4 Days Dahabiya Boutique Cruise from Aswan to Esna | Egypt Tours
Why You'll Love This Tour
Overview
Slow down, breathe in, and let the Nile set the pace — this 4 day Dahabiya cruise Aswan to Esna is the most intimate and authentic way to sail Egypt’s greatest river, gliding quietly past hidden temples and ancient quarries that the big cruise ships will never find.
4 Day Dahabiya Cruise Aswan to Esna — Tour Overview
The golden age of Nile travel never really ended — it just moved onto the Dahabiya. This 4 day Dahabiya cruise Aswan to Esna brings back the romance of sailing the Nile the way 19th-century explorers and aristocrats once did — slowly, privately, and with the kind of personal attention that larger ships simply cannot offer. With just 6 to 12 cabins and never more than 20 guests, your traditional wooden boutique yacht becomes a floating sanctuary as it glides north from Aswan through some of Upper Egypt’s most breathtaking and least-visited landscapes. You’ll anchor at Gebel el-Silsila — the dramatic ancient sandstone quarries where Egypt’s greatest temples were born — a place inaccessible to standard cruise ships and known only to those who sail slowly enough to stop. You’ll tie up beside the rock-hewn Speos of Horemheb for an exclusive evening unlike anything in mainstream tourism. And you’ll arrive at the temples of Kom Ombo and Edfu without the crowds, with time to truly look, wonder, and feel. Gourmet meals, personalized service, and the endless, timeless Nile flowing past your deck chair — this is Egypt at its most authentic and serene.
Explore our Nile Cruise Tours
Tour Highlights (4 day Dahabiya cruise Aswan to Esna)
⛵ Intimate Dahabiya Experience – Sail aboard a beautifully crafted traditional wooden boutique yacht with only 6–12 cabins and a maximum of 20 guests — where personalized service, gourmet dining, and quiet elegance replace the noise and crowds of larger cruise ships entirely.
🌺 Philae Temple – Begin your journey with a motorboat ride to the enchanting island sanctuary of the goddess Isis — one of Egypt’s most romantically situated and perfectly preserved ancient temples, beautifully relocated during the legendary UNESCO rescue project.
🏗️ Aswan High Dam & Unfinished Obelisk – Marvel at Egypt’s greatest feat of modern engineering above Lake Nasser, then crouch beside the massive ancient obelisk still lying in its granite quarry — a fascinating window into the ambition and techniques of Egypt’s ancient master builders.
🐊 Kom Ombo Temple – Sail to the dramatic double temple rising above the Nile, dedicated to both Sobek the crocodile god and Haroeris the falcon god — a uniquely fascinating and visually stunning monument perched perfectly above the river.
⛏️ Gebel el-Silsila – Drop anchor at the ancient sandstone quarries carved with royal shrines and cliff-side chapels — an extraordinary and rarely visited site completely inaccessible to standard cruise ships, known only to those who travel as slowly and curiously as you.
🏛️ Speos of Horemheb – Tie up alongside this fascinating rock-hewn temple for an exclusive evening experience that most Egypt travelers will never have — a private moment with ancient history in one of the Nile’s most atmospheric and secluded settings.
🐎 Temple of Horus at Edfu – Arrive by horse-drawn carriage to Egypt’s best-preserved ancient temple, dedicated to Horus the falcon god — a complete and awe-inspiring monument that stands as the most perfect surviving example of ancient Egyptian religious architecture.
🏙️ Esna Disembarkation – End your Dahabiya journey in the charming historic merchant town of Esna — a vibrant, authentic Egyptian town and the perfect gateway to the final wonders of Luxor waiting just beyond.
Tour Plan
Step 1: Pickup from Your Aswan Hotel or Airport (8:00 AM – 9:00 AM)
Your Egypt Tours representative will pick you up from your Aswan hotel, Nile cruise, or Aswan International Airport. Meet your Egyptologist guide and begin your Aswan sightseeing tour
Step 2: Visit the Aswan High Dam (9:30 AM – 10:15 AM)
Visit the Aswan High Dam, Egypt's modern engineering marvel. Learn how this massive project controls the Nile's annual flood, provides electricity to the nation, and created Lake Nasser – one of the largest man-made lakes in the world
Step 3: Visit Philae Temple (10:30 AM – 12:00 PM)
Take a motorboat across the Nile to the island sanctuary of Philae Temple. This beautiful temple complex, dedicated to the goddess Isis, was painstakingly relocated during the UNESCO rescue project when the High Dam was built. Your guide will share the legends of Isis, Osiris, and Horus as you explore this romantic and well-preserved site
Step 4: Visit the Unfinished Obelisk (12:15 PM – 1:00 PM)
Explore the Unfinished Obelisk, still lying in its original granite quarry. This massive obelisk cracked during carving, giving archaeologists rare insight into ancient Egyptian stone-working techniques. If completed, it would have been the largest obelisk ever erected
Step 5: Board Your Dahabiya & Welcome Lunch (1:30 PM – 2:30 PM)
Transfer to the pier and step onto your traditional wooden Dahabiya – a floating boutique hotel with white sails and authentic Egyptian charm. Settle into your comfortable cabin with Nile views. A welcome drink and freshly prepared lunch await.
