5 Days Cruise Luxor, Aswan,Tours,Abu Simbel,Hot Air Balloon, From Cairo By Plane

A comprehensive look at a 5-day Luxor and Aswan Nile cruise with visits to iconic temples, tombs, and monuments, plus a hot air balloon ride from Cairo. This tour offers an engaging blend of history, culture, and stunning scenery, all wrapped into a leisurely itinerary. What we love most is the combination of expert-guided excursions and the relaxing cruise experience, making it ideal for travelers who want to see Egypt’s top sights without missing out on comfort.

One potential consideration is the inclusion of admission tickets—these aren’t covered, so you’ll need to budget for entrance fees at each site. But overall, this tour is best suited for history buffs, cultural explorers, and anyone keen to maximize their time in Egypt with expert guidance and unique experiences like hot air ballooning. If you’re after a well-organized, immersive journey with excellent value, this could be just the trip you’re looking for.

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience with 4 nights on a 5-star Nile cruise, guided tours, and flights from Cairo.
• Expert Egyptologist guides enhance every site visit with insightful commentary.
• A combination of sightseeing including temples, tombs, and the Valley of the Kings, plus a hot air balloon ride for breathtaking views.
• Flexibility on costs: entrance fees aren’t included, so budget accordingly.
• Ideal for those seeking a balanced mix of relaxing cruise time and active exploration.
• Free Wi-Fi on the cruise is handy for keeping in touch or sharing photos.

In-Depth Review of the 5-Day Luxor, Aswan, and Abu Simbel Tour

This tour packs a lot into five days, making it a compelling option for travelers eager to see Egypt’s most famous sites without sacrificing comfort or the chance to relax on a luxury Nile cruise. Priced at $1,099 per person, it offers notable value considering the inclusion of flights from Cairo, accommodation, guided tours, and even a hot air balloon experience.

While the price doesn’t cover entrance fees or drinks, it does include all taxes and service charges, ensuring no hidden surprises about the overall cost. The tour is tailored for those who want a deep dive into Egypt’s history with the convenience of organized transportation and expert guides, but it still allows some flexibility at each site.

The Itinerary: What You’ll Experience Day by Day

Day 1: Luxor’s Ancient Tombs and Temples

The adventure begins in Luxor’s Valley of the Kings, a site renowned for its elaborately decorated royal tombs. We appreciated the fact that while admission tickets aren’t included, the guided commentary helped us understand the significance of each tomb, even from the outside. The valley’s atmosphere is both solemn and awe-inspiring, with tombs dating back over 3,500 years.

Next, the Temple of Hatshepsut at Deir el-Bahari provides a striking contrast with its terraced levels and unique architecture, built by one of Egypt’s most influential female pharaohs. The guide shared intriguing stories about Hatshepsut’s reign, making the visit more vivid.

Finally, the Colossi of Memnon — two enormous statues that once guarded a grand temple — serve as a reminder of Egypt’s grandeur. The 30-minute stop was enough to appreciate their scale and history, with the guide noting that these are the only remnants of the once-mighty temple.

Day 2: Luxor’s Architectural Marvels and Soaring Heights

Starting with the Karnak Temple complex, we found ourselves marveling at the Hypostyle Hall’s 134 towering columns. The vastness of this site, built over different reigns, shows how Egypt’s religious architecture evolved. Our guide broke down the symbolism behind the lotus and papyrus motifs, adding depth to the visit.

The Luxor Temple was equally impressive, especially the statues of Ramses the Great and the sense of history lingering in every stone. The Avenue of Sphinxes, a 3-kilometer stretch once connecting these two temples, is now a shorter but still striking segment lined with sphinxes—perfect for photos and reflection.

The highlight today? The hot air balloon ride, which offered an unrivaled view of the Nile, temples, and the desert landscape at sunrise. Travelers mentioned that the panoramic vistas made the early wake-up worthwhile, though some suggested dressing in layers for comfort.

Day 3: Edfu, Kom Ombo, and the River Journey

The journey continues with visits to the Temple of Horus in Edfu, one of the best-preserved temples in Egypt. The guide highlighted that because it’s relatively young (built around 237 BC), its condition is excellent, allowing for a clear understanding of its structure and religious significance.

Next, we sailed to Kom Ombo, home to a dual temple dedicated to Sobek the crocodile god and Horus. The site’s unusual design, with symmetrical halls and sanctuaries, provided insight into Egypt’s diverse religious practices.

