Sonesta Amirat Dahabiya Nile Cruise

Itinerary

08 Days / 07 Nights
Saturday Luxor / Aswan

Day 1 Saturday – Set Sail into History

Step aboard this luxurious Nile cruise and settle in for the journey of a lifetime, where comfort meets history on the legendary Nile River.After a delectable lunch onboard, get ready to immerse yourself in the ancient wonders of Egypt. Your first stop is the Karnak Temple Complex, a sprawling masterpiece of ancient architecture. Wander through its awe-inspiring hypostyle hall, where 137 towering columns seem to touch the sky. Feel the history come alive as you explore this monumental temple, dedicated to the god Amon-Ra.

Next, continue your exploration with a visit to Luxor Temple, one of Egypt’s most iconic and majestic monuments. This historical gem, built by pharaohs Amenhotep III and Ramses II, is a living testament to Egypt’s grandeur and ancient spirituality.

As the sun sets, return to your floating sanctuary aboard the Sonesta Amirat Dahabiya. Relax with a delicious dinner as you watch the tranquil Nile glide by under a blanket of stars. Unwind in the comfort of your luxurious surroundings and enjoy a peaceful ???? Overnight: moored on the banks of the Nile in Luxor.
Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner

Day 2 Sunday – The Secrets of the Pharaohs

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before heading out to explore the Valley of the Kings, the burial ground of the Pharaohs, including Tutankhamun’s tomb. Continue to the Valley of the Queens, the Medinet Habu Temple, and the towering Colossi of Memnon.

In the afternoon, set sail towards Esna. Enjoy a delicious lunch onboard as you cruise along the river.
At dinner, relax and reflect on the day’s adventures, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the Nile.
Overnight: near Esna.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3 Monday – A Day of Serenity in Edfu

Wake up to the gentle sounds of the Nile and savor a leisurely breakfast onboard as the Sonesta Amirat Dahabiya sets sail toward Edfu. Today is all about relaxation, as you drift along the timeless waters of the Nile, just as ancient travelers once did.

Let the breathtaking scenery unfold before you—lush palm groves, golden desert dunes, and picturesque villages where daily life continues as it has for centuries. This is the magic of sailing on a dahabiya—an intimate and peaceful journey through the heart of Egypt, untouched by time.

Lunch is served onboard as you glide effortlessly down the river, enjoying the fresh breeze and tranquil atmosphere. As the sun begins to set, your dahabiya moors beside a secluded Nile island near Edfu, offering a perfect moment to unwind.

In the evening, delight in a gourmet dinner under a sky filled with stars, with the soothing sounds of the river providing the perfect backdrop. Let the magic of the Nile lull you into a state of complete relaxation before another day of exploration.
Overnight: Moored beside a tranquil Nile island near Edfu
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4 Tuesday – The Temple of Horus Awaits

Awaken to the soft golden light of the Nile and indulge in a delicious breakfast onboard the Sonesta Amirat Dahabiya as you prepare for another day of exploration.Step ashore and journey back in time at the Temple of Edfu, one of Egypt’s most remarkably preserved temples, dedicated to the mighty falcon-headed god Horus. Walk through its grand entrance, where towering walls and intricate hieroglyphics tell the tales of ancient battles and divine legends. Feel the echoes of the past as you stand beneath its colossal pillars and marvel at the sacred sanctuary where Horus was once worshiped.

After this captivating visit, return to the dahabiya and set sail once more. As the gentle breeze carries you toward Kom Ombo, relax and soak in the ever-changing landscapes of the Nile. Enjoy a delightful lunch onboard as you pass by charming riverside villages and golden desert dunes.By evening, your dahabiya arrives at Maneeha Island, a hidden gem along the riverbanks. Here, under a starlit sky, savor a unique dinner on the island, surrounded by the peaceful beauty of the Nile. With the river whispering its ancient secrets, this will be a night to remember.
Overnight: near Maneeha Island, Kom Ombo.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5 Wednesday – Mystical Temples and Ancient Quarries

Wake up to another breathtaking morning on the Sonesta Amirat Dahabiya, with the Nile gently guiding you toward new wonders. After breakfast, you have the option to embark on a fascinating visit to El Silsila, an ancient sandstone quarry where pharaohs sourced stone for their greatest temples. Wander through its rock-cut shrines and marvel at the intricate inscriptions that have stood the test of time.

