The Nile & Lake Nasser Discovery + Cairo & Luxor

Colossi of Ramses II, Abu Simbel

Explore the heart of Egypt on this exciting cruise, from spectacular Nile-side temples to atmospheric Abu Simbel and sparkling Lake Nasser to the secluded, sun-swept temples of Nubia.

Combine your Nile and Lake Nasser cruise with three nights in Cairo and tour the Egyptian Museum, spend time in the bazaars and visit Giza to see the Pyramids and Sphinx, before spending four nights in historical Luxor, on the banks of the Nile.

On day 8 (Mon) of your cruise transfer to Luxor airport for your flight to Cairo, where you will be taken to the Swiss Inn Pyramids for the next three nights. On day 11 (Thu), fly back to Luxor for four nights at the Steigenberger Nile Palace or Maritim jolie Ville.

Your Itinerary

DAY 1: UK - Luxor.

Fly to Luxor where you will be met and transferred to your cruise ship, MS Magic 2 (see page 133 and our website for details) for embarkation. (D)

DAY 2: Luxor - Esna.

Begin your exploration of Egypt with a tour of the magnificent West Bank. Marvel at highlights such as the Valley of the Kings, the impressive Mortuary Temples and the monolithic Colossi of Memnon, before crossing the river to the East Bank. See the aeons-old Temple of Karnak, before heading into Luxor city centre for a visit to Luxor Temple. (B, L, D)

DAY 3: Esna - Edfu - Kom Ombo - Aswan.

After crossing the impressive Esna Lock, continue sailing to Edfu for a visit to the Ptolemaic Temple of Horus. Built between 237-57 BC, the glorious sandstone structure was buried under the sun-baked desert sands for nearly two thousand years, preserving many of its richly decorated reliefs, murals and hieroglyphs. Later, sail to Kom Ombo for a visit to the wondrous 'double' Temple of Horus & Sobek. Dedicated to both the falcon and the crocodile gods of ancient Egypt, Kom Ombo's Greco-Roman temple contains sanctuaries where Egypt's first doctors are thought to have performed complex operations on ailing patients. (B, L, D)

DAY 4: Aswan.

This morning, enjoy a visit to the remarkable Aswan High Dam, a major feat of modern engineering constructed between 1960 and 1971 to control flooding and generate electricity. Cruise the glistening waters of Lake Nasser, the immense reservoir created by the dam, and visit the spectacular Temple of Philae, moved brick by brick from the now submerged Philae Island to the nearby island of Agilika to make way for the dam. This afternoon, sail in a traditional white-sailed felucca to Kitchener's Island for a visit to the blissful botanical garden. (B, L, D)

DAY 5: Aswan - Abu Simbel.

Disembark MS Magic 2 this morning and transfer to Aswan airport for your flight to Abu Simbel. On arrival you will be met and transferred to your ship, Mövenpick MS Prince Abbas. After lunch, visit the lake's west bank to experience the captivating beauty of imperious Abu Simbel. This 3,200-year-old complex is a fantastically preserved UNESCO World Heritage site comprising the grandiose Great Temple, fronted by four mighty, seated colossi of Ramses II, and the breathtaking smaller Temple of Hathor. (B, L, D)

DAY 6: Abu Simbel - Qasr Ibrim - Amada - Wadi el Seboua.

This morning, cruise to the former cliff-top city of Qasr Ibrim. From the deck of your ship, admire the atmospheric ancient citadel ruins before continuing your cruise to Amada for a visit to its impressive sandstone edifice, the oldest Egyptian temple in Nubia. Admire the extraordinary forest of decorated pillars, murals and elaborate inscriptions in the covered hall dedicated to Amun-Re and Re-Horakhty. (B, L, D)

DAY 7: Wadi el Seboua - Aswan.

Today, explore Wadi el Seboua, a distinctive temple complex also known as the Valley of the Lions for its impressive avenue of sphinx sculptures. Visit the awe-inspiring Temple of Amun, a treasure trove of imposing statuary and intricate relief murals, before viewing the nearby Greco-Roman temple fortress of Dakka, once dedicated to Thoth, the ibis-headed wisdom god, and the Temple of Meharakka, an unfinished structure dedicated to the Alexandrian god Serapis, unique in ancient Egyptian architecture for its spiral staircase. This afternoon, begin your cruise back to Aswan, crossing the Tropic of Cancer on the way. (B, L, D)

DAY 8: Aswan - Luxor - UK.

After breakfast, disembark your cruise ship and transfer to Aswan airport for your flight to Cairo. Upon arrival you will be taken to your hotel for three nights. (B)

DAY 9 to 10: Cairo.

