North Africa River Cruises
Picture cruising the Nile through Egypt's history. River cruises run between Luxor and Aswan, visiting the Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, Edfu Temple, Kom Ombo, and Philae Temple near Aswan. The boat becomes floating hotel—you unpack once, wake up at different sites. Days are structured around temple visits with egyptologists explaining everything.
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Jane • traveled in February, 2026
We had an amazing experience in Egypt! The tour operator was extremely flexible, adjusting our itinerary on the go to suit our schedule. They even provided complimentary extra accommodation for our comfort. Communication was easy, and they were always helpful. We highly recommend their services.
Ultimate Egyptian Experience: 10-Day All Included Tour with Cairo GEM, Nile Cruise, Alexandria & Safari (Abu Simbel & Hot Air Balloon) - T
Tony • traveled in November, 2025
Cruising the Nile is a dream many of us have, and it is certainly worthwhile. Gliding along in a riverboat is certainly more restful than an ocean cruise as there's no motion of the vessel. I thought this cruise would be he right length of time to cruise. However, the first night I was put into a mediocre hotel as "there were no boats sailing." I also did not realise that the next two days we were berthed in Luxor doing land tours. Therefore the actual cruising was only over two days and nights. The boat and food and staff were great however.
Luxury Nile Cruise From Luxor to Aswan 5 Day - L
Laurent • traveled in March, 2026
The boat was good. The boat restaurnt was fine too. The guides for the visits were good except for Louxor and Karnac where the guide was really bad (poor french speaking, non relevant information, speeding to go back at home as soon as possible).
5-Day Luxor Nile Cruise with Abu Simbel | Top Egypt Cruise Experience
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Ultimate Egyptian Experience: 10-Day All Included Tour with Cairo GEM, Nile Cruise, Alexandria & Safari (Abu Simbel & Hot Air Balloon)
7 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“It was beyond our expectations. The view from the top of Murchison Falls was amazing.”
Von, traveled in July
Wildlife thrives along the Kazinga Channel between Lakes Edward and George, where hippo pods and bathing elephants gather. The thundering Murchison Falls creates a spectacular show as the Nile squeezes through a 7-meter gorge. Three-hour boat safaris from Ikorom Safari Lodge offer prime viewing.
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 From Luxor to Aswan 5 Day
7 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The trip was very good and we discovered the most important landmarks of Luxor and Aswan.”
Jonathan, traveled in June
The iconic waterway unfolds aboard a 5-star ship from Luxor to Aswan. Karnak Temple's sacred lake, Valley of the Kings' royal tombs, and Philae Temple's island sanctuary await. Authentic cuisine and guides speaking 9 languages enhance the journey.
Duration 5 days Destinations Luxor, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Aswan, Philae, Abu Simbel Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, German, Italian, Portuguese, French, Spanish, Chinese, Dutch, Russian Operator Egypt Skyway Tours From
50% Off- US$650
5-Day Luxor Nile Cruise with Abu Simbel | Top Egypt Cruise Experience
30 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Everything was perfectly organized, the staff were friendly, and the views were unforgettable.”
John, traveled in March
A 5-star deluxe Nile vessel serves as your floating hotel while visiting Karnak Temple, Kom Ombo's double temple, and Abu Simbel with expert guides. Private cabin comfort and full-board dining complement the 350km journey along historic waterways.
Duration 5 days Destinations Luxor, Esna, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Aswan, Abu Simbel, Philae Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, German, French, Spanish, Russian Operator Egypt Tour Pro From $910
20% Off- US$728You save $182
5 Stars Nile River Cruise Explorer Luxor → Aswan (Flight & Cruise Upgrade Available)
9 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Everything was very well coordinated, and availability was confirmed quickly. The cruise itself was exactly what we had booked.”
Elisa, traveled in January
Sail from Luxor to Aswan on a 5-star Nile cruise with stops at Karnak Temple's massive columns and UNESCO-listed Philae Temple via motorboat. Visit Edfu's Temple of Horus (Egypt's best-preserved ancient temple) and Kom Ombo's dual-design Temple of Sobek, then pass through Esna Lock while having gourmet meals and sunset views.
Duration 5 days Destinations Luxor, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Aswan Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, German, Italian, Portuguese, French, Spanish Operator TourShare From $1,320
50% Off- US$660+$95 local paymentsYou save $660
Discover Egypt Cultural Budget Adventure - Pyramids - Grand Egyptian Museum 5-Stars Nile Cruise
2 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“This tour was a perfect mix of cultural visits to discover the culture and art of the ancient Egyptians.”