Step 6: Sail Toward Kom Ombo (3:00 PM – 6:00 PM)
Set sail north along the Nile. Relax on the sun deck, watch rural Egyptian life pass by, and enjoy the peaceful rhythm of the river.
Step 7: Anchor at Kom Ombo & Dinner (7:00 PM onwards)
Anchor near Kom Ombo. Enjoy a delicious dinner onboard as the sun sets over the Nile.
Overnight: Dahabiya anchored near Kom Ombo
Meals: Lunch & Dinner (Breakfast not included on Day 1)
Step 8: Breakfast Onboard (7:00 AM – 8:00 AM)
Wake to the gentle lapping of the Nile and enjoy breakfast on deck.
Step 9: Visit Kom Ombo Temple & Crocodile Museum
Disembark to explore the unique double temple dedicated to two gods – Sobek the crocodile god and Haroeris the falcon god. The temple is perfectly symmetrical, with two entrances, two hypostyle halls, and two sanctuaries -1. Visit the small Crocodile Museum to see mummified crocodiles discovered in nearby tombs
Step 10: Return to Dahabiya & Sail to Gebel el Silsila
Return to the Dahabiya and enjoy a leisurely sail toward Gebel el Silsila. Lunch is served onboard while you take in the changing landscapes.
Step 11: Visit Gebel el Silsila & Ancient Quarries
Arrive at Gebel el Silsila, one of Egypt's less frequented ancient sites. This was once the most important sandstone quarry in ancient Egypt, providing stone for nearly all the great temples You will explore the rock-cut chapels of pharaohs like Horemheb and Ramses II. Large Nile cruise ships are forbidden to dock here – this is an exclusive Dahabiya experience
Step 12: Visit the Speos of Horemheb
Sail to the opposite side of the river and tie up alongside the ancient rock-hewn temple known as the Speos of Horemheb. This fascinating site is rarely visited by tourists -9.
Step 13: Dinner at the Illuminated Temple
Weather permitting, enjoy a magical dinner within the grounds of the illuminated temple – soft music, candlelight, and the timeless beauty of the Nile. If weather does not permit, dinner will be served on the Dahabiya's sun deck with a perfect view of the lit temple
Overnight: Dahabiya anchored at Gebel el Silsila
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Step 14: Breakfast & Sail to Edfu
Enjoy breakfast while the Dahabiya continues its gentle journey toward Edfu.
Step 15: Visit Edfu Temple – Temple of Horus
Disembark and take a traditional horse-drawn carriage (included) to the Temple of Horus at Edfu. This is one of the best-preserved temples in all of Egypt, buried under desert sand for centuries until its rediscovery. Walk through the massive pylon gates, admire the black granite statue of Horus, and explore the well-preserved reliefs depicting the eternal battle between Horus and Set Because Dahabiyas follow their own schedule, you'll avoid the large cruise ship crowds.
Step 16: Explore the Edfu Bazaar (12:00 PM – 12:45 PM)
After visiting the temple, either ride or walk through the extensive local bazaar. Haggle for souvenirs, spices, perfumes, and traditional Egyptian textiles
Step 17: Return to Dahabiya & Sail to Esna (1:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
Return to the Dahabiya and enjoy lunch as you set sail toward Esna. This stretch of the Nile is remarkably beautiful, filled with lush palm groves and local fishermen in their wooden feluccas
Step 18: Anchor Near Esna & Farewell Dinner
Anchor near Esna – a thriving merchant town known for its beautiful textiles. Enjoy your final dinner onboard, celebrating the journey with your fellow travelers and crew.
Overnight: Dahabiya anchored near Esna
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Step 19: Final Breakfast Onboard
Enjoy your final breakfast on the Dahabiya before disembarking.
Step 20: Disembarkation in Esna & Transfer to Luxor
Check out and disembark in Esna. Your private driver will transfer you to Luxor (approximately 1 hour) for your final sightseeing tour
Step 21: Visit the Valley of the Kings
Arrive at the legendary Valley of the Kings. Your ticket includes entry to 3 royal tombs of your choice (excluding Tutankhamun and Seti I). Your guide will help you select the best open tombs and explain the meaning behind the stunning funerary art.
Step 22: Visit the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut
Visit the dramatic three-tiered mortuary temple of Egypt's only female pharaoh. Marvel at the architecture that blends seamlessly into the surrounding cliffs while your guide shares the story of Hatshepsut's rise to power.
Step 23: Visit the Colossi of Memnon
Stop for photos at the two massive 18-meter-high quartzite statues that once guarded Amenhotep III's mortuary temple.
Step 24: Lunch Break
Enjoy lunch at a quality local restaurant in Luxor.
Step 25: Visit Karnak Temple Complex
End your tour at the magnificent Karnak Temple – the largest religious complex ever built. Walk through the Avenue of Sphinxes, stand beneath the 134 towering columns of the Hypostyle Hall, and see the sacred lake.
