5 Nights Dahabiya From Luxor to Aswan
+3 photos Why you’ll love this journey
Experience a 5 Night Dahabiya from Luxor to Aswan. Discover Egypt’s iconic ancient temples, sail on a luxurious traditional boat.
Sail the Nile at its most peaceful pace on this 5 Nights Dahabiya From Luxor to Aswan, a boutique sailing journey designed for travelers who prefer intimacy over crowds and authenticity over schedules. Unlike large cruise ships, a Dahabiya moves slowly with the wind, docking at hidden islands and quiet riverbanks unreachable by bigger vessels.
Dahabiya Nile cruise offers a refined, small-group experience (typically 8–12 guests), blending relaxed sailing with expertly guided visits to iconic landmarks like Valley of the Kings and Philae Temple. Between sightseeing, you’ll unwind on a panoramic sundeck, enjoy freshly prepared Egyptian cuisine, and sleep in elegantly appointed cabins with Nile views.
Designed as a slow-travel alternative to standard river cruises, this Dahabiya experience is ideal for couples, honeymooners, photographers, and travelers seeking a more private and immersive way to explore Upper Egypt.
✨ Quick Tour Snapshot
- Duration: 5 Nights / 6 Days
- Route: Luxor → Esna → Edfu → Kom Ombo → Aswan
- Cruise Type: Boutique Dahabiya Sailing Boat
- Group Size: Small & Intimate
- Style: Relaxed, Cultural, Scenic
- Best For: Couples, Honeymooners, Private Travelers
Licensed Egyptologist guides
Expert Egyptologists who bring every temple and tomb to life.
Private shore excursions
Your own guide and vehicle at every stop — no crowds.
Free tailored planning
A day-by-day plan within 24 hours, revised until right.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day-by-day plan — 100% private, fully tailored, revised until right.
Day 1
Luxor – West Bank Tour
Luxor – West Bank Tour
We meet you at your hotel in Luxor and begin your adventure with a drive to the West Bank. Visit the Colossi of Memnon, two massive stone statues standing as ancient guardians of the Theban Necropolis. Explore the Valley of the Kings, where you’ll visit three of the most significant tombs currently open to the public. End the day with a visit to the magnificent Temple of Hatshepsut, dedicated to Egypt’s first female pharaoh.
Highlights:
- Visit the Colossi of Memnon.
- Explore three tombs in the Valley of the Kings.
- Discover Hatshepsut’s Temple.
Meals:
- Lunch and dinner served onboard.
Day 2
Luxor – Karnak and Luxor Temples, Sail to Esna
Luxor – Karnak and Luxor Temples, Sail to Esna
After breakfast, check out of your hotel and visit the awe-inspiring Karnak Temple, the largest religious complex in the ancient world, followed by the elegant Luxor Temple. After exploring these iconic landmarks, drive to Esna, where you’ll visit the Temple of Esna and the restored caravanserai and market. Board your Dahabiya and enjoy your first sail to El Hegz Village, where a unique cultural experience awaits.
Highlights:
- Visit Karnak and Luxor Temples.
- Explore Esna’s Temple and market.
- Sail to El Hegz Village.
Meals:
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner served onboard.
Day 3
El Kab and Edfu
El Kab and Edfu
After breakfast on board, sail to El Kab and explore the massive walls of the ancient town of Nekheb. Visit the New Kingdom tombs in the area, either on foot or by tuk-tuk. Continue to Edfu, where a horse-drawn carriage will take you to the Temple of Horus, one of the best-preserved temples in Egypt. Spend the evening sailing and enjoying a delicious dinner onboard.
Highlights:
- Visit El Kab’s ancient walls and tombs.
- Explore the Temple of Horus in Edfu.
Meals:
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner served onboard.
Day 4
Bisaw Island and El Selsela
Bisaw Island and El Selsela
Sail to Bisaw Island and spend the morning exploring the village. Join local fishermen in their boats, walk through lush farms, and meet friendly villagers. Continue sailing to El Selsela, an ancient sandstone quarry and shrine site, where you’ll enjoy a special barbeque dinner by moonlight.
Highlights:
- Experience Nile fishing with locals.
- Explore Bisaw Island village and farms.
- Visit El Selsela’s quarry and shrines.
Meals:
- Breakfast, lunch, and a barbeque dinner served onboard.
