Our 7 Night Nile Cruise Itinerary.

We were on a cruise and stay package tour so we were already in Luxor but if you were to just go to Egypt for the Nile Cruise on day one you would depart from the UK, flying direct to Luxor. On arrival, transfer to your chosen cruise boat, which takes about twenty 20 minutes from the airport.

This information was based on our seven seven night River Nile cruise.

Once you are allocated your cabins a welcome meeting to discuss the week ahead will take place that evening or may be on the following morning, depending on your flight arrival time.

The River Nile cruise begins in earnest on the second day with an early start, crossing over to the West Bank of the Nile to visit The Valley of the Kings. For an extra fee you can visit the Tomb of Tutankhamen. To do this you will have to speak to your guide for more details. You then visit Queen Hatshepsut's Temple, the Valley of the Queens and see Colossi of Memnon from the coach. This whole morning excursion took us about 5 hours before the heat of the day really took hold. On arrival back at the boat, there was a buffet lunch and the boat sailed for the port of Esna. The afternoon we spent relaxing on the sundeck while watching the varied local life, feluccas on the river and farming activity along the Nile's banks. Afternoon tea was served on the sun deck and after dinner there was a small informal cocktail party where the captain and management of the boat were introduced to everyone. During the evening the boat passed through the lock at Esna then docked overnight in Edfu a few hours later.

We woke up in Edfu and after a great breakfast, we set off to visit the Temple of Edfu. Afterwards, we found time to wander around the local market where we started to buy our fancy dress outfits for that evenings 'Galabeya' Party. Back on board the boat, we had lunch as the boat set sail to Aswan.

This wonderful cruise takes the rest of the day and evening and gives you chance to take a dip in the plunge pool, do a bit of relaxing, sun bathing, read a book or simply to enjoy the view especially the sunset. In the evening there was the Galabeya party, where everyone dressed up in 'traditional' Egyptian costumes, Pharos, Mummies, Slaves in fact anything that looked remotely Arabic! Dinner was followed by party games and photos! Late that night the boat docked in Aswan for a stay of two nights.

On day four we had a morning visit to the Aswan High Dam, visiting the Old Granite Quarries, wandering around the unfinished Obelisk and then took a motor boat to the Temple of Philae. In the afternoon we sailed by felucca around Kitchener's Island and visited its Botanical Gardens. After dinner that evening there was an Egyptian style 'Treasure Hunt’ for those who wanted to take part.

For day five we had pre booked the most popular excursion, in the UK, to visit the famous Temples of Abu Simbel, the excursion is available by coach but we decided to fly. This gave us more time at the Temple and there were far fewer people around! If you stayed on the boat then in the afternoon was an optional excursion to a local 'Nubian' Village via camel or boat.

Once we were back on board the Nile cruise boat, in the late afternoon, we sailed to Kom Ombo where we visited the Ptolemaic Temple that evening. We had dinner with evening entertainment and stayed overnight on board.

Day six was spent at leisure on board as the boat headed to Luxor arriving later that evening. After dinner, we were entertained and enjoyed the delights of a traditional Belly Dancer.

Day seven began with a morning visit to the Temples of Karnak, visiting the papyrus museum and the Luxor Souk with its traditional spice and perfume shops. In the afternoon, we had an escorted visit the Temple of Luxor; afterwards there was another opportunity to explore the markets of Luxor for souvenirs and gifts. That evening we went on an optional excursion to the Sound and Light Show at Karnak Temple a truly entrancing experience.

Nile bank near Luxor On day eight we spent the morning lounging around on the boat. In the afternoon we disembarked and transferred to the airport for our onward flight to Cairo where we were to spend a further three nights. If you are in Egypt just for the Nile Cruise then you will your return flight to the UK or continue to your next resort.

On embarkation and upon disembarkation we were required to walk along a gangplank and there were steps to climb. I'd recommend that you always wore a hat when out in the sun, wear high factor sun block, sunglasses and carry drinking water. Don't forget your camera, small change for tips and some sweets for the children (don't be tempted to give children money they will bunk off school more or be exploited!)