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King Akhenaten Nile Dahabiya
The King Akhenaten Nile Dahabiya offers a refined and intimate cruising experience along the Nile between Luxor and Aswan.
About this tour
The King Akhenaten Nile Dahabiya offers a refined and intimate cruising experience along the Nile between Luxor and Aswan. Designed for comfort and elegance, the Dahabiya features luxurious cabins, a spacious sundeck, and attentive crew, ensuring a relaxing and memorable journey. Guests can enjoy freshly prepared meals while gliding past iconic temples, islands, and picturesque villages. The cruise combines leisure and culture, with guided visits to ancient monuments, tranquil river scenery, and optional activities onboard or onshore. Whether enjoying a sunset dinner on the deck, exploring historic sites with a knowledgeable Egyptologist, or simply unwinding along the river, the King Akhenaten Nile Dahabiya promises a serene and immersive Nile adventure. Perfect for travelers seeking elegance, history, and a peaceful connection with the heart of Egypt.
4 Days King Akhenaten Dahabiya From Aswan to Luxor Every Friday
Day 1: Embarkation in Aswan – Philae Temple & Aswan Market
Dahabiya2 meals
- Arrival & Embarkation: Begin your Nile journey aboard the King Akhenaten Dahabiya in Aswan, soaking in the Nubian charm and serene river views as you step onboard.
- Lunch Onboard: Savor a freshly prepared lunch crafted with local ingredients by your onboard chef.
- Philae Temple: Explore the Temple of Isis on Agilkia Island, a stunning sanctuary set amid tranquil waters.
- Aswan High Dam: Visit this modern marvel that controls the Nile floods and provides electricity across Egypt.
- Aswan Market: Wander through the vibrant market, discovering spices, crafts, and handmade jewelry.
- Evening at Leisure: Return to your Dahabiya to relax as the boat moors in Aswan. Overnight onboard.
Day 2: Optional Abu Simbel – Kom Ombo Temple – Al Ramady Island
Nile cruise3 meals
- Optional Excursion: Early risers can join a pre-dawn trip to the Abu Simbel Temples, carved by Ramses II over 3,000 years ago.
- Breakfast & Sailing: Enjoy breakfast onboard while cruising north along the Nile.
- Kom Ombo Temple: Explore this unique double temple dedicated to Sobek and Horus, including the nearby Crocodile Museum.
- Lunch Onboard: Relish a freshly prepared lunch while sailing toward Al Ramady Island.
- Evening: Anchor beside the peaceful island and enjoy a dinner under the stars. Overnight onboard.
Day 3: Sailing to Esna – Luxor & Karnak Temples
Dahabiya3 meals
- Morning Cruise: Relax on deck while sailing toward Esna, passing picturesque villages and Nile landscapes.
- Esna Lock Experience: Witness the lock operation raising or lowering your Dahabiya for the journey to Luxor.
- Karnak & Luxor Temples: Explore Karnak Temple, dedicated to Amun, Mut, and Khonsu, and Luxor Temple, beautifully illuminated at dusk along the Avenue of Sphinxes.
- Evening: Return to your Dahabiya for dinner and overnight mooring near Luxor’s West Bank.
Day 4: Luxor West Bank – Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut & Colossi of Memnon
1 meal
- Breakfast Onboard: Begin your day with a hearty breakfast.
- Valley of the Kings: Explore tombs of Ramses II, Tutankhamun, and other pharaohs.
- Temple of Hatshepsut: Visit this elegant mortuary temple honoring Egypt’s only female pharaoh.
- Colossi of Memnon: Admire the twin statues standing guard for over 3,400 years.
- Disembarkation: Return to the Dahabiya for check-out in Luxor, concluding your Nile journey.
5 Days King Akhenaten Dahabiya from Luxor Every Monday
Day 1: Embarkation in Luxor – Temples of Luxor & Karnak
Dahabiya2 meals
- Arrival & Embarkation: Board the King Akhenaten Dahabiya in Luxor and meet the friendly crew onboard.
- Welcome & Lunch: Enjoy a refreshing drink and freshly prepared lunch as you settle in.
- Karnak Temple: Explore the vast complex of columns, pylons, and sacred lakes.
- Luxor Temple: Visit this elegant temple, illuminated as dusk settles over the Nile.
- Evening Onboard: Dinner while admiring the West Bank sunset. Overnight onboard.
Day 2: Luxor West Bank – Valley of the Kings & Sailing to Esna
Dahabiya3 meals
- Breakfast Onboard: Start your day with a delicious breakfast.
- West Bank Excursions: Visit the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut Temple, and Colossi of Memnon.
- Afternoon Sailing: Cruise south toward Esna, enjoying afternoon tea on deck.
