Why it matters
The Nile is the reason Egypt exists, and a cruise is the most restful way to cover the 200 or so kilometres between Luxor and Aswan. You unpack once, and the temples come to you.
What you stop at
- Edfu. The Temple of Horus is one of the best preserved in Egypt, built in the Ptolemaic period. Many cruises reach it by horse-drawn carriage.
- Kom Ombo. A rare double temple dedicated to the crocodile god Sobek and to Horus the Elder, set on a bend in the river. It is lovely at sunset.
- Esna. Many ships pass through the Esna lock, a good moment to watch the river traffic.
Choosing a ship
- Size matters. Small ships and private charters with a handful of suites feel more like a floating hotel than a hotel on a river.
- Itinerary direction. Luxor to Aswan and Aswan to Luxor cover the same sights; your flights and the day you want Abu Simbel usually decide it.
- Water levels and docking. Ships often moor several abreast in high season, which affects how quiet and private the stop feels. Ask your planner.
How we plan it
We recommend ships by the type of journey you want, then fit the temples and a Luxor stay either side. Tell us your dates and group size in the planner.