Step 26: Transfer to Luxor Airport or Your Hotel
Your private driver will transfer you to Luxor International Airport, your Luxor hotel, or your Nile cruise for continued travels. Tour ends.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Included/Exclude
3 nights accommodation on a traditional boutique Dahabiya
All meals freshly prepared by your onboard personal chef
Unlimited tea, coffee, mineral water, and soft drinks throughout the voyage
English-speaking Egyptologist guide for all site visits
Entrance fees to all mentioned sites
Private air-conditioned transfers from your hotel or airport to the Dahabiya
Horse-drawn carriage transfer to Edfu Temple
Motorboat transfer to Philae Temple
All service charges and local taxes
24/7 customer support from Egypt Tours
Any drinks with meals (wine, beer, or spirits – available for purchase onboard)
Tipping for guide, crew, and drivers
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, laundry,etc
Anything not explicitly mentioned in "What's Included"
From
Duration
Tour Type
Booking Tour
Pricing & Packages
Choose your preferred group size. Prices are quoted in US Dollars per person.
Prices are quoted in US Dollars per person per trip except during Christmas, New Year & Easter holidays.
- 0 - 1.99 years: Free of charge
- 2 - 5.99 years: Pay 25% of tour price
- 6 - 11.99 years: Pay 50% of tour price
- 12+ years: Pay full tour price as per adult person
Note: Child pricing applies to children who share rooms with their parents (Max 2 child in one room)
Pricing & Packages
Choose your preferred group size. Prices are quoted in US Dollars per person.
Prices are quoted in US Dollars per person per trip except during Christmas, New Year & Easter holidays.
- 0 - 1.99 years: Free of charge
- 2 - 5.99 years: Pay 25% of tour price
- 6 - 11.99 years: Pay 50% of tour price
- 12+ years: Pay full tour price as per adult person
Note: Child pricing applies to children who share rooms with their parents (Max 2 child in one room)
From
Duration
Tour Type
Why You'll Love This Tour
Overview
Slow down, breathe in, and let the Nile set the pace — this 4 day Dahabiya cruise Aswan to Esna is the most intimate and authentic way to sail Egypt’s greatest river, gliding quietly past hidden temples and ancient quarries that the big cruise ships will never find.
4 Day Dahabiya Cruise Aswan to Esna — Tour Overview
The golden age of Nile travel never really ended — it just moved onto the Dahabiya. This 4 day Dahabiya cruise Aswan to Esna brings back the romance of sailing the Nile the way 19th-century explorers and aristocrats once did — slowly, privately, and with the kind of personal attention that larger ships simply cannot offer. With just 6 to 12 cabins and never more than 20 guests, your traditional wooden boutique yacht becomes a floating sanctuary as it glides north from Aswan through some of Upper Egypt’s most breathtaking and least-visited landscapes. You’ll anchor at Gebel el-Silsila — the dramatic ancient sandstone quarries where Egypt’s greatest temples were born — a place inaccessible to standard cruise ships and known only to those who sail slowly enough to stop. You’ll tie up beside the rock-hewn Speos of Horemheb for an exclusive evening unlike anything in mainstream tourism. And you’ll arrive at the temples of Kom Ombo and Edfu without the crowds, with time to truly look, wonder, and feel. Gourmet meals, personalized service, and the endless, timeless Nile flowing past your deck chair — this is Egypt at its most authentic and serene.
Explore our Nile Cruise Tours
Tour Highlights (4 day Dahabiya cruise Aswan to Esna)
⛵ Intimate Dahabiya Experience – Sail aboard a beautifully crafted traditional wooden boutique yacht with only 6–12 cabins and a maximum of 20 guests — where personalized service, gourmet dining, and quiet elegance replace the noise and crowds of larger cruise ships entirely.
🌺 Philae Temple – Begin your journey with a motorboat ride to the enchanting island sanctuary of the goddess Isis — one of Egypt’s most romantically situated and perfectly preserved ancient temples, beautifully relocated during the legendary UNESCO rescue project.
🏗️ Aswan High Dam & Unfinished Obelisk – Marvel at Egypt’s greatest feat of modern engineering above Lake Nasser, then crouch beside the massive ancient obelisk still lying in its granite quarry — a fascinating window into the ambition and techniques of Egypt’s ancient master builders.
🐊 Kom Ombo Temple – Sail to the dramatic double temple rising above the Nile, dedicated to both Sobek the crocodile god and Haroeris the falcon god — a uniquely fascinating and visually stunning monument perched perfectly above the river.
⛏️ Gebel el-Silsila – Drop anchor at the ancient sandstone quarries carved with royal shrines and cliff-side chapels — an extraordinary and rarely visited site completely inaccessible to standard cruise ships, known only to those who travel as slowly and curiously as you.
🏛️ Speos of Horemheb – Tie up alongside this fascinating rock-hewn temple for an exclusive evening experience that most Egypt travelers will never have — a private moment with ancient history in one of the Nile’s most atmospheric and secluded settings.
🐎 Temple of Horus at Edfu – Arrive by horse-drawn carriage to Egypt’s best-preserved ancient temple, dedicated to Horus the falcon god — a complete and awe-inspiring monument that stands as the most perfect surviving example of ancient Egyptian religious architecture.
🏙️ Esna Disembarkation – End your Dahabiya journey in the charming historic merchant town of Esna — a vibrant, authentic Egyptian town and the perfect gateway to the final wonders of Luxor waiting just beyond.
