You can feel the river calm you the moment you step on board. At Nile Cruise Offers we plan your 3 night Nile cruise itinerary with care so you can relax and enjoy each hour between Aswan and Luxor.
From the first visit to Philae Temple to the glow of Luxor Temple after dusk, the route balances iconic sights and easy days on deck. Optional visits like Abu Simbel and sunset stops at Kom Ombo are flagged ahead so you pick what fits your energy.
Most packages include seamless pickup in Aswan, an English-speaking guide, admissions, and comfortable cabins with panoramic windows and a pool. Drinks are usually extra and specific ship assignment often finalizes about a week before departure.
This short tour gives you door-to-boat convenience, clear daily plans, and small windows of free time to savor the river and the view from the sundeck.
Key Takeaways
- You’ll follow a proven Aswan-to-Luxor route that hits major sights efficiently.
- Daily plans tell you when to rest on deck and when to explore with your guide.
- Most packages include transfers, guide services, and basic admissions.
- On-board comforts like AC cabins and panoramic views make downtime pleasant.
- Optional add-ons, such as Abu Simbel, are offered so you can choose.
How to Use This 3 Night Nile Cruise Itinerary Guide
Start by skimming the full plan so you know what to expect each day on board. This guide from Nile Cruise Offers breaks the trip into clear stops, from boarding in Aswan and Philae Temple to optional early Abu Simbel departures and the sunset stop at Kom Ombo.
Use the overview to flag must-see sites and optional add-ons. Some tours start before sunrise and need pre-booking, so decide early if you want those slots.
Balance sightseeing and ship time. Note when you’ll be sailing, when meals are suggested, and which late-evening visits—like Luxor Temple by night—require earlier rest.
- Check pickup details in Aswan: airport, hotel, train station, or island meeting point.
- Set alerts for transfer times on the final day to avoid last-minute rushes.
- Keep this guide handy on your phone for quick reference between sites and on deck.
| Pickup Type | Where to Meet | What to Expect |
| Airport | Arrival gate | Quick transfer to the berth |
| Hotel/Station | Lobby or platform | Driver waits with sign |
| Island | Designated dock | Specific meeting point on Gharb Aswan, Elefantine, or Suhil |
Why Choose Nile Cruise Offers for your river cruise
Choose a provider that pairs clear booking details with hands-on support from arrival to drop-off. With Nile Cruise Offers, you get prompt responses and straightforward inclusions so you know what to expect before you travel.
Standard inclusions normally cover pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, admissions to listed sites, port taxes, and occasionally tips. Drinks and special tomb tickets are usually extra, and that is explained up front.
- Travel on vetted boats in standard or premium classes with AC cabins, panoramic windows, sundecks, and pools.
- Benefit from experienced Egyptologist guides who time visits to reduce crowds when possible.
- Lean on responsive support for flight delays, lost items, or last-minute changes.
| What’s Included | Accommodation | Common Extras |
| Transfers, admissions, port taxes | Standard & premium cabins with AC and windows | Drinks, special-tomb tickets, tips (sometimes) |
| English-speaking guide and organized schedule | Sundeck, pool, modern rooms | Wi-Fi quality varies; early flights and mooring may affect timing |
Reviews highlight strong communication, clean rooms, and well-run schedules. You get transparent prices and honest service so your short river break feels safe, clear, and enjoyable.
3 Night Nile Cruise itinerary at a glance
This quick overview shows what to expect each day so you can plan outfits, charge camera batteries, and pace your energy.
- Day 1 — Board in Aswan and visit Philae Temple. Check in, settle into your cabin, and take a first walk on deck.
- Day 2 — Optional early Abu Simbel or a relaxed morning, then sail toward Kom Ombo for a sunset visit on the riverbank.
- Day 3 — Explore Edfu Temple, pass through Esna Lock, and enjoy Luxor Temple after dark for dramatic lighting and fewer crowds.
- Day 4 — West Bank highlights: Valley of the Kings (three tombs), Hatshepsut Temple, and the Colossi of Memnon, then transfer to your Luxor drop-off.
