Discovery Tours Egypt
From per person$758
Nile Cruise PackageAswan

5-day Abu Simbel and Lake Nasser cruise from Aswan

Sail past Kalabsha, Wadi El Seboua, Amada and Kasr Ibrim aboard a deluxe 5-star Nile cruiser with full-board meals

At a glance

Length
5 days · 4 nights
Departs
Daily

The short answer

The assigned vessel is a deluxe 5-star Lake Nasser cruise vessel operating from Aswan toward Abu Simbel, arranged by Discovery Tours Egypt.
  • New
Best for

Snapshot

Good to know

Duration
5 Days / 4 Nights
Travel style
Guided Lake Nasser Cruise Package
Accommodation
Deluxe 5-Star Lake Cruise Vessel
Operated by
Arranged by Discovery Tours Egypt; the cruise vessel is operated by a third-party cruise supplier.
Destinations
Aswan · Lake Nasser · Kalabsha Temple · Wadi El Seboua · Amada · Derr · Tomb of Pennut · Kasr Ibrim · Abu Simbel
Includes
Four nights on a 5-star cruise vessel · Full-board meals as stated · Egyptologist guide · Air-conditioned deluxe vehicle transfers · Cruise excursions and listed sightseeing · Entrance fees to included sights · Cruise assistance, service charges, and taxes
Best for
Ancient-history enthusiasts · First-time Egypt visitors · Travelers seeking Abu Simbel beyond a day trip · Couples and families with older children · Travelers interested in Nubian monuments
Guide languages
English

Best time to go

The most comfortable months are October through April, when daytime temperatures in Aswan and Abu Simbel are generally milder than in summer. November through February can bring higher demand around Christmas, New Year, and winter holidays; Ramadan may affect daytime dining schedules and opening arrangements, so confirm the current operating plan before booking.

  • Discovery Tours Egypt is a licensed Egyptian tour operator arranging the itinerary, transfers, guides, and third-party cruise services.
  • The company is Class-A licensed by the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism.
  • Discovery Tours Egypt is a member of the Egyptian Travel Agents Association, ETAA #718.
  • Sightseeing is accompanied by an Egyptologist guide.
  • The package includes arranged ground assistance, service charges, and taxes.
  • Cruise accommodation is supplied and operated by a third-party vessel provider; Discovery Tours Egypt does not operate the vessel.

02Overview

A first look

At first light in Aswan, the Nile carries the sound of boat engines past granite islands and palm-lined banks. From the deck, the landscape gradually opens into Lake Nasser, where Nubian temples appear against wide stretches of water and desert.

Our Egyptologists guide you through Kalabsha, Wadi El Seboua, Amada, Derr, and the Tomb of Pennut, while the approach to Abu Simbel brings a quieter sense of scale beneath the sandstone cliffs. We arrange your vehicle transfers, cruise services, guided visits, and entrance arrangements in advance, with a licensed Egyptian tour operator coordinating the details on the ground.

Background

The facts

This five-day, four-night cruise package begins in Aswan and follows Lake Nasser toward Abu Simbel. The itinerary includes Kalabsha Temple, Wadi El Seboua, Amada, Derr, the Tomb of Pennut, a sundeck photo stop at Kasr Ibrim, and the temples of Abu Simbel. A deluxe 5-star cruise vessel, full-board meals, transfers, listed entrance fees, and Egyptologist-guided sightseeing are arranged through Discovery Tours Egypt; the vessel is operated by a third-party cruise supplier.

Kalabsha Temple stands near Aswan and was relocated to higher ground in the 1960s before the Aswan High Dam reservoir flooded its original location. The Roman-period temple is primarily associated with the Nubian solar deity Mandulis. Wadi El Seboua, meaning “Valley of the Lions,” contains temples relocated during the creation of Lake Nasser, including the temple of Ramesses II.

The Amada complex includes the Temple of Amun-Re and Re-Horakhty, one of Nubia’s oldest surviving temples, with decoration associated with the New Kingdom. The program also visits Derr Temple and the Tomb of Pennut, a decorated rock-cut tomb dating to the reign of Ramesses VI. Kasr Ibrim remains on its original hill and is viewed from the vessel because visitor access is generally restricted.

Abu Simbel consists of the Great Temple of Ramesses II and the smaller temple dedicated to Queen Nefertari and Hathor. Both temples were moved approximately 65 metres higher and about 200 metres inland between 1964 and 1968 during the UNESCO-coordinated Nubian salvage campaign. Travel between sites is by cruise vessel and arranged air-conditioned vehicle transfers, with the final day ending after breakfast and cruise check-out.

Named in this entry

Aswan·Lake Nasser·Abu Simbel Temples·Great Temple of Ramesses II·Temple of Nefertari·Kalabsha Temple·Wadi El Seboua·Amada Temple·Derr Temple·Tomb of Pennut·Kasr Ibrim·Aswan High Dam·Ramesses II·Queen Nefertari·UNESCO Nubian Campaign

Suited to

Is this for you?

