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Three Pyramids Dahabiya Nile Cruise
Experience Egypt’s timeless beauty aboard the Three Pyramids Dahabiya, a luxurious yet intimate sailing vessel that captures the romance of traditional Nile travel.
About this tour
Experience Egypt’s timeless beauty aboard the Three Pyramids Dahabiya, a luxurious yet intimate sailing vessel that captures the romance of traditional Nile travel. Designed for comfort and authenticity, this elegant cruise offers a peaceful journey between Luxor and Aswan, away from the crowds of larger ships. Guests enjoy personalized service, freshly prepared meals, and guided visits to Egypt’s most iconic temples, tombs, and villages. As you sail along the tranquil Nile, each moment blends history, comfort, and breathtaking scenery, creating an unforgettable Egyptian experience.
4 Days Three Pyramids Dahabiya from Aswan Every Friday
Day 1: Embarkation in Aswan – Philae Temple & Aswan Market
Dahabiya2 meals
- Arrival & Embarkation: Begin your enchanting Nile journey aboard the Three Pyramids Dahabiya in Aswan, a serene city known for its Nubian charm and breathtaking views of the Nile.
- Lunch Onboard: Enjoy a freshly prepared lunch made with local ingredients by the Dahabiya’s skilled chef.
- Philae Temple: Visit the beautiful Temple of Isis, relocated to Agilkia Island and surrounded by the calm waters of the Nile — one of Egypt’s most picturesque sanctuaries.
- High Dam: Stop at this modern engineering marvel that tames the Nile’s annual floods and provides electricity across Egypt.
- Aswan Market: Stroll through the colorful local market, filled with vibrant spices, Nubian crafts, and handmade jewelry.
- Evening at Leisure: Return to your Dahabiya for a relaxing evening as the boat anchors in Aswan.
Day 2: Optional Abu Simbel – Kom Ombo Temple – Al Ramady Island
3 meals
- Optional Excursion: Early risers can join an unforgettable trip to the Abu Simbel Temples, carved into sandstone cliffs by King Ramses II over 3,000 years ago — a true marvel of ancient Egypt.
- Breakfast & Sailing: Enjoy breakfast onboard as the Dahabiya begins its tranquil journey northward along the Nile.
- Temple of Kom Ombo: Explore the remarkable double temple dedicated to Sobek, the crocodile god, and Horus, the falcon god. Visit the Crocodile Museum nearby to see fascinating mummified crocodiles.
- Lunch Onboard: Savor a delicious lunch while the Dahabiya continues toward Al Ramady Island.
- Evening at Al Ramady Island: Anchor beside this peaceful Nile island surrounded by palm trees and village life. Enjoy a delightful dinner under the stars, accompanied by the gentle sounds of the river.
Day 3: Sailing to Esna – Luxor & Karnak Temples
3 meals
- Morning Cruise: Enjoy a relaxing morning as you sail toward Esna, passing scenic Nile landscapes and charming riverside villages.
- Breakfast & Lunch: Delight in freshly prepared meals while soaking in the serene atmosphere onboard.
- Esna Lock Experience: Witness the fascinating process of crossing the Esna Lock, where your Dahabiya is raised or lowered to continue its course to Luxor.
- Karnak Temple: Explore one of the world’s largest religious complexes, dedicated to Amun, Mut, and Khonsu — a breathtaking open-air museum of ancient architecture.
- Luxor Temple: Visit the magnificent temple built by Amenhotep III and Ramses II, beautifully illuminated at dusk and connected to Karnak by the Avenue of Sphinxes.
- Evening Onboard: Return to your Dahabiya for a relaxing dinner on deck as you anchor near the West Bank of Luxor.
Day 4: Luxor West Bank – Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut & Colossi of Memnon
1 meal
- Breakfast Onboard: Start your day with breakfast before disembarking for your final exploration of Luxor’s West Bank.
- Valley of the Kings: Step into the royal necropolis of the New Kingdom, where the tombs of legendary pharaohs like Ramses II and Tutankhamun are hidden within the Theban hills.
- Temple of Queen Hatshepsut: Admire this elegant mortuary temple, a masterpiece of ancient architecture honoring Egypt’s most powerful female pharaoh.
- Colossi of Memnon: Stop by the colossal statues of Amenhotep III, standing guard over the ancient necropolis for more than 3,400 years.
- Disembarkation: After your tour, return to the Dahabiya for check-out and farewell in Luxor — the perfect ending to your unforgettable Nile cruise.