Your guide will tweak pacing to match boat moves and lock times. Meals often mix on-board service with early departures using boxed breakfasts so you don’t miss sites.
| When | Highlight | Tip |
| Morning | Philae Temple, Edfu Temple | Wear sun protection and comfy shoes |
| Afternoon | Sailing, Esna Lock | Relax on deck and photograph river life |
| Evening | Kom Ombo sunset, Luxor Temple by night | Bring a light jacket and a camera with low-light settings |
| Final day | Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut | Keep documents and small cash handy |
Day One in Aswan: Board your cruise ship and explore Philae Temple
Arrive in Aswan and move smoothly from Aswan Airport, the train station, or your hotel to a cool, air-conditioned transfer. With Nile Cruise Offers, expect a friendly welcome as you board and a quick check-in so you can drop bags and see key spaces like the restaurant, lounge, and sundeck.
You’ll enjoy lunch on board before an escorted boat ride to Philae Temple. Walk under carved colonnades and learn how the temple was moved to higher ground to avoid rising waters. If time allows, ask about the Unfinished Obelisk for a glimpse of ancient stoneworking near the city.
- Confirm pickup point and meeting details for islands such as Gharb Aswan, Elefantine, or Suhil.
- Hydrate, wear sun protection, and pack a small camera for late-afternoon light.
- Set breakfast and wake-up calls if you plan an optional early excursion the next morning.
| Pickup Type | Where to Meet | On-board Note |
| Airport | Arrival hall | Direct transfer to embarkation |
| Hotel/Station | Lobby or platform | Representative assists with luggage |
| Island | Designated dock | Boat-handling and short tender ride |
Return for dinner and a calm first night on the river, ready for an early start. Your guide will confirm timings and tips for photographing Philae Temple before you turn in.
Day Two options: Abu Simbel temples, then Kom Ombo at sunset
Plan your second day so an early desert drive to Abu Simbel fits smoothly with an evening stop at Kom Ombo. Nile Cruise Offers can pre-book the road transfer so your time off the boat is efficient and calm.
The Abu Simbel excursion often departs before sunrise by road. Guides lead you through the Great Temple and the smaller temple of Nefertari, pointing out reliefs and the famed solar alignments. Tours sometimes provide breakfast boxes for the early start.
Return to board late morning for lunch and a rest. Then sail toward Kom Ombo in the afternoon. The twin sanctuaries glow in golden light as you arrive; the Kom Ombo temple highlights Sobek, Horus, and crocodile displays.
- Decide early if you want Abu Simbel; the drive is long but unforgettable.
- Bring water, a light layer for cool mornings, and snacks for the road.
- If you skip Abu Simbel, enjoy a later breakfast and conserve energy for Kom Ombo.
| Option | Timing | What to Expect | On-board Meal |
| Visit Abu Simbel | Pre-dawn departure, return late morning | Great Temple, Nefertari temple, long desert drive | Breakfast box, lunch, dinner |
| Skip Abu Simbel | Sleep in, late morning start | Leisurely morning on board, more deck time | Full breakfast, lunch, dinner |
| Kom Ombo visit | Golden hour / sunset | Twin sanctuary, crocodile displays, great photo light | Return for dinner on board |
Day Three: Edfu Temple, Esna Lock crossing, and Luxor Temple by night
Begin day three with a short ride to Edfu Temple and plenty of time to wander before crowds arrive. You can reach the sanctuary by carriage or vehicle and walk among towering pylons and well‑preserved reliefs that tell Horus stories.
Return to board for a late breakfast and relax on deck as the ship approaches the Esna Lock. Watch the lock work and photograph river scenes—feluccas, farms, and villagers—during this calm stretch of sailing.
- Start early to enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer visitors at Edfu Temple.
- Explore chapels and daily ritual carvings with your guide to add context to the ruins.
- If Karnak Temple is scheduled today, plan a focused visit to its hypostyle hall and obelisks.
Arrive in Luxor in the evening and prepare for a visit to Luxor Temple by night, when warm lighting highlights columns and colossal statues. Ask your guide for the best photo angles and tips for long exposures.
| When | Activity | Tip |
| Morning | Edfu Temple visit | Wear hat and carry water |
| Midday | Late breakfast on board, Esna Lock crossing | Relax on deck; watch river life |
| Evening | Luxor Temple by night (plus Karnak if included) | Bring a light jacket and tripod or steady hand |
Pace yourself for tomorrow’s west bank tour of the Valley Kings by hydrating and laying out essentials before bed. Meeting points and departure times will be reconfirmed so your next day starts smoothly.