Enjoy free time to explore this captivating city. (B)

DAY 11: Cairo - Luxor.

Transfer to Cairo airport for your flight to Luxor. Upon arrival you will be taken to your hotel for four nights. (B)

DAY 12 to 14: Luxor.

Enjoy free time to relax in your hotel or to explore this historic city. (B)

DAY 15: Luxor - UK.

Transfer to Luxor airport for your flight to the UK. (B)

Visa Requirements

A visa is required to enter Egypt. This can be obtained from the Egyptian Embassy or can be purchased on arrival in Luxor. The current price is £15 (payable with £5 and £10 notes only).

Our Price Includes

Nile cruises include excursions, transfers, pre-paid baggage and porterage on the cruise.

MS Magic 2

Equipped with state of the art technology, MS Magic 2 is a well-appointed and stylish Nile cruise ship, accommodating 140 passengers in 72 light, comfortable cabins. The excellent on board amenities and friendly English-speaking staff are sure to help you make the most of this cruise.

Public Rooms & Facilities

Sun deck with plunge pool, sunbeds and bar; restaurant; lounge bar; mezzanine bar; billiards room; reading room; bazaars; wireless internet service; laundry service; room service on request.

Dining

Your cruise includes full board. Meals are buffet style and include a good selection of international dishes. Afternoon tea is served whilst sailing. Evening entertainment includes a Galabeyah party, folklore show, Oriental night with belly dancing, and a nightly disco in the lounge bar.

Cabins

All cabins are outside cabins and have twin or double beds; air-conditioning; satellite TV; central video system; fridge; safety deposit box; hairdryer; shower and wc.

Tipping

Tipping is expected in Egypt. Expect to budget for about £30 for tips. For your convenience this may be collected at the beginning of the cruise.

MS Magic 2

Equipped with state of the art technology, MS Magic 2 is a well-appointed and stylish Nile cruise ship, accommodating 140 passengers in 72 light, comfortable cabins. The excellent on board amenities and friendly English-speaking staff are sure to help you make the most of this cruise.

Public Rooms & Facilities

Sun deck with plunge pool, sunbeds and bar; restaurant; lounge bar; mezzanine bar; billiards room; reading room; bazaars; wireless internet service; laundry service; room service on request.

Dining

Your cruise includes full board. Meals are buffet style and include a good selection of international dishes. Afternoon tea is served whilst sailing. Evening entertainment includes a Galabeyah party, folklore show, Oriental night with belly dancing, and a nightly disco in the lounge bar.

Cabins

All cabins are outside cabins and have twin or double beds; air-conditioning; satellite TV; central video system; fridge; safety deposit box; hairdryer; shower and wc.

Tipping

Tipping is expected in Egypt. Expect to budget for about £30 for tips. For your convenience this may be collected at the beginning of the cruise.

Mövenpick MS Prince Abbas

Exclusively built for cruising on Lake Nasser, the deluxe 5 star Mövenpick MS Prince Abbas offers spacious and comfortable public areas, 65 well-equipped cabins and a good range of facilities to choose from. Elegantly furnished throughout, Mövenpick MS Prince Abbas is an ideal base from which to explore the ancient sites and natural wonders of the River Nile and Lake Nasser.

Public Rooms & Facilities

Plunge pool with Jacuzzi; shaded terrace and sundeck; restaurant; lounge bar; fitness room; observation room; gift shop; laundry service.

Dining

Your cruise includes full board. Meals are served in the main restaurant and include both local and international dishes. Breakfast is buffet style while lunch and dinner can be either buffet style or chosen from a set menu. Afternoon tea is served whilst sailing. Evening entertainment includes a Nubian Show.

Cabins

All cabins are outside cabins and have twin or double beds; air-conditioning; television; telephone; fridge; tea & coffee making facilities; safety deposit box; shower and wc; and a panoramic window.

Tipping

Tipping is expected in Egypt. Expect to budget for about £30 for tips. For your convenience this may be collected at the beginning of the cruise.

Mövenpick MS Prince Abbas

Exclusively built for cruising on Lake Nasser, the deluxe 5 star Mövenpick MS Prince Abbas offers spacious and comfortable public areas, 65 well-equipped cabins and a good range of facilities to choose from. Elegantly furnished throughout, Mövenpick MS Prince Abbas is an ideal base from which to explore the ancient sites and natural wonders of the River Nile and Lake Nasser.

Public Rooms & Facilities

Plunge pool with Jacuzzi; shaded terrace and sundeck; restaurant; lounge bar; fitness room; observation room; gift shop; laundry service.