5 Days Three Pyramids Dahabiya from Luxor Every Monday
Day 1: Embarkation in Luxor – Temples of Luxor & Karnak
Dahabiya2 meals
- Arrival & Embarkation: Begin your Nile adventure as you board the Three Pyramids Dahabiya in Luxor, once known as Thebes, the capital of ancient Egypt.
- Welcome & Lunch: Enjoy a refreshing welcome drink and a freshly prepared lunch while meeting the friendly crew who will accompany you throughout your journey.
- Karnak Temple Complex: Explore this vast open-air museum featuring colossal columns, massive pylons, and sacred lakes — the spiritual heart of ancient Egypt.
- Luxor Temple: Visit this elegant temple dedicated to the rejuvenation of kingship, beautifully illuminated as dusk settles over the Nile.
- Evening Onboard: Return to your Dahabiya for dinner while admiring the serene view of Luxor’s West Bank bathed in the evening glow.
Day 2: Luxor West Bank – Valley of the Kings & Sailing to Esna
Near Esna3 meals
- Breakfast Onboard: Enjoy a delicious breakfast before exploring Luxor’s West Bank — the gateway to the afterlife for the pharaohs of the New Kingdom.
- Valley of the Kings: Discover the magnificent tombs of ancient Egypt’s greatest rulers, adorned with vivid wall paintings that reveal secrets of the afterlife.
- Temple of Queen Hatshepsut: Visit the impressive mortuary temple honoring Egypt’s only female pharaoh, beautifully set against towering limestone cliffs.
- Colossi of Memnon: Admire the gigantic twin statues that once guarded the mortuary temple of Amenhotep III.
- Afternoon Sailing: Return to your Dahabiya for lunch and begin sailing south toward Esna. Relax on deck with afternoon tea while watching the timeless scenes of rural Nile life.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner onboard as the Dahabiya anchors beside a peaceful Nile island.
Day 3: Esna Lock – Edfu Temple – Al Ramady Island
Beside Al Ramady Island3 meals
- Morning Cruise: Start your day with breakfast as your Dahabiya passes through the Esna Lock, a fascinating engineering experience connecting different Nile levels.
- Sail to Edfu: Continue your tranquil journey toward Edfu while enjoying lunch on board.
- Temple of Edfu: Explore one of Egypt’s best-preserved temples, dedicated to the falcon god Horus, offering a vivid glimpse into ancient religious traditions and Ptolemaic artistry.
- Evening at Al Ramady Island: Sail onward to Al Ramady Island, where you’ll enjoy a peaceful dinner beneath a canopy of stars and surrounded by the gentle sounds of the Nile.
Day 4: Sheikh Fadl Island – Sailing Toward Aswan
Onboard while sailing toward Aswan3 meals
- Morning Sailing: Set sail early toward Sheikh Fadl Island, enjoying breakfast on deck as you watch life unfold along the Nile’s fertile banks.
- Leisure Day: Relax aboard the Dahabiya, taking in the serene scenery of palm-fringed villages and timeless river landscapes.
- Lunch & Afternoon Tea: Savor freshly prepared meals while drifting gently down the river, followed by afternoon tea on the sundeck.
- Evening on Sheikh Fadl Island: Anchor near the island for a cozy open-air dinner, where the crew serves a traditional Egyptian meal under the stars.
Day 5: Arrival in Aswan – Philae Temple & High Dam
1 meal
- Arrival in Aswan: Enjoy breakfast as your Dahabiya arrives in Aswan, known for its tranquil beauty and Nubian heritage.
- Philae Temple: Visit this enchanting temple dedicated to the goddess Isis, relocated to Agilkia Island to preserve it from the rising waters of Lake Nasser.
- Aswan High Dam: Explore this monumental feat of modern engineering that provides electricity and irrigation throughout Egypt.
- Disembarkation: After your sightseeing tour, bid farewell to the crew as you disembark in Aswan — marking the end of your unforgettable Nile cruise aboard the Three Pyramids Dahabiya.
Cruise Facilities – Three Pyramids Dahabiya
- Elegant and spacious cabins with private bathrooms and panoramic Nile views
- Air-conditioned rooms equipped with comfortable bedding and modern amenities
- Large sun deck with shaded lounge area and open-air dining space
- Onboard restaurant serving freshly prepared Egyptian and international cuisine
- Professional multilingual Egyptologist guide during excursions
- Free Wi-Fi service in common areas (subject to network availability)
- 24-hour reception and room service
- Evening entertainment and traditional music
- Tea and coffee service throughout the day
- Safety equipment and first aid on board
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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