MS Esplanade Nile cruise
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Trip Summary
Discover timeless elegance aboard the MS Esplanade luxury cruises to Egypt, a 5-star luxury Nile River Cruise in Egypt that redefines sophistication and comfort. Whether you're going on a 4-day or 5-day luxury Nile River cruise Egypt between Luxor and Aswan. This Luxury Nile Cruise Luxor Aswan offers an experience of high-level hospitality, fine dining, and world-class services in 55 elegantly appointed cabins and suites. Every nook of the ship is dripping with modern luxury, giving it the status of the best Nile River cruise for an elite client seeking a high-level experience with the Nile.
Everything on MS Esplanade is so thoughtfully designed to ensure a perfect moment for you. Elegant in-room comfort, staring down a magnificent view of the Nile; a parade of delightful tastes coming out of gourmet meals ready to tease the senses—from cabin to dining hall, each minute is created with your indulgence in mind. As you make your way between Luxor and Aswan, stop here and there to learn, under the aegis of expert Egyptologists, about the marvels of ancient temples like Karnak, Aswan philae temple, and Edfu—an essential part of the finest Egypt tours, moving one step deeper into Egypt’s timeless heritage—all wrapped in the refined ambiance of the 5-star luxury Nile Cruise Luxor Aswan, where modern luxury meets historic charm.
Whether you're searching for the best Nile Cruise Luxor and Aswan, a tailored Luxury Egypt Nile Cruise, or simply the best Egypt Nile Cruise packages, the MS Esplanade offers an unmatched experience. This is not just a cruise, it's a Luxury Nile River Holiday in Egypt, crafted for those who appreciate elegance, authenticity, and the magic of the Nile.
Price from
US$ 800
Duration
3 Nights or 4 Nights
Location
Luxor and Aswan
Group size
Private
Type
nile-cruise
Highlights
Luxor Sights
- Luxor Temple.
- Karnak Temple.
- Valley of the Kings.
- Temple of Hatshepsut.
- Edfu Temple.
- Colossi of Memnon.
Aswan Sights
- Philae Temple.
- Aswan High Dam.
- Unfinished Obelisk.
- Kom Ombo Temple.
- Abu Simbel Temple.
4 Days/ 3 Nights
Upon arrival at Aswan Airport or train station, you will be met by an Egypt Day Trips tour guide who will welcome and greet you, along with your experienced Egyptologist guide.
Your Aswan city tour will begin, including a visit to the fabled.
Aswan High Dam:
Learn about this engineering marvel, the Aswan High Dam, which controls the Nile’s flow.
Philae Temple:
Visit the beautiful Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis and relocated to Agilkia Island.
Unfinished Obelisk:
See the largest known ancient obelisk, the Aswan Unfinished Obelisk, abandoned in its quarry due to cracking.
After your guided tour, go on your luxury Nile Cruise from Aswan to Luxor aboard the MS Esplanade, where you will indulge in a sumptuous lunch and afternoon tea, and relax as you enjoy a comfortable overnight stay onboard this 5-star best Nile cruise Luxor Aswan, experiencing the finest in hospitality and modern luxury.
Overnight on the cruise.
Meals: lunch & dinner.
Start the day with an on-deck breakfast as the 5-star luxury Nile cruise from Aswan to Luxor vessel sails towards Kom Ombo, offering sweeping views of the new Aswan Bridge and the serene Nile landscapes. Upon arrival at Kom Ombo, enjoy a guided tour to the fascinating Temple of Sobek and Haeroris, a unique twin temple devoted to two deities—an intriguing highlight of this Luxor and Aswan Nile cruise 4 days.
Return to the ship for lunch as you cruise onward to Edfu. When you arrive, you'll visit the stunning Edfu Temple of Horus, the best-preserved temple in Egypt, dedicated to the falcon-headed god. Relax with afternoon tea on the sun deck as the cruise continues towards Luxor, passing through the Esna Lock, It is an excellent occasion to watch everyday life and click some good pictures
Complete your day with a delicious dinner onboard the MS Esplanade Nile Cruise, enjoying a comfortable overnight stay. This Luxor and Aswan Nile cruise package offers the best experience of Egypt timeless beauty and luxury.