Day 5
Kom Ombo, Daraw Market, and Nubian Villages
Kom Ombo, Daraw Market, and Nubian Villages
After breakfast, visit Kom Ombo Temple, dedicated to Sobek and Horus the Elder. Explore the Crocodile Museum before heading to the nearby town of Daraw to experience the vibrant local market and learn about the camel trade. Visit a Nubian village to immerse yourself in local culture. Enjoy a farewell dinner onboard as you sail closer to Aswan, with optional activities such as swimming or kayaking.
Highlights:
- Explore Kom Ombo Temple and the Crocodile Museum.
- Visit Daraw Market and Camel Barns.
- Experience Nubian culture in the villages.
Meals:
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner served onboard.
Day 6
Aswan Day Tour
Aswan Day Tour
On your final day, enjoy breakfast onboard before visiting Aswan’s iconic sights. Explore the Philae Temple, dedicated to Isis, followed by the Unfinished Obelisk, an example of ancient engineering. Stop at the High Dam and enjoy a felucca ride to Elephantine Island, where you’ll see the Nobles’ Tombs, the Aga Khan Mausoleum, and more. Reflect on your journey over lunch before bidding farewell.
Highlights:
- Visit Philae Temple, the Unfinished Obelisk, and the High Dam.
- Enjoy a felucca ride on the Nile.
Meals:
- Breakfast and lunch are served onboard.
What’s included
Everything below is arranged, paid and covered by your quote. What sits outside is what you'd normally handle yourself.
Always included
- 5 Nights Boutique Dahabiya Accommodation
- Full-Board Dining Experience
- Expert local guide
- Transfers & Logistics
- Entrance Fees Included
- Professional Crew & Service
- Taxes & Service Charges
Arranged separately
- Egypt Entry Visa
- Optional Tours
- Tipping (Gratuities)
Traveler reviews
60+ verified reviews across Google & TripAdvisor for tours operated by Egypt Planners.
"A fabulous vacation, mostly thanks to Maro’s planning. Our 8-day private tour covered the Giza Pyramids, the Egyptian Museum and a Nile cruise. Our Cairo guide Maii was knowledgeable and friendly, and our cruise guide Abdo took great care of us throughout."
"Nothing short of exceptional. Every question was answered promptly and the whole custom trip was planned with impressive attention to detail. As a mom travelling with my two daughters, we felt completely safe, respected and well cared for at all times."
"From tailoring the itinerary to being dropped at the airport, everything went amazingly thanks to Maro and his team. Our Cairo guide Maii was fantastic, and Amir shared his knowledge beautifully from Luxor to Aswan. An unforgettable experience."
"We did a family private tour — Cairo, Aswan, Luxor and Hurghada — and strongly recommend Maro and his team. Communication was excellent at any time and the package very competitive. We kept to the itinerary with all inclusions and no extra charge."
"A French family with two young children. Maro designed a trip exactly as we had imagined — extremely available and responsive throughout. The guides took our young kids into account and showed us incredible places off the beaten track."
"A great trip to remember a lifetime! We travelled as a three-generation group of seven with many special requests, and they replanned several times until the itinerary met our ideas in detail. A very competent, friendly guide throughout."
Choose your cabin
Choose your cabin category — every cruise includes full-board meals, guided shore visits with a licensed Egyptologist, and all transfers. Per person sharing a double cabin; indicative — your exact quote is confirmed on enquiry.
You’ll stay at one hotel in each destination (and one cruise where shown) — the exact property is confirmed on booking, based on availability.
- Private dahabiya
- or similar class
You’ll stay at one hotel in each destination (and one cruise where shown) — the exact property is confirmed on booking, based on availability.
- Private dahabiya
- or similar class
You’ll stay at one hotel in each destination (and one cruise where shown) — the exact property is confirmed on booking, based on availability.
- Private dahabiya
- or similar class
Prices are per person for October–April, standard season. Christmas & New Year peak-season pricing available on request — ask on WhatsApp or use the form.
Why book with Egypt Tours by Locals
Licensed local guides
Egypt-born, Ministry-licensed guides — not tour leaders passing through.
100% private
Your group only — your pace, your interests.
Full-board cruising
All meals on board included as you sail the Nile.
Hand-picked vessels
Comfortable, well-run boats selected for each cabin tier.
Trusted since 2012
60+ verified reviews on Google & TripAdvisor.
Tailor-made
Adjusted to your dates, budget and must-sees — revised until right.
Booking & policy
Payment
- 30% deposit confirms your booking
- Balance before the trip, or on arrival at the airport
- Any major currency
- Itemised quote — no hidden fees
Cancellation
- ≥45 days: full refund
- 30–44 days: 50% refund
- <30 days: non-refundable — insurance advised
Children
- 0–2: free · 2–5: 25%
- 6–11: 50%
- 12+: full adult price
Good to know
Flexible Payment & Transparent Pricing
- Tour Prices: Quoted in USD per person. Payment accepted in any major currency.
