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Karnak Dahabiya
No engines, no crowds — just wind, water, and 3,000 years of history sliding past your deck chair.
About this tour
No engines, no crowds — just wind, water, and 3,000 years of history sliding past your deck chair. The Karnak Dahabiya is a five-cabin, twin-sailed boat that carries you between Luxor and Aswan the way travelers did before the age of the mega-cruise ship: slowly, silently, and privately.
Over 4, 5, or 6 days, you'll wake to Nile mist instead of a marina, moor at riverside villages no big ship can reach, and explore Karnak, Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Philae with a licensed Egyptologist guide steering the story. Evenings mean sundowners on deck, dinner under the stars, and a silence you won't find on a 300-cabin cruiser.
4 Days Karnak Dahabiya Cruise From Aswan to Esna
Day 1: Arrival in Aswan – Philae Temple & Herdiab
Aboard the Dahabiya near Herdiab2 meals
- Arrival in Aswan: Begin your unforgettable Dahabiya adventure with a warm welcome and private pick-up from your Aswan hotel or the airport.
- Philae Temple: Visit the enchanting Temple of Isis, one of Egypt’s most beloved monuments. Relocated stone by stone by UNESCO to save it from flooding, Philae rests serenely on an island surrounded by tranquil waters — a sanctuary that has inspired travelers for centuries.
- Embarkation on Karnak Dahabiya: After your visit, you’ll be escorted to the elegant Karnak Dahabiya, where your attentive crew awaits. Enjoy a delicious lunch on board as you begin sailing toward Herdiab, taking in the peaceful beauty of the Nile.
- Evening Onboard: Relax on deck with dinner as the sun sets, casting golden reflections over the water.
Day 2: Herdiab – Kom Ombo – Gebel el-Silsila
Near Gebel el-Silsila3 meals
- Breakfast Onboard: Begin your day with a peaceful breakfast while your Dahabiya sails gracefully along the Nile.
- Temple of Kom Ombo: Explore this remarkable twin temple dedicated to Sobek, the crocodile god, and Haroeris (Horus the Elder), the falcon god of protection. Standing proudly on a bend of the Nile, Kom Ombo’s symmetrical design and fascinating reliefs make it truly unique.
- Gebel el-Silsila: Continue sailing to this breathtaking sandstone gorge, once an ancient quarry for Egypt’s grandest temples. Visit the rock-cut Speos of Horemheb, dedicated to Pharaoh Horemheb and several deities, including Sobek. Wander through the site and admire the craftsmanship of ancient builders who shaped Egypt’s architectural legacy.
- Evening Onboard: Enjoy a relaxed dinner on deck surrounded by the calm of the Nile.
Day 3: Bassaw – Edfu – El Hegz
Aboard the Dahabiya at El Hegz3 meals
- Morning Sail: After breakfast, sail toward the peaceful fishing village of Bassaw. This charming riverside community offers an authentic glimpse into traditional Egyptian life, where ancient fishing techniques are still practiced today.
- Temple of Horus at Edfu: After lunch, visit one of Egypt’s best-preserved temples — the majestic Temple of Horus. Dedicated to the falcon god, this monumental structure reflects the grandeur of Egypt’s late temple-building era. Explore the intricate reliefs and towering pylons that tell stories of divine kingship and protection.
- Evening Onboard: Continue sailing to El Hegz, where you’ll enjoy a tranquil dinner under the starlit Nile sky.
Day 4: El Hegz – Esna – Luxor Departure
1 meal
- Breakfast & Sailing: Savor your final breakfast on deck as your Dahabiya glides gracefully toward Esna, surrounded by the serene beauty of the Nile Valley.
- Disembarkation: Upon arrival in Esna, bid farewell to your crew and transfer by private air-conditioned vehicle to Luxor.
- End of Journey: Carry with you unforgettable memories of the timeless Nile and the peaceful rhythm of life aboard the Karnak Dahabiya.
5 Days Karnak Dahabiya From Luxor to Aswan
Day 1: Luxor – Esna – El Hegz
Dahabiya2 meals
- Karnak Temple: Begin your journey at 7:30 AM with a visit to the magnificent Karnak Temple, a vast complex of sanctuaries, pylons, and towering obelisks built over more than a thousand years by generations of Pharaohs. Its grand Hypostyle Hall, filled with massive columns, stands as a masterpiece of ancient architecture.