- Evening: Dinner onboard as the Dahabiya anchors near a peaceful Nile island. Overnight onboard.
Day 3: Esna Lock – Edfu Temple – Al Ramady Island
Nile cruise3 meals
- Morning Cruise: Pass through the fascinating Esna Lock.
- Temple of Edfu: Explore one of Egypt’s best-preserved temples dedicated to Horus.
- Evening at Al Ramady Island: Anchor and enjoy a peaceful dinner under the stars. Overnight onboard.
Day 4: Sheikh Fadl Island – Sailing Toward Aswan
Nile cruise3 meals
- Morning Sailing: Cruise early toward Sheikh Fadl Island, enjoying breakfast on deck.
- Leisure Day: Relax onboard, taking in the timeless Nile scenery.
- Lunch & Afternoon Tea: Enjoy meals while drifting along the river.
- Evening: Open-air dinner near Sheikh Fadl Island, featuring traditional Egyptian cuisine. Overnight onboard.
Day 5: Arrival in Aswan – Philae Temple & High Dam
1 meal
- Arrival in Aswan: Breakfast onboard as your Dahabiya reaches Aswan.
- Philae Temple: Visit this enchanting temple dedicated to Isis on Agilkia Island.
- Aswan High Dam: Explore this modern engineering marvel.
- Disembarkation: Bid farewell to the crew and transfer to Aswan airport, train station, or hotel, concluding your Nile adventure.
King Akhenaten Nile Dahabiya – Cruise Facilities
- Luxurious cabins with ensuite bathrooms and air conditioning
- Elegant sundeck with sun loungers and shaded areas
- Onboard dining area serving freshly prepared local and international cuisine
- Tea, coffee, and unlimited water throughout the cruise
- Barbecue and outdoor dining options on deck or nearby islands
- Comfortable lounge for socializing and relaxation
- Professional crew providing attentive, personalized service
- Egyptologist guide available for all excursions
- Safety equipment and first-aid kit onboard
- Optional entertainment and cultural activities on board
- Laundry service upon request
- Free Wi-Fi in public areas (signal may vary along the Nile)
Included / Excluded
- Meet and assist service upon arrival & departure
- All Transfers by a private A/C vehicle.
- Accommodation for 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 Nile Cruise is a luxurious yet traditional way to explore the Nile River aboard an elegant, sail-powered boat. Unlike large cruise ships, Dahabiya boats are small and intimate, typically carrying 8–12 passengers. They offer a serene, personalized journey between Luxor and Aswan, allowing travelers to enjoy the beauty of the Nile at a slower pace. Onboard, guests can expect comfortable ensuite cabins, freshly prepared meals, and guided tours to Egypt’s most captivating temples and villages along the riverbanks.
What are the Best Places to Visit with Dahabiya Boats?
The most popular route for Dahabiya cruises runs between Luxor and Aswan, featuring world-famous temples and lesser-known gems. Key stops include Luxor’s Karnak and Luxor Temples, the Valley of the Kings, and the Temple of Hatshepsut. Along the journey, travelers explore Esna’s lock, the Temple of Edfu, the stunning sandstone quarries of Gebel El-Silsila, and the twin temple of Kom Ombo. The adventure usually ends in Aswan, home to the Philae Temple, Nubian villages, and serene Nile islands — making it one of the most scenic routes in Egypt.
When is the Best Time for a Dahabiya Trip on the Nile River?
The best time to enjoy a Dahabiya cruise is between October and April, when the weather is pleasantly mild and perfect for sightseeing. During these months, the temperatures are comfortable for exploring temples and open-air sites during the day, while evenings remain cool and refreshing. The summer months from May to September can be very hot, especially in Upper Egypt, but some travelers still choose this period for quieter sailings and better rates.
How to Book a Dahabiya on the Nile?
Booking a Dahabiya cruise is easy and can be done through local tour operators, travel agencies, or directly from cruise companies online. Most Dahabiyas offer fixed weekly departures, usually from Luxor or Aswan, with options for shared or private charters. When booking, it’s important to check the itinerary, inclusions (meals, guides, entrance fees), and the type of Dahabiya — as some are boutique-style with higher-end service while others focus on authentic, simple sailing experiences. Booking in advance, especially in peak season, ensures availability and better cabin choices.
How Much Should I Tip on the Dahabiya?
Tipping, or “baksheesh,” is a customary practice in Egypt and an important part of a Dahabiya cruise experience. For a 4- or 5-day trip, a total tip of $10–15 USD per person per day is generally appropriate, which is then shared among the crew, guides, and service staff. Many operators collect tips at the end of the trip in an envelope to distribute fairly. Of course, tipping more is always appreciated if the service exceeded your expectations.
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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