For several years, cruises on the River Nile have been taking tourists on a magical journey back in time along this superb river. A combination of exploring the wonders of historical Egypt coupled with a peaceful journey south from Luxor to Aswan is ever sought after with tourists.
A classic cruise on the Nile lasts 7 nights and operate Monday to Monday. Direct flights from Britain bring holidaymakers to Luxor where they are moved to their cruise ship to check in. The next morning, the journey into age-old Egypt starts with a have a look at to the East Bank of the Nile at Luxor like the Temples of Karnak and Luxor.
The following morning, the sightseeing moves on to the West Bank of the Nile which includes the Valley of the Kings just before returning to the cruise boat for lunch. Immediately following lunch, the cruise leaves Luxor heading south for Edfu. After an overnight mooring at Edfu, there are additional visits to temples at both Edfu and Kom Ombo before carrying on to Aswan.
The following day, its time to experience Aswan and a more up-to-date structure; the Aswan High Dam. Built in the 1950s, the Aswan High Dam created Lake Nasser, itself a cruise holiday location. In the afternoon, there is time to sail on a classic Egyptian Felucca along this very scenic part of the River nile. The Cataract Hotel in Aswan looks out onto the river and it is the place where Agatha Christie wrote part of her well known book, “Death on the Nile”.
Soon after an overnight stop in Aswan, there is some time available to explore the town or alternatively, there is an optional trip to the wonderful Temple of Abu Simbel at the other end of Lake Nasser. It is quite a distance to Abu Simbel, either 45 minutes by air or three hours but it is really worth the effort.
Aswan is the turnaround point for Nile cruises and now the vessel heads back north the 80 miles to Luxor. The journey lasts 2 days with an overnight stay at Edfu prior to returning to Luxor. The week sailing along the River Nile is over and holiday makers head back to the airport and home.