- Valley of the Kings: Cross the Nile to explore the sacred burial ground of Egypt’s New Kingdom rulers. Hidden in desert cliffs, this valley holds the tombs of legendary pharaohs who sought eternal life beyond.
- Embarkation in Esna: After your explorations, transfer to Esna and board your elegant Karnak Dahabiya, a traditional twin-sailed Nile vessel. Enjoy lunch onboard as you begin sailing smoothly toward El Hegz.
- Evening Onboard: Relax on deck, watching the sunset over the Nile, followed by dinner under the stars.
Day 2: El Kaab – Edfu – Fawaza Island
3 meals
- El Kaab Visit: After breakfast, sail to El Kaab, an ancient walled city. Discover the rock-cut tombs of noble governors and the remains of temples dedicated to the divine meeting of Hathor and Horus.
- Edfu Temple: Continue cruising south to Edfu, where you’ll explore one of Egypt’s best-preserved temples—the Temple of Horus. This monumental Ptolemaic sanctuary showcases Egypt’s architectural and artistic brilliance.
- Evening Barbecue: Anchor at the tranquil Fawaza Island and enjoy a delicious barbecue dinner in a serene setting surrounded by the Nile’s beauty.
Day 3: Bassaw – Gebel el-Silsila – Beshir
3 meals
- Bassaw Village: Wake up to gentle Nile breezes and sail toward Bassaw, a quiet fishing village untouched by modern tourism. Meet locals and discover their timeless way of life along the riverbanks.
- Gebel el-Silsila: Enjoy lunch onboard while sailing toward the majestic sandstone gorge of Gebel el-Silsila. Visit the rock-cut temple of Horemheb and explore the ancient quarries that supplied stone for Egypt’s grand temples.
- Dinner & Overnight: Enjoy dinner onboard as you dock near Beshir, surrounded by the peaceful sounds of the Nile.
Day 4: Kom Ombo – Herdiab Village
Onboard the Dahabiya near Herdiab.3 meals
- Kom Ombo Temple: After breakfast, sail to Kom Ombo to visit its extraordinary twin temple dedicated to Sobek, the crocodile god, and Horus, the falcon god. This perfectly symmetrical structure stands dramatically on a bend in the Nile.
- Herdiab Village: Continue your journey to Herdiab Village, one of the Nile’s oldest settlements, where traditional farming and fishing are still part of daily life. Stroll through the village to experience authentic Egyptian culture.
- Evening at Herdiab Island: Enjoy your final dinner on Herdiab Island with the warm glow of lanterns reflecting on the river.
Day 5: Herdiab – Aswan – Philae Temple
2 meals
- Morning at Leisure: Enjoy breakfast on the peaceful banks of Herdiab Island, with an opportunity to swim in the crystal-clear Nile waters.
- Sailing to Aswan: Savor your final lunch onboard while admiring the timeless scenery as the Dahabiya glides toward Aswan.
- Philae Temple: Upon arrival, visit the enchanting Temple of Philae, dedicated to the goddess Isis. Rescued from flooding by UNESCO, this island sanctuary remains one of Egypt’s most romantic and spiritual sites.
- Disembarkation: After your tour, transfer to your hotel or Aswan Airport for your onward journey.
6 Days Karnak Dahabiya From Luxor to Aswan
Day 1: Luxor – Esna – El Hegz
Dahabiya2 meals
- Karnak Temple: Begin your Dahabiya adventure at 7:30 AM with a guided visit to the magnificent Karnak Temple, a vast complex constructed over more than a thousand years by generations of Pharaohs. Its Hypostyle Hall, with its forest of towering columns, covers an area larger than Notre Dame Cathedral, standing as a monumental tribute to the Theban gods.
- Valley of the Kings: Cross to the West Bank to explore the Valley of the Kings (main entry included), the eternal resting place of Egypt’s New Kingdom pharaohs. Carved deep into desert cliffs, this valley was believed to be the gateway to the afterlife.
- Embarkation in Esna: After the visits, transfer to Esna and board your elegant Karnak Dahabiya, a traditional twin-sailed Nile boat. Enjoy your first lunch on board as you begin cruising south toward El Hegz.
- Evening Onboard: Relax and watch the tranquil Nile scenery as dinner is served under the stars.
Day 2: El Hegz – El Kaab – Edfu – Fawaza Island
Onboard near Fawaza Island.3 meals
- El Kaab: After breakfast, sail toward El Kaab, an ancient walled city once ruled by powerful governors. Visit their rock-cut tombs and the ruins of a temple dedicated to the meeting of Hathor and Horus, symbolizing divine love and union.