Tour Plan
Step 1: Pickup from Your Aswan Hotel or Airport (8:00 AM – 9:00 AM)
Your Egypt Tours representative will pick you up from your Aswan hotel, Nile cruise, or Aswan International Airport. Meet your Egyptologist guide and begin your Aswan sightseeing tour
Step 2: Visit the Aswan High Dam (9:30 AM – 10:15 AM)
Visit the Aswan High Dam, Egypt's modern engineering marvel. Learn how this massive project controls the Nile's annual flood, provides electricity to the nation, and created Lake Nasser – one of the largest man-made lakes in the world
Step 3: Visit Philae Temple (10:30 AM – 12:00 PM)
Take a motorboat across the Nile to the island sanctuary of Philae Temple. This beautiful temple complex, dedicated to the goddess Isis, was painstakingly relocated during the UNESCO rescue project when the High Dam was built. Your guide will share the legends of Isis, Osiris, and Horus as you explore this romantic and well-preserved site
Step 4: Visit the Unfinished Obelisk (12:15 PM – 1:00 PM)
Explore the Unfinished Obelisk, still lying in its original granite quarry. This massive obelisk cracked during carving, giving archaeologists rare insight into ancient Egyptian stone-working techniques. If completed, it would have been the largest obelisk ever erected
Step 5: Board Your Dahabiya & Welcome Lunch (1:30 PM – 2:30 PM)
Transfer to the pier and step onto your traditional wooden Dahabiya – a floating boutique hotel with white sails and authentic Egyptian charm. Settle into your comfortable cabin with Nile views. A welcome drink and freshly prepared lunch await.
Step 6: Sail Toward Kom Ombo (3:00 PM – 6:00 PM)
Set sail north along the Nile. Relax on the sun deck, watch rural Egyptian life pass by, and enjoy the peaceful rhythm of the river.
Step 7: Anchor at Kom Ombo & Dinner (7:00 PM onwards)
Anchor near Kom Ombo. Enjoy a delicious dinner onboard as the sun sets over the Nile.
Overnight: Dahabiya anchored near Kom Ombo
Meals: Lunch & Dinner (Breakfast not included on Day 1)
Step 8: Breakfast Onboard (7:00 AM – 8:00 AM)
Wake to the gentle lapping of the Nile and enjoy breakfast on deck.
Step 9: Visit Kom Ombo Temple & Crocodile Museum
Disembark to explore the unique double temple dedicated to two gods – Sobek the crocodile god and Haroeris the falcon god. The temple is perfectly symmetrical, with two entrances, two hypostyle halls, and two sanctuaries -1. Visit the small Crocodile Museum to see mummified crocodiles discovered in nearby tombs
Step 10: Return to Dahabiya & Sail to Gebel el Silsila
Return to the Dahabiya and enjoy a leisurely sail toward Gebel el Silsila. Lunch is served onboard while you take in the changing landscapes.
Step 11: Visit Gebel el Silsila & Ancient Quarries
Arrive at Gebel el Silsila, one of Egypt's less frequented ancient sites. This was once the most important sandstone quarry in ancient Egypt, providing stone for nearly all the great temples You will explore the rock-cut chapels of pharaohs like Horemheb and Ramses II. Large Nile cruise ships are forbidden to dock here – this is an exclusive Dahabiya experience
Step 12: Visit the Speos of Horemheb
Sail to the opposite side of the river and tie up alongside the ancient rock-hewn temple known as the Speos of Horemheb. This fascinating site is rarely visited by tourists -9.
Step 13: Dinner at the Illuminated Temple
Weather permitting, enjoy a magical dinner within the grounds of the illuminated temple – soft music, candlelight, and the timeless beauty of the Nile. If weather does not permit, dinner will be served on the Dahabiya's sun deck with a perfect view of the lit temple
Overnight: Dahabiya anchored at Gebel el Silsila
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Step 14: Breakfast & Sail to Edfu
Enjoy breakfast while the Dahabiya continues its gentle journey toward Edfu.
Step 15: Visit Edfu Temple – Temple of Horus
Disembark and take a traditional horse-drawn carriage (included) to the Temple of Horus at Edfu. This is one of the best-preserved temples in all of Egypt, buried under desert sand for centuries until its rediscovery. Walk through the massive pylon gates, admire the black granite statue of Horus, and explore the well-preserved reliefs depicting the eternal battle between Horus and Set Because Dahabiyas follow their own schedule, you'll avoid the large cruise ship crowds.
Step 16: Explore the Edfu Bazaar (12:00 PM – 12:45 PM)
After visiting the temple, either ride or walk through the extensive local bazaar. Haggle for souvenirs, spices, perfumes, and traditional Egyptian textiles
Step 17: Return to Dahabiya & Sail to Esna (1:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
Return to the Dahabiya and enjoy lunch as you set sail toward Esna. This stretch of the Nile is remarkably beautiful, filled with lush palm groves and local fishermen in their wooden feluccas
Step 18: Anchor Near Esna & Farewell Dinner
Anchor near Esna – a thriving merchant town known for its beautiful textiles. Enjoy your final dinner onboard, celebrating the journey with your fellow travelers and crew.
Overnight: Dahabiya anchored near Esna
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Step 19: Final Breakfast Onboard
Enjoy your final breakfast on the Dahabiya before disembarking.
Step 20: Disembarkation in Esna & Transfer to Luxor
Check out and disembark in Esna. Your private driver will transfer you to Luxor (approximately 1 hour) for your final sightseeing tour
Step 21: Visit the Valley of the Kings
Arrive at the legendary Valley of the Kings. Your ticket includes entry to 3 royal tombs of your choice (excluding Tutankhamun and Seti I). Your guide will help you select the best open tombs and explain the meaning behind the stunning funerary art.