Overnight on the cruise.
Meals: breakfast, lunch, & dinner.
Begin your day with a good, rich breakfast aboard your luxury egypt Nile cruise from Luxor and Aswan as it docks in the historic city of Luxor. Spend the morning exploring the East Bank on a Luxor tour, including the majestic
Karnak Temple:
Wander through the vast Karnak Temple complex dedicated to the god Amun-Ra, marveling at the Hypostyle Hall—a forest of 134 towering columns—and the sacred lake.
Luxor Temple:
Admire this stunning temple built by Amenhotep III and Ramses II, the Luxor Temple, featuring grand colonnades and the Avenue of Sphinxes.
After your guided tour, return to the MS Esplanade Cruise for lunch and afternoon tea onboard. The remainder of the day is free for self-exploration in Luxor or simply relaxing on the cruise while enjoying the breathtaking views of this ancient city. Dinner will be served on board, and an overnight stay will be in the 5-star Luxor-Aswan Nile cruise.
Overnight on the cruise.
Meals: breakfast, lunch, & dinner.
Enjoy breakfast onboard before getting off from your MS Esplanade luxury Nile cruise egypt, one of the finest luxury Nile cruises from Aswan to Luxor. Your guide will then take you to explore the West Bank, starting with the legendary
Valley of the Kings:
On the list of the world’s most famous archaeological sites, the Valley of the Kings served as the ancient royal cemetery for New Kingdom pharaohs of Egypt, including the most well-known, Tutankhamun. With over sixty tombs—many richly decorated and carved deep into the rock with symbolic artwork, hieroglyphs, and secret chambers—this site was designed to guide pharaohs into the afterlife.
Temple of Queen Hatshepsut:
The Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, very spectacularly located amidst the dramatic Deir el-Bahri cliffs, is one of the most attractive and almost intact ancient Egyptian temples. This incredible temple-mortuary was constructed to pay tribute to one of the very few female pharaohs of the ancient Egyptian civilization. The ruler's splendour and her allegiance to the god Amun are depicted through the temple's terraces, statues, and relief carvings. Upon entering the temple with your guide, you will become acquainted with the tale of Hatshepsut—how she ascended in a male-dominated society and how her story still fascinates scholars and the public.
Colossi of Memnon:
The Colossi of Memnon have been standing at the entrance of the mortuary temple of Amenhotep III, located on the west side of the Nile near Luxor, for more than three millennia. Each figure is approximately 18 meters (60 feet) tall and is made from a single piece of sandstone.
Meals: breakfast only
5 Days/ 4 Nights
An Egypt Day Trips tour guide warmly welcomes you at Luxor Airport or the train station; the journey to your tour starts here. Later on, your professional Egyptologist guide will lead you on an exhilarating East Bank tour in Luxor, where you will visit the magnificent
Karnak Temple:
Getting lost in the immense complex of Karnak Temple, which is the god Amun-Ra's giant temple, is a great experience. The Hypostyle Hall—a big forest of 134 colossal columns—and the holy lake are among the spots that will leave you amazed.
Luxor Temple:
You will be able to see the magnificent Luxor Temple that was constructed by Amenhotep III and Ramses II, which has splendid colonnades and the Avenue of Sphinxes leading up to it.
When the tour ends, hop on a 5-star luxury Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan on the elegant best Nile cruise ship. Indulge yourself in luxurious comfort with delicious lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner served on board. You will also have the chance to enjoy the spectacular view of the Nile during the night as the boat sails from Luxor to Aswan.
Optional: The sound and light show at Karnak Temple is an experience that will captivate everyone and provide insights into the history of Egypt in greater detail. This Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan in 5 days is among the best Nile river cruises in Egypt.
