Karnak while you are fresh
Karnak is enormous and takes concentration. On a southbound sailing it lands on day one, before the week has worn you down. Some guests want the largest temple first, not last.
Sailing south · upstream
Luxor to Aswan Nile Cruises
The classic direction: Karnak on day one, and Aswan to wind down in.
220 kilometers, five moorings, one direction.
- 01
Luxor
Board in time for lunch, included on arrival day. Karnak and Luxor Temple sit minutes from the mooring, and the West Bank fills the first full morning.
- 02
Esna
The lock, and the reason the first night's sailing runs late — worth being on deck for.
- 03
Edfu
The Temple of Horus by horse-carriage, the most completely preserved temple in Egypt.
- 04
Kom Ombo
Sobek and Horus share one temple on the bank, reached straight off the gangway at dusk.
- 05
Aswan
Disembark after breakfast for Philae, the High Dam, and a felucca past Elephantine Island. Abu Simbel is a day trip from here.
Sailing south is the older itinerary and still the more common one. You start with the biggest thing on the river, Karnak, and work toward the quieter end: Edfu, Kom Ombo, then Philae and the Nubian islands at Aswan. Because you are working against the current it usually takes four nights rather than three.
It is the better fit than people expect. Most long-haul arrivals route through Luxor, and finishing in Aswan means finishing somewhere slow, which suits a trip that started in Cairo traffic.
Why sail south
It fits the usual flight pattern
Most international routings into Upper Egypt arrive at Luxor. Sailing south means no positioning flight to Aswan, which on a short trip is worth more than the extra night on the water.
You finish somewhere calm
Aswan is the gentler of the two cities: islands, feluccas, Nubian villages, and far less traffic than Luxor. Ending there rather than starting there changes the shape of the week.
Abu Simbel as a finale
Abu Simbel is a day trip from Aswan, so southbound it becomes the closing act rather than a bookend before you board. Its scale holds up as an ending.
What you stop at
Sailing this route
99 ships sail this route, across our tiers, typically 4 nights.
Comfort5-Star Standard
28 ships
Comfort
A Sara Nile Cruise
Explore Luxor, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Philae and the Valley of the Kings on a 5-star Nile cruise with full board and guided shore excursions. Enquire today.
Comfort
Emilio Nile Cruise
Sail the Nile between Aswan and Luxor aboard the Emilio, calling at Karnak, the Valley of the Kings, Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Philae. All listed sightseeing and entrance fees are included, with English-speaking Egyptologists on every tour. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and arrange meet-and-assist service, transfers, and full-board dining. The Emilio's cabins have private bathrooms, air-conditioning, and large windows. We keep groups small, maximum eight participants, so guide time at key sites is longer and queues are shorter. Unlike larger cruise lines, this itinerary allows extended visits at Edfu and Kom Ombo rather than brief onshore stops. Optional excursions, such as hot-air balloon flights or an Abu Simbel day trip, can be added during booking or once onboard.
Comfort
Grand Rose Nile Cruise
Book Grand Rose Nile Cruise arranged by Discovery Tours Egypt for full board sailing, shore excursions, and Nile-view cabins. Enquire now.
Comfort
Jamila Nile Cruise
Sail in elegance aboard the Jamila Nile Cruise from Luxor to Aswan. Discover ancient Egypt’s wonders with deluxe comfort, fine dining, and personalized service.
Comfort
Kontiki Nile Cruise
Sail the Nile in style aboard the Kontiki Nile Cruise. Discover ancient temples, elegant cabins, and world-class service on this unforgettable Deluxe Nile Cruise.
Comfort
Lady Carol Nile Cruise
MS Lady Carol is our privately chartered motor vessel, sailing between Luxor and Aswan over four days with guided shore visits. As a licensed Egyptian tour operator, we arrange private transfers, on-board meals, and our Egyptologists for guided visits to Karnak, the Valley of the Kings, Edfu, Kom Ombo and Philae. Distinctive POV: we prioritise longer on-site time at Edfu and Kom Ombo rather than brief drive-by stops common on mass-market overnight cruises. Comparison: unlike many cruises that limit Edfu to 90 minutes, our itinerary allocates a full morning ashore. Trade-offs: expect early starts, walking on uneven ancient stone, and limited shade at mid-day temple courtyards. Standard site entrance fees are included; pyramid interiors and premium tombs are excluded unless requested.
