African River Cruises
Ever thought about taking a panoramic city tour of Cape Town in all its beauty? Or riding the Table Mountain Cableway for amazing views of the city and ocean? Take a fun day trip to Simon's Town to see cute penguins, visit Nelson Mandela's historic cell where he was held for 18 years, and learn about the powerful Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg. An African river cruise will open your eyes.
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Hannah • traveled in March
The combination of the Cruise, lying on the sun deck and riding along the nile with the cultural trips to great temples and monuments was nice! The things we saw were great and the relaxation on the deck was great! The service personal on the ship was very nice! The ship was outdated but the crew made the best of what they had! Cairo Pass tour was available all the time and answered to all of our needs if we needed something! That was impressive! But we did not get an itinerary and that is very important to have at the beginning of the trip with information about what time to get up, what time the ship leaves, what time lunch is, when there is free time, when we would go where etc... So we can relax and prepare ourselves. He also tried to organise as much as possible for us with extra trips without really asking us which combination or what kind of vacation or what trips were better suited for us. It was just assumed that we want to see as much as possible and he didnt give us advice if the extra trip, we paid for extra!, were actually worth it or if we could have done less and then more relaxing.. We did not get free water as it was written on the website. Cairo Pass tour did drive us to places to buy water but we still thought we would get free water, which was not the case. The drinks on the boat are too expensive! Cairo Pass tour is a very great trip organiser and was there for us for everything! But we were just too ill informed and felt like we were pushed into extra trips and costs we didnt necessarily need or at least not in the way or in the time slot that he wanted us to go, wich led to an unrelaxing and expensive vacation for us. Also the fact that one expects us to tip everyone although everything was already paid for, was unexplicable to us. But Cairo Pass Tour is a great guy!! And the sights we saw were amazing! My friend and me always had our own guide, so we werent in a big group, which was also very nice and special.
7 Days Of Wonder In Egypt (Domestic Flight Included) - S
Shekhar • traveled in December, 2024
Noor and team did a splendid job in managing this trip. The communication was on point and any questions were promptly answered. Abaas and Mohammed were absolute superstar tour guides. While Abaas entertained us with his funny and unique style of tour guiding as well as acting as a candid photographer, Mohammed's in depth knowledge and genuine smile won everyone's hearts. Way to go guys!
Amazing 8 nights Visit Cairo, Nile Cruise, Abu Simbel & Hot Air Balloon - M
Marseille • traveled in September, 2024
Wow, what an incredible tour! It was rich with in-depth Egyptian history and culture, featuring visits to famous and extraordinary temples and pharaonic monuments. The Lake Nasser cruise was fantastic, and the scenery during the sailing was absolutely breathtaking.. All our guides were professional and friendly, and the entire team was outstanding.
15 Days Ancient Egypt & Lake Nasser Cruise
Our traveler's Moments
HIHoliday
4 Days 3 nights 5 stars Nile Cruise Aswan to Luxor
Amazing 8 nights Visit Cairo, Nile Cruise, Abu Simbel & Hot Air Balloon
sofia
ADAnnette
4-Night Nile Cruise: Karnak, Kom Ombo & Philae Highlights
SASammy
15 Days Ancient Egypt & Lake Nasser Cruise
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Ultimate Egyptian Experience: 10-Day All Included Tour with Cairo GEM, Nile Cruise, Alexandria & Safari (Abu Simbel & Hot Air Balloon)
5-Day Luxor Nile Cruise with Abu Simbel | Top Egypt Cruise ExperienceHanna
JBJoanna
Luxury Nile cruise Luxor & Aswan for 7 nights includes tours
5 Days – 4 Nights Nile Cruise 5 Star From Cairo by FlightKarla
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Nile Adventure Odyssey - Return Flights Included
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5 Days – 4 Nights Nile Cruise 5 stars from Luxor to Aswan
4 Days – 3 Nights 5 Star Nile Cruise From Cairo by FlightNicholas
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5 Days 4 Nights Cruise from Luxor to Aswan
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Discover Egypt Cultural Budget Adventure - Pyramids - Grand Egyptian Museum 5-Stars Nile Cruise
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Package 7-Days 6-Nights Cairo Pyramids, Nile Cruise&Alexandria by Sleeper Train
10 best river cruises through Africa
Compiled by
NadineAfrica travel expert at TourRadar
- Safari Cruise along the Zambezi River - South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe with extended stay at the Cape Peninsula (port-to-port cruise)
- Safari Cruise along the Zambezi River - South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe (port-to-port cruise)
- Discover Seychelles, Tanzania and Kenya 2028
- 7 Days Of Wonder In Egypt (Domestic Flight Included)
- Amazing 8 nights Visit Cairo, Nile Cruise, Abu Simbel & Hot Air Balloon
- 4-Night Nile Cruise: Karnak, Kom Ombo & Philae Highlights
- 15 Days Ancient Egypt & Lake Nasser Cruise
- Ultimate Egyptian Experience: 10-Day All Included Tour with Cairo GEM, Nile Cruise, Alexandria & Safari (Abu Simbel & Hot Air Balloon)
- Luxury Nile cruise Luxor & Aswan for 7 nights includes tours
- 5-Day Luxor Nile Cruise with Abu Simbel | Top Egypt Cruise Experience
Sail Lake Kariba's 200km expanse aboard African Dream ship, weaving through hidden inlets and drowned forests. Float down Chobe River's channels to Sedudu Island, relish sunset boat safaris, and savor Zambezi River dining near Victoria Falls.