Step 22: Visit the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut
Visit the dramatic three-tiered mortuary temple of Egypt's only female pharaoh. Marvel at the architecture that blends seamlessly into the surrounding cliffs while your guide shares the story of Hatshepsut's rise to power.
Step 23: Visit the Colossi of Memnon
Stop for photos at the two massive 18-meter-high quartzite statues that once guarded Amenhotep III's mortuary temple.
Step 24: Lunch Break
Enjoy lunch at a quality local restaurant in Luxor.
Step 25: Visit Karnak Temple Complex
End your tour at the magnificent Karnak Temple – the largest religious complex ever built. Walk through the Avenue of Sphinxes, stand beneath the 134 towering columns of the Hypostyle Hall, and see the sacred lake.
Step 26: Transfer to Luxor Airport or Your Hotel
Your private driver will transfer you to Luxor International Airport, your Luxor hotel, or your Nile cruise for continued travels. Tour ends.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Included/Exclude
3 nights accommodation on a traditional boutique Dahabiya
All meals freshly prepared by your onboard personal chef
Unlimited tea, coffee, mineral water, and soft drinks throughout the voyage
English-speaking Egyptologist guide for all site visits
Entrance fees to all mentioned sites
Private air-conditioned transfers from your hotel or airport to the Dahabiya
Horse-drawn carriage transfer to Edfu Temple
Motorboat transfer to Philae Temple
All service charges and local taxes
24/7 customer support from Egypt Tours
Any drinks with meals (wine, beer, or spirits – available for purchase onboard)
Tipping for guide, crew, and drivers
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, laundry,etc
Anything not explicitly mentioned in "What's Included"
Pricing & Packages
Choose your preferred group size. Prices are quoted in US Dollars per person.
Prices are quoted in US Dollars per person per trip except during Christmas, New Year & Easter holidays.
- 0 - 1.99 years: Free of charge
- 2 - 5.99 years: Pay 25% of tour price
- 6 - 11.99 years: Pay 50% of tour price
- 12+ years: Pay full tour price as per adult person
Note: Child pricing applies to children who share rooms with their parents (Max 2 child in one room)
Booking Tour
Overview
Overview
Slow down, breathe in, and let the Nile set the pace — this 4 day Dahabiya cruise Aswan to Esna is the most intimate and authentic way to sail Egypt’s greatest river, gliding quietly past hidden temples and ancient quarries that the big cruise ships will never find.
4 Day Dahabiya Cruise Aswan to Esna — Tour Overview
The golden age of Nile travel never really ended — it just moved onto the Dahabiya. This 4 day Dahabiya cruise Aswan to Esna brings back the romance of sailing the Nile the way 19th-century explorers and aristocrats once did — slowly, privately, and with the kind of personal attention that larger ships simply cannot offer. With just 6 to 12 cabins and never more than 20 guests, your traditional wooden boutique yacht becomes a floating sanctuary as it glides north from Aswan through some of Upper Egypt’s most breathtaking and least-visited landscapes. You’ll anchor at Gebel el-Silsila — the dramatic ancient sandstone quarries where Egypt’s greatest temples were born — a place inaccessible to standard cruise ships and known only to those who sail slowly enough to stop. You’ll tie up beside the rock-hewn Speos of Horemheb for an exclusive evening unlike anything in mainstream tourism. And you’ll arrive at the temples of Kom Ombo and Edfu without the crowds, with time to truly look, wonder, and feel. Gourmet meals, personalized service, and the endless, timeless Nile flowing past your deck chair — this is Egypt at its most authentic and serene.
Explore our Nile Cruise Tours
Tour Highlights (4 day Dahabiya cruise Aswan to Esna)
⛵ Intimate Dahabiya Experience – Sail aboard a beautifully crafted traditional wooden boutique yacht with only 6–12 cabins and a maximum of 20 guests — where personalized service, gourmet dining, and quiet elegance replace the noise and crowds of larger cruise ships entirely.
🌺 Philae Temple – Begin your journey with a motorboat ride to the enchanting island sanctuary of the goddess Isis — one of Egypt’s most romantically situated and perfectly preserved ancient temples, beautifully relocated during the legendary UNESCO rescue project.
🏗️ Aswan High Dam & Unfinished Obelisk – Marvel at Egypt’s greatest feat of modern engineering above Lake Nasser, then crouch beside the massive ancient obelisk still lying in its granite quarry — a fascinating window into the ambition and techniques of Egypt’s ancient master builders.
🐊 Kom Ombo Temple – Sail to the dramatic double temple rising above the Nile, dedicated to both Sobek the crocodile god and Haroeris the falcon god — a uniquely fascinating and visually stunning monument perched perfectly above the river.
⛏️ Gebel el-Silsila – Drop anchor at the ancient sandstone quarries carved with royal shrines and cliff-side chapels — an extraordinary and rarely visited site completely inaccessible to standard cruise ships, known only to those who travel as slowly and curiously as you.
🏛️ Speos of Horemheb – Tie up alongside this fascinating rock-hewn temple for an exclusive evening experience that most Egypt travelers will never have — a private moment with ancient history in one of the Nile’s most atmospheric and secluded settings.
