Plan Your Trip | Nile Exploration

Your journey begins here...

No trip to Egypt is complete without a Nile cruise or Lake Nasser cruise. We would be delighted to have you on board our cruisers. With decades of experience navigating these timeless waters, our team ensures every detail of your voyage is handled with professional care and 'Quiet Luxury' service.

Tour of Egypt

Egypt is a country that can offer everything to everyone. And although you will need more than one visit to experience it all, it is generally recommended to visit several areas per trip. Combinations of cultural & beach itineraries are most popular. Most comprehensive tours include a couple of nights in Cairo, a Nile cruise and a few nights on the Red Sea to relax. These tours usually last between 10 to 14 days. Nile Exploration would be more than happy to assist you in planning and booking your custom tour of Egypt through our local partners. Please feel free to contact us if you require any assistance in planning or booking your journey.

Cruise Itineraries

Most Nile cruises between Luxor and Aswan operate on a 4-night (Monday to Friday) or 3-night (Friday to Monday) cycle. This allows for a seamless travel experience, ensuring you see the highlights of the Nile in a structured yet relaxed manner.

Visa and Entry Requirements

Travelers to Egypt must have a passport valid for at least six months from the date of entry. Most visitors (including citizens of the USA, UK, EU, Canada, and Australia) can obtain a 30-day tourist visa on arrival at Egyptian airports for a fee (currently $25 USD). Alternatively, e-visas can be applied for in advance.

Currency and Money

The official currency is the Egyptian Pound (EGP), often referred to as the 'Geneh'. Denominations include 200, 100, 50, 20, 10, and 5 pound notes. Major credit cards are accepted in most hotels and on cruise ships, and ATMs are widely available in major cities.

Getting Around Egypt

Egypt is well-connected by domestic flights (primarily EgyptAir), an extensive rail network, and taxis. For a more personalized experience, private transfers and Nile cruises are the preferred methods of travel between major historical sites.

Language

Arabic is the official language of Egypt. However, English is widely spoken in the tourism industry, hotels, and major archaeological sites, making it easy for international travelers to communicate.

Electricity

The electrical voltage in Egypt is 220V, 50Hz. The sockets are of the two-pin European style (Type C and F). It is recommended to bring a universal adapter if your devices use different plug types.

Health and Safety

It is advised to drink bottled water during your stay. Sun protection (hats, sunblock, sunglasses) is essential due to the intense Egyptian sun. No specific vaccinations are required for entry, but it is always best to consult your local health authority for up-to-date recommendations.

Climate

Egypt has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters. The best time to visit for a Nile cruise is between October and April when the temperatures are most comfortable for sightseeing.

Packing Tips

We recommend packing the following for your Nile cruise: Sunglasses, conservative attire for visiting religious sites, high-SPF sunblock, personal toiletries, electrical adapters, and a lightweight jacket or sweater for cooler winter evenings. Ensure all prescription medications are in their original, labeled containers.

Frequent Questions

What is the best time to go on a Nile cruise?

The best time for a Nile cruise is from October to April. During these months, daytime temperatures are pleasantly mild (ranging from 20°C to 30°C), which is ideal for exploring outdoor archaeological sites like the Valley of the Kings and Karnak Temple without the extreme summer heat.

How many days do I need for a Nile cruise?

A standard Nile cruise requires 3 to 4 nights to see the major highlights. A 4-night itinerary from Luxor to Aswan or a 3-night return from Aswan to Luxor covers essential sites including Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Philae, while allowing for a relaxed pace on the river.

What should I wear on a Nile cruise?

Onboard attire is casual, but modest clothing is required for shore excursions to temples and mosques. Wear lightweight, breathable fabrics (cotton or linen) and ensure shoulders and knees are covered when visiting religious sites. Comfortable walking shoes, a hat, and sunglasses are essential.

Are Nile cruises safe for international travelers?

Nile cruises are very safe, with high security standards maintained at all docks and tourist sites. Reputable cruise lines provide 24/7 onboard security and work closely with local authorities to ensure a secure environment for all guests.

What is included in a Nile cruise package?

Most Nile cruise packages include full-board accommodation (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), guided excursions to major historical sites, and evening onboard entertainment. Drinks, tipping (baksheesh), and optional tours like Abu Simbel are typically excluded unless specified.

Can I visit Abu Simbel during a Nile cruise?

Yes, Abu Simbel is available as an optional excursion from Aswan. Guests can reach the temple via a short 45-minute flight or a 3-hour road trip through the Nubian desert, usually departing early in the morning to return to the ship for lunch.

What is the difference between a Nile cruise and a Lake Nasser cruise?

Nile cruises sail between Luxor and Aswan, focusing on Pharaonic history and major riverfront temples. Lake Nasser cruises sail south of Aswan to Abu Simbel, offering a more tranquil, off-the-beaten-path experience with a focus on Nubian culture and rescued temples like Amada and Wadi el Seboua.

Is there Wi-Fi available on the ships?

Yes, all our ships offer free Wi-Fi. While connectivity is generally reliable, signal strength may fluctuate as the ship sails through more remote stretches of the river or Lake Nasser. For constant high-speed access, we recommend purchasing a local 4G/5G SIM card.