Duration 13 days Destinations South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator CroisiEurope River Cruises From $10,925
11% Off- US$9,723You save $1,202
Safari Cruise along the Zambezi River - South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe (port-to-port cruise)
1 Review by TourRadar travelers
Lake Kariba's sunken forests pass by aboard the African Dream, revealing hidden inlets rich with wildlife. Cruise Chobe River to Sedudu Island's marshes, and savor sundowner cruises while watching hippos and crocodiles in their natural habitat.
Duration 9 days Destinations South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator CroisiEurope River Cruises From $7,022
17% Off- US$5,820You save $1,202
Duration 20 days Destinations Kenya, Tanzania, Seychelles Age Range Ages 12+ Operator Emerald Cruises From $36,780
50% Off- US$18,350You save $18,430
7 Days Of Wonder In Egypt (Domestic Flight Included)
9 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“His explanations of history and culture were clear and fascinating, and he made the whole experience unforgettable.”
Maria, traveled in September
The legendary river unfolds aboard 5-star ship visiting ancient temples. Sail from Luxor to Aswan exploring Karnak, Edfu, and Philae sanctuaries. Egyptologists share historical insights while passing traditional feluccas and riverbank ruins.
Duration 7 days Destinations Cairo, Aswan, Kom Ombo, Edfu, Luxor Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, German, Italian, Portuguese, French, Spanish, Chinese, Dutch, Russian Operator Itaca Holiday From $925
30% Off- US$648You save $278
Amazing 8 nights Visit Cairo, Nile Cruise, Abu Simbel & Hot Air Balloon
5 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The places are amazing and the people so friendly.”
sofia, traveled in September
The legendary Nile River beckons aboard 5-star cruise ships. Ancient Egyptian temples from Luxor to Aswan, including Karnak and Philae, showcase history. Luxury accommodation and gourmet dining complement historic waterway exploration.
Duration 9 days Destinations Cairo, Giza, Luxor, Valley of the Kings, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Aswan, Abu Simbel Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, Spanish Operator Egypt cruise travel From
30% Off- US$921
Sonesta St George sails Africa's legendary Nile from Luxor to Aswan. UNESCO sites including Karnak Temple and Valley of the Kings await. Full-board dining and cultural entertainment complement guided shore excursions along this historic waterway.
Duration 5 days Destinations Luxor, Valley of the Kings, Valley of the Queens, Esna, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Philae, Aswan Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, German, Italian, Portuguese, French, Spanish Operator Sun Pyramid Tours From
30% Off- US$844
15 Days Ancient Egypt & Lake Nasser Cruise
12 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Wonderful sights, excellent guides, great accomodation.”
Jill, traveled in March
The legendary Nile awaits aboard premium vessels like Movenpick Prince Abbas. Ancient temples from Luxor to Abu Simbel unfold before you, with traditional felucca sailing around Kitchener Island. Guides rated 4.9 (50+ reviews) lead comprehensive shore excursions to UNESCO sites.
Duration 15 days Destinations Luxor, Valley of the Kings, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Aswan, Philae, Agilkia Island, Kitchener Island, Abu Simbel, CairoSee all destinations Age Range Ages 6+ Operator Vacations to go travel From $6,000
30% Off- US$4,200You save $1,800
Ultimate Egyptian Experience: 10-Day All Included Tour with Cairo GEM, Nile Cruise, Alexandria & Safari (Abu Simbel & Hot Air Balloon)
3 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“It was beyond our expectations. The view from the top of Murchison Falls was amazing.”
Von, traveled in July
Boat safaris on the Kazinga Channel and Murchison Falls reveal African wildlife. Massive hippo pods, crocodiles, and waterbirds inhabit the waters between Lakes Edward and George, with afternoon excursions offering prime photography opportunities.