Classic5-Star Deluxe
28 ships
Classic
Alma Nile Cruise
Alma Nile Cruise
Classic
Alyssa Nile Cruise
The Alyssa Nile Cruise sails between Aswan and Luxor, calling at Karnak, the Valley of the Kings, Kom Ombo, Edfu, and Philae. We arrange accommodation aboard the Alyssa, and the vessel has a sundeck, swimming pool, spa, fitness area, restaurant, bar, and cabins with Nile views. Our Egyptologists lead all guided visits, and group sizes are small, limited to a maximum of eight participants. We do not run large coach tours; the small-group approach keeps landing parties compact and manageable. Unlike many short-stop itineraries, this cruise allows proper time ashore at Edfu and Kom Ombo, and selected departures offer an optional Abu Simbel excursion. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator, and our Egyptologists time visits to avoid the largest crowds when possible.
Classic
Amada Nile Cruise
Explore Luxor, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Philae and Aswan on a luxury 5-star Nile Cruise with full board and guided shore excursions. Enquire today.
Classic
Chateau Lafayette Nile Cruise
The Chateau Lafayette Nile Cruise sails between Aswan and Luxor, calling at Philae, Kom Ombo, Edfu, Karnak, and Luxor Temple. We offer 4- and 5-night programs that combine guided archaeology with relaxing time on the sun deck. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and we arrange transfers, meet-and-assist, and English-speaking Egyptologist-led visits. We run small-group guided excursions rather than large coach tours, which keeps time at the sites focused and unrushed. Unlike day-trip itineraries that return to a land base each evening, this cruise sleeps between Edfu and Kom Ombo so you visit the temples at quieter times. Onboard facilities include a sun deck, pool, restaurant, bar, and evening folkloric entertainment, with daily complimentary bottled water and all service charges included.
Classic
Concerto Plus Nile Cruise
Book the Concerto Plus Nile Cruise for full-board sailing, Luxor and Aswan embarkation, and guided visits to Egypt’s iconic temples. Enquire today!
Classic
Farida Nile Cruise
Farida Nile Cruise is a Nile cruise vessel arranged by Discovery Tours Egypt, with cabins, full board, and shore excursions. Enquire now.
Prestige5-Star Ultra Deluxe
19 ships
Prestige
Acamar Nile Cruise
Explore Acamar Nile Cruise cabins, excursions, and full-board sailing between Luxor and Aswan. Check dates and request a quote today.
Prestige
Alexander The Great Nile Cruise
Sail the Nile from Luxor to Aswan aboard the Alexander The Great, a Prestige-class vessel running the classic Luxor–Aswan river route. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator, and we arrange embarkation in Luxor, guided visits with our Egyptologists, and disembarkation in Aswan. Scheduled stops typically include major temples along the Nile banks, allowing time ashore for sites such as Karnak, the Luxor West Bank, Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Philae. We do not run coach-style, large-group shore calls; our Egyptologists prioritise early visits to reduce peak crowds when possible. Unlike short, overnight cruises that rush temple calls, this route gives more time at riverside sites and villages, and more opportunities to watch daily Nile life from deck. Standard site entrance fees are normally included on Nile cruises; premium tombs and pyramid interiors are excluded unless specifically requested.
Prestige
Amwaj Nile Cruise
Amwaj Nile Cruise is a Nile river vessel arranged by Discovery Tours Egypt with cabin classes, full-board dining, and Luxor–Aswan shore excursions. Book now.
Prestige
Le Fayan Nile Cruise
Board MS Le Fayan at the Luxor Corniche pier and step aboard a compact Nile cruise that runs four days downriver to Aswan. I guide the shore excursions myself when available; we move with the light – morning visits to the Valley of the Kings and Hatshepsut's temple when tombs are coolest, late-afternoon walk through Karnak's Hypostyle Hall if crowds thin. Cabins are Nile-cruise size and practical, with private en suite bathrooms and wardrobe space; this is intimate, not an ocean liner. Each afternoon you sit on the shaded sun deck and watch feluccas, fishermen and river markets pass close to the bank. We stop at Edfu and Kom Ombo for temple walks; plan on 60–90 minute shore calls in Edfu and a short market visit at Kom Ombo's quay. In Aswan we moor on the Corniche and arrange the motorboat transfer to Philae Temple. Meals follow local rhythms: breakfasts and lunches on board, an evening of grilled fish when the catch is good. Note practical details up front: luggage transfers use the pier gangway, mobile signal is patchy between Nile bends, and some tombs require extra-permit fees. If you like quiet mornings in old temples and direct commentary from an Egyptologist, this four-day downriver cruise keeps logistics simple and the day-to-day focused on sites and sunlight.