Next, continue to the Temple of Kom Ombo, a truly unique site unlike any other in Egypt. This magnificent temple is dedicated to two gods—the crocodile god Sobek, associated with fertility and the Nile, and the falcon-headed god Horus, the protector of kings. Admire the symmetrical twin sanctuaries, detailed carvings, and the fascinating ancient medical instruments displayed within the temple’s walls.After an inspiring morning of exploration, return to your dahabiya and set sail toward Aswan. As you drift along the river, enjoy a sumptuous lunch onboard, soaking in the serene views of palm-lined shores and timeless villages.

As the evening unfolds, unwind on the deck beneath a sky full of stars. Indulge in a gourmet dinner, surrounded by the tranquil sounds of the Nile, as your dahabiya gently rocks you into a night of pure relaxation.
 Overnight: beside a Nile island in Aswan.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6 Thursday – Leisurely Sailing to Aswan

Rise to the peaceful rhythm of the Sonesta Amirat Dahabiya as the golden morning sun reflects off the shimmering Nile. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast while the dahabiya glides effortlessly toward Aswan, one of Egypt’s most enchanting cities.Today is all about pure relaxation. Bask in the warmth of the sun on deck, feel the gentle breeze as palm-lined riverbanks pass by, and savor the tranquility of sailing the Nile just as the pharaohs once did. Whether you choose to lounge with a book, sip on a refreshing drink, or simply admire the timeless scenery, this is your moment to unwind.

As midday approaches, delight in a freshly prepared lunch onboard, featuring the finest flavors of Egyptian cuisine. Let the peaceful atmosphere of the Nile rejuvenate your soul as you continue your journey south.As dusk falls and the twinkling lights of Aswan come into view, gather for an exquisite gourmet dinner onboard. With the river as your backdrop and the stars above, this elegant evening marks the perfect prelude to your upcoming exploration of Aswan’s wonders.
Overnight: near the Aswan Bridge.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7 Friday – Aswan’s Ancient Marvels

Wake up to the magic of Aswan, a city where ancient grandeur meets modern marvels. After a delightful breakfast, step ashore to uncover some of Egypt’s most fascinating sites.Your first stop is the Aswan High Dam, a breathtaking feat of engineering that tamed the mighty Nile and created the vast Lake Nasser. Next, visit the Old Dam, a masterpiece from the early 20th century that played a crucial role in Egypt’s development.

The highlight of the day is a visit to the Temple of Philae, a magnificent sanctuary dedicated to the goddess Isis, the mother goddess of ancient Egypt. This breathtaking temple, rescued from the rising waters of the Nile, now rests on Agilkia Island, surrounded by crystal-clear waters and lush greenery. Walk through its majestic halls, feel the presence of the past, and admire its exquisite reliefs depicting tales of gods and pharaohs.

Return to the Sonesta Amirat Dahabiya for a delicious lunch, savoring the peaceful atmosphere of the Nile one last time. The afternoon is yours to relax, reminisce, and take in the beauty of your surroundings.As night falls, gather for a memorable farewell dinner aboard the dahabiya. Under a canopy of stars, reflect on the incredible journey you’ve taken—sailing the Nile like the nobility of old, uncovering Egypt’s timeless treasures, and indulging in the ultimate luxury of slow travel.
Overnight: in Aswan.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8 Saturday – Farewell to the Nile

After a leisurely breakfast, bid farewell to the Sonesta Amirat Dahabiya and disembark with unforgettable memories of your luxurious journey through the heart of Egypt.
Meals Included: Breakfast

08 Days / 07 Nights
Saturday Aswan / Luxor

Day 1 Saturday: Welcome Aboard – The Adventure Begins
Step aboard the Sonesta Amirat Dahabiya, your floating sanctuary of elegance and charm. As you settle into your beautifully appointed cabin, the timeless beauty of the Nile stretches before you. With the gentle waves as your guide, take in the golden landscapes of Aswan, a city where ancient history and modern culture blend seamlessly.

Relax on the sundeck with a refreshing drink, soak in the warm Egyptian sun, and let the cool river breeze set the tone for the adventure ahead. As the sun sets, the Dahabiya moors along the tranquil banks of the Nile, where you’ll enjoy a delicious gourmet dinner under a blanket of stars.
Overnight: Moored along the banks of Aswan
Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner

Day 2 Sunday: The Magnificent Monuments of Aswan
Wake up to the serene sounds of the Nile and prepare for a day of exploration. Visit the Aswan High Dam, a modern engineering marvel that tames the mighty Nile, followed by the historic Old Dam, an impressive feat from the early 20th century.