Day Four on the West Bank: Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut Temple, Colossi of Memnon
The West Bank rewards an early start with quieter paths and softer sun on stone terraces. Nile Cruise Offers times your morning departures so you beat heat and crowds at the Valley of the Kings.
Start early to visit three tombs included with your general ticket. Consider adding Tutankhamun’s tomb if it’s open; it is a short extra visit with special artifacts and rich context.
Next, walk Hatshepsut’s terraced funerary temple at Deir el-Bahari. Your guide explains how a female ruler shaped New Kingdom art and architecture.
- Pause at the Colossi of Memnon for wide-angle photos and a quick history note about the mortuary complex.
- Your guide paces shade breaks and water stops so you stay comfortable as temperatures rise.
- Return to board, check out, and transfer to Luxor Airport, the train station, or your hotel by late afternoon.
| Site | Typical Visit | Tip |
| Valley of the Kings | Three tombs with option for Tutankhamun | Start at first light; bring water |
| Hatshepsut Temple | Guided terrace walk | Good for shaded photos and history |
| Colossi of Memnon | Photo stop | Wide-angle lens recommended |
Choosing your cruise ship: cabins, facilities, and categories
Spend a few minutes comparing boats so your on-board time matches the way you want to travel. Nile Cruise Offers shows standard and premium options, lists likely vessels, and explains what each room includes before you commit.
Standard five-star options like MS Pioneer II or MS Mirage offer tidy cabins, AC, private baths, and basic amenities. Premium yachts such as Royal Esadora or MS Zeina raise the finish level, dining style, and lounge space. Specific ship assignments are often confirmed about a week before departure.
- Choose between standard and premium based on finish, dining, and overall ambiance—you’ll visit the same sites either way.
- Look for cabins with panoramic windows, safes, LCD TV, and mini-bar for extra comfort.
- Sundeck features like a swimming pool and shaded loungers make midday sailing pleasant while you wait at locks.
- Ask about Wi‑Fi, laundry, on-call doctor, and non-smoking policies to match your needs.
| Category | Typical Ships | Key rooms & facilities |
| 5* Standard | MS Pioneer II, MS Mirage | Panoramic cabins, AC, private bath, basic dining |
| 5* Premium | Royal Esadora, MS Zeina | Upgraded rooms, refined dining, larger sundeck, swimming pool |
| Service notes | Assigned pre-departure | Housekeeping, laundry, reception, themed evenings |
If mobility, family rooms, or single cabins matter, ask Nile Cruise Offers for a side‑by‑side comparison. That way your accommodation, facilities, and on-board service match expectations before you board.
Meals, drinks, and full board service explained
Dining on the river balances quick grab-and-go options with relaxed buffet evenings. Nile Cruise Offers makes the meal plan clear so you know what is covered at each stop.
Most programs include three nights of full board with buffet-style breakfast, lunch, and dinner timed around shore visits. Early departures often come with breakfast boxes; confirm the night before if you need a hot drink on return.
- Drinks are usually extra—ask about bar menus or drink packages on your boat.
- Tell us dietary needs in advance; kitchens commonly handle vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free requests.
- Mini-bar items and room snacks are chargeable; keep a refillable bottle and buy sealed water for safety.
| Inclusion | Typical | Drinks | Extras |
| full board | Buffet breakfast, lunch, dinner | Often pay-as-you-go | Breakfast boxes for early starts |
| On-board service | Daily meal timing around visits | Water and soft drinks sold separately | Tips and some port taxes may vary |
| Special tickets | Admissions listed in package | Alcohol packages on request | Tutankhamun tomb usually extra |
Before you board, check the final bill and confirm whether tips are pooled. If you plan evening plans ashore, ask about dinner timing so you return in time for the last service on this cruise.
Pricing, seasons, and how to save on your booking
A little flexibility in dates often saves money and improves your on-board experience. Nile Cruise Offers posts transparent rates so you can compare prices and avoid last-minute surprises.