This day’s cruise provided a relaxing break from walking, with onboard lunch and the opportunity to enjoy Nile views. The cruise staff was attentive, and the boat’s amenities made the journey comfortable.

Day 4: Abu Simbel and the Power of Pharaohs

Early morning transport to Abu Simbel is a highlight, with the massive statues of Ramses II and Queen Nefertari making a mighty impression. The guide explained the history behind Ramses’ desire to showcase his power and the incredible effort to relocate the temples during the construction of the Aswan High Dam—an engineering feat in itself.

The 7-hour round trip is a bit long but offers a rare glimpse into one of Egypt’s most iconic sites. The guides, such as Mohamed, were praised for their knowledge and engaging storytelling, making the trip more memorable.

Day 5: Aswan’s Natural and Human Marvels

The final day features a boat trip to the Temple of Philae, built in honor of goddess Isis. The temple’s picturesque setting on an island makes it a favorite for many travelers, who appreciated the chance to see the site from the water.

The Aswan High Dam provided context about Egypt’s modern engineering achievements and resource management. The guide explained how the dam transformed the region, balancing Egypt’s water needs and hydroelectric power.

What’s Included and What You Should Budget For

While the package covers flights, four nights on a luxurious Nile cruise, guided tours, and a hot air balloon ride, the admission tickets for each site are not included. Travelers should budget extra for entrance fees, which can add up, especially at popular sites like Karnak or Abu Simbel.

The tour also includes Wi-Fi on the cruise, a helpful bonus for sharing your adventures in real time. Meals on board are optional but available for purchase—so if you prefer, you can dine on local cuisine or just enjoy the cruise’s onboard options.

The Guides and Their Impact

Travelers repeatedly praised the guides for their depth of knowledge and engaging storytelling. Mohamed, in particular, was noted for his passionate explanations at Abu Simbel and the Valley of the Kings, which transformed what could have been just another sightseeing stop into a memorable history lesson.

The guides also helped manage timing, ensuring that the group kept pace without feeling rushed—an important factor given the packed itinerary.

The Value and Who It’s Best For

At $1,099, this tour offers a well-priced package that balances luxury, expert guidance, and immersive experiences. For those wanting to see Egypt’s most famous landmarks without the hassle of organizing logistics themselves, this tour delivers a seamless experience.

It’s especially suited for travelers who value guided insights, enjoy a comfortable cruise setting, and are eager to combine sightseeing with optional adventures like hot air ballooning. If your priority is history and culture with a touch of adventure, this package ticks all the boxes.

The Sum Up

This 5-day cruise from Cairo to Luxor, Aswan, and Abu Simbel provides a comprehensive, comfort-focused way to explore Egypt’s top attractions. The combination of guided tours, luxurious accommodations, and unique experiences like hot air ballooning makes it a fantastic choice for travelers looking for both relaxation and cultural enrichment.

The knowledgeable guides bring history alive, and the stunning views from the balloon or cruise deck add that extra magic to your journey. While entrance fees aren’t included, the overall experience offers great value—especially if you want a well-organized, worry-free adventure.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a cultural explorer, or simply seeking a memorable Nile experience, this tour is designed to satisfy your curiosity and leave you with lasting memories of Egypt’s timeless allure.

FAQ

Are flights from Cairo included?
Yes, this tour includes flights from Cairo to Luxor and back, making it easier to maximize your time and avoid long overland journeys.

Are entrance fees included in the price?
No, admission tickets are not included. You’ll need to budget for entrance fees at each site you visit.

Is Wi-Fi available during the cruise?
Yes, complimentary Wi-Fi up to 4GB is provided on the cruise, helping you stay connected or share your trip moments.

Can I participate if I don’t want to take the hot air balloon ride?
The hot air balloon is optional and included in the package, but if you prefer not to participate, you can simply enjoy the views from the cruise or other excursions.

How many people will be in my group?
This is a private tour/activity, so only your group will participate, providing a more personalized experience.

What should I bring for the site visits?
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and a hat are recommended. Entrance fees are not included, so carry some cash for tickets.

Is tipping expected?
While not included, tipping is a common practice and appreciated for guides and staff. It’s advisable to budget a little extra for gratuities.

This detailed review aims to help you decide whether this Egypt tour fits your travel style. With a good mix of history, comfort, and adventure, it promises an unforgettable journey through one of the world’s most captivating destinations.