🐎 Temple of Horus at Edfu – Arrive by horse-drawn carriage to Egypt’s best-preserved ancient temple, dedicated to Horus the falcon god — a complete and awe-inspiring monument that stands as the most perfect surviving example of ancient Egyptian religious architecture.
🏙️ Esna Disembarkation – End your Dahabiya journey in the charming historic merchant town of Esna — a vibrant, authentic Egyptian town and the perfect gateway to the final wonders of Luxor waiting just beyond.
Included/Exclude
3 nights accommodation on a traditional boutique Dahabiya
All meals freshly prepared by your onboard personal chef
Unlimited tea, coffee, mineral water, and soft drinks throughout the voyage
English-speaking Egyptologist guide for all site visits
Entrance fees to all mentioned sites
Private air-conditioned transfers from your hotel or airport to the Dahabiya
Horse-drawn carriage transfer to Edfu Temple
Motorboat transfer to Philae Temple
All service charges and local taxes
24/7 customer support from Egypt Tours
Any drinks with meals (wine, beer, or spirits – available for purchase onboard)
Tipping for guide, crew, and drivers
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, laundry,etc
Anything not explicitly mentioned in "What's Included"
Tour Plan
Step 1: Pickup from Your Aswan Hotel or Airport (8:00 AM – 9:00 AM)
Your Egypt Tours representative will pick you up from your Aswan hotel, Nile cruise, or Aswan International Airport. Meet your Egyptologist guide and begin your Aswan sightseeing tour
Step 2: Visit the Aswan High Dam (9:30 AM – 10:15 AM)
Visit the Aswan High Dam, Egypt's modern engineering marvel. Learn how this massive project controls the Nile's annual flood, provides electricity to the nation, and created Lake Nasser – one of the largest man-made lakes in the world
Step 3: Visit Philae Temple (10:30 AM – 12:00 PM)
Take a motorboat across the Nile to the island sanctuary of Philae Temple. This beautiful temple complex, dedicated to the goddess Isis, was painstakingly relocated during the UNESCO rescue project when the High Dam was built. Your guide will share the legends of Isis, Osiris, and Horus as you explore this romantic and well-preserved site
Step 4: Visit the Unfinished Obelisk (12:15 PM – 1:00 PM)
Explore the Unfinished Obelisk, still lying in its original granite quarry. This massive obelisk cracked during carving, giving archaeologists rare insight into ancient Egyptian stone-working techniques. If completed, it would have been the largest obelisk ever erected
Step 5: Board Your Dahabiya & Welcome Lunch (1:30 PM – 2:30 PM)
Transfer to the pier and step onto your traditional wooden Dahabiya – a floating boutique hotel with white sails and authentic Egyptian charm. Settle into your comfortable cabin with Nile views. A welcome drink and freshly prepared lunch await.
Step 6: Sail Toward Kom Ombo (3:00 PM – 6:00 PM)
Set sail north along the Nile. Relax on the sun deck, watch rural Egyptian life pass by, and enjoy the peaceful rhythm of the river.
Step 7: Anchor at Kom Ombo & Dinner (7:00 PM onwards)
Anchor near Kom Ombo. Enjoy a delicious dinner onboard as the sun sets over the Nile.
Overnight: Dahabiya anchored near Kom Ombo
Meals: Lunch & Dinner (Breakfast not included on Day 1)
Step 8: Breakfast Onboard (7:00 AM – 8:00 AM)
Wake to the gentle lapping of the Nile and enjoy breakfast on deck.
Step 9: Visit Kom Ombo Temple & Crocodile Museum
Disembark to explore the unique double temple dedicated to two gods – Sobek the crocodile god and Haroeris the falcon god. The temple is perfectly symmetrical, with two entrances, two hypostyle halls, and two sanctuaries -1. Visit the small Crocodile Museum to see mummified crocodiles discovered in nearby tombs
Step 10: Return to Dahabiya & Sail to Gebel el Silsila
Return to the Dahabiya and enjoy a leisurely sail toward Gebel el Silsila. Lunch is served onboard while you take in the changing landscapes.
Step 11: Visit Gebel el Silsila & Ancient Quarries
Arrive at Gebel el Silsila, one of Egypt's less frequented ancient sites. This was once the most important sandstone quarry in ancient Egypt, providing stone for nearly all the great temples You will explore the rock-cut chapels of pharaohs like Horemheb and Ramses II. Large Nile cruise ships are forbidden to dock here – this is an exclusive Dahabiya experience
Step 12: Visit the Speos of Horemheb
Sail to the opposite side of the river and tie up alongside the ancient rock-hewn temple known as the Speos of Horemheb. This fascinating site is rarely visited by tourists -9.
Step 13: Dinner at the Illuminated Temple
Weather permitting, enjoy a magical dinner within the grounds of the illuminated temple – soft music, candlelight, and the timeless beauty of the Nile. If weather does not permit, dinner will be served on the Dahabiya's sun deck with a perfect view of the lit temple
Overnight: Dahabiya anchored at Gebel el Silsila
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Step 14: Breakfast & Sail to Edfu
Enjoy breakfast while the Dahabiya continues its gentle journey toward Edfu.