Peak periods like Christmas and some spring weeks carry higher prices and stricter cancellation rules. Summer months tend to be cheaper but hotter. Solo travelers should expect a single supplement; triples usually mean a double room plus an extra bed. Child discounts may apply when kids share with two adults.
| Season | Typical price note | Cancellation |
| Peak (holidays) | Higher prices; limited availability | Often non-refundable |
| Shoulder | Balanced prices; pleasant weather | More flexible windows |
| Off-peak | Lower prices; fewer crowds | Standard free-cancel windows |
- Book early for busy dates and secure your preferred room and accommodation.
- Travel in shoulder seasons to balance cost and comfort across days and nights.
- Ask about bundled extras—transfers or included tips can add value to your cruise tour.
- If your city flights are flexible by a few days, ask us to search alternate sailings for better prices.
Add-ons and customizations to enrich your Nile cruise tour
Make your trip uniquely yours by selecting tailored visits and private services. Nile Cruise Offers can add curated experiences that fit how you like to travel.
Popular add-ons include a road transfer to abu simbel for early access to the temples, visits to the Valley of the Queens, and Deir el-Medina to learn about artisan life. You can also see the unfinished obelisk near Aswan for context on ancient granite work.
Options extend to adventurous choices too. A sunrise hot-air balloon ride over Luxor gives wide views of temples and fields. Or upgrade to a private guide and vehicle to set a relaxed pace and focus on topics you love.
- Lock in abu simbel early so Kom Ombo at sunset still fits your schedule.
- Add karnak temple time if it isn’t on day three, or book an extended visit to the hypostyle hall.
- Choose photo sessions at dawn or dusk, or request a quieter route for mobility needs.
| Add-on | Why choose it | Best for |
| Abu Simbel road visit | Access great temples with precise timing | History lovers, early-risers |
| Karnak Temple extra time | More focus on the hypostyle hall and obelisks | Architecture and photography fans |
| Unfinished Obelisk & Deir el-Medina | Deeper Aswan context and artisan stories | Curious travelers, cultural tours |
| Balloon & private guide | Panoramic views and bespoke commentary | Special occasions, tailored cruise tour |
If you want an extra room night in Luxor or special access, tell us your interests. We’ll build a nile cruise plan that fits your pace and priorities.
Arrival, pickup, and luggage tips from Aswan Airport to boarding
Your welcome team meets you quickly so the transfer from Aswan Airport feels effortless. Share flight, train, or hotel arrival details in advance so a representative waits in the arrival hall or lobby.
If you stay on an island, go to the mainland meeting point listed for Gharb Aswan, Elefantine, or Suhil. These specific docks and landmarks keep pickups on time and reduce confusion.
Carry passport, medications, camera, and sunblock in a small personal bag. Your main bags will be handled by porters or stored on the bus and handed to your room after check-in.
- Confirm where luggage stays during first-day visits like Philae; staff secure it on the vehicle or with the ship team.
- Photograph and tag your luggage with your name and ship details to avoid mix-ups at busy docks.
- If your flight delays, message us and we’ll update pickup and boarding times.
- Ask about quick stops for cash, SIM cards, or bottled water before you board so your first hour on deck is relaxed.
| Pickup Point | Landmark | What to Expect |
| Aswan Airport | Arrival hall | Driver waits; direct transfer to berth |
| Train / Hotel | Lobby or platform | Representative greets you; luggage assistance |
| Gharb Aswan / Suhil | West Bank Ferry Terminal | Mainland meeting; short tender ride |
| Elefantine | Kornish Al Nile KFC or Telecom Office | Designated dock; streamlined pickup |
Smart packing, tipping, and on-board etiquette
A few simple choices before you leave will keep your time on the river calm and comfortable.
Pack breathable layers, a sun hat, sunglasses, and comfortable walking shoes. Temple surfaces get hot and uneven, so light, sturdy footwear helps. Keep a reusable water bottle and plan to buy sealed bottled water for drinking and dental care.
- Carry small bills for tips; many crew and drivers expect gratuities unless pooled.
- Ask your guide how tipping works on your specific boat—some packages include a pooled gratuity.
- Close curtains when boats raft side-by-side for privacy and use indoor lounges if diesel fumes are strong.
Be punctual at meeting points. Saving a few minutes at each stop adds meaningful extra time at major sites. Keep corridors clear, stow luggage in your room, and avoid leaving items on railings where wind can catch them.