- Inclusions: All packages include accommodations, domestic flights, guided tours, Nile cruise, entrance fees (as per itinerary), and local support.
- Validity: Prices apply from October to April and exclude Christmas & New Year peak periods.
- Price Adjustments: Subject to change due to airline tax increases, hotel rate changes, or local government fees.
- Not Included: International flights, travel insurance, and Egypt entry visa (~$25 on arrival).
💡 Tip: Ask us for price-lock options or to reserve your package at current rates.
🤝 Easy Booking Terms
- Only 30% Down to Confirm: Reserve your space with a small deposit covering hotels, Nile cruise cabins, and domestic flights.
- Flexible Balance Payment: Pay the rest up to 48 hours before arrival, or settle on arrival in cash with your tour manager.
✅ No hidden fees. No surprise charges.
Tipping in Egypt – What to Expect
Tipping is not included in your package — but it's an important part of Egyptian hospitality. While not mandatory, it is appreciated by drivers, guides, cruise staff, and service workers.
Suggested Guidelines:
- Guide: $10–15 per day per traveler
- Driver: $3–5 per day
- Cruise Crew (shared tip box): ~$5–10/day
We’ll provide a detailed tipping guide in your welcome packet to make it stress-free.
Optional Extras & Additional Costs
Not included but available on request:
- Entry to special sites: Inside the Great Pyramid, Tomb of Tutankhamun, Mummies Room at Egyptian Museum.
- Optional upgrades: Hot air balloon ride, Nubian village visit, sound & light shows, spa treatments.
- Alcoholic beverages, personal snacks, souvenirs.
- Extra accommodation due to unforeseen weather or flight delays (rare, but not covered).
💡 Ask your tour manager to help arrange optional experiences locally.
Best Time to Sail the Nile
The most pleasant months for a Dahabiya cruise are October through April, when daytime temperatures are mild and ideal for sightseeing.
During summer (May–September), temperatures rise, but early morning visits and shaded sailing hours keep the experience comfortable. The Nile breeze on the sundeck often makes evenings surprisingly pleasant year-round.
What to Wear on a Dahabiya Cruise
Life onboard is relaxed and elegant. Recommended attire includes:
- Light, breathable clothing for daytime excursions
- Comfortable walking shoes for temple visits
- Smart-casual outfits for dinner onboard
- A light jacket or shawl for cooler winter evenings
When visiting religious sites or rural villages along the Nile, modest clothing (covered shoulders and knees) is appreciated.
Temple Etiquette & Respectful Conduct
You’ll visit remarkable sites such as Temple of Edfu and Kom Ombo Temple.
To preserve these ancient monuments:
- Do not touch carvings or hieroglyphs
- Follow marked pathways
- Avoid flash photography in restricted areas
Your licensed local guide will explain preservation guidelines at each site.
Questions about this tour
What is the difference between a Dahabiya and Nile cruise?
A Dahabiya is a traditional boutique sailing boat that carries a limited number of guests (typically 8–12), offering a more private and tranquil atmosphere.
Unlike large cruise ships that follow fixed docking schedules and crowded ports, a Dahabiya can anchor at peaceful islands and rural riverbanks between Luxor and Aswan.
The experience is slower, more intimate, and focused on relaxation rather than onboard entertainment.
How many guests are onboard the Dahabiya?
Most Dahabiyas accommodate between 8 and 12 guests. This limited capacity ensures personalized service, quieter evenings, and a more refined sailing atmosphere.
Is the 5-night Dahabiya cruise private?
The cruise operates as a small-group boutique experience. However, private charter options are available if you wish to reserve the entire boat for your family or group.
Which temples are included in the itinerary?
Your journey typically includes guided visits to major highlights such as:
- Karnak Temple
- Temple of Edfu
- Kom Ombo Temple
- Philae Temple
The exact order may vary slightly depending on sailing conditions.
Is the Dahabiya cruise suitable for children?
Dahabiya cruises are generally best suited for couples, honeymooners, and adult travelers seeking a peaceful atmosphere. Families with older children who enjoy history and calm environments may also find it suitable.
What level of comfort can I expect onboard?
Dahabiyas offer boutique comfort with:
- Air-conditioned cabins
- Private en-suite bathrooms
- A panoramic sundeck
- Freshly prepared onboard meals
While elegant and refined, the experience is intimate rather than resort-style luxury.
