Embark on an unforgettable 5-day journey through Egypt aboard the elegant Iris Dahabiya, a traditional yet luxurious sailing vessel that offers an intimate and authentic experience along the timeless Nile River. This tour is designed to blend cultural exploration, historical discovery, and serene relaxation amidst Egypt’s most fascinating landscapes. From the grandeur of Luxor’s temples to the tranquil beauty of the Nile’s passing villages, every day unveils new wonders. Travelers will enjoy the comfort of spacious cabins, attentive service, and gourmet meals while cruising from Luxor to Aswan. The Iris Dahabiya allows guests to visit smaller islands and less-crowded ancient sites inaccessible to larger cruise ships, ensuring a personalized and immersive experience. Along the way, guests will learn about ancient Egyptian civilization, marvel at architectural masterpieces like the Karnak and Kom Ombo Temples, and engage with the local culture. This journey is ideal for travelers seeking luxury, comfort, and authenticity. The combination of sailing tranquility, cultural immersion, and historical marvels makes the Iris Dahabiya Nile cruise a truly enriching adventure through the heart of Egypt’s timeless beauty.
5-Day Luxurious Nile Journey on Iris Dahabiya
5 Days - 4 Nights
- Meet and assist service upon arrival and departure at Egyptian airports
- All transfers by private air-conditioned vehicle
- Accommodation in carefully selected hotels with daily breakfast
- Professional licensed Egyptologist tour guide throughout the trip
- All sightseeing tours as mentioned in the itinerary
- Entrance fees to all listed attractions
- Domestic transportation during tours
- All service charges and local taxes
- International airfare to and from Egypt
- Entry visa fees to Egypt
- Personal expenses such as laundry, phone calls, and minibar
- Optional tours not mentioned in the itinerary
- Beverages and meals not specified in the program
- Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff
Day 1 – Arrival in Luxor
Upon your arrival at Luxor International Airport, you will be greeted by our representative and transferred to the Iris Dahabiya, your floating boutique hotel on the Nile. After check-in, your exploration begins with a visit to the magnificent Karnak Temple Complex, a vast open-air museum dedicated to the Theban gods. The temple’s history spans over 2,000 years of construction by successive pharaohs, showcasing towering columns, colossal statues, and intricate hieroglyphics. Visitors will marvel at the Hypostyle Hall, where sunlight filters through the stone pillars, casting dramatic shadows that hint at ancient rituals once performed here. Next, explore Luxor Temple, built by Amenhotep III and expanded by Ramses II, beautifully illuminated at dusk. The temple’s alignment with the Nile and Avenue of Sphinxes gives visitors a sense of ancient processional grandeur. The day concludes with a leisurely stroll along the Corniche before returning to the Dahabiya for a welcome dinner on board, where you will enjoy freshly prepared Egyptian cuisine. Overnight in Luxor. Included Activities: • Visit Karnak Temple • Visit Luxor Temple • Evening stroll along Luxor Corniche Meals Included: Dinner
Day 2 – Luxor West Bank Exploration
Today begins with a hearty breakfast before crossing to the West Bank of Luxor, the ancient Thebes necropolis. The first stop is the Valley of the Kings, resting place of pharaohs such as Tutankhamun and Ramses VI. Each tomb tells stories through vivid wall paintings that depict the pharaoh’s journey to the afterlife. Visitors descend into the tombs to witness the rich colors and preserved hieroglyphs that have endured for millennia. Next, the tour continues to the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, an architectural masterpiece carved into limestone cliffs. The temple reflects the reign of Egypt’s first female pharaoh and symbolizes her divine birth and achievements. Finally, you’ll visit the Colossi of Memnon, two massive statues that once guarded Amenhotep III’s mortuary temple. These towering figures have stood for over 3,000 years, impressing travelers with their scale and mystery. After lunch on board, the Dahabiya begins sailing toward Esna, allowing guests to relax on deck as the Nile’s lush landscapes pass by. Overnight in Esna. Included Activities: • Visit Valley of the Kings • Visit Hatshepsut Temple • View Colossi of Memnon Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3 – Esna to Edfu
After breakfast, the Iris Dahabiya passes through the Esna Lock, offering a fascinating glimpse into how modern engineering interacts with Egypt’s timeless river. Once through, the cruise continues toward Edfu, one of the Nile’s most picturesque stretches. Upon arrival, you’ll visit the Temple of Horus, one of the best-preserved temples in Egypt, dating to the Ptolemaic period. Dedicated to the falcon god Horus, the temple’s towering pylons and detailed carvings tell stories of divine battles and royal ceremonies. Visitors will walk through massive gates, explore sanctuaries, and admire reliefs narrating Horus’s victory over Seth, the god of chaos. Later, enjoy a walk through the local market, observing daily Egyptian life and colorful stalls filled with spices, textiles, and souvenirs. Return to the Dahabiya for a tranquil afternoon of sailing toward Kom Ombo, watching rural villages and palm groves drift by as the sun sets over the river. Overnight near Kom Ombo. Included Activities: • Pass through Esna Lock • Visit Edfu Temple of Horus • Explore Edfu local market Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4 – Kom Ombo and Sail to Aswan
This morning, the Iris Dahabiya reaches Kom Ombo, where you’ll explore the unique twin temple dedicated to Sobek, the crocodile god, and Horus the Elder. Built during the Ptolemaic era, this temple is renowned for its symmetrical design, reflecting the dual worship of two deities. Visitors will discover well-preserved carvings illustrating medical instruments and crocodile mummification rituals, offering deep insights into ancient Egyptian science and religion. Adjacent to the temple is the Crocodile Museum, housing real mummified crocodiles once revered as sacred. As the day continues, you’ll sail leisurely toward Aswan, passing golden dunes and idyllic river islands. On board, guests can relax on the sun deck, enjoy afternoon tea, and observe fishermen casting their nets along the Nile’s fertile banks. The evening brings a special onboard dinner under the stars, accompanied by soft traditional music and the gentle motion of the river. Overnight near Aswan. Included Activities: • Visit Kom Ombo Temple • Visit Crocodile Museum • Nile sailing experience to Aswan Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5 – Aswan Highlights and Departure
After breakfast, begin your exploration of Aswan, a city known for its relaxed atmosphere and breathtaking scenery. The first stop is the majestic Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis, relocated to Agilkia Island after the construction of the High Dam. The temple’s history reflects Egypt’s transition from ancient religion to early Christianity, as inscriptions and Coptic crosses intertwine with hieroglyphic art. Visitors approach by motorboat, taking in scenic views of granite boulders jutting out of the Nile. Inside, detailed carvings depict myths of Osiris and Isis, showcasing the temple’s spiritual resonance. Next, you’ll visit the Aswan High Dam, a modern engineering marvel that transformed Egypt’s economy and landscape. Finally, explore the Unfinished Obelisk, offering insight into ancient stone-cutting techniques. After lunch, guests disembark and are transferred to the airport or hotel, concluding a memorable journey aboard the Iris Dahabiya. Overnight in Aswan (for those extending stay). Included Activities: • Visit Philae Temple • Visit Aswan High Dam • Visit Unfinished Obelisk Meals Included: Breakfast
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