Next, journey to the enchanting Philae Temple, a sacred sanctuary dedicated to the goddess Isis. Rescued from the rising waters of Lake Nasser, this breathtaking temple now rests on the picturesque Agilkia Island, surrounded by shimmering waters and lush greenery.By afternoon, the Dahabiya sets sail toward Kom Ombo, gliding gracefully along the river. Watch as life along the Nile unfolds before you—villagers tending to their fields, children waving from the shore, and the golden sands meeting the emerald waters.

As the evening approaches, the boat moors near Baloula Island or Hardiab, where you’ll enjoy a magical dinner under the stars, immersed in the tranquil beauty of the Nile.
Overnight: Moored near Kom Ombo
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3 Monday: The Temples of Kom Ombo and Edfu
Awaken to the golden glow of the Nile and step ashore to explore the Kom Ombo Temple, one of Egypt’s most unique ancient sites. This fascinating double temple is dedicated to two gods—Sobek, the crocodile god, and Horus, the falcon-headed god. Learn about the temple’s symmetrical design and visit the Crocodile Museum, home to mummified crocodiles that once symbolized Sobek’s power.

For those seeking an extra dose of adventure, an optional visit to El Silsila awaits, an ancient sandstone quarry where pharaohs carved out the stones that built Egypt’s grand temples.The Dahabiya then continues its tranquil sail to Edfu, where you’ll arrive by evening. As the boat moors beside a scenic Nile island, unwind with a delightful dinner and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the river.
Overnight: Moored near Edfu
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4 Tuesday: The Majestic Temple of Edfu
his morning, visit the awe-inspiring Temple of Edfu, one of Egypt’s best-preserved temples, dedicated to Horus, the falcon god. Wander through its towering stone halls and marvel at the intricate carvings that depict epic battles between good and evil.

After exploring Edfu, return to the Dahabiya and enjoy a leisurely day on the water as the boat sails toward Esna. Watch the breathtaking scenery drift by—lush palm groves, traditional sailboats, and charming riverside villages.As night falls, the Dahabiya anchors near an island, offering another night of peace and serenity beneath the vast Egyptian sky.
Overnight: Moored near an island in Edfu
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5 Wednesday: A Day of Leisure and River Views
Today is a day for pure relaxation as the Dahabiya continues its sail toward Esna, passing through the Esna Lock, a fascinating engineering marvel. This smooth passage brings you one step closer to Luxor, the world’s greatest open-air museum.

With no scheduled excursions, take time to enjoy the stunning panoramic views of the Nile, lounge on the sundeck, or read a book as the gentle waves cradle your journey.By evening, the Dahabiya reaches Luxor, where it moors for the night.
Overnight: Moored in Luxor
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6 Thursday: The Majestic Karnak and Luxor Temples
Step into the grandeur of ancient Egypt with a visit to the Karnak Temple, a colossal complex dedicated to Amun-Ra. Wander through its legendary Hypostyle Hall, where 137 towering columns create an awe-inspiring forest of stone.

Next, explore the Luxor Temple, a stunning architectural masterpiece adorned with massive statues, intricate carvings, and an avenue lined with sphinxes.After a day of discovery, return to the Dahabiya for a restful evening, reflecting on the incredible history you’ve witnessed.
Overnight: Moored in Luxor
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7 Friday: The West Bank – A Journey into Ancient Egypt
Cross the Nile to explore the Valley of the Kings, the royal burial ground of Egypt’s most legendary pharaohs. Step into the tombs of rulers like Tutankhamun, where stunning murals and hieroglyphs tell tales of the afterlife.

Continue to the Valley of the Queens, the Medinet Habu Temple, and the Colossi of Memnon, two towering statues guarding the entrance to the ancient world.This final full day is filled with mesmerizing history before returning to the Dahabiya for a farewell evening on the Nile.
Overnight: Moored in Luxor
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8 Saturday: Farewell to the Nile
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast aboard the Dahabiya, taking in the last enchanting views of the Nile’s timeless beauty. With your heart full of memories and your camera full of breathtaking moments, disembark in Luxor, marking the end of your extraordinary journey through ancient Egypt.
Meals Included: Breakfast