Review: Standard Nile Cruise, Aswan to Luxor (4 Days)

Dreaming of ancient Egypt, and gliding down the Nile like some kind of pharaoh? A standard 4-day, 3-night Nile cruise from Aswan to Luxor is, very often, top of peoples’ bucket lists, and it’s easy to see why. You get to take in iconic temples, captivating tombs, plus scenery that’s been wowing people for thousands of years. So, the big question: is a “standard” cruise the way to go, or is it worth splashing out for something a bit fancier? Let’s have a more indepth look.

What is included on the trip

These cruises, more or less, typically package together a fair bit, which makes travel simpler. Often included is, basically, all your accommodation in a cabin, typically an outside one, meaning a window so you can gaze at the world going by. All your meals tend to be provided too. Think buffets loaded with tasty Egyptian food, alongside food for anyone with less daring taste buds. Most packages will throw in guided tours of the main attractions. Obviously places like the Philae Temple, Kom Ombo, Edfu and also the Karnak, are often included. Be certain though; check the fine print so you’re not paying extra when you don’t want to be.

What’s the accommodation like?

Let’s talk cabins: what can you expect when you choose one of the standard deals? You might imagine, that you will discover gold plated taps, however, these vessels are less about bling, and more, in a way, about practicality. The cabins, well, are commonly snug. A bit like your first apartment, but on the water. It’s almost always comfy, perfectly livable. Many cabins are two-beds, and some do include a balcony; others will simply give you a window to glimpse the Nile action. Linens are normally fresh. Cabins are kept very clean. While décor can be a little tired in spots, the boats are renovated on a regular basis. Be certain you know, that the boats will provide what they say on the tin; somewhere comfy to sleep. That bit is very important.

What to eat on a Standard Nile cruise

Think delicious local flavours that are found in Egypt. Most meals are served buffet-style. I mean, it can get hectic. Remember the queue for a school dinner, yeah it is like that? Anyway, you will usually see a great selection; everything from salads, fresh baked breads, a few options, always. Plus there will almost definitely be a handful of familiar favourites so nobody is left hungry. Chicken, pasta and other stuff like that. Don’t forget the Egyptian dishes too though! There’s usually kofta (grilled minced meat), ful medames (stewed fava beans), as well as things such as, mahashi (stuffed vegetables). The desserts, very often, show off some Arabic flair. You’re extremely likely to see baklava and kunafa. You know, dripping in honey, sprinkled with pistachios, that kind of thing! A thing you might want to note is, that drinks, like sodas, bottled water plus any alcohol usually costs extra. This can seriously add up so it’s always good to be ready.

Daily Itinerary, what do you do all day

The typical rhythm of one of these cruises? You know, is early starts. It helps miss some of the crowds at those well-known ancient locations. Mornings are usually reserved for visits to places such as, Philae Temple near Aswan, or perhaps, Kom Ombo Temple which, in fact, honors two sets of gods! The sun begins its descent, that is when the cruise, a bit like an unhurried river taxi, slips further upriver. As you gently bob along you can kick back on deck, sample a mint tea and watch farmers in fields, or perhaps a gaggle of noisy water buffalo going for their evening bath. Usually you will dock somewhere in time for dinner, plus, many evenings offer fun stuff. From belly dancing shows to Galabiya parties (everyone dresses up Egyptian style!) Expect a very mixed experience depending on your sailing mates. Be sociable though, is that cool? If your boat gets going it really does!

Typical standard Nile Cruise – Day by Day

Day 1: Aswan and the start of your adventure

You will want to meet the cruise in Aswan, so, make certain you budget time to travel either by flying or maybe via train. The boat will usually check you in around lunch time. You might also have a wander around town yourself. Think vibrant markets, souvenir shops or you could enjoy some amazing local cuisine. Plenty of boat packages will include seeing the Philae Temple in the late afternoon. So, you won’t miss out on the wonders. Another great activity, might be, riding a traditional felucca boat on the Nile. Seriously calming, definitely picturesque.

Day 2: Kom Ombo Temple

Now, the ship usually sails somewhere about sunrise. In some respects, it’s a pretty early wake-up call if you fancy taking some pictures of the landscape while eating a quick breakfast. By late morning you will, probably, get the chance to check out the intriguing Kom Ombo Temple. Very rare. Double design dedicated to two sets of gods. After that it is back onboard for some chilled time relaxing, catching some rays on the sundeck, and maybe take a dip in the pool. In the early evening, typically, you arrive at Edfu. Ready for another adventure!

Day 3: Edfu Temple plus sailing to Luxor

You could try this: a horse and carriage! Typically, the way guests reach Edfu Temple from the ship. Temple to Horus, which you know, is pretty well preserved. Definitely, something really special. You will go back on the ship. So, they can keep on cruising towards Luxor. Again you’ll probably see it, sun-loungers get booked up quickly! In the evening time, some vessels often offer extra programs, a bit like, Egyptian dancing or music evenings.

Day 4: Luxor East Bank sites and Departure

Ready for some massive exploration today? When docked, your boat can, so conveniently, deliver you straight to Luxor’s East Bank! Often on these organized tours they include seeing Karnak, plus Luxor Temple. Karnak Temple might, actually, blow you away with its avenue lined with Sphinxes, plus massive columns which look extremely dramatic. Luxor Temple? Actually very beautiful. Very atmospheric particularly. Your cruise experience will finish usually by the late morning. Therefore, factor in where you plan on heading, what you plan to do. More of Egypt, or just heading straight to the airport.

Are the cruises any good for solo travellers?

Well yes, to be honest, Nile cruises, commonly, are ideal for those wandering alone. A huge advantage often, is the sheer ease they provide! With a jam-packed itinerary and no concerns about transport or places to dine, solo roamers could well enjoy. In some respects it’s a real winner. On these boat trips, usually you get to chat a lot with your shipmates! Sharing experiences. It can sometimes, often it does, bring about solid friendships.

Is it alright to travel with kids

Yep, why not bring them with you, but also bear in mind. Little ones might not fully enjoy hours looking round temples. A pool, typically, is a hit with kids. So, is all the food, especially the deserts. Be sure, too it’s worth doing your own little homework beforehand so that you can explain different things; which just may get them more intrigued with Ancient Egypt. For example: the Ancient Egyptians were mad on cats. Things like that. Cruises often organize activities which, too it’s almost, can engage children. Such as learning to write like an Egyptian! The biggest aspect, might be to carefully weigh a child’s ability to do tours plus all the travel before thinking it’s great.

Some Final tips to make the trip excellent!

• Cash is king. Take enough Egyptian pounds to buy extras, tips and for anything if you shop.
• Comfy footwear is critical. You will definitely do so much walking!
• Pack for all temperatures. The boat tends to get cool with the aircon, but during the days outside, it may get very toasty.
• Stay hydrated! Get that bottle of water into you. Even if you do have to pay.

Is a Standard Nile Cruise for you?

Look, in some respects, when funds don’t stretch to all the swankiest options a typical Nile cruise from Aswan towards Luxor can still be terrific. It gives access to ancient history without costing loads of money, and gives an ease and comfort for everyone no matter their trip style! Don’t expect over the top indulgence, however the basics, almost always, are all present providing a magical, extraordinary experience going way, way back into time.

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