Egypt: Cairo to Abu Simbel, a Dahabieh Nile Cruise Itinerary
A trip to Egypt reads like a living history book, with every temple, tomb and market revealing stories from millennia past. This 12-day itinerary pairs Cairo’s monumental sights with a tranquil Nile dahabieh cruise from Luxor to Aswan and Abu Simbel. Expect iconic archaeology, refined hospitality, riverbank sunsets and moments of quiet discovery between ancient stones and modern life. Contact Novel Bookings to begin planning a tailored journey.
The Novel Bookings difference
Book with Novel Bookings to access preferred rooms, private transfers, local guides and curated extras such as private after-hours visits, cabin upgrades and special dining experiences. Contact the team for details and seasonal options.
Where to stay
Marriott Mena House Cairo — Historic luxury with direct pyramid views, gardens, a golf course and multiple dining options.
Sofitel Winter Palace Luxor — Timeless Nile-side elegance, steps from Luxor Temple and the royal route.
Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Aswan — 19th century charm on the Nile with grand public rooms and panoramic river views.
Luxury dahabieh — Private or small-group traditional sailing vessel with spacious deck, attentive crew and gourmet onboard meals.
12-Day Suggested Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Cairo
Arrive in Cairo and transfer to the hotel with an airport representative. Settle in and enjoy an early evening overlooking the pyramids to prepare for the days ahead.
Day 2: Egyptian Museum and Food Tour
Begin with the Egyptian Museum to see pharaonic artifacts including Tutankhamun treasures. Later, explore Tahrir Square and sample Egyptian classics on a guided food tour with stops for koshary, ful, falafel and traditional sweets. Finish with panorama views from a rooftop terrace.
Day 3: Saqqara, Memphis and Giza
Visit Saqqara for the Step Pyramid complex and access to select tomb interiors. Continue to Memphis to view monumental statuary and ancient ruins. Return to Giza to experience the Great Pyramid and the Sphinx. Lunch with views of the plateau and an afternoon at the hotel provides time to rest.
Day 4: Citadel, Old Cairo and Flight to Luxor
Explore the Saladin Citadel and the Alabaster Mosque of Muhammad Ali for sweeping city views. Visit Old Cairo sites including St. Simon Monastery if time allows. Wander the shaded paths of Al-Azhar Park and finish with shopping in Khan el-Khalili bazaar. Fly to Luxor in the evening and overnight at a Nile-side hotel.
Day 5: Karnak, Valley of the Kings and Board the Dahabieh
Rise for hot-air balloon silhouettes over the Nile if desired, followed by a visit to Karnak Temple. In the afternoon, explore the Valley of the Kings to view decorated tombs. Embark on the dahabieh for a scenic cruise, enjoy lunch on deck and relax into river rhythms at sunset.
Day 6: Edfu and Temple Visits
Sail toward Edfu and visit the well-preserved Temple of Edfu, dedicated to Horus. Explore Edfu village and consider a horse-and-carriage ride to the temple complex. Return to the boat for an evening under the stars.
Day 7: Esna Village and Local Life
Cruise to Esna for a village visit, witness traditional bread-making and meet local artisans. Learn about regional life and relax with a riverside dinner and local entertainment.
Day 8: Kom Ombo and Nile Beach Time
Stop at Kom Ombo to visit the dual temple of Sobek and Horus and the nearby crocodile museum. Enjoy a scenic beach anchor for a swim and a relaxed afternoon aboard before an evening cruise.
Day 9: Aswan and Nubian Culture
Arrive in Aswan and take a felucca ride to a Nubian village to experience local crafts and colorful architecture. Visit Philae Temple on Agilkia Island and shop Aswan’s spice and perfume markets. Conclude with a farewell dinner on board the dahabieh.
Day 10: Abu Simbel by Road or Flight
Disembark and transfer south to Abu Simbel by short charter flight or land transfer. Visit the relocated Abu Simbel temples and attend the evening light and sound presentation if available. Overnight near Lake Nasser with views across the water.
Day 11: Sunrise at Abu Simbel and Return to Aswan
Watch Abu Simbel at sunrise for dramatic light on the colossal façades. Return to Aswan and overnight at a historic hotel such as the Old Cataract, where guests can enjoy period charm and riverside service.
Day 12: Departure from Aswan or Cairo
Transfer to Aswan or return to Cairo for international departures. Consider adding a Red Sea extension for diving or a city stay in Alexandria for Mediterranean architecture.
Practical tips and important notes
Best time to travel: October through April for cooler touring in Upper and Lower Egypt. For Red Sea diving, spring and autumn offer favorable water conditions.
Visas and passports: Verify visa requirements for your nationality before travel. Passports should generally be valid for at least six months on entry.
Health and safety: Consult a medical professional for routine vaccinations and specific advice on travel medications. Keep copies of travel documents and use vetted transfers for airport and inter-city travel.
Dress and cultural respect: Dress conservatively at religious sites. Lightweight, breathable clothing works best in desert climates. Women may need to cover shoulders and knees at certain mosques.
Money and tipping: The Egyptian Pound is the local currency. Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels and larger venues. Tipping is customary for guides, drivers and service staff.
Logistics: Domestic flights and river transfers are common. Allow buffer time for transfers between airports, river embankments and cruise embarkation points.
Site access: Some tombs and museum areas limit entry for conservation reasons. Book guided visits and tickets in advance where possible.
Who this is for
This itinerary suits travelers seeking a balance of archaeology, relaxed river travel and refined hospitality. It works well for couples, small groups and multigenerational families who appreciate curated experiences, private guides and a slower-paced exploration of Egypt’s monuments.