Overnight on the ship.
Meals: lunch & dinner.
Start your morning with a charming breakfast onboard the 5-star Nile cruise Egypt package, the MS Esplanade, then make your way to Luxor's West Bank, where history comes alive. Explore the iconic
Valley of the Kings:
On the list of the world’s most famous archaeological sites, the Valley of the Kings served as the ancient royal cemetery for New Kingdom pharaohs of Egypt, including the most well-known, Tutankhamun. With over sixty tombs—many richly decorated and carved deep into the rock with symbolic artwork, hieroglyphs, and secret chambers—this site was designed to guide pharaohs into the afterlife.
Temple of Queen Hatshepsut:
Beautifully set against the dramatic cliffs of Deir el-Bahri, the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut is one of the most beautiful and well-preserved ancient Egyptian temples. This astounding mortuary temple was built to honor one of Egypt’s few female pharaohs. Its terraces, statues, and relief carvings reflect the prosperity of her reign and her devotion to the god Amun. As you walk through the temple with your guide, you will hear the story of Hatshepsut—how she rose to power in a male-dominated world and how her legacy continues to captivate historians and visitors alike.
Colossi of Memnon:
For more than 3,000 years, the Colossi of Memnon have watched over the gateway to the long-lost mortuary temple of Amenhotep III on the west bank of the Nile near Luxor. Standing about 18 meters (60 feet) high, each statue is carved from a single block of sandstone.
Return to your luxury Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan as you sail towards Edfu, passing through the fascinating Esna Lock. Capture unforgettable photos of local life along the Nile banks and serene river landscapes on the luxury Nile River cruise from Luxor to Aswan. In the evening, savor a gourmet dinner onboard as the ship docks at Esna.
Overnight on the MS Esplanade Nile Cruise.
Meals: breakfast, lunch, & dinner.
After having breakfast on your luxury Nile cruise, the journey from Luxor to Aswan takes you to the
Edfu Temple:
This Edfu Temple is one of the best-preserved temples in Egypt, and it is devoted to the god Horus, a temple that is characterized by a massive pylon and detailed reliefs, which is the culmination of your Egypt Christmas tour package.
The architectural magnificence of the temple will take your breath away, and you will also get to know about the falcon-headed god, Horus, on this Egypt Nile cruise guided tour. After this guided tour, come back to the ship for a leisurely lunch while the cruise is proceeding to Kom Ombo.
Your guide will be there to meet and greet you as soon as you arrive, just like in every other tourist site. Then it’s time for you to enjoy a ride to
Kom Ombo Temple:
At the Kom Ombo Temple, you can visit the two sanctuaries, one for the god Horus and the other for Sobek, the crocodile god.
When you finish your tour of the temple, the next stop will be the MS Esplanade best Nile Cruise for dinner while the ship is heading to Aswan.
Once you are near the city, you will be treated to a spectacular night view of the Aswan Bridge and the Tombs of the Nobles, thus concluding another interesting day on your 5-star best Nile cruise in Egypt.
Stay overnight on the MS Esplanade Nile Cruise.
Meals: breakfast, lunch, & dinner.
After dining on your morning meal, take off for a splendid day in Aswan. With your Egyptologist guide, you will have the chance to tour the city of Aswan and are able to visit three of the most famous places in Aswan during your luxurious Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan. Be amazed at the grandiose
Aswan High Dam:
Understand this engineering marvel, the Aswan High Dam, which regulates the Nile’s flow, share close to.
Philae Temple:
Be a part of visiting the gorgeous Philae Temple which was dedicated to the goddess Isis and was shifted to Agilkia Island.
Unfinished Obelisk:
Visit the biggest known ancient obelisk, the Unfinished Obelisk, which was left in its quarry due to cracking.
The MS Esplanade 5-star Nile cruise will serve lunch and afternoon tea on board. In the evening, you will be able to unwind in the peaceful atmosphere of Aswan during your unforgettable 5-day Luxor to Aswan 5-star Nile cruise adventure.