Step 15: Visit Edfu Temple – Temple of Horus
Disembark and take a traditional horse-drawn carriage (included) to the Temple of Horus at Edfu. This is one of the best-preserved temples in all of Egypt, buried under desert sand for centuries until its rediscovery. Walk through the massive pylon gates, admire the black granite statue of Horus, and explore the well-preserved reliefs depicting the eternal battle between Horus and Set Because Dahabiyas follow their own schedule, you'll avoid the large cruise ship crowds.
Step 16: Explore the Edfu Bazaar (12:00 PM – 12:45 PM)
After visiting the temple, either ride or walk through the extensive local bazaar. Haggle for souvenirs, spices, perfumes, and traditional Egyptian textiles
Step 17: Return to Dahabiya & Sail to Esna (1:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
Return to the Dahabiya and enjoy lunch as you set sail toward Esna. This stretch of the Nile is remarkably beautiful, filled with lush palm groves and local fishermen in their wooden feluccas
Step 18: Anchor Near Esna & Farewell Dinner
Anchor near Esna – a thriving merchant town known for its beautiful textiles. Enjoy your final dinner onboard, celebrating the journey with your fellow travelers and crew.
Overnight: Dahabiya anchored near Esna
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Step 19: Final Breakfast Onboard
Enjoy your final breakfast on the Dahabiya before disembarking.
Step 20: Disembarkation in Esna & Transfer to Luxor
Check out and disembark in Esna. Your private driver will transfer you to Luxor (approximately 1 hour) for your final sightseeing tour
Step 21: Visit the Valley of the Kings
Arrive at the legendary Valley of the Kings. Your ticket includes entry to 3 royal tombs of your choice (excluding Tutankhamun and Seti I). Your guide will help you select the best open tombs and explain the meaning behind the stunning funerary art.
Step 22: Visit the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut
Visit the dramatic three-tiered mortuary temple of Egypt's only female pharaoh. Marvel at the architecture that blends seamlessly into the surrounding cliffs while your guide shares the story of Hatshepsut's rise to power.
Step 23: Visit the Colossi of Memnon
Stop for photos at the two massive 18-meter-high quartzite statues that once guarded Amenhotep III's mortuary temple.
Step 24: Lunch Break
Enjoy lunch at a quality local restaurant in Luxor.
Step 25: Visit Karnak Temple Complex
End your tour at the magnificent Karnak Temple – the largest religious complex ever built. Walk through the Avenue of Sphinxes, stand beneath the 134 towering columns of the Hypostyle Hall, and see the sacred lake.
Step 26: Transfer to Luxor Airport or Your Hotel
Your private driver will transfer you to Luxor International Airport, your Luxor hotel, or your Nile cruise for continued travels. Tour ends.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Calendar & Price
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Related Tours
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Tour Plan
Step 1: Pickup from Your Aswan Hotel or Airport (8:00 AM – 9:00 AM)
Your Egypt Tours representative will pick you up from your Aswan hotel, Nile cruise, or Aswan International Airport. Meet your Egyptologist guide and begin your Aswan sightseeing tour
Step 2: Visit the Aswan High Dam (9:30 AM – 10:15 AM)
Visit the Aswan High Dam, Egypt's modern engineering marvel. Learn how this massive project controls the Nile's annual flood, provides electricity to the nation, and created Lake Nasser – one of the largest man-made lakes in the world
Step 3: Visit Philae Temple (10:30 AM – 12:00 PM)
Take a motorboat across the Nile to the island sanctuary of Philae Temple. This beautiful temple complex, dedicated to the goddess Isis, was painstakingly relocated during the UNESCO rescue project when the High Dam was built. Your guide will share the legends of Isis, Osiris, and Horus as you explore this romantic and well-preserved site
Step 4: Visit the Unfinished Obelisk (12:15 PM – 1:00 PM)
Explore the Unfinished Obelisk, still lying in its original granite quarry. This massive obelisk cracked during carving, giving archaeologists rare insight into ancient Egyptian stone-working techniques. If completed, it would have been the largest obelisk ever erected
Step 5: Board Your Dahabiya & Welcome Lunch (1:30 PM – 2:30 PM)
Transfer to the pier and step onto your traditional wooden Dahabiya – a floating boutique hotel with white sails and authentic Egyptian charm. Settle into your comfortable cabin with Nile views. A welcome drink and freshly prepared lunch await.
Step 6: Sail Toward Kom Ombo (3:00 PM – 6:00 PM)
Set sail north along the Nile. Relax on the sun deck, watch rural Egyptian life pass by, and enjoy the peaceful rhythm of the river.
Step 7: Anchor at Kom Ombo & Dinner (7:00 PM onwards)
Anchor near Kom Ombo. Enjoy a delicious dinner onboard as the sun sets over the Nile.
Overnight: Dahabiya anchored near Kom Ombo
Meals: Lunch & Dinner (Breakfast not included on Day 1)
Step 8: Breakfast Onboard (7:00 AM – 8:00 AM)
Wake to the gentle lapping of the Nile and enjoy breakfast on deck.
Step 9: Visit Kom Ombo Temple & Crocodile Museum
Disembark to explore the unique double temple dedicated to two gods – Sobek the crocodile god and Haroeris the falcon god. The temple is perfectly symmetrical, with two entrances, two hypostyle halls, and two sanctuaries -1. Visit the small Crocodile Museum to see mummified crocodiles discovered in nearby tombs
Step 10: Return to Dahabiya & Sail to Gebel el Silsila
Return to the Dahabiya and enjoy a leisurely sail toward Gebel el Silsila. Lunch is served onboard while you take in the changing landscapes.