- Edfu Temple: Continue your journey to Edfu, home to the grand Temple of Horus—one of Egypt’s best-preserved temples. Admire its towering pylons and beautifully detailed reliefs, which reflect the last golden era of temple construction.
- Evening Barbecue: As the sun sets, anchor at Fawaza Island and enjoy a relaxed barbecue dinner surrounded by the serene beauty of the Nile.
Day 3: Fawaza – Bassaw – Gebel el-Silsila – Beshir
3 meals
- Bassaw Village: Begin your morning with breakfast as you sail toward Bassaw, a peaceful fishing village untouched by modern tourism. Wander through the narrow paths, meet local villagers, and discover their centuries-old fishing traditions.
- Gebel el-Silsila: Enjoy lunch onboard while sailing to the majestic cliffs of Gebel el-Silsila. Explore the Speos of Horemheb, a rock-cut sanctuary from the 14th century BC dedicated to Pharaoh Horemheb and Sobek. Walk through the ancient sandstone quarries that once supplied stone for Egypt’s great temples.
- Dinner & Overnight: Dock near Beshir and enjoy dinner onboard under the peaceful night sky.
Day 4: Kom Ombo – Herdiab Village
Onboard near Herdiab.3 meals
- Kom Ombo Temple: After breakfast, visit the unique Temple of Kom Ombo, dramatically set on a bend of the Nile. Dedicated to two deities—Sobek, the crocodile god, and Haroeris, the falcon-headed protector—this temple’s symmetry and detailed carvings make it one of Egypt’s most fascinating sites.
- Herdiab Village: Continue sailing to Herdiab, one of the oldest communities along the Nile. Walk through the village, meet the locals, and witness traditional farming methods still used today.
- Evening at Herdiab Island: Enjoy a relaxing dinner on Herdiab Island, surrounded by the calm waters of the Nile.
Day 5: Herdiab – Aswan – Philae Temple & Sound & Light Show
Nile cruise3 meals
- Morning on the Nile: Enjoy breakfast on the sandy shores of Herdiab Beach, with time for a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear Nile waters.
- Sailing to Aswan: Continue cruising toward Aswan while savoring a leisurely lunch onboard and admiring the timeless river landscapes.
- Philae Temple Visit: In the afternoon, explore the stunning Philae Temple, devoted to the goddess Isis. Relocated by UNESCO to preserve it from flooding, this island sanctuary remains one of Egypt’s most romantic sites.
- Sound & Light Show: Return to Philae in the evening for the captivating Sound & Light Show, where ancient legends and history unfold in a mesmerizing display of narration and illumination.
- Evening Onboard: Enjoy a farewell dinner and spend your final night onboard in Aswan.
Day 6: Aswan – Disembarkation
1 meal
- Farewell Breakfast: Enjoy your final breakfast onboard as you bid farewell to your Dahabiya crew.
- Disembarkation: Disembark at 9:00 AM in Aswan and transfer to your hotel or the airport for your onward journey, taking with you unforgettable memories of your Nile adventure.
Cruise Facilities
- 5 elegantly designed cabins with private bathrooms and panoramic Nile views
- Spacious sun deck with comfortable loungers for relaxation and sightseeing
- Refined dining area serving freshly prepared Egyptian and international cuisine
- Outdoor lounge for tea, cocktails, and sunset views
- Onboard library and reading corner for peaceful moments
- Air-conditioned cabins with modern amenities and daily housekeeping service
- Complimentary tea, coffee, and bottled water throughout the cruise
- Authentic Dahabiya sailing experience powered by wind and tranquility (no engine noise)
- Professional multilingual crew and experienced Egyptologist guide
- Free Wi-Fi access in common areas (subject to Nile coverage)
Included / Excluded
- Meet and assist service upon arrival & departure
- All Transfers by a private A/C vehicle.
- Accommodation for 5 or 4 or 3 nights on a Dahabiya for full board basis.
- Entrance fees to all sites as indicated on the itinerary.
- English-speaking tour guide during the visits.
- Bottled water during the visits.
- All service charges and taxes.
- Entry Visa to Egypt
- Any Optional tours.
- All personal Expenses.
- Tipping (Recommend).
Policies, in plain English
All rates listed by EgyVacations are quoted in U.S. Dollars (USD) unless stated otherwise. However, we accept payment in other major currencies such as EUR and GBP, based on the daily exchange rate at the time of payment.
