Aswan – Embarkation and Sightseeing

Aswan High Dam - Day 1 The Aswan High Dam is a significant engineering marvel on the Nile River in Aswan, Egypt. Completed in 1970, it was constructed to manage flooding, store water for irrigation, and produce hydroelectric power. The dam stands about 111 meters tall and stretches approximately 3,830 meters across the Nile. It created Lake Nasser, one of the world’s largest man-made lakes, extending roughly 550 kilometers in length. The dam is vital for Egypt’s agriculture and energy production, transforming the region and offering substantial benefits despite some environmental and social challenges.

Temple of Philae - Day 1 The Temple of Philae, situated on Agilkia Island near Aswan, Egypt, is dedicated to the goddess Isis. Originally built during the Ptolemaic era, it showcases magnificent colonnades, intricate hieroglyphics, and towering pylons. The temple complex, renowned for its architectural beauty, was relocated to its current location in the 1960s to protect it from the rising waters of the Aswan High Dam. The Temple of Philae is celebrated for its role in the myth of Osiris and Isis and stands as a testament to ancient Egyptian religious devotion and artistry.

Abu Simbel and Kom Ombo

Abu Simbel Temple Complex - Day 2 Abu Simbel is a renowned archaeological site in southern Egypt, featuring two massive rock temples built by Pharaoh Ramses II in the 13th century BC. The larger temple is dedicated to Ramses II and features four colossal statues of the pharaoh, while the smaller temple honors his queen, Nefertari, with equally impressive statues. Known for their grand scale and intricate carvings, these temples were relocated in the 1960s to save them from the rising waters of Lake Nasser due to the Aswan High Dam. Abu Simbel is celebrated for its architectural magnificence and historical significance, showcasing the grandeur of ancient Egyptian civilization.

Temple of Kom Ombo - Day 2 The Temple of Kom Ombo, located in the town of Kom Ombo in Aswan Governorate, Egypt, is unique for its dual dedication to two gods: Sobek, the crocodile god, and Horus, the falcon-headed god. Built during the Ptolemaic period, this symmetrical temple features twin entrances, halls, and sanctuaries. The temple complex includes fascinating reliefs, a crocodile museum showcasing mummified crocodiles, and a sacred well used for measuring the Nile’s flood levels. The Temple of Kom Ombo is notable for its unique design and the blend of religious practices it represents.

Edfu Temple and sailing to Luxor

Temple of Horus - Day 3 The Temple of Horus, also known as the Temple of Edfu, is one of the best-preserved ancient Egyptian temples. Located in Edfu, Egypt, it is dedicated to Horus, the falcon-headed god. Constructed between 237 and 57 BC during the Ptolemaic period, the temple features a grand entrance pylon, beautifully decorated walls, and a large courtyard. The temple’s reliefs depict the mythological battle between Horus and Set, providing valuable insights into ancient Egyptian beliefs and rituals. The Temple of Horus is a remarkable example of ancient Egyptian architecture and religious symbolism.

Edfu - sailing to Luxor

Hot Air Balloon West Bank and East Bank

Star Balloons Luxor - Day 4 A hot air balloon ride over Luxor, Egypt, offers a breathtaking aerial view of the region’s ancient monuments and stunning landscapes. As you drift gently over the Nile River and the west bank of Luxor, you can see iconic sites such as the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Hatshepsut, and the Colossi of Memnon from a unique perspective. The experience typically takes place at sunrise, providing an unforgettable panorama of the desert, lush green fields, and the historic temples bathed in the golden morning light. A hot air balloon ride in Luxor is a serene and awe-inspiring way to appreciate the grandeur of Egypt’s ancient heritage.

Valley of the Kings - Day 4 The Valley of the Kings, located on the west bank of the Nile near Luxor, Egypt, is an ancient burial site for pharaohs and powerful nobles of the New Kingdom (16th to 11th century BC). The valley contains over 60 tombs, including the famous tomb of Tutankhamun. These tombs are richly decorated with scenes from Egyptian mythology and serve as guides to the afterlife. The Valley of the Kings is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering insights into ancient Egyptian burial practices and beliefs.

Temple of Hatshepsut - Day 4 The Temple of Hatshepsut, also known as Djeser-Djeseru, is a mortuary temple located in Deir el-Bahari, near Luxor, Egypt. Built during the 18th dynasty, it is dedicated to the sun god Amun and Hatshepsut, one of Egypt’s few female pharaohs. The temple is renowned for its unique architectural design, with terraces that blend into the surrounding cliffs. The colonnaded structure features detailed reliefs and statues that celebrate Hatshepsut’s reign and achievements.

Colossi of Memnon - Day 4 The Colossi of Memnon are two massive stone statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III, located on the west bank of the Nile near Luxor, Egypt. Each statue stands about 18 meters (59 feet) high and depicts the seated pharaoh. These colossal statues were originally part of a larger mortuary temple complex that has mostly disappeared over time. The Colossi of Memnon are famous for the mysterious sounds they were once said to produce at dawn, attributed to natural phenomena.

Temple of Karnak - Day 4 The Karnak Temple, located in Luxor, Egypt, is one of the largest and most impressive temple complexes in the ancient world. Dedicated primarily to the god Amun, it was built and expanded over 2,000 years, from the Middle Kingdom to the Ptolemaic period. The complex features massive columns, towering obelisks, and grand pylons. The Hypostyle Hall, with its 134 giant columns, is a highlight of the site. Karnak Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a testament to the architectural and religious achievements of Ancient Egypt.

Luxor Temple - Day 4 Luxor Temple, situated on the east bank of the Nile in Luxor, Egypt, is a large ancient Egyptian temple complex dedicated to the rejuvenation of kingship. Constructed primarily during the reign of Amenhotep III and completed by Tutankhamun and Ramses II, it features grand pylons, a large courtyard, and the Avenue of Sphinxes connecting it to Karnak Temple. The temple is notable for its well-preserved statues, intricate carvings, and the annual Opet Festival depicted in its reliefs. Luxor Temple is a prominent symbol of ancient Egyptian religion and culture.

• Private transportation
• Pick-up and drop-off from hotel in Aswan
• Bottled water during tours
• Lunch
• Dinner
• In-vehicle air conditioning
• Breakfast
• Professional English-speaking Egyptologist guide

• Tips

Embark on a luxurious multi-day cruise along the legendary Nile River, traveling from Aswan to Luxor. Uncover the treasures of southern Egypt by visiting iconic sites such as Philae Temple, Kom Ombo, and the Valley of the Kings, all with the expertise of a professional Egyptologist.

Your adventure includes:

• Five-star accommodations aboard a deluxe Nile cruise
• Delicious daily meals served on the ship
• Guided tours offering in-depth historical insights
• Personalized pickup from the airport, train station, or your hotel in Aswan

Enjoy the perfect combination of comfort, luxury, and history as you explore the wonders of ancient Egypt.

• If the balloon flight is cancelled, you will receive $25

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.