Duration 10 days Destinations Cairo, Giza, Aswan, Kom Ombo, Edfu, Luxor, Alexandria Age Range Ages 15+ Operated in English, German, Italian, Portuguese, French, Spanish, Chinese, Dutch, Russian Operator Golden Egypt From $3,800
50% Off- US$1,900You save $1,900
Luxury Nile cruise Luxor & Aswan for 7 nights includes tours
45 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The temples were all impressive.”
Mark, traveled in March
Luxurious 23m² staterooms with Egyptian cotton linens await on the legendary river. UNESCO sites like Karnak Temples and Valley of the Kings feature prominently. Optional Abu Simbel excursion complements included tours with expert guides.
Duration 8 days Destinations Luxor, Esna, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Aswan Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Truly Egypt Tours From
50% Off- US$1,980
5-Day Luxor Nile Cruise with Abu Simbel | Top Egypt Cruise Experience
18 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Every moment was magical, from the stunning temples and tombs to the breathtaking sunsets over the river.”
Hassan, traveled in July
A 5-star deluxe vessel plies the waters from Luxor to Aswan. Highlights include Edfu's Temple of Horus, Kom Ombo's double temple, and Abu Simbel. Full-board dining and expert guides accompany guests across 350km of ancient waterways.
Duration 5 days Destinations Luxor, Valley of the Kings, Esna, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Aswan, Abu Simbel Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, German, French, Spanish, Russian Operator Egypt Tour Pro From
50% Off- US$910
What our customers ask about African River Cruises
What are the best times of year to take a Nile River cruise in Africa?
The Nile River cruise season peaks from October to April when Egypt's weather is most favorable for sightseeing. During September and October travelers find fewer crowds and better rates while December through February brings comfortable daytime temperatures averaging 25°C (77°F). A TourRadar traveler noted: "Our February cruise had perfect weather for exploring temples and enjoying the sundeck making every moment memorable." Most experienced travelers avoid June through August when Upper Egypt temperatures regularly exceed 40°C (104°F).
What are the main destinations and highlights visited on Africa river cruises?
The classic Nile River route connects Luxor and Aswan taking passengers to key archaeological treasures including the Valley of the Kings Karnak Temple and the temples of Luxor Edfu and Philae. Many routes offer Abu Simbel as an add-on excursion. A TourRadar traveler shared "The highlights were Abu Simbel—absolutely breathtaking. The hot air balloon ride over Luxor was magical offering stunning views of ancient temples" from their trip with Egypt Tours Club.
How much do African river cruises typically cost?
The price range for Nile River voyages spans from basic to ultra-luxury experiences. A 4-night journey starts at 550 USD while deluxe 7-night cruises reach 1850 USD. Premium experiences like AmaWaterways' South African cruise command 16280 USD for 17 days. A TourRadar traveler shared: "Our 5-star Nile cruise including Abu Simbel was excellent value at 920 USD for 7 nights with all meals and guided tours included."
What wildlife can I expect to see on African river cruises?
Each river offers distinct wildlife encounters. The Zambezi River draws elephants hippos and crocodiles while Chobe River cruises showcase large herds of elephants and buffalo. Nile cruises emphasize historical sites though water birds and occasional crocodiles make appearances. A TourRadar traveler on the Zambezi Queen reported: "The morning wildlife viewing from the boat was incredible - we saw entire herds of elephants coming to drink at the river's edge."
How long are typical Africa river cruise itineraries?
Nile River journeys commonly run 4-8 days with many travelers choosing 4-night trips between Luxor and Aswan. Extended programs like Uniworld's 12-day "Splendors of Egypt & the Nile" blend river cruising with land exploration. Statistics show 5-day itineraries are most popular with one TourRadar traveler commenting "The 5-day cruise was perfect to see all the major sites along the Nile."
What types of cultural experiences are available on Africa river cruises?
These river voyages connect travelers with local life through visits to Nubian villages traditional markets and archaeological wonders. Evening entertainment features belly dancing and regional music while vessels like the Zimbabwean Dream stop at authentic villages on Impalila Island. A TourRadar traveler observed: "Our guide Hassan made both sightseeing visits in Aswan & Luxor so enjoyable and aroused curiosity with his knowledge of local culture."
What are the typical cabin options available on Africa river cruises?
Nile River ships provide accommodations ranging from standard rooms to premium suites. The S.S. Sphinx offers four room categories from deluxe cabins to royal suites each with river views. Ships like the Princess Sarah feature 5-star rooms with private balconies. According to a TourRadar traveler "The Nile cruise was memorable with stunning landscapes and a tranquil Nile view from our room" during their 5-day Luxor to Aswan journey.
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