Embark on an extraordinary five-day journey aboard the Queen Nefer Dahabiya, a handcrafted luxury sailing vessel designed to offer the most intimate and authentic Nile River experience. This exclusive tour combines timeless Egyptian heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and exceptional comfort as you sail from Luxor to Aswan. The Queen Nefer Dahabiya provides an unparalleled sense of tranquility, gliding gracefully between ancient temples, lush riverbanks, and traditional villages untouched by time. Guests will enjoy private shore excursions led by expert Egyptologists, revealing stories of legendary pharaohs, architectural marvels, and the daily life of ancient Egyptians. Each day is enriched with immersive cultural encounters, leisurely sailing, and exquisite onboard dining inspired by local flavors. This journey ensures a harmonious balance of exploration and relaxation, offering guests the chance to witness some of Egypt’s most remarkable monuments such as Karnak Temple, Valley of the Kings, Kom Ombo, and the romantic city of Aswan. The Queen Nefer Dahabiya experience is about rediscovering the essence of Egypt through personalized service, serene sailing, and unforgettable moments on the world’s most celebrated river.
5-Day Queen Nefer Dahabiya Luxury Nile Cruise Tour
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 & Embarkation on Queen Nefer Dahabiya
Upon arrival at Luxor Airport, you will be warmly greeted and transferred to the Queen Nefer Dahabiya, your elegant floating home for the next five days. After check-in, relax on deck and watch the timeless scenes of the Nile unfold. Your first exploration begins with a visit to the awe-inspiring Karnak Temple, one of the largest religious complexes ever built. Here, your guide will explain the extraordinary history of Thebes and the devotion to Amun-Ra, as you walk through colossal columns and hieroglyph-covered walls. Next, you’ll visit the Luxor Temple, a masterpiece of New Kingdom architecture illuminated beautifully at dusk. As you stroll through its grand courtyards, you’ll sense the power and spirituality that once filled this sacred space. The day concludes with a welcome dinner onboard where guests enjoy Egyptian specialties prepared by the Dahabiya’s chef. Overnight in Luxor. Included Activities: • Visit Karnak Temple • Visit Luxor Temple • Welcome dinner onboard Meals Included: Dinner
Day 2 – West Bank of Luxor: Valley of the Kings & Sailing to Esna
This morning begins with an exploration of Luxor’s West Bank, home to the world-famous Valley of the Kings. Your Egyptologist reveals the fascinating history of royal burials, describing how pharaohs sought immortality through magnificent tombs carved deep into the cliffs. You’ll enter select tombs adorned with colorful hieroglyphs that have survived millennia. Next, visit the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, an architectural wonder dedicated to one of Egypt’s most powerful women. As you stand before its terraces, your guide recounts her reign and innovations. Finally, stop by the Colossi of Memnon, two gigantic statues that once guarded a vanished temple. After lunch onboard, the Dahabiya begins its serene journey toward Esna. Relax as palm-fringed banks drift past and fishermen cast their nets in golden sunlight. The evening is free to enjoy the tranquility of the river under starlit skies. Overnight in Esna. Included Activities: • Visit Valley of the Kings • Visit Hatshepsut Temple • Visit Colossi of Memnon Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3 – Esna Lock & Visit to Edfu Temple
After breakfast, the Queen Nefer Dahabiya glides through the Esna Lock, an engineering marvel that allows boats to navigate between different river levels. Watching the lock operation offers insight into Nile navigation and Egyptian ingenuity. Once the process is complete, the Dahabiya sails toward Edfu, where you’ll visit the magnificent Temple of Horus. Dedicated to the falcon-headed god, this is one of the best-preserved temples in Egypt. Your guide narrates the tale of Horus and Seth, depicting the eternal battle between good and evil. As you walk through towering pylons and intricately carved chambers, the temple seems alive with mythological energy. The experience unfolds smoothly, allowing time for quiet appreciation of the artwork and photography. Returning to the Dahabiya, you’ll enjoy lunch as the sailboat continues its peaceful journey southward. The afternoon is spent relaxing on deck, watching the landscape change with every bend of the river. Overnight near Kom Ombo. Included Activities: • Observe Esna Lock passage • Visit Edfu Temple • Onboard sailing experience Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4 – Kom Ombo & Cruising to Aswan
Today’s adventure begins at Kom Ombo Temple, uniquely dedicated to two gods—Sobek, the crocodile deity, and Haroeris, the falcon god. Your Egyptologist explains how this dual dedication reflects harmony and balance in ancient Egyptian belief. Inside, visitors encounter finely detailed reliefs depicting surgical instruments and sacred rituals, offering insights into early medicine and spirituality. You’ll also visit the nearby Crocodile Museum, housing mummified crocodiles that once symbolized divine protection. After returning to the Dahabiya, the journey continues toward Aswan. As the boat glides through serene waters, enjoy the scenery of local villages and date palms. The afternoon provides time to read or sip tea while listening to the gentle rustle of sails. As night falls, the crew prepares a festive Nubian-style dinner with traditional music under the stars. Overnight near Aswan. Included Activities: • Visit Kom Ombo Temple • Visit Crocodile Museum • Nubian-themed dinner onboard Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5 – Aswan Sightseeing & Departure
The final day of your Queen Nefer Dahabiya journey begins with a visit to the majestic Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis. Relocated from its original site to save it from flooding, the temple complex stands gracefully on Agilkia Island. Your guide narrates the myths of Isis and Osiris and explains the temple’s rescue during the UNESCO Nubia Campaign. The combination of lush greenery, tranquil waters, and elegant columns creates an atmosphere of divine peace. Next, see the High Dam, a symbol of modern Egypt’s engineering achievement that tamed the Nile’s floods and provides vital energy to the nation. Finally, visit the granite quarries to view the Unfinished Obelisk, offering insight into ancient stone-working techniques. After returning to the Dahabiya for your farewell breakfast, you’ll disembark and transfer to Aswan Airport or your next destination. Overnight in Aswan. Included Activities: • Visit Philae Temple • Visit High Dam • Visit Unfinished Obelisk Meals Included: Breakfast
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