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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The whole trip was wonderful. It was tailored to our needed by AB Voyages Egypt. Our original booking was for the Glories of Egypt, which included a Nile cruise on one of the large ships. AB Voyages suggested that we upgrade to sail on a dahabiya, which we are really glad we did. This meant that we swapped out the cruise part for a portion of the Agatha Christie cruise. Additionally, we opted to arrive two days early and stay an extra day after. AB Voyages arranged for us a private tour of the Giza Plateau and the GEM museum guided by the excellent Dr. Mawra, and then a trip to the Sinia Peninsula and a guided sunrise ascent of Mount Sinai. Because of the way we rearranged the trip to join the dahabiya, it was necessary to reschedule our guided tour of old Cairo for our last day. Our guide, also excellent, was Nabil. Tony was our representative in Cairo and he helped us plan the trip, and provided all of our transfers in Cairo. Ayman was our excellent guide on arrival in Luxor. Anas was wonderful and very knowledgeable; he arranged for everything on the boat, and was our guide for all of our excursions. The staff on the dahabiya were outstanding. Food and drinks were abundant. We were very comfortable. Our sleep was sound.
GLORY OF EGYPT (Cairo/ Nile cruise/Mount Sinai) including flightsOur trip to Egypt has been truly pleasant experience and we already recommended it to all of our friends without any hesitation. The accommodations were very good quality, and we received an upgrade in most of the hotel accommodations . We truly enjoyed our experience with all of the tour guides but Ayman was our favorite guide.upper Egypt sites are probably incomprehensible without a knowledgeable guide like him . Thanks to all drivers, they made us feel safe and comfortable the entire journey Our trip was a great value and a great experience.
Luxurious Egypt Includes a 5* Nile Cruise + Hurgahda ResortAll the guides were great, however the communication from Itaca once we were in Egypt was lacking.
Luxurious Egypt 10-DAY Tour (Pyramids - GEM-Al Fayoum Oasis - Abu Simbel - Alexandria - Nile Cruise - Domestic flight ) All Included
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GLORY OF EGYPT (Cairo/ Nile cruise/Mount Sinai) including flights
“Really fascinating! Excellent tour of pyramids and temples.”
Caroline, traveled in July
Duration 10 days Destinations Cairo, Giza, Saqqarah, Dahshur, Aswan, Philae, Abu Simbel, Kom Ombo, Edfu, LuxorSee all destinations Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator AB Voyages Egypt From $2,996
50% off- US$1,498
Luxurious Egypt Includes a 5* Nile Cruise + Hurgahda Resort
“It was an awesome experience to see the oldest country in the world with so much history and amazing hospitality!”
Vanessa, traveled in December
Duration 9 days Destinations Hurghada, Luxor, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Aswan, Philae, Abu Simbel, Cairo, Giza Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator AB Voyages Egypt From $2,996
50% off- US$1,498
Luxurious Egypt 10-DAY Tour (Pyramids - GEM-Al Fayoum Oasis - Abu Simbel - Alexandria - Nile Cruise - Domestic flight ) All Included
“It was an unforgettable experience. Very well organized by the office.”
Christophe, traveled in May
Duration 10 days Destinations Cairo, Giza, Dahshur, Memphis, Saqqarah, Aswan, Philae, Agilkia Island, Abu Simbel, Kom OmboSee all destinations Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, German, Italian, Portuguese, French, Spanish, Chinese, Dutch, Russian Operator Itaca Holiday From $2,700
30% off- US$1,890
Majestic Egypt Round Trip Nile Cruise and Pyramids - 10 Days
“The boat was terrific, luxurious and fun. Saw everything we hoped to see.”
Carlos, traveled in May
Duration 10 days Destinations Cairo, Giza, Luxor, Valley of the Kings, Deir el-Bahri, Edfu, Aswan, Philae, Abu Simbel, Kom Ombo Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, German, Italian, Spanish Operator Holiday In From
30% off- US$2,185
Luxury Nile cruise Luxor & Aswan for 7 nights includes tours
“The temples were all impressive.”
Mark, traveled in March
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, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Aswan Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Truly Egypt Tours From $1,598
50% off- US$799
Nile Odyssey: Luxor - Aswan -Abu Simbel - Hot Air balloon A5 days with tour guided
“For us was the perfect choice.”
Ioana, traveled in October
Duration 5 days Destinations Luxor, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Aswan, Abu Simbel, Philae Age Range Ages 12+ Operator Egypt Direct Tours From $1,680
50% off- US$840
Ultimate Egypt – GEM & 5-Star Accommodation
“A fabulous way to experience some of the extraordinary sights of Egypt. Everything went like clockwork, can't fault the organisation or the information given.”
matthew, traveled in November
Duration 8 days Destinations Cairo, Giza, Luxor, Valley of the Kings, Esna, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Aswan, Philae, Abu Simbel Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Holiday In Egypt From $1,598
50% off- US$799
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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.