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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MANAMI • traveled in April, 2025
This is the truly recommendable tour for all, especially who really want to have a qick learning around GIZA, and escape from usual life to be relaxed in SIWA. With very kind and knowledgeable guides, activities were smoothly going on and satisfied a lot. As this is a private tour, it was flexible enough, including additional visits those were found interests during the stay.
7 Days Of Wonder In Egypt (Domestic Flight Included) - 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 - P
Patricia • traveled in February, 2025
From start to finish we were well taken care of. All the guides and others who helped us out were knowledgeable, kind and helpful. Our luggage was delayed about a week, and the guides and well as hotel personnel where helpful in us getting a few extra items of clothing. We loved all the monuments we were able to see. The Nile Cruise was a special highlight.
15 Days Ancient Egypt & Lake Nasser Cruise
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10 best river cruises through North Africa
Compiled by
NinaNorth Africa travel expert at TourRadar
- 7 Days Of Wonder In Egypt (Domestic Flight Included)
- Luxury Nile Cruise From Luxor to Aswan 5 Day
- 15 Days Ancient Egypt & Lake Nasser Cruise
- 4-Night Nile Cruise: Karnak, Kom Ombo & Philae Highlights
- Mysteries of the Egyptian Nile (6 destinations)
- 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 Experience
- 5 Stars Nile River Cruise Explorer Luxor → Aswan (Flight & Cruise Upgrade Available)
- 5 Days 4 Nights Cruise from Luxor to Aswan
- Egypt Budget Explorer: 5 Stars Nile Cruise - Ancient Wonders - GEM
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 beckons aboard luxury ship. 4-night cruise from Luxor to Aswan visits temples of Karnak, Edfu, and Philae. Expert guides explain historical significance while sailing past traditional feluccas and ancient 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 $1,300
30% Off- US$910You save $390
Luxury Nile Cruise From Luxor to Aswan 5 Day
6 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, Valley of the Kings, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Aswan Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, German, Italian, Portuguese, French, Spanish, Chinese, Dutch, Russian Operator Egypt Skyway Tours From
30% Off- US$650
15 Days Ancient Egypt & Lake Nasser Cruise
12 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“We've traveled out of the country for many years and this trip went smoother than any of them.”
Jessica, traveled in October
Float along North Africa's waterways aboard premium vessels like Movenpick Prince Abbas, visiting riverside temples from Luxor to Abu Simbel. Expert guides (4.9/5) lead shore excursions to UNESCO sites, with traditional felucca sailing around Kitchener Island.
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
The Sonesta St George carries you on a 5-day Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan. Explore UNESCO sites including Karnak Temple and Valley of the Kings. Full-board dining and cultural entertainment enhance guided tours of ancient Egyptian wonders.
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
Mysteries of the Egyptian Nile (6 destinations)
1 Review by TourRadar travelers“The tour was planned perfectly! Egypt unforgetible for us.”
MEHMET, traveled in August
The mighty Nile carries travelers from Aswan to Luxor past Pharaonic temples. Philae's boat excursion, Kom Ombo's unique double temple, and traditional felucca rides create memorable moments between ancient sites.
Duration 7 days Destinations Cairo, Aswan, Kom Ombo, Edfu, Esna, Luxor Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Europamundo From
30% Off- US$1,639
Ultimate Egyptian Experience: 10-Day All Included Tour with Cairo GEM, Nile Cruise, Alexandria & Safari (Abu Simbel & Hot Air Balloon)
6 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The tour operator was extremely flexible, adjusting our itinerary on the go to suit our schedule.”
Jane, traveled in February
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
5-Day Luxor Nile Cruise with Abu Simbel | Top Egypt Cruise Experience
23 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“At Hatshepsuts temple we had ten minutes to just sit on a ledge and look out over the valley. That silence and space was as valuable as the commentary.”
Daniel, traveled in September
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, 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 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.