Respect local dress norms at sacred spaces: cover shoulders and knees. Use quiet voices late at night since many guests wake early for pre-dawn departures. Little courtesies help the whole group enjoy the cruise and the service on board.
| Topic | Quick Tip | Why it matters |
| Packing | Breathable layers, sun hat, good shoes | Comfort during walking and sudden temperature changes |
| Tipping | Small bills; confirm with your guide | Avoid confusion and support local crew |
| On-board etiquette | Close curtains when rafted; keep voices low | Privacy and rest for other passengers |
Sustainability and comfort: making your river cruise smoother
Practical actions you take before and during the trip make a measurable difference to the river, crew, and communities. Nile Cruise Offers supports responsible travel choices that improve comfort and reduce impact.
Providers follow guidelines to cut waste, support fair work, and protect heritage sites. Travelers sometimes notice diesel fumes when several boats are moored together. If that happens, spend more time in interior lounges and tell reception about ventilation concerns.
- Bring reusable items—water bottle, tote, and refillable toiletries—to shrink plastic use ashore and onboard.
- Keep cabin AC efficient by closing windows and shades while you’re out during hot midday hours.
- Pick cooler parts of the day for long walks to protect your comfort and reduce on‑board cooling load.
- Buy crafts from vetted cooperatives to support local communities and tip fairly for good services.
- Choose digital vouchers and guides when offered to avoid unnecessary printing.
- Follow your guide’s briefings so transfers and site visits save fuel and save time for everyone.
- Stay on marked paths at archaeological sites to protect fragile reliefs that have lasted for years.
- If a lighter footprint meets your needs, consider a standard over a premium cabin for less resource use without losing comfort.
- Share honest feedback after travel—operators use it to improve environmental practices and guest services.
| Choice | Impact | When to act |
| Use reusables | Reduces single‑use plastic | Before boarding |
| Close cabin windows | Improves AC efficiency | During hot midday |
| Buy local crafts | Supports small businesses | At site markets |
Conclusion
Tie up your plans and get ready for a smooth passage from Aswan to Luxor. This four-day flow covers Philae, the optional Abu Simbel road visit, Kom Ombo, Edfu, Esna Lock, Luxor by night, and the West Bank trio so you see the highlights in balanced time.
You now have a practical day-by-day plan that fits must-see sites into three nights without feeling rushed. Choose your boat category, confirm add-ons like Abu Simbel, and align transfers with your flights or trains.
Pack smart, hydrate, and favor early starts for cooler visits and the best light. For booking help or special requests, Nile Cruise Offers will fine-tune your tour and secure dates so you can focus on the river cruise ahead.
FAQ
Q: What should I expect on a 3 night Nile cruise from Aswan?
A: You’ll board a comfortable ship with cabins, a dining room, and often a small pool. Expect guided visits to Philae Temple, an option to fly or drive to Abu Simbel, a sunset stop at Kom Ombo, a visit to Edfu Temple, and time on the West Bank for the Valley of the Kings and Hatshepsut Temple. Full board meals and on-board services are usually included.
Q: Can I visit Abu Simbel on this itinerary and how do I get there?
A: Yes — many operators offer an early-morning transfer or a short flight from Aswan to Abu Simbel temples. If you choose the drive, expect a round-trip transfer with a guide; if you fly, you’ll save time and return to the cruise the same day.
Q: How are cabins and categories arranged on the ship?
A: Ships typically have standard, superior, and suite cabins. All include private bathrooms; higher categories add more space, a balcony, or upgraded amenities. Check if your chosen vessel has air conditioning, Wi‑Fi, and a sun deck.
Q: What is included in full board service?
A: Full board usually covers breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Snacks, tea and coffee at set times, and guided shore excursions are often included. Drinks like soft drinks and alcoholic beverages may be extra—confirm with your operator.
Q: Are guided tours and entrance fees included?
A: Many packages include guided tours and major entrance fees such as Karnak, the Valley of the Kings, and Philae. Some optional excursions (like Abu Simbel by flight) can cost extra. Always check the itinerary details before booking.
Q: What should I pack for the cruise and temple visits?
A: Pack light layers, a hat, sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, and modest clothing for temples. Bring a refillable water bottle, a small daypack, and any personal medications. A camera and binoculars are handy for river views.