Yes, if

  • This package suits first-time Egypt visitors, archaeology and ancient-history enthusiasts, and travelers who want to see several relocated Nubian monuments rather than make only a direct road or flight excursion to Abu Simbel. Most sightseeing requires walking on uneven temple grounds, so it is best for travelers with moderate mobility who enjoy a structured cruise itinerary.

Maybe not, if

  • Not suited for travelers needing step-free access throughout, due to temple steps and uneven ancient stone. Also not ideal for families with very young children who cannot manage early 05:00 starts and long days ashore.

What lingers

  • 01Visit Kalabsha Temple, a major Nubian monument near Aswan
  • 02Explore the temples at Wadi El Seboua
  • 03See Amada, Derr and the Tomb of Pennut
  • 04Visit the temples of Abu Simbel
  • 05Photograph Kasr Ibrim from the sundeck
  • 06Spend four nights aboard a 5-star cruise ship with full-board meals

Honest Assessment

Real trade-offs from our experience managing this tour.

Highlights

  • Four nights onboard a full board cruise cabin included
  • Guided visits to Kalabsha, Wadi El Seboua, Amada and Abu Simbel
  • Photo stop at Kasr Ibrim from the sundeck
  • Egyptologist present for all onboard briefings and site visits

Things to Consider

  • Early morning departure for Abu Simbel, typically before sunrise
  • Limited shade at archaeological sites during midday hours
  • Uneven stone floors and steps inside temples and tombs
  • Tipping not included in the program price

Worth knowing

How this compares

Unlike a direct Abu Simbel day excursion from Aswan, this package spends four nights cruising Lake Nasser and visits several relocated Nubian monuments, including Kalabsha, Wadi El Seboua, Amada, and Derr. It combines scheduled onboard meals and facilities with guided shore excursions, while the cruise vessel itself is operated by a third-party supplier.

Day by day

Detailed itinerary

5 Days / 4 Nights · Aswan · Lake Nasser · Kalabsha Temple · Wadi El Seboua · Amada · Derr

  1. 1

  2. 2

  3. 3

  4. 4

  5. 5

Choose your comfort level

Prices are per person in USD, from 2 people sharing a double room, including accommodation. Prefer to arrange your own hotels? See the land-only option below.

Classic

from $758 pp
Current price from $758

Prestige

from $1,450 pp
Current price from $1,450

Bundled in

  • Full board
  • Group Egyptologist
  • All entry tickets
  • All meals
  • Private transfer

The fine print

What's included – and what isn't

Included

  • Assistance from our personnel throughout the cruise
  • All transfers in a modern, air-conditioned deluxe vehicle
  • Four nights aboard a 5-star cruise ship with full-board meals
  • Cruise excursions and guided sightseeing listed in the program
  • Entrance fees to the included sights listed in the program
  • An Egyptologist guide throughout the cruise
  • All service charges and taxes

Not included

  • Tipping
  • Personal expenses and extras not mentioned in the program
  • Meals, visits, or services not listed in the inclusions

Field notes

From our Egyptologists

  1. 01

    Kasr Ibrim is usually best for photos from the sundeck in clear morning light.

  2. 02

    Abu Simbel is less harsh before 9am, especially for facade shots.

  3. 03

    At Kalabsha, the relocated setting reads better when your guide explains the 1960s move first.

  4. 04

    Carry a light layer for the lake crossing, wind can pick up after sunset.

  5. 05

    Wear closed walking shoes, the temple surfaces can be uneven and dusty.

Tailor it

Make it yours

Discovery Tours Egypt can arrange private or shared transfers, additional Aswan or Abu Simbel hotel nights, and pre- or post-cruise sightseeing subject to vessel schedules. Optional experiences such as the Abu Simbel Sound and Light Show can be added, while dietary requirements and selected transfer arrangements should be requested in advance.

All requests handled by your dedicated specialist before booking.

Where it fits

– Best as a southbound Lake Nasser and Aswan add-on before or after a longer Egypt itinerary. It also works well after a few nights in Cairo, because the cruise begins and ends in Aswan with fixed transfers and guided sightseeing arranged on the ground.

Accessibility

Who can join this

This cruise programme involves boarding and leaving a ship, transfers by vehicle, gangways, stairs and walking across uneven ground at archaeological sites. Kalabsha, Wadi El Seboua, Amada, Derr and Abu Simbel may include sand, rough paths, steps and limited shade. The sundeck and some ship facilities are reached by stairs, and lifts cannot be assumed. A wheelchair may be possible on some transfers, but independent access on the ship and at the monuments is not guaranteed. Please contact us before booking with details of mobility needs, walking distance, wheelchair size and assistance requirements so we can confirm what can be arranged.

Before you go

What to pack & wear

What to bring

  • Valid passport and required Egypt entry documents
  • Comfortable walking shoes with secure grip
  • Sunscreen, SPF 50 or higher
  • Wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses
  • Refillable water bottle
  • Insect repellent for evening use
  • Any required medication and a small personal first-aid kit
  • Cash for gratuities and personal purchases

What to wear

  • Lightweight, loose-fitting clothing for daytime heat
  • Breathable layers for early mornings and evenings
  • Comfortable closed-toe walking shoes
  • Hat and sunglasses for strong sun
  • Covered shoulders and knees at temples and religious sites
  • Swimwear with a cover-up for ship facilities

Children & families

Children may join the cruise, but no minimum age or fixed child fare has been supplied for this programme. Child pricing normally depends on age, cabin arrangements and the cruise operator's rules, so please request a quotation with each child's date of birth. Strollers are not practical at many monuments because of sand, steps and uneven surfaces. High-chair availability on board should be confirmed before booking.