Prestige
Medea Nile Cruise
You board at Luxor's Nile pier and meet your Egyptologist on the gangway. We walk straight to Karnak's Hypostyle Hall for a measured tour before the midday heat, then stop at Luxor Temple as lights come up after dusk. MS Medea runs a four-day, southbound route from Luxor to Aswan on a classic river scale: cabins are roughly 12 m² with river-view windows and modest storage – comfortable, not ocean-liner spacious. We pass through the Esna lock in late afternoon; expect the engine noise for 10–20 minutes while the gates close. The schedule gives two hours at Edfu's Temple of Horus by design – most cruisers skimp on this site, so we moor overnight to allow a calmer visit. On arrival in Aswan we visit Philae by motorboat, see the High Dam from the causeway, and disembark at Aswan pier after breakfast. Your Egyptologist handles commentaries, timings, and the short walks on uneven stone; I advise sensible shoes and a small daypack. Meals are full board on board; breakfast, lunch, and dinner follow a mix of local and continental dishes. Bar charges, gratuities, and optional extras sit outside the itinerary. If you want a hot-air balloon over the West Bank, tell me in advance – it means an extra early start and an added fee. This cruise suits travelers who prefer unhurried temple visits, steady river sailing, and clear daily plans.
Prestige
Miriam Nile Cruise
You board MS Miriam at the Luxor Corniche pier mid-afternoon and settle into a compact river cabin before the first walk to Karnak. I meet you on the quay: I am the Egyptologist who guides this route and I take you straight to the temple avenues where the sound of sandals on sandstone and the smell of date-syrup stalls still set the rhythm of the day. We start early on the West Bank at the Valley of the Kings – low light, few people, and panels that explain the painted ceilings up close. Back on board you watch the Nile change color as the vessel slips through the Esna lock; we moor overnight near Edfu so the temple visit gets two hours rather than a rushed stop. Day three gives you Kom Ombo’s double shrines and the Nile at dusk; on arrival in Aswan I show you Philae’s hypostyle hall and the High Dam’s concrete scale against the river. Cabins are compact (about 12 m²) – classic river scale, not ocean-liner. Full board includes three meals daily; breakfasts are early to match excursions. Practical notes: bring a hat for the tombs, wear closed shoes on uneven rock, and expect short walks and stairs at most sites. I walk every route with you, point out mason’s marks and later-period graffiti, and keep the timing tight so photography fits the light.
Luxury5-Star Luxury
21 ships
Luxury
Cleopatra Nile Cruise
Embark in Luxor and disembark in Aswan aboard the Cleopatra Nile Cruise, visiting Karnak, Luxor Temple, Valley of the Kings, Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Philae. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and we arrange private guided visits led by our Egyptologists, plus transfers from the quay. Days combine guided temple visits, relaxed sailings past riverside villages, and an Aswan felucca ride around the Nile islands. We focus on small-group guiding and guided commentary by our Egyptologists rather than generic coach-group narration. Unlike some shorter cruises that stop briefly, this route allows more time ashore at Edfu and Kom Ombo so you can study reliefs and inscriptions without rushing.
Luxury
Esmeralda Nile Cruise
The Esmeralda Nile Cruise sails from Luxor to Aswan, calling at Karnak, Luxor West Bank, Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Philae. This Classic-tier, five-star vessel suits travelers who prefer relaxed days ashore and time on deck. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator, and we arrange Egyptologists, transfers, and embarkation formalities for the cruise. We don't run group bus tours. Unlike many rushed itineraries, this Luxor to Aswan route allows longer stops at Edfu and Kom Ombo rather than 60- to 90-minute drop-ins. Note: sun and heat intensify on the open deck at midday, so early-morning visits and sun protection are practical considerations.
Luxury
Esplanade Nile Cruise
The Esplanade sails between Luxor and Aswan, calling at Karnak, Luxor, the Valley of the Kings, Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Philae. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and we arrange meet-and-assist, private modern transfers, and guided excursions with an English-speaking Egyptologist. Excursions run with groups capped at eight guests per Egyptologist, keeping commentary focused and the pace flexible. Onboard meals are full board, and evenings include Egyptian folkloric performances and relaxed time on deck. The itinerary also offers an optional Abu Simbel excursion from Aswan on disembarkation day. Unlike standard mass-market sailings, our shore visits are private, timed to avoid the busiest periods where possible.
Luxury
Farah Nile Cruise
Four days aboard MS Farah sail between Luxor and Aswan with guided shore visits to Karnak Temple, Luxor West Bank, Edfu, Kom Ombo and Philae. We include an Egyptologist on every departure rather than a driver-guide; that keeps commentary focused and consistent throughout the cruise. Unlike shared coach day trips, the vessel sails overnight so you gain two mornings ashore and more relaxed transfer times. Trade-offs: cabins are compact, mornings can start early, and walking is on uneven ancient stone at many sites. Standard site entrance fees are included; gratuities and premium tombs are excluded. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and arrange private transfers.
Luxury
Movenpick Hamees Nile Cruise
The Movenpick Hamees Nile Cruise sails between Aswan and Luxor, offering deluxe cabins, full board dining, and guided shore visits with English-speaking Egyptologists. Itineraries run from three to seven nights, with embarkation in Aswan or Luxor. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator, and we arrange meet and assist on arrival, all transfers in air-conditioned vehicles, and entrance fees to listed sites. Guided shore tours are limited to eight guests, which keeps commentary focused and departures quicker at busy monuments. WiFi is available in most public areas, and each guest receives a complimentary bottle of water per day. Compared with larger cruise programs, our small-group approach permits more time at Kom Ombo, Edfu, Karnak Temple, and Luxor West Bank.
Luxury
Sanctuary Sun Boat IV Luxury Nile Cruise
Book Sanctuary Sun Boat IV Nile Cruise for Luxor, Aswan sailings, full board, guided shore excursions, and Nile-view cabins. Enquire today.
Signature CollectionSignature Collection
3 ships
Signature Collection
Historia Nile Cruise
Our one-day Historia Nile Cruise is a daytime, scenic passage on the Nile. We provide onboard English commentary about the river’s historical and cultural significance (including context for nearby sites such as Karnak Temple and Luxor Temple), a complimentary welcome drink, and a freshly prepared buffet lunch with vegetarian options. The cruise offers panoramic river views and sunset photo opportunities from comfortable, air-conditioned lounge and deck areas. Departure times and embarkation points vary by city and season, so we confirm details at booking.
Signature Collection
The Oberoi Philae Nile Cruise
Four days aboard MS The Oberoi Phiale sail the Nile between Luxor and Aswan with guided visits to Karnak, Luxor West Bank, Edfu, Kom Ombo and Philae. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator; we meet you with private transfers, and an Egyptologist accompanies shore visits. We prioritize time ashore and guided exploration rather than onboard spectacle. Unlike larger hotel-style Nile ships, this itinerary schedules dawn or late-afternoon visits to reduce crowds and midday heat. Trade-offs: some visits require early starts, many temple approaches have uneven stone and stairs, and evenings ashore are limited in smaller towns. Standard site entrance fees are included unless stated; premium tombs, hot-air balloon flights, and private transfers to Abu Simbel are optional extras.
Signature Collection
The Oberoi Zahra Nile Cruise
A four-day Nile cruise aboard MS The Oberoi Zahra, booked through our licensed Egyptian tour operator. We provide private transfers and an Egyptologist to accompany shore visits. Unlike mass-market 4-night boats, we do not bundle coach tours; we confirm each ashore stop and pacing with you before travel. Trade-offs: expect early starts for some crossings and occasional quay congestion at Luxor or Aswan. Standard archaeological site entrance fees are included unless otherwise stated; premium tombs (Tutankhamun, Seti I) and pyramid interiors are excluded. Tell us your travel dates and cabin preference and we will confirm availability and the detailed ashore program.
15 more vessels sail this route without a published tier. See every Nile cruise
Or sail it in seven nights instead of three.
A dahabiya covers the same stretch under sail with six to twelve guests aboard, mooring at El Kab and Gebel Silsila where the larger ships carry on past. It costs more per night and takes twice as long, which is the entire point.
Dahabiya cruises (2 on this route)
When to sail north instead
Sail Aswan to Luxor if you would rather the week built toward Karnak than opened with it, or if you are short on days — northbound is three nights rather than four, because the current carries you. It also puts you in Luxor at the end, where the airport and the Cairo sleeper train are closest to the dock.
Questions we get about the direction
01How long is a Luxor to Aswan cruise?
Four nights, five days, on a standard river ship. That is one night longer than the same route northbound, because sailing upstream against the current takes longer between moorings. Dahabiyas take seven or eight nights on the same stretch.
02Which direction is more common?
Southbound, Luxor to Aswan, is the more commonly sold direction and the one most fixed-departure ships advertise. Northbound is shorter and, for most travelers, the one we recommend — but if your flights land in Luxor, southbound saves you a positioning flight.
03What do you see on a southbound sailing?
Karnak and Luxor Temple and the West Bank at the start; the Esna lock; the Temple of Horus at Edfu; the double temple at Kom Ombo; then Philae, the High Dam and the Nubian islands at Aswan. Abu Simbel is added as a day trip from Aswan at the end.
04Can I do Abu Simbel on this route?
Yes, and southbound it lands at the end. It is a day trip from Aswan by short flight or road convoy, taken after you disembark. Our Aswan office holds the flight seats and the guide, so it slots in without a second hotel move.
Tell us your dates and we'll pick the direction.
Our Aswan and Luxor offices handle both ends of this route. Egypt travel specialists since 1988, with offices in Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, Hurghada, Marsa Alam and Sharm El Sheikh.