Anna, traveled in April
Duration 11 days Destinations Cairo, Giza, Aswan, Philae, Abu Simbel, Kom Ombo, Edfu, Luxor, Hurghada Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, German, Italian, Portuguese, French, Spanish Operator TourShare From $2,300
50% Off- US$1,150+$160 local paymentsYou save $1,150
Stunning Egypt Tour Package 10 Days and 9 Nights From Cairo
1 Review by TourRadar travelers“Being a little bit of a geek regarding learning about new cultures, looking for historical tourism but also some relaxing time.”
Manuela, traveled in May
Duration 10 days Destinations Cairo, Giza, Saqqarah, Aswan, Philae, Abu Simbel, Kom Ombo, Edfu, Luxor, Valley of the KingsSee all destinations Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, Spanish Operator Egypt Gift Tours From
50% Off- US$2,000
Luxury Nile cruise Luxor & Aswan for 7 nights includes tours
48 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Great experience visiting the temples and tombs of ancient Egypt.”
nichaela, traveled in October
Luxurious 23m² staterooms with Egyptian cotton linens await on the legendary Nile. UNESCO sites including Karnak Temples and Valley of the Kings unfold before you. Optional Abu Simbel excursion available with expert guided tours throughout.
Duration 8 days Destinations Luxor, Esna, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Aswan Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Truly Egypt Tours From $1,975
50% Off- US$988You save $988
What our customers ask about North Africa River Cruises
What are the best times of year to take a Nile River cruise in North Africa?
The ideal time for Nile River cruises falls between October and April when the weather is mild and pleasant for exploring ancient sites. Data from TourRadar shows December November and March are the busiest months particularly on the Luxor to Aswan route. A traveler shared "we traveled in early November and though it was peak season the weather was perfect for exploring temples." While summer months from June to August bring intense heat they offer fewer tourists and lower prices.
What kind of accommodations can I expect on a North Africa river cruise ship?
Nile cruise ships typically provide 5-star lodging with well-appointed private cabins. The AmaDahlia features 36 staterooms with 16 luxury suites along with a heated sun-deck pool hair salon and massage facilities. Other vessels like the Le Fayan II offer river-view rooms and attentive service. A TourRadar guest reported: "The boat was comfortable and the cabin was clean with a good window view overlooking the Nile. The staff were professional and the meals were satisfactory."
What are the typical shore excursions included on a North Africa river cruise?
The standard itinerary covers major archaeological sites including the Valley of the Kings Karnak Temple Luxor Temple and Philae Temple. Each stop includes tours led by Egyptologist guides. Additional activities like visits to Abu Simbel hot air balloon rides over Luxor and trips to Nubian villages are available. As one traveler noted: "The guide took us to explore the Valley of the Kings Temple of Hatshepsut Karnak Temple and more - all with detailed historical explanations that brought the sites to life."
What is the best cruise route on the Nile River?
The Luxor to Aswan route spans 200km and remains the most sought-after journey on the Nile. This stretch encompasses key sites such as Karnak Temple Valley of the Kings Edfu Temple and Kom Ombo Temple. A TourRadar guest confirmed: "The Luxor to Aswan route was perfect - we got to see all the major temples and monuments while enjoying beautiful Nile scenery. The pace was relaxed but we didn't miss anything important."
How much do North Africa river cruises typically cost?
Nile cruise prices range from 520 USD to over 7000 USD per person based on season and comfort level. Basic 4-day trips start around 800-1200 USD while luxury vessels like the AmaDahlia begin at 7394 USD. One traveler shared: "Though not cheap the value was excellent considering the included meals guided tours and comfortable accommodation. Budget extra for entrance fees (around 100 USD) and optional excursions."
What are the main destinations and sights covered on North Africa river cruises?
Nile River cruises concentrate on the Luxor-Aswan corridor visiting essential archaeological sites. The route includes Karnak and Luxor temples Valley of the Kings Temple of Hatshepsut in Luxor Temple of Horus in Edfu Temple of Kom Ombo and Philae Temple in Aswan. A TourRadar guest observed: "The rotation of images and feeling of cruising the world's greatest river while visiting these incredible temples is unique." Abu Simbel excursions are often available as add-ons.