Dining

Your cruise includes full board. Meals are served in the main restaurant and include both local and international dishes. Breakfast is buffet style while lunch and dinner can be either buffet style or chosen from a set menu. Afternoon tea is served whilst sailing. Evening entertainment includes a Nubian Show.

Cabins

All cabins are outside cabins and have twin or double beds; air-conditioning; television; telephone; fridge; tea & coffee making facilities; safety deposit box; shower and wc; and a panoramic window.

Tipping

Tipping is expected in Egypt. Expect to budget for about £30 for tips. For your convenience this may be collected at the beginning of the cruise.

MS Magic 2

MS Magic 2 - side view

  Deck 4, 3, 2 or 1 twin or double cabin with window or porthole

Ramses Hilton & Martim Jolie Ville
5diamond rating

RAMSES HILTON

Perched overlooking the Nile River, Ramses Hilton is an elegant high-rise hotel in the heart of Cairo, offering fantastic views over the vibrant city centre from its panoramic rooftop restaurant. Within its sleek, chic and modern interior, Ramses Hilton provides contemporary, spacious, comfortable accommodation and a great selection of restaurants and amenities including a health spa and an outdoor swimming pool.

Location: In the heart of Cairo, overlooking the Nile River, across the street from the world famous Egyptian Museum and within walking distance to the shopping district and a 30 minute drive from the Pyramids.

Facilities: Swimming pool overlooking the Nile River (heated in winter); rooftop 'Windows on the World' restaurant; Maharajah Indian restaurant; Citadel Grill Mediterranean restaurant; Falafel Oriental restaurant; Garden Court Café; Sherlock Holmes British style pub; Terrace café open 24 hours; fitness centre; health club with sauna, Jacuzzi and massage; shopping galleria with 250 shops featuring 5 cinemas and 2 billiard halls; London Club Casino; internet access; laundry service; lifts; 24 hour room service; safety deposit box and minibar in bedrooms.

Price includes: Bed and breakfast in a twin room with private facilities; air-conditioning; satellite TV; iron and ironing board; telephone; alarm; hairdryer.

Options: Half board; full board; Nile view; single room (on request).

Official category: 5 star.

MARITIM JOLIE VILLE

Ideal for sun worshippers and nature lovers, the serene Maritim Jolie Ville is nestled on an exclusive private island on the Nile. In addition to the comfortable, stylish bungalow-style accommodation and lush palm-fringed grounds, the hotel offers a great choice of amenities and activities and provides good access to Luxor resort centre.

Location: Based on palm-laden King's Island, a tranquil private island on the Nile, connected to the riverbank by a bridge. Luxor resort centre is within 3.5km and easily accessible via the free hotel shuttle service.

Facilities: 2 swimming pools (1 with waterfalls); pool bar serving snacks; 2 restaurants; bar; table tennis; billiards; 2 tennis courts; volleyball; football; jogging track; fitness centre; massage; felucca sailing; daily entertainment; minibar and safety deposit box in bedrooms.

Price includes: Bed and breakfast in a twin room with private facilities; air-conditioning; TV; hairdryer; terrace.

Options: Half board.

Official category: 5 star.

Holiday Availability

Unfortunately we do not currently have any available departure dates for this holiday. For more information about possible future departures or suitable alternative holidays please contact us using the number at the top of the page or view one of the Other Holiday Choices

The Nile & Lake Nasser Discovery + Cairo & Luxor

What's Included

  • Flights: UK - Luxor; Aswan - Abu Simbel; Aswan - Cairo; Cairo - Luxor; Luxor - UK
  • Accommodation as per cruise ship and hotel details
  • Meals: Full board on cruise ships and as per hotel details
  • Representative service in resort
  • Transfers between overseas airports, hotels and cruise ships
  • All local, port and airport taxes

Cruise Highlights

  • Luxor Valley of the Kings, Mortuary Temples, Temple of Hatshepsut, Colossi of Memnon, Luxor & Karnak Temples
  • Edfu Temple of Horus
  • Kom Ombo Temple of Horus & Sobek
  • Aswan High Dam, Philae Temple, Botanical Garden
  • Abu Simbel Great Temple, Temple of Hathor
  • Lake Nasser
  • Qasr Ibrim Scenic cruise
  • Amada Amada Temple
  • Wadi el Seboua Temple of Amun, Dakka Temple, Meharakka Temple

Print this page

NO HIDDEN EXTRAS: All prices shown include ALL compulsory charges (Fuel Supplement, Air Passenger Duty & Flight Supplement where applicable). Book with confidence: We are members of ABTA and all our air-inclusive holidays are financially protected by the Civil Aviation Authority under the ATOL scheme

© Copyright 2012. All rights reserved. All holidays and offers are subject to availability.