Cruise overnight.
Meals: breakfast, lunch & dinner.
After breakfast, leave the MS Esplanade Nile cruise and experience the city of Aswan at your own pace. The lively Nubian markets are a good place to go, but just enjoying the remarkable beauty of this charming city on a luxury Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan will also do.
Optional: A private car or a short flight with Egypt Air from Aswan can take you to the splendid Abu Simbel Temple, which is a favorite day trip. You will be amazed by the colossal figures of King Ramses II and the exquisite temple of Queen Nefertari before going back to Aswan.
The next step in your journey will be an airport or railway station transfer where you will depart with the ever-lasting memories of the luxury tours of Egypt and Nile cruise experience.
Meals: breakfast only.=
What's Included
- 4 or 3 nights of accommodation on Nile Cruises.
- Meet and assist upon arrival and departure.
- All transfers in a modern, private, air-conditioned vehicle.
- All Nile Cruise excursions as mentioned in the itinerary.
- Entrance fees to all sites in and between Luxor and Aswan.
- English-speaking tour guide on board the cruise.
- One complimentary bottle of water per person per day.
- All transfers are by A-C vehicles with qualified drivers.
- All service charges and taxes.
What's Not Included
- Entry visa to Egypt.
- Any additional meals and drinks.
- All personal expenses like laundry etc.
- Tipping to the guide, driver, cruise crew, etc.
- Any optional tours & activities.
Schedule
Price Table
| # | 4Days / 3Nights | 5Days / 4Nights | 8Days / 7Nights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single | US$ 0 | US$ 0 | US$ 0 |
| Double | US$ 0 | US$ 0 | US$ 0 |
| Triple | US$ 0 | US$ 0 | US$ 0 |
Price notes
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 long is the Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan?
A typical Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan lasts about 4 to 5 days. This duration allows you to explore key temples like the Valley of the Kings, Karnak, Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Philae while cruising along the river.
Is it better to sail Aswan to Luxor or Luxor to Aswan?
Most cruises sail from Luxor to Aswan, and this is generally considered the best direction. This is due to the current of the Nile; it’s easier for ships to travel downstream. Plus, Luxor has more major sites, so starting there gives you the chance to build up to the stunning temples and monuments of Aswan. However, the reverse route offers the advantage of a quieter Aswan and a relaxed ending to the journey.
What is the best month for a Nile cruise?
The best months for a Nile cruise are typically between October and April. During this period, the weather is cooler and more comfortable for sightseeing (average temperatures range from 20°C to 25°C/68°F to 77°F). December to February can be particularly busy due to holiday travel, but it’s also the most pleasant time weather-wise.
How much is a Nile cruise in Egypt?
The price of a Nile cruise can vary widely, depending on the type of cruise, length, and season. For budget options, prices can start around $100–150 per person per night. Mid-range cruises typically range from $200 to $500 per night, and luxury cruises can go from $600 to $1,000+ per person per night. Keep in mind that many cruises include excursions, meals, and entertainment, which can add value to the overall experience.
Is a Nile cruise in Egypt worth it?
Yes, a Nile cruise is often considered one of the best ways to experience Egypt’s rich history and culture. It offers a relaxing way to explore multiple ancient sites along the river, including temples, tombs, and monuments that are otherwise difficult to visit in a short time. Additionally, the scenery along the Nile is stunning, and the experience of cruising itself is very unique. However, it might not be for everyone if you're looking for more adventurous or active experiences, as the cruise is generally leisurely.
What is the best cruise ship in Egypt?
While the “best” cruise ship can be subjective, the Oberoi Philae is often heralded as one of the finest Nile cruise ships. Known for its luxury, exceptional service, and spacious suites, it offers an intimate and elegant cruising experience. The ship’s amenities, including a spa, pool, and gourmet dining, are top-notch, making it a favorite among travelers seeking a high-end Nile cruise.