Trip highlights
- Aswan: Philae Temple, High Dam, local Bazaar.
- Kom Ombo: The double temple of Sobek and Horus.
- Gebel Silsila: The Speos of Horemheb and ancient quarries.
- Edfu: Temple of Horus and local market.
- Luxor: Valley of the Kings, Temple of Hatshepsut, Colossi of Memnon, Karnak Temple.
- Cultural Experiences: Traditional Egyptian dinner, sailing on a Dahabiya, library and games on board.
Overview
The Sacred Lotus Dahabiya Nile Cruise offers a classic river sailing experience inspired by the elegant vessels of the 18th century. Designed to blend tradition with modern comfort, this 41-meter boat features a spacious sundeck for relaxation and viewing the Nile landscapes. The interior includes a saloon, a comfortable lounge, and a library stocked with books on Egypt and the Nile, where guests can enjoy Turkish coffee and social games. Accommodations consist of outside-facing cabins and a suite, all equipped with panoramic windows and private en-suite facilities.
Itinerary
Daily Itinerary: 3 Nights From Aswan to Esna
Day 01Aswan City Tour & Embarkation
Upon arrival at Aswan Airport or the train station, you will be met by a tour director. Begin the day with a guided tour of Aswan, visiting the Temple of Philae, the Aswan High Dam, and the local Aswan Bazaar. Following the tour, board the Sacred Lotus Dahabiya and enjoy lunch while sailing towards Kom Ombo. The boat anchors near Kom Ombo for the night.
- Meals: Lunch – Dinner
Day 02Kom Ombo Temple & Gebel Silsila
After breakfast, visit the double temple of Kom Ombo, dedicated to the crocodile god Sobek and the falcon god Horus. Return to the boat and sail to Gebel Silsila, a quieter historical site known for its ancient quarries and the Speos of Horemheb. Dinner is served on the sundeck or near the illuminated temple grounds (weather permitting), accompanied by music.
- Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
Day 03Edfu Temple & Sailing
Sail to Edfu and visit the Temple of Horus, one of the best-preserved ancient temples in Egypt, accessed via a horse-drawn carriage. Afterward, explore the local market before returning to the boat. The journey continues towards Esna, anchoring near a peaceful island. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Egyptian dinner featuring local cuisine and Middle Eastern music.
- Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
Day 04Luxor Tour & Final Departure
Disembark in Esna after breakfast. Transfer by private vehicle to Luxor for a full day of sightseeing. Explore the West Bank, including the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Hatshepsut, and the Colossi of Memnon. Continue to the East Bank to visit the massive Karnak Temple complex. After the tour and lunch, transfer to Luxor Airport or the railway station for your final departure.
- Meals: Breakfast
Daily Itinerary: 4 Nights From Esna to Aswan
Day 01Luxor Tour & Embarkation in Esna
Upon arrival in Luxor, you will be assisted by a tour manager. Begin with a guided tour of Luxor’s West Bank, visiting the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Hatshepsut, and the Colossi of Memnon. Continue to the East Bank to explore Karnak Temple. Following the tours, transfer by vehicle to Esna to board the Sacred Lotus Dahabiya. Overnight is spent on board in Esna.
- Meals: Lunch – Dinner
Day 02Edfu Temple & Gebel Silsila
Sail to Edfu in the morning. Visit the Temple of Horus using a horse-drawn carriage and explore the local bazaar. Return to the boat for lunch while sailing towards Gebel Silsila. Visit the Speos of Horemheb and enjoy dinner on the upper deck or a nearby island, surrounded by the quiet atmosphere of the Nile.
- Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
Day 03Kom Ombo Temple & Sailing
Enjoy a leisurely morning sailing to Kom Ombo. Upon arrival, visit the Greco-Roman Temple of Kom Ombo, dedicated to Sobek and Horus. Afterward, continue sailing towards Aswan, observing the rural life along the riverbanks. The boat anchors near the entrance to Aswan for the night.
- Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
Day 04Aswan City Tour
Disembark for a tour of Aswan’s key landmarks. Visit the Aswan High Dam and the Temple of Philae, located on an island. Conclude the tour with a walk through the Aswan Bazaar to see local crafts and culture. Return to the boat for the final evening in Aswan.
- Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
Day 05Final Departure
After breakfast, disembark from the Dahabiya. You will be transferred to Aswan Airport or the train station for your onward journey.
- Meals: Breakfast
What is included
Included
- Meet and assist services upon arrival and departure.
- Accommodation on the Dahabiya on a Full Board basis.
- All transfers in a private air-conditioned vehicle.
- Entrance fees for all sightseeing mentioned in the itinerary.
- English-speaking Egyptologist guide during tours.
- Bottled mineral water during daily tours.
Not included
- International airfare and entry visa.
- Extra meals and beverages.
- Optional tours.
- Personal expenses.
- Tipping.
Questions about this trip
What amenities are in the cabins?
All cabins and the suite feature panoramic windows, private en-suite bathrooms with a bath and shower, individual air-conditioning controls, and a mini-bar.
Is there WiFi on board?
Yes, complimentary WiFi access is provided throughout the boat.
What payment methods are accepted?
Major credit cards are accepted on board.
