Embark on a remarkable five-day journey through Egypt aboard the Meroe Dahbiya, a traditional yet luxurious sailboat that captures the timeless charm of Nile travel. This tour combines historical discovery, serene river cruising, and authentic Egyptian hospitality. Beginning in Aswan, guests sail northward, exploring iconic temples, villages, and landscapes that reveal the layers of ancient civilizations. The Dahbiya offers an intimate and personalized experience, with spacious cabins, gourmet meals prepared by an onboard chef, and a pace that allows for quiet reflection as well as exploration. Over the course of five days, travelers will visit ancient temples such as Kom Ombo, Edfu, and Esna, wander through vibrant local markets, and witness life along the riverbanks largely unchanged for centuries. Each day is designed to balance guided sightseeing with relaxed sailing, allowing guests to absorb Egypt’s beauty both ashore and from the comfort of the deck. The journey concludes in Luxor, the cradle of the New Kingdom, with excursions to the Valley of the Kings and the grand temples that have long defined Egypt’s glory. The Meroe Dahbiya experience is ideal for travelers seeking culture, serenity, and luxury, all seamlessly intertwined within Egypt’s eternal landscape.
5-Day Meroe Dahbiya Luxury Egypt Cruise Experience
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 Aswan and Embarkation
Upon arrival in Aswan, you will be met by our representative and transferred to the Meroe Dahbiya, your floating home for the next five days. The day begins with a warm welcome, a refreshing drink, and a short orientation about the journey ahead. The afternoon is dedicated to exploring the Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis. The temple has a rich history, relocated stone by stone after the flooding of the Nile caused by the Aswan High Dam. Visitors marvel at its detailed reliefs and the tranquil island setting surrounded by calm waters. As the sun sets, enjoy a relaxing sail along the Nile, watching the changing colors of the desert hills. The evening is spent dining onboard, savoring Egyptian cuisine under the stars as traditional music plays softly in the background. Overnight in Aswan. Included Activities: • Visit Philae Temple • Sail along the Nile • Welcome dinner on board. Meals Included: Dinner.
Day 2: Kom Ombo and Riverside Serenity
After breakfast, the Dahbiya sets sail towards Kom Ombo, a unique riverside temple dedicated to both Sobek, the crocodile god, and Horus the falcon god. The temple’s dual design reflects the ancient Egyptian belief in balance and harmony, with mirrored sanctuaries and intricately carved walls. Visitors can explore the remains of the ancient healing center and the nearby Crocodile Museum, which houses preserved mummies of sacred crocodiles. The guide provides insight into local myths and the importance of the temple’s medical inscriptions. As the day continues, guests return to the Dahbiya for lunch while sailing past lush palm groves and small riverside villages, glimpsing daily life along the Nile. Later in the afternoon, guests can relax on deck, enjoy tea service, or take part in an informal cooking demonstration with the ship’s chef. The evening brings a peaceful dinner as the Dahbiya anchors near a quiet riverside spot. Overnight near Kom Ombo. Included Activities: • Guided tour of Kom Ombo Temple • Visit Crocodile Museum • Onboard cooking demonstration. Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 3: Edfu and Traditional Village Visit
The morning sail leads to Edfu, home to one of Egypt’s best-preserved temples dedicated to the falcon god Horus. Built during the Ptolemaic period, the temple’s towering pylons and detailed hieroglyphs illustrate scenes of divine battles and royal rituals. The guide explains the temple’s historical context, its role in ancient worship, and the stories carved into its massive stone walls. Visitors approach the temple in traditional horse-drawn carriages, adding a touch of old-world charm. After exploring the site, guests return to the Dahbiya for lunch as it glides downstream toward a traditional Nubian village. In the afternoon, there is an opportunity to walk through the village, meet local families, and observe handicraft demonstrations, gaining insight into rural Egyptian life. Later, the vessel anchors in a tranquil setting, where guests can enjoy a serene sunset onboard. The evening includes a themed dinner accompanied by local music and storytelling. Overnight near Edfu. Included Activities: • Explore Edfu Temple • Horse carriage ride • Nubian village visit. Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 4: Esna Lock and Cruise to Luxor
After breakfast, the Dahbiya continues its voyage toward Esna. The highlight of the day is passing through the Esna Lock, a fascinating engineering feature that allows boats to traverse different water levels of the Nile. The guide explains the history and mechanics of the lock system, offering guests a firsthand look at modern navigation along the ancient river. Upon arrival in Esna, guests disembark to visit the Temple of Khnum, an impressive sanctuary partially buried by centuries of silt, preserved with stunning reliefs depicting the ram-headed god of creation. Visitors can imagine the temple’s ancient ceremonies and daily rituals, guided through its hypostyle hall filled with carved columns and mythical scenes. After the visit, guests return to the Dahbiya, enjoying lunch and leisurely sailing toward Luxor. The afternoon is spent relaxing on deck, reading, or photographing the scenic Nile landscapes. Evening brings a farewell dinner, a celebration of the journey’s beauty and shared memories. Overnight onboard near Luxor. Included Activities: • Visit Temple of Khnum at Esna • Pass through Esna Lock • Farewell dinner celebration. Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 5: Luxor Exploration and Departure
The final day begins with breakfast on the Dahbiya before disembarking for a full-day exploration of Luxor, often called the world’s greatest open-air museum. The morning focuses on the West Bank, including the Valley of the Kings, where the tombs of Egypt’s great pharaohs, such as Tutankhamun, lie hidden within the cliffs. The guide shares fascinating stories of discovery, art, and symbolism that adorn the tombs. Next, visit the Temple of Hatshepsut, honoring Egypt’s powerful female ruler. The striking terraces and statues illustrate her reign’s architectural brilliance. In the afternoon, cross to the East Bank to admire Karnak and Luxor Temples, vast complexes that once connected by an avenue of sphinxes. Guests witness colossal columns, sacred lakes, and hieroglyphic carvings illuminating the city’s spiritual heart. After a final lunch, guests are transferred to the airport or their hotel, marking the end of this unforgettable Nile journey. Overnight in Luxor. Included Activities: • Visit Valley of the Kings • Explore Hatshepsut Temple • Tour Karnak and Luxor Temples. Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch.
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