The stretch of river between Luxor and Aswan holds the densest concentration of standing temples anywhere in Egypt, and sailing it means you wake up at the next site instead of spending your mornings on a coach.
What you see
- Luxor, east bank — Karnak, the largest religious complex ever built, and Luxor Temple, best seen after dark when it is lit.
- Luxor, west bank — the Valley of the Kings, the mortuary temple of Hatshepsut at Deir el-Bahari, and the Colossi of Memnon.
- Esna lock — the boat is lowered through it, usually in the early morning.
- Edfu — the Temple of Horus, complete down to its roof.
- Kom Ombo — the double temple on the riverbank, with its crocodile museum.
- Aswan — the Temple of Philae on its island, the High Dam and the Unfinished Obelisk.
Practical notes
Most itineraries run four nights Luxor to Aswan or three nights Aswan to Luxor. The high season is October to April, when daytime temperatures on the west bank are comfortable; summer sailings are cheaper but the middle of the day is very hot. Abu Simbel is usually added as an excursion from Aswan.
Tell us your dates and we will confirm which ships are available and quote you.
