For years, cruises on the River Nile have been ferrying holidaymakers and visitors 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 preferred with holiday makers.
A normal Nile cruise lasts 7 nights and operate Monday to Monday. Direct flights from UK bring holidaymakers to Luxor where they are moved to their cruise ship to check in. The following morning, the journey into historic Egypt begins with a take in to the East Bank of the Nile at Luxor which includes the Temples of Karnak and Luxor.
The following morning, the sightseeing continues on to the West Bank of the Nile including the Valley of the Kings just before coming back to the cruise boat for lunch. Just after lunch, the cruise ship leaves Luxor travelling south for Edfu. Immediately following an overnight mooring at Edfu, there are further outings to temples at both Edfu and Kom Ombo prior to continuing to Aswan.
The following morning, it is time to explore Aswan and a more modern structure; the Aswan High Dam. Built in the 1950s, the Aswan High Dam created Lake Nasser, itself a cruise destination. After lunch, there is time to sail on a traditional Egyptian Felucca along this very scenic part of the River nile. The Cataract Hotel in Aswan looks out onto the river and it is the place where Agatha Christie authored part of her well known book, “Death on the Nile”.
Immediately after an overnight stop in Aswan, there is some time available to explore the town or alternatively, there is an optional trip to the impressive Temple of Abu Simbel at the southern end of Lake Nasser. It is quite a distance to Abu Simbel, either three quarters of an hour by plane or three hours but it is worthwhile the hassle.
Aswan represents the turnaround point for Nile cruises and now the cruise boat heads back north the 80 miles to Luxor. The journey lasts two days with an over night stay at Edfu prior to heading back to Luxor. The week cruising the River Nile is over and travellers head back to the airport and home.