- Our prices are based on current market rates, seasonal variations, and availability, and are subject to change without prior notice. Rates are only confirmed once full payment or a deposit has been received.
- Package rates generally include accommodation, transportation, guided tours, and meals, as outlined in your detailed itinerary. Please refer to your specific booking for a full list of inclusions and exclusions.
- Holiday Season Supplement: A 25% holiday surcharge applies to all Nile Cruise and tour package bookings during Christmas, New Year, and Easter periods.
Start your dream tour by paying as low as 30% of the total cost. During festive periods like New Year, Christmas and Easter, we require a 50% down payment. Feel free to pay the rest two days before your arrival or in cash when you arrive – we’ve got you covered!
- If you’re paying by credit card, we need a signed letter from you. This letter gives us permission to charge your card. Make sure the signature matches the one on your card and passport.
- Upon receiving your payment, we’ll issue a written confirmation, along with your itinerary and travel documents.
In case you cancel your trip, the following charges will be applied:
- From the date of booking until 61 days before your arrival date, 15% of the entire tour price will be charged.
- 35% of the tour price if you cancel 60-31 days before arrival.
- 50% of the tour price if you cancel 30-15 days before arrival.
- 100% of the tour price if you cancel 14-1 days before arrival.
Christmas, New Year, and Easter:
- From the date of booking until 61 days before your arrival date, 30% of the entire tour price will be charged.
- 50% of the tour price if you cancel 60-31 days before arrival.
- 75% of the tour price if you cancel 30-15 days before arrival.
Additionally, airlines charge their fees which are subject to the airlines’ terms and conditions, and there’s also a 5% bank fee on refunds. If you don’t show up for your reservation, we won’t be able to give you a refund.
EgyVacations welcomes families with children and offers the following pricing structure:
- Under 2 years: Free of charge
- 2 to 5 years: 25% of adult rate
- 6 to 11 years: 50% of adult rate
- 12 years and above: Full adult rate
Children’s discounts apply when sharing a room with two paying adults. Please note that some cruises or hotels may have their own child policies, which will be specified in your itinerary.
Frequently asked questions
What is a Dahabiya Nile cruise?
A Dahabiya is a traditional twin-sailed boat that carries far fewer guests than a standard Nile cruise ship — usually under 12 travelers instead of 200+. It trades engines for wind power, so the ride is quiet, and its shallow draft lets it moor at villages and islands large ships can't reach.
What's the difference between a Dahabiya and a regular Nile cruise ship?
Standard Nile cruise ships carry 100–300 passengers on a fixed multi-deck itinerary. A Dahabiya, like the Karnak Dahabiya, carries a handful of guests across just 5 cabins, sails at a slower pace, and swaps big buffets and pool decks for personalized service and closer access to temples and riverside life.
How much does a Karnak Dahabiya cruise cost?
Karnak Dahabiya cruises start from $1,150 per person, depending on the 4, 5, or 6-day itinerary and cabin category chosen. The rate covers full-board accommodation, private transfers, guided sightseeing, and entrance fees — see the Included/Excluded list above for full details.
What is included on the Karnak Dahabiya?
Your fare includes private airport/hotel transfers, full-board meals for the length of the cruise, an English-speaking Egyptologist guide, and entrance fees to every site on the itinerary. Visa fees, optional tours, personal expenses, and tipping are not included.
When is the best time for a Dahabiya cruise on the Nile?
October through April offers the most comfortable temperatures for temple visits and time on deck. May to September is hotter, especially in Upper Egypt, but it also means quieter sailing and lower rates for travelers who don't mind the heat.
How many people sail on the Karnak Dahabiya?
With just 5 cabins, the Karnak Dahabiya sails with a small, intimate group rather than a shipful of tourists — a minimum of 2 guests is required for departure, making it a good fit for couples, families, or small private groups.
How much should I tip the crew on a Dahabiya cruise?
Tipping ("baksheesh") is customary in Egypt. For a 4–6 day Dahabiya cruise, $10–15 USD per person per day is standard, typically collected at the end of the trip and shared among the crew, guide, and service staff.
Travellers, in their own words.
Every quote is a real one, posted under the traveller's own name.
What a great team!
They helped me plan my day and arranged for an Egyptologist and driver to take me to all these places.
Had a great time
Thanks to well organised sightseeing and tour guide Ahmed who was professional and pleasant.
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