Sunset
Sunset is early, at about 5 p.m. Go up before dinner and bring a jacket.
Enjoy Evening Shows and Entertainment
Evening entertainment may include a show, music or a talk about the next day. Ask what the ship offers.
Join an Optional Galabeya Party
A galabeya party may be held on some ships. Guests wear traditional galabeyas, and there is often music. It is optional.
Spend Christmas or New Year on the Nile
Spending Christmas or New Year on the river is the main reason many guests choose a winter Nile cruise. Ask about the festive programme before you book.
How to Choose the Best Nile Cruise in December
Choose a December Nile cruise by checking the ship, the cabin, the dates and the festive conditions. Start early, because the best cabins go first.
Choose a Standard, Deluxe or Luxury Ship for a December Nile Cruise
Ships are usually sold as standard, deluxe or luxury. The difference is mostly space, service and facilities. Do not assume that every ship is luxury.
Confirm the Ship Name Before Booking
Ask for the ship’s name and category in writing before you pay. If an offer will not tell you until later, treat that as a warning sign.
Select the Right Cabin Location
A cabin away from the engines and the lounge is quieter. A river view makes the winter light and the sunsets part of your room.
Check Heating and Cabin Facilities
December nights are cool. Ask whether cabins have heating or a warm-air setting, and how many blankets are provided.
Compare Included Tours and Entrance Fees
Check which sites, tickets and transfers are included. Optional visits, such as Abu Simbel, are usually extra.
Confirm the Egyptologist Guide and Group Size
Ask whether a qualified Egyptologist will guide you and how large the group is. Smaller groups give a better visit.
Review Christmas and New Year Supplements
On a New Year Nile cruise or any festive sailing, ask about supplements, minimum stays and gala-dinner charges before you pay.
How Much Does a Nile Cruise Cost in December?
A Nile cruise in December has no single price, because the cost changes with the ship, the cabin and the dates. Be wary of any general figure.
These factors move the price:
- Ship category
- Cabin type and deck
- Cruise direction and duration
- Included sightseeing
- Private or group guide
- Travel dates
- Christmas and New Year supplements
- Domestic flights and transfers
Send Respect Tours your dates, number of guests and preferred cruise category to receive an accurate December quotation.
What to Wear on a Nile Cruise in December
What to wear on a Nile cruise in December comes down to layers. Dress for a mild day and a cold night.
Clothes for Daytime Temple Visits
Wear light cotton or linen clothes in the daytime, with a hat and sunglasses. Long trousers are a good choice for tombs and temples.
Warm Layers for Mornings and Evenings
Bring a jacket, cardigan or fleece for the deck at dawn and after dark. A scarf helps on cold mornings.
What to Wear at Dinner
Dinner is usually smart-casual. When you plan what to pack for Egypt in December, add one smarter outfit. For a gala evening, bring one smarter outfit and a layer.
Respectful Clothing for Religious Sites
Cover your shoulders and knees at mosques and churches. A light scarf or shawl is useful.
What to Pack for a December Nile Cruise
Knowing what to pack for Egypt in December makes the trip easier. Pack for warm days and cool nights. This list covers the essentials:
- Light daytime clothes
- Jacket, cardigan or fleece
- Long trousers
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Hat and sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Scarf or shawl
- Small umbrella or light rain jacket (optional)
- Medication
- Power bank
- Small cash
Practical Tips for a Nile Cruise in December
These tips prevent most problems on a winter Nile cruise.
Book Early for Christmas and New Year
Festive dates fill first. Book four to six months ahead if you can.
Confirm Your Cabin Before Paying
Ask for the cabin category and deck in your quotation, and check them again before you pay.
Pack for a Nile Cruise in December: Warm Days and Cool Evenings
Use layers you can add and remove. Pack the warm layer in your day bag.
Plan Around Shorter Daylight Hours
Daylight is short, so early starts matter. Leave evenings free for rest and meals.
Check What Full Board Includes
Full board normally covers three meals a day. Drinks and extras are usually charged separately.
Leave Time Between Flights and Embarkation
Arrive a day early if you can. A spare night protects you from delays, which are more likely around the holidays.
Ask About Mobility and Accessibility
Ships have stairs and gangways, and temple sites have uneven ground. Ask about lifts, cabin access and assistance before you book.
Is a December Nile Cruise Suitable for You?
A December Nile cruise suits most travellers, because the weather is gentle and the pace is relaxed.
Couples and Honeymooners
Couples enjoy cool evenings, sunsets and the festive mood. See our Egypt honeymoon tours for ideas.
Families Travelling During Christmas
School holidays make Christmas a popular family week. Ask about cabin types and age policies, and see our Egypt family tours.
Senior Travellers
The mild days and slow pace suit senior travellers. Ask about accessibility before you book.
Solo and Female Travellers
Solo travellers have a social base on a ship, with guides and transfers arranged for them. Female Egyptologist guides and female drivers can be arranged by Respect Tours upon request. See our Egypt solo woman tours.
Combine Your December Nile Cruise With Other Destinations
December is a good month to combine the Nile with Cairo and the Red Sea.
Christmas in Cairo Before the Cruise
Spend a few days in Cairo for the pyramids and the Egyptian Museum before you fly south. Christmas in Egypt is also visible in Cairo, with lights and church services adding atmosphere.
Abu Simbel From Aswan
If your cruise ends in Aswan, Abu Simbel makes a natural add-on.
Hurghada or Marsa Alam After the Cruise
A few days on the Red Sea balance a busy itinerary. Water is cooler in winter, so check your resort’s facilities. See our luxury Cairo to Marsa Alam tour for one example.
New Year in Luxor or on the Red Sea
New Year’s Eve can be spent on the river, in Luxor or at the Red Sea. Ask us to build the Nile cruise itinerary and the Egypt winter holiday around your date.
Book Your December Nile Cruise With Respect Tours
Discover Upper Egypt in comfortable winter weather and spend the festive season surrounded by the temples and landscapes of the Nile. Respect Tours can arrange your cruise, private transfers, Egyptologist guide, domestic flights and holiday extensions.
We are a licensed local operator that has welcomed travellers since 1978. Contact us today, before the festive dates fill up.
Explore Nile cruise packages Check December availability Plan a Christmas Egypt tour Request a custom itinerary
FAQs About Nile Cruises in December
Is it cold on a Nile cruise in December?
Nights and mornings are cold, with Luxor weather in December falling to around 8 to 11°C after dark. Days are mild. Bring a jacket and scarf for the deck, and ask whether your cabin has heating and extra blankets.
Can I use the swimming pool in December?
Possibly, but not on every ship. Some ships have a pool, and the water is usually unheated. Midday is the warmest time, so many guests prefer the sundeck. Ask your operator whether your ship has a pool and whether it is open.
Which route is better: Luxor to Aswan or Aswan to Luxor?
Neither is better for everyone. Luxor to Aswan usually takes 5 days and 4 nights, while Aswan to Luxor usually takes 4 days and 3 nights. Choose by your flights, your time and the festive dates available.
Are Nile cruises suitable for families in December?
Yes, for children who enjoy sightseeing. Mild days make temples easier than in summer, but evenings are cool and daylight is short. Ask about family cabins, age policies and entertainment before you book your Christmas dates.
