For several years, River Nile cruises have been taking travellers on a magical journey back in time along this wonderful river. A combination of exploring the wonders of ancient Egypt combined with a mellow journey south from Luxor to Aswan is ever desirable with visitors.
A normal River Nile cruise lasts 7 nights and operate Monday to Monday. Direct flights from United Kingdom bring holidaymakers to Luxor and then they are taken to their cruise ship to check in. The next morning, the journey into historic Egypt starts out with a see to the East Bank of the Nile at Luxor including the Temples of Karnak and Luxor.
The following morning, the sightseeing continues on to the West Bank of the Nile which includes the Valley of the Kings just before going back to the boat for lunch. Immediately following lunch, the cruise ship leaves Luxor travelling south for Edfu. Just after an overnight mooring at Edfu, there are further tours to temples at both Edfu and Kom Ombo before carrying on to Aswan.
The next day, its time to check out Aswan and a more advanced construction; the Aswan High Dam. Built in the 1950s, the Aswan High Dam created Lake Nasser, itself a cruise choice. 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 here that Agatha Christie published part of her renowned book, “Death on the Nile”.
After an overnight stop in Aswan, there is some time available to explore the town or on the other hand, there is an optional trip to the wonderful Temple of Abu Simbel at the southern end of Lake Nasser. It is a long way to Abu Simbel, either nearly an hour by air or 3 hours but it is worth the hassle.
Aswan marks the turn-around point for Nile cruises and now the boat heads back north the 80 miles to Luxor. The journey lasts two days with an over night stay at Edfu prior to returning to Luxor. The week sailing along the River Nile is over and visitors return to the airport and home.