Step 11: Visit Gebel el Silsila & Ancient Quarries
Arrive at Gebel el Silsila, one of Egypt's less frequented ancient sites. This was once the most important sandstone quarry in ancient Egypt, providing stone for nearly all the great temples You will explore the rock-cut chapels of pharaohs like Horemheb and Ramses II. Large Nile cruise ships are forbidden to dock here – this is an exclusive Dahabiya experience
Step 12: Visit the Speos of Horemheb
Sail to the opposite side of the river and tie up alongside the ancient rock-hewn temple known as the Speos of Horemheb. This fascinating site is rarely visited by tourists -9.
Step 13: Dinner at the Illuminated Temple
Weather permitting, enjoy a magical dinner within the grounds of the illuminated temple – soft music, candlelight, and the timeless beauty of the Nile. If weather does not permit, dinner will be served on the Dahabiya's sun deck with a perfect view of the lit temple
Overnight: Dahabiya anchored at Gebel el Silsila
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Step 14: Breakfast & Sail to Edfu
Enjoy breakfast while the Dahabiya continues its gentle journey toward Edfu.
Step 15: Visit Edfu Temple – Temple of Horus
Disembark and take a traditional horse-drawn carriage (included) to the Temple of Horus at Edfu. This is one of the best-preserved temples in all of Egypt, buried under desert sand for centuries until its rediscovery. Walk through the massive pylon gates, admire the black granite statue of Horus, and explore the well-preserved reliefs depicting the eternal battle between Horus and Set Because Dahabiyas follow their own schedule, you'll avoid the large cruise ship crowds.
Step 16: Explore the Edfu Bazaar (12:00 PM – 12:45 PM)
After visiting the temple, either ride or walk through the extensive local bazaar. Haggle for souvenirs, spices, perfumes, and traditional Egyptian textiles
Step 17: Return to Dahabiya & Sail to Esna (1:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
Return to the Dahabiya and enjoy lunch as you set sail toward Esna. This stretch of the Nile is remarkably beautiful, filled with lush palm groves and local fishermen in their wooden feluccas
Step 18: Anchor Near Esna & Farewell Dinner
Anchor near Esna – a thriving merchant town known for its beautiful textiles. Enjoy your final dinner onboard, celebrating the journey with your fellow travelers and crew.
Overnight: Dahabiya anchored near Esna
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Step 19: Final Breakfast Onboard
Enjoy your final breakfast on the Dahabiya before disembarking.
Step 20: Disembarkation in Esna & Transfer to Luxor
Check out and disembark in Esna. Your private driver will transfer you to Luxor (approximately 1 hour) for your final sightseeing tour
Step 21: Visit the Valley of the Kings
Arrive at the legendary Valley of the Kings. Your ticket includes entry to 3 royal tombs of your choice (excluding Tutankhamun and Seti I). Your guide will help you select the best open tombs and explain the meaning behind the stunning funerary art.
Step 22: Visit the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut
Visit the dramatic three-tiered mortuary temple of Egypt's only female pharaoh. Marvel at the architecture that blends seamlessly into the surrounding cliffs while your guide shares the story of Hatshepsut's rise to power.
Step 23: Visit the Colossi of Memnon
Stop for photos at the two massive 18-meter-high quartzite statues that once guarded Amenhotep III's mortuary temple.
Step 24: Lunch Break
Enjoy lunch at a quality local restaurant in Luxor.
Step 25: Visit Karnak Temple Complex
End your tour at the magnificent Karnak Temple – the largest religious complex ever built. Walk through the Avenue of Sphinxes, stand beneath the 134 towering columns of the Hypostyle Hall, and see the sacred lake.
Step 26: Transfer to Luxor Airport or Your Hotel
Your private driver will transfer you to Luxor International Airport, your Luxor hotel, or your Nile cruise for continued travels. Tour ends.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Included/Exclude
3 nights accommodation on a traditional boutique Dahabiya
All meals freshly prepared by your onboard personal chef
Unlimited tea, coffee, mineral water, and soft drinks throughout the voyage
English-speaking Egyptologist guide for all site visits
Entrance fees to all mentioned sites
Private air-conditioned transfers from your hotel or airport to the Dahabiya
Horse-drawn carriage transfer to Edfu Temple
Motorboat transfer to Philae Temple
All service charges and local taxes
24/7 customer support from Egypt Tours
Any drinks with meals (wine, beer, or spirits – available for purchase onboard)
Tipping for guide, crew, and drivers
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, laundry,etc
Anything not explicitly mentioned in "What's Included"
Pricing & Packages
Choose your preferred group size. Prices are quoted in US Dollars per person.
Prices are quoted in US Dollars per person per trip except during Christmas, New Year & Easter holidays.
- 0 - 1.99 years: Free of charge
- 2 - 5.99 years: Pay 25% of tour price
- 6 - 11.99 years: Pay 50% of tour price
- 12+ years: Pay full tour price as per adult person
Note: Child pricing applies to children who share rooms with their parents (Max 2 child in one room)