The morning of

Meeting point & timing

Where
Aswan International Airport, ArrivalsMap

On the ground

Your route

1Aswan2Abu Simbel

While you're here

Worth pairing

Why book this with us

Three reasons, stated plainly

  1. 01

    Aswan embarkation keeps the first day calm

  2. 02

    Longer Abu Simbel visit than day trips

  3. 03

    Egyptologist-led visits at every major site

– Responsible travel

How we travel here

The programme uses modern air-conditioned vehicles for road transfers and a passenger cruise ship for the Nile and Lake Nasser route. We arrange services with local Egyptian drivers, guides, cruise staff and site suppliers, keeping transport, guiding and visitor spending with businesses operating in the destinations visited. Meals are provided on board, which reduces the need for repeated road transfers during the sightseeing programme. Please follow site rules, avoid removing stones or other material, carry reusable water bottles where practical, and dispose of waste through the ship or vehicle crew rather than at archaeological sites.

  • Licensed local Egyptologists

    ETAA-credentialed, on payroll

  • Fair wages on the ground

    Drivers + guides paid above market

  • Site preservation

    We follow MoTA visitor caps and no-touch protocols

  • Carbon-aware itineraries

    Domestic flights only when train/road is impractical

·In summary

This five-day Lake Nasser cruise package includes four nights on a deluxe 5-star cruise vessel, full-board meals, air-conditioned transfers, an Egyptologist guide, and entrance fees for the listed visits. The itinerary covers Kalabsha Temple, Wadi El Seboua, Amada, Derr, the Tomb of Pennut, a Kasr Ibrim photo stop, and Abu Simbel Temples.

Asked & answered

Frequent questions

  1. 01What is the duration of the Abu Simbel and Lake Nasser cruise package?
    This cruise package is 5 days and 4 nights, starting in Aswan and concluding in Abu Simbel. It includes four nights aboard a 5-star cruise ship, allowing for comprehensive exploration of the Lake Nasser monuments.
  2. 02What is included in the 5-day Abu Simbel cruise package?
    The package includes all transfers by modern air-conditioned vehicle, four nights on a 5-star cruise ship with full-board meals, guided excursions, entrance fees to listed sights, an Egyptologist guide, and all service charges and taxes. Our personnel provide assistance throughout the cruise.
  3. 03What is not included in this Lake Nasser cruise?
    Exclusions typically cover tipping for your guide and cruise staff, personal expenses, and any meals, visits, or services not explicitly mentioned in the inclusions list. Premium tomb entries or specific pyramid interiors are also generally excluded.
  4. 04What kind of cruise ship will I be on for this package?
    You will be accommodated on a deluxe 5-star cruise ship for four nights. The specific vessel is assigned at the time of booking, ensuring a comfortable and well-appointed experience on Lake Nasser.
  5. 05What are the pick-up and transfer arrangements for this cruise?
    All transfers are arranged by modern, air-conditioned deluxe vehicles. This includes your arrival transfer from Aswan Airport to your cruise ship or hotel, and your departure transfer from Abu Simbel to Aswan at the end of the cruise.
  6. 06Is this cruise package suitable for children and families?
    Yes, this cruise can be suitable for families. Children often enjoy the experience of sailing on Lake Nasser and visiting the ancient temples. We recommend discussing specific family needs with our travel advisors to ensure the best fit.
  7. 07What should I wear and bring for the Abu Simbel and Lake Nasser cruise?
    Pack light, breathable clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for site visits. Modest dress, covering shoulders and knees, is recommended for temple visits. Bring a reusable water bottle.
  8. 08What is the accessibility like for this cruise and its excursions?
    Cruise ships generally have stairs between decks, and some ancient sites involve walking on uneven terrain, sand, or steps. While transfers are accessible, the sites themselves may present challenges for those with limited mobility. Please inquire about specific needs.
  9. 09What is the best time of year to take this Lake Nasser cruise?
    The cooler months from October to April are generally considered the best time for a Lake Nasser cruise, offering more comfortable temperatures for sightseeing. Summers can be very hot, especially at sites like Abu Simbel.
  10. 10How does this cruise differ from a direct day trip to Abu Simbel?
    Unlike a direct day trip, this 5-day cruise allows you to visit multiple relocated Nubian monuments along Lake Nasser, including Kalabsha, Wadi El Seboua, Amada, and Derr, providing a more in-depth cultural experience beyond just Abu Simbel.

If plans change

Cancellation

More than 30 days
Full refund less a £50 admin fee
15–30 days
50% refund
Within 14 days
No refund – date changes considered case by case

Editorial review

Discovery Tours·Last reviewed 27 July 2026

Last updated 27 July 2026Product ID: TOU-ASW-419748

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