Trip highlights
- Esna: Temple of Khnum and local market.
- El Kab: Ancient tombs and Temple of Nekhbet.
- Edfu: Temple of Horus.
- Gebel Silsila: Ancient quarries and Temple of Horemheb.
- Kom Ombo: Double Temple of Sobek and Horus, Crocodile Museum.
- Wadi el Shatb: Desert walk with ancient inscriptions.
- Sailing: Scenic stops at Nile islands and swimming opportunities.
Overview
The Meroe Dahabiya Nile Cruise, part of the Nour El Nile fleet, offers a distinctive sailing experience along the Nile. Reconstructed in 2017, this vessel features a design focused on space and comfort, including a large salon and an expansive sundeck. The boat accommodates guests in 10 cabins: one Panoramic Suite, eight Luxury Rooms, and one Standard Room. With a dedicated crew of over 15 staff members, the Meroe provides attentive service and a relaxed atmosphere for exploring the river between Esna and Aswan.
Itinerary
Day 01Arrival in Luxor & Transfer to Esna
Upon arrival at Luxor Airport or the Railway Station, you will be met by a tour manager. The journey begins with a transfer to Esna, a historic trading town. Accompanied by an Egyptologist guide, visit the Temple of Khnum, situated nine meters below the current street level. Following a walk through the local streets and market, board the Meroe Dahabiya.
- Meals: Lunch – Dinner
Day 02El Kab & Edfu
Sail south to El Kab, the ancient city of Nekheb. Explore the Temple of Nekhbet and the decorated tombs carved into the mountainside on the east bank. The visit includes a walk through the local fisherman’s village. Afterward, sail to Edfu to visit the Temple of Horus, one of the best-preserved temples in Egypt, accessed via horse-drawn carriage. The day concludes with a sail to a quiet island for the night.
- Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
Day 03Wadi el Shatb & Desert Walk
Enjoy a morning on the river, with an optional picnic and opportunities to swim in the Nile. In the afternoon, embark on a desert walk at Wadi el Shatb (Wadi Muzin). This valley features ancient hieroglyphs and Stone Age inscriptions, marking an old caravan route. The boat then sails towards Gebel Silsila, anchoring nearby for the night.
- Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
Day 04Gebel Silsila
Explore Gebel Silsila, a site where the Nile narrows between sandstone cliffs. Visit the rock-cut Temple of Horemheb and the ancient sandstone quarries used to build many of Egypt's monuments. The tour includes a stop at a local café for tea and shisha. Spend the afternoon relaxing or swimming in the river.
- Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
Day 05Kom Ombo Temple
Sail to Kom Ombo to visit the unique double temple dedicated to Sobek, the crocodile god, and Horus, the falcon god. The site also includes the Crocodile Museum, which displays mummified crocodiles. The boat remains near Kom Ombo or continues towards Aswan for the final evening.
- Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
Disembarkation
What is included
Included
- Meet and assist service upon arrival and departure.
- Accommodation on the Dahabiya on a Full Board basis.
- Entrance fees for all sightseeing mentioned in the program.
- All transfers by private air-conditioned vehicle.
- English-speaking Egyptologist guide during tours.
- Bottled mineral water during daily tours.
- All taxes and service charges.
Not included
- International airfare.
- Extra meals and beverages.
- Optional tours.
- Personal expenses.
- Tipping for crew and guides.
Questions about this trip
What are the cabin configurations on the Meroe?
The Meroe features Panoramic Suites, 8 Luxury Rooms, and 1 Standard Room. All cabins include large panoramic windows and private bathrooms.
Is there internet access?
Yes, WiFi is available on board
Does the boat have a motor?
The Dahabiya is a wind-powered sailing vessel but is accompanied by a motorboat to tow it in case of calm winds.
Are hair dryers provided?
Yes, all cabins are equipped with hair dryers.
Are monument entrance tickets included on Meroe Dahabiya?
Yes. Entrance tickets for the sightseeing mentioned in the programme are included. Optional tours and personal expenses remain separate from those included admissions.
