From Cairo: 3-Day Nile Cruise with Hot Air Balloon & Flights

Cairo , Egypt

From Cairo: 3-Day Nile Cruise with Hot Air Balloon & Flights

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About this experience

Fly from Cairo to sail from Luxor to Aswan on a Nile River cruise. Visit Karnak Temple, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Valley of the Kings, Hatchepshut Temple, Abu Simbel, and enjoy a sunrise hot air balloon flight.

Available options

Standard Ship

Pickup included

Deluxe Ship

Pickup included

Luxury Ship

Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Horse carriage to Temple of Horus in Edfu

English-speaking guide

4-star hotel room with breakfast

Transportation

Flight tickets (Departure & Return)

Accommodation for 2 nights on a 5-star cruise with full board excluding drinks

Detailed itinerary

You will be picked up from your accommodation in Cairo in the afternoon and be driven to Cairo airport to take the included flight to Luxor. Upon your arrival, your driver will be waiting for you outside the airport

After meeting your driver, be transferred to the included 4-star hotel.

Day 2
You will be picked up in the early morning to Enjoy a hot air balloon ride to watch the sun come up over the archaeological sites of Luxor.

Next, head to the west bank of Luxor to visit the Valley of the Kings. Here you will explore the 3 most important tombs and see the walls full of hieroglyphs.

Your guide will then take you to the most important temple of the complex, the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut. The temple consists of three floors with open balconies built of limestone, with statues of the god Osiris and Queen Hatshepsut.

You’ll then head to the east bank to visit the biggest temple in Luxor, the Karnak Temple, dedicated to the god Amun, his wife Mut and their son Khonsu. Learn about the history of the temple before heading to your river boat for lunch.

You’ll check into your room and then the boat will depart for Edfu. In the evening, you’ll enjoy dinner and free time in the comfortable surroundings of the boat.

Stop 3

Day 3
After breakfast on board, take a horse-drawn carriage to Edfu. You’ll then enjoy a guided visit of the Temple of Horus. Marvel at the best-preserved religious place in Egypt with imposing sandstone structures of Horus.

You’ll enjoy lunch back on board the boat as you sail to your next destination. In the afternoon, visit the unusual Temple of Kom Ombo. Learn about the structures of the temple and how it was built in honor of two great gods. Return to the boat for dinner and free time.

Day 4
In the early morning, check out and take your breakfast box, then, you’ll head to one of the most stunning temple complexes in Egypt, the Abu Simbel Temples. The twin temples of Ramesses II and Nefertari were built into the mountainside in the 13th century BC, under the dynasty of Pharaoh Ramesses II.

Your guide will take you back to the cruise to take your luggage. You’ll then be transferred to Aswan airport to take the flight back to Cairo (Duration is 1 hour and 30 minutes).

Upon your arrival in Cairo, our driver will be waiting for you outside Cairo Airport to return you to your hotel.

What's not included

Gratuities

Entrance tickets

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN IT FR ES

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Cairo

Cairo, the capital of Egypt, is a vibrant metropolis where ancient history and modern life intertwine. As one of the largest cities in Africa, it offers a wealth of historical landmarks, bustling markets, and rich cultural experiences that attract millions of visitors each year.

Top Attractions

The Great Pyramids of Giza

The iconic pyramids are one of the most famous landmarks in the world and a must-visit for any traveler to Cairo. They are part of the Giza Necropolis, which also includes the Great Sphinx.

Historical Half day to full day Moderate (around $10-20 for entrance fees)

Egyptian Museum

This museum houses the largest collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts in the world, including the treasures of Tutankhamun. It's a must-visit for anyone interested in Egypt's rich history.

Museum 2-3 hours Moderate (around $10-15 for entrance fees)

Khan el-Khalili Bazaar

One of the oldest and most famