Meroe Dahabiya Nile Cruise
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Trip Summary
The Meroe Dahabiya luxury Egypt cruise invites you to experience the Nile as explorers once did—slow, graceful, and full of wonder. A perfect setting for travelers wishing for tranquility and cultural depth, this private Dahabiya Nile cruise features an intimate, small set of cabins, which is suitable for people who appreciate the value of space and silence.
While cruising through the classic Luxor-to-Aswan tour route, the Luxury Dahabiya Nile River Cruise in fact calls on secret historical beauties from Esna, El Kab, and the majestic temples of Gebel el-Silsila.
Luxuriously furnished in traditional Egyptian motif, Meroe promises a fairly luxury small boat Nile cruise experience that treats you like royalty from an attentive crew. Sunset tea on deck, romantic dinners under the stars are all set to celebrate your Egypt tour as much as the journey.
This Traditional Dahabiya luxury Nile cruise Egypt itinerary integrates timeless elegance with cultural richness, making it one of the best Dahabiya Nile cruise options for those who cherish authenticity and luxury. As part of the larger family of Egypt Nile Cruise packages, the Meroe Dahabiya offers a private Egypt Nile cruise unlike those overcrowded larger vessels.
Price from
US$ 2000
Duration
6 Days
Location
Luxor and Aswan
Group size
Private
Type
nile-cruise
Highlights
Luxor attractions
- Esna.
- Temple of Khnum
Aswan attractions
- Khnum Temple.
- El Kab.
- Nekhbet Temple.
- Gebel Silsileh.
- Decorated tombs in the mountain necropolis.
- Edfu Temple.
- Temple of Horemheb.
- Sandstone quarries.
- Desert valley.
- Kom Ombo Temple.
- Crocodile Museum.
5 Nights - 6 Days Esna - Aswan
Once you arrive at Luxor Airport and Luxor train station, our Egypt trips, tour guide will warmly meet and assist you. Then, your expert Egyptologist guide will lead your Private Dahabiya Nile Cruise journey in Esna, a vibrant merchant town renowned for its ancient Temple of Khnum, located 9 meters below the surface.
Start with a short walk to this magnificent temple, a highlight of any traditional Deluxe Nile cruise, which will be followed by a stroll through the lively Esna streets, where one can browse the colorful textiles and exotic goods.
Overnight: Onboard your Luxury Dahabiya Nile Cruise boat in Esna, offering a peaceful and intimate luxury small boat Nile cruise experience.
Meals: lunch and dinner.
As you sleep aboard your Luxury Dahabiya Nile Cruise from Esna to Aswan, the boat gracefully sails to El Kab, the former capital of Upper Egypt, on the east bank of the Nile. El Kab is home to the impressive Temple of Nekhbet and richly carved tombs sunk into the mountains. Upon arrival, prepare for a picturesque stroll through a quaint fishing village and then into the ancient necropolis—an experience that highlights the best of a Traditional Dahabiya Nile Cruise itinerary for 6 days.
In the afternoon, your Private Dahabiya Nile Cruise continues sailing toward
Edfu Temple:
Edfu Temple, Dedicated to the god Horus, is one of Egypt’s best-preserved temples, featuring a grand pylon and intricate carvings.
To fully immerse yourself in these Dahabiya river cruises in Egypt, take an antique horse-drawn carriage ride through Edfu's bustling streets.
After your Egypt luxury tour at Edfu Temple, your luxury small boat Nile cruise experience moors in a peaceful island territory for a tranquil overnight stay.
Meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
This day is dedicated entirely to the serene beauty of the Nile itself. Begin with a lovely optional morning stroll and breakfast aboard your Luxury Dahabiya Nile River Cruise before continuing along this calm and timeless river. In the afternoon, your Private Dahabiya Nile Cruise from Esna to Aswan will stop at a beautiful island, offering the perfect opportunity for a relaxing walk or a refreshing swim.
Later, you may choose to take an optional excursion to explore a desert valley adorned with ancient Egyptian hieroglyphs and prehistoric markings—an unforgettable highlight on this Traditional Dahabiya luxury Nile River cruises Egypt itinerary. At night, your luxury small boat Nile cruise is moored adjacent to the beautifully illuminated Temple of Gebel Silsileh, giving a magical touch to your Egypt Dahabiya luxury Nile Cruise experience.
Meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Today, your Meroe Dahabiya luxury cruise in Egypt begins with a visit to the remarkable Gebel Silsila, followed by a tour of Horemheb’s Temple and the ancient sandstone quarries—sources of the stone used to build Egypt’s iconic temples. Afterward, you will relax with tea and traditional shisha at a lovely riverside café, while soaking up the tranquil atmosphere.
Your Private Dahabiya Nile Cruise will then continue sailing to a picturesque riverbank where lunch will be served. Take the opportunity to swim in the rejuvenating waters of the Nile during this unforgettable Egypt Dahabiya Nile Cruise experience.
Meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Awake to serene Nile views as your Meroe Dahabiya Deluxe Nile cruise gently approaches the ancient
Kom Ombo
Upon arrival, take a look at the one-of-a-kind Temple of Kom Ombo, built in honor of the crocodile god Sobek and the falcon god Haroeris. This deliciously strange dual temple offers a fascinating view into ancient Egyptian religion and medicine.
After exploring the magical reliefs and the two sanctuaries, proceed with your Luxury Dahabiya Nile Cruise to the Crocodile Museum. There, you will be able to look upon the mummified crocodiles and learn about the worship of Sobek, another dimension and depth of the site's spirituality.
As part of your Traditional Dahabiya best Egypt nile cruise itinerary 6-day, this day offers both historical immersion and peaceful sailing far from the crowds of larger vessels.
Meals: Breakfast only
After enjoying your final breakfast on board, it's time to say goodbye to your unforgettable journey along the Nile. You will be transferred from your Meroe Dahabiya luxury Egypt nile cruise to Aswan Airport or Aswan Train Station, based on your travel arrangements.
This marks the end of your Luxury Dahabiya Nile river Cruise from Esna to Aswan, a luxury small boat Nile cruise experience filled with timeless scenery, historical discoveries, and exceptional hospitality. As your Egypt Dahabiya Nile Cruise ends, you leave with cherished memories of a truly unique adventure through the heart of ancient Egypt.
Meals: Breakfast only
What's Included
- Meet and assist service upon arrival & departure.
- All transfers are by a modern, air-conditioned, deluxe vehicle.
- Entrance fee for all sightseeing mentioned.
- Complimentary bottle of mineral water during Daily tours.
- Accommodation at Dahabiya Cruise.
- Egyptologist English guides during tours.
- Free sim card during your tours
- All Taxes & Service charges.
What's Not Included
- Tipping.
- Any Extra meals and beverages.
- All personal expenses.
- Any optional tours.
Price Policy
- Our prices are listed in US Dollars per person, per trip. However, payments can be made in any other currency.
- Prices may change due to fluctuations in airport taxes, hotel rates, transportation fees, or government taxes.
- Please note that the prices are not valid during the Christmas, New Year, and Easter periods.
- The tour packages do not include travel insurance or visa fees.
Booking Confirmation:
- After booking, you will receive a confirmation voucher via email within 24 hours.
- We offer a low down payment of just 25% to secure your tour and travel arrangements, including hotel rooms, cruise cabins, and domestic flights. The remaining balance can be paid up to two days before your trip or in cash upon arrival to your tour manager, making your booking risk-free.
Cancellation Policy:
- Cancellations made 30 days or more before the tour starts: 10% cancellation fee.
- Cancellations made 20-29 days before the tour starts: 25% cancellation fee.
- Cancellations made 15-19 days before the tour starts: 50% cancellation fee.
- Cancellations made 11-14 days before the tour starts: 75% cancellation fee.
- Cancellations made less than 10 days before the tour starts: No refund.
Children’s Policy:
- Children under 2 years: Free
- Children aged 2 to 6 years: 25% of the adult price
- Children aged 6 to 11 years: 50% of the adult price
- Children 12 years and older: Full adult price
Notes:
- The children’s policy applies only to children sharing a room with their parents (maximum of one child per room).
- If your tour includes flights, additional charges may apply for children.
Please note that certain personal expenses are not included in our packages. These may include food tours, alcoholic beverages, gratuities, visa fees, entertainment costs, and any services not explicitly mentioned in your itinerary.
Additional costs you should be aware of:
- Visa and Passport Fees: Check your visa requirements and passport validity before traveling.
- Extra Transportation Costs: Any additional transportation needs beyond what is provided in the package.
- Tips for Your Guide and Driver: While tips are not included in the tour price, it is customary to offer your guide and driver a gratuity at the end of the trip.
- Unforeseen Costs: In unexpected situations, such as inclement weather, flight cancellations, or delays, travelers are responsible for extra expenses such as additional hotel nights or meals.
Optional Visits and Entrance Fees:
- Please note that our tours do not cover entrance fees to special archaeological sites, such as the interior of the Pyramids, the Mummies Room in the Egyptian Museum, or the tomb of Tutankhamun in Luxor’s Valley of the Kings. However, these visits can be added to your itinerary as optional excursions.
Tipping is not included in any of our packages and is entirely at the traveler’s discretion. While it is not mandatory, tips are an important way to show appreciation for the hard work of the local staff and guides who make your experience memorable.
