Why a Nile cruise?
The Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan (or the reverse) is the classic way to explore Upper Egypt, dating back to the 19th century. 220 km of the Nile, 3–4 nights, with stops at temples not easily reached by land. All tourist ships depart from Luxor or Aswan — no serious cruises run from Cairo.
Stops on the route
Esna Temple (60 km south of Luxor): the temple of the god Khnum from Ptolemaic times, excellently preserved, ceiling decorated with astronomical charts.
Edfu Temple (120 km south of Luxor): the best-preserved Ptolemaic temple in Egypt, dedicated to Horus. Its front pylon rises 36 metres.
Kom Ombo Temple (180 km south of Luxor): unique because it is dedicated to two gods — Sobek (crocodile) and Horus. The mummified crocodile museum is stunning.
Aswan — end of the cruise
Aswan, 220 km south of Luxor, on the border of ancient Nubia. A felucca sail (traditional sailboat) on the Nile around Elephantine and Agilkia islands is wonderful. The Philae Temple sits on an island, moved in its entirety by UNESCO in 1980 from its original site before it was flooded by Lake Nasser.
Types of ships
Luxury (5-star): Mövenpick MS Sun Ray, Oberoi Zahra, Sonesta Star Goddess — 2 000–3 500 USD per person for 4 nights, all meals and tours included.
Good (4-star): 1 200–2 000 USD.
Dahabiyas (traditional sailing boats): only 6–16 passengers, slow rhythm, authentic feel — 800–1 500 USD.
Best season
October to April — temperatures 20–28 °C, no wind. May to September — temperatures 40–45 °C, ships peel, prices down 50% but uncomfortable.
What to pack
Strong sunblock (SPF 50+), hat, light cotton clothing, light jacket for evenings (cools down on the water), passport, some USD cash for tips (about 5–10 USD per day for the crew is expected).