Full Description
Private Five-Day Dahabiya Nile Cruise from Luxor to Aswan
Experience the Nile in a Small Group, Away from the Large Cruise Ships
A Dahabiya offers a special way to discover Upper Egypt. Aboard this traditional sailing vessel, you will travel in a small group between Luxor and Aswan, visiting not only famous temple complexes but also smaller places and Nile islands that are often excluded from conventional cruise itineraries.
During the journey, a German- or English-speaking Egyptologist will accompany you to the archaeological sites. Between excursions, there is plenty of time to enjoy life on the Nile, the landscapes of Upper Egypt, and freshly prepared meals on board.
Why Guests Book This Dahabiya Journey
✅ Private Dahabiya journey with a maximum of eight guests
✅ Five days and four nights from Luxor toward Aswan
✅ Small Dahabiya instead of a large cruise ship
✅ German- or English-speaking Egyptologist
✅ Visits to selected temples, villages, and Nile islands
✅ Full board on board
✅ Admission tickets and transfers included in the standard itinerary
✅ No shopping stops
Highlights of Your Dahabiya Journey
Temple of Esna
Temple of Horus at Edfu
El Kab
Gebel el-Silsila
Double Temple of Kom Ombo
Daraw and its local market
Bisaw Island
Small villages and riverside landscapes in Upper Egypt
Relaxation on the sun deck
Freshly prepared Egyptian cuisine
The Temple of Horus at Edfu is one of Egypt’s most complete surviving temple complexes and is dedicated to the god Horus. The Double Temple of Kom Ombo was dedicated to Sobek and Haroeris, or Horus the Elder.
Your Tour Itinerary
Day 1 – Luxor → Esna | Embarkation
Following the agreed transfer, your Dahabiya journey begins in the direction of Esna.
After boarding, you will meet the crew and settle into your cabin. Your journey through the landscapes of Upper Egypt will then begin.
Depending on the sailing schedule and your arrival time, visit the Temple of Esna, known for its richly decorated columns and restored reliefs.
Afterward, return to the Dahabiya.
Overnight stay: On board
Meals: Full board
Day 2 – El Kab and Edfu
Today, your journey continues along the Nile.
Depending on the current sailing schedule, visit El Kab, a historic settlement with archaeological remains and rock-cut tombs.
Continue to Edfu.
Together with your Egyptologist, visit the Temple of Horus at Edfu. The temple complex visible today was constructed during the Ptolemaic period between 237 and 57 BC and is one of Egypt’s most complete surviving temples.
Afterward, the Dahabiya continues its journey.
Overnight stay: On board
Meals: Full board
Day 3 – Gebel el-Silsila and the Nile Islands
Today, reach Gebel el-Silsila, an important historic quarry landscape on the Nile.
For many centuries, sandstone was quarried here for temple complexes throughout Upper Egypt. In addition to the former quarries, the site contains rock-cut shrines, reliefs, and inscriptions.
The journey then continues past small Nile islands and riverside settlements.
Depending on the route and local conditions, you may visit Bisaw Island, El Hegz, or another village along the way.
Overnight stay: On board
Meals: Full board
Day 4 – Kom Ombo and Daraw
Today, visit the Double Temple of Kom Ombo, located directly beside the Nile.
This extraordinary temple complex is dedicated to two deities: the crocodile-headed god Sobek and Haroeris, a form of Horus.
Continue to Daraw.
At the local market, gain an insight into everyday life in Upper Egypt. The goods and activities at the market vary depending on the day of the week and the itinerary.
Afterward, return to your Dahabiya and enjoy your final evening on board.
Overnight stay: On board
Meals: Full board
Day 5 – Arrival in Aswan
After breakfast, your Dahabiya cruise ends in the Aswan region.
Following disembarkation, the agreed transfer will take place.
Upon request, you can extend your journey with a private stay in Aswan or an excursion to Abu Simbel.
Life on Board
Between excursions, there is plenty of time to enjoy your journey along the Nile.
Relaxing on the sun deck
Kayaking
Stops at Nile islands
Walks through small villages
Swimming where conditions permit
Shared meals featuring freshly prepared Egyptian dishes
A Personal Tip from Our Egyptologist
17 years of experience as an Egyptologist and more than 3,000 guided tours throughout Egypt.
The special appeal of a Dahabiya lies in more than its individual temple visits. Between Edfu, Gebel el-Silsila, and Kom Ombo, the landscape changes constantly, and aboard a smaller vessel, you experience far more of it than you would on a sightseeing-only itinerary.
My tip: Do not fill every free moment with additional activities. On this journey, the time spent on the Nile is just as much a part of the experience as the archaeological sites.
Who Is This Journey Suitable For?
This Dahabiya journey is especially suitable for you if you:
Prefer traveling with only a few guests rather than aboard a large cruise ship
Want to combine temple visits with landscapes and smaller settlements
Are looking for a more peaceful alternative to a conventional Nile cruise
Are interested in history and everyday life in Upper Egypt
Want to spend several unhurried days on the Nile
Please note: A Dahabiya journey still involves embarkation and disembarkation, shore excursions, uneven paths, and periods of walking at archaeological sites. If you have limited mobility or require special assistance, please contact us before booking.
Prices
Duration | Services | Price |
|---|---|---|
Five days / four nights | Dahabiya double cabin, full board, excursions in the standard itinerary, and an Egyptologist | From 1,150 € per person |
Price per person based on two guests sharing a cabin.
Single-cabin supplement: €570 for the entire journey.
Please note: This tour is currently provided solely for non-binding travel information and planning purposes. The prices shown are non-binding estimates for guidance only. You are welcome to send us a no-obligation inquiry. Before any potential booking, we will inform you about availability, the final tour price, the relevant tour operator, and the applicable contractual terms and conditions.
Extend Your Journey—Discover Luxor, Aswan and Abu Simbel
Would you like to discover more of Upper Egypt before or after your Dahabiya Nile cruise between Luxor and Aswan? Add a private pre- or post-cruise program in Luxor or Aswan & Abu Simbel
As our Dahabiya guest, you will benefit from attractive special rates on all private pre- and post-cruise programs. Simply mention that you would like to combine your journey with Luxor or Abu Simbel when submitting your inquiry, and we will prepare a personalized offer for you.
Please Note
As a Dahabiya is a traditional sailing vessel, the route may be adjusted slightly depending on wind and current conditions. All planned highlights will, of course, remain part of the itinerary.
Our Promise
From your first inquiry until your return, we will assist you personally. Whether before booking, during your journey, or after you return, our team can be reached at any time via WhatsApp, telephone, or email.
Send a No-Obligation Inquiry Now
Experience the Nile aboard an exclusive Dahabiya and discover Upper Egypt in an atmosphere that uniquely combines tranquility, comfort, and history.
Send us your no-obligation inquiry now via WhatsApp or our booking form.