Here are some general guidelines for tipping:
- Tour Guide: $10 - $20 per day
- Driver: $5 - $10 per day
- Nile Cruise Crew: $20 - $30 per person for the duration of the cruise (for the entire crew)
These amounts are just recommendations and can be adjusted based on your satisfaction with the service provided. Tipping is an important cultural gesture in Egypt, and even a small amount can go a long way in showing gratitude for excellent service.
To ensure a smooth and comfortable journey throughout Egypt, we suggest you pack the following items:
- Valid Passport (at least 6 months): Double-check that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned arrival date in Egypt, as this is often a requirement for entry.
- Sun Protection: Given Egypt’s sunny climate, we recommend packing high-SPF sunscreen and lip balm with sun protection to shield your skin from the intense sun.
- UV-Blocking Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from UV rays and reduce glare while sightseeing, especially when exploring outdoor sites like the Pyramids.
- Hand Sanitizer: Hygiene is important, particularly when handwashing isn’t always accessible, so be sure to bring a small bottle of hand sanitizer.
- Reusable Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is key, particularly in the heat. A refillable water bottle will help you stay refreshed while reducing plastic waste.
- Insect Repellent: Particularly useful when visiting sites surrounded by nature, insect repellent will keep pesky bugs at bay and protect you from bites.
- Appropriate Clothing for the Season:
- Winter: If traveling during the cooler months, pack a warm jacket, sweater, and thermal layers.
- Summer: Lightweight, breathable cotton clothes are ideal for staying cool in the hot weather.
- Wide-Brimmed Hat: A hat provides shade and helps protect your face and neck from direct sun exposure.
- Travel Adapter: Different countries have varying plug types, so bring a universal travel adapter to keep your electronics charged.
- Camera or Smartphone: Capture stunning memories from your trip with a camera or your phone. Egypt’s ancient sites are perfect for photos!
- Compact Umbrella: Though Egypt is mostly dry, a small umbrella can be handy during the rare rain showers, especially if you're traveling during the transitional months.
- Comfortable Shoes: You’ll likely be doing a lot of walking during your sightseeing, so pack sturdy and comfortable shoes suitable for exploring archaeological sites and urban areas.
- Medications: If you take prescription medication, ensure you have an adequate supply for the duration of your trip. Also, carry any over-the-counter medications you may need for common issues like headaches or stomach discomfort.
All You Need to Know Before You Go
Got Questions? Find answers to all your questions about traveling to Egypt. We have everything you need for smooth and remarkable tours in Egypt, from visas and safety advice to the ideal time to go and the must-see attractions.
How much do you tip for a Dahabiya Nile cruise?
Tipping on a Dahabiya Nile cruise is a common practice to show appreciation for the crew’s service. Typically, you might consider tipping around $5 to $10 per guest, per day. This amount can vary depending on the level of service and your personal satisfaction. For example, if you’re on a luxury cruise, you may want to tip a bit more.
What is the best time to cruise the Nile?
The best time to cruise the Nile is during the cooler months, which typically run from October to April. During this period, temperatures are more comfortable, avoiding the intense heat of summer. The winter months (December to February) offer the best weather for exploring, as temperatures are pleasant both on the boat and during excursions.
Is a Dahabiya Nile cruise in Egypt worth it?
Yes, a Dahabiya Nile cruise is definitely worth it for those seeking a more intimate, luxurious, and slower-paced journey along the Nile. Compared to larger cruise ships, Dahabiyas are smaller, more private, and often offer personalized service. It’s a great option if you want to experience Egypt’s ancient wonders in a more relaxed and exclusive setting. However, it’s important to keep in mind that they are usually pricier than standard cruises.
How to choose the best Dahabiya?
When choosing the best Dahabiya, consider the following:
- Size & Capacity: Dahabiyas tend to have fewer cabins (usually 4-12), so check how many passengers you’ll be sharing the experience with.
- Amenities: Look at the comfort level, food options, and available excursions. Some Dahabiyas are more luxurious, offering fine dining and luxurious accommodations.
- Itinerary: Different Dahabiyas may stop at various sites along the Nile. Make sure the cruise includes the destinations you're interested in.
- Reviews: Check recent reviews to get an idea of the crew’s service and the overall experience. Personal recommendations can be helpful as well.
How much does a cruise down the Nile cost?
The cost of a cruise down the Nile can vary widely based on the type of cruise and the duration. For a Dahabiya, expect prices starting from around $300 per person per night. This price can increase depending on the level of luxury, time of year, and itinerary. Luxury cruises or longer trips may cost more, sometimes exceeding $500 or more per person, per night. Be sure to inquire about what's included, such as meals, excursions, and tips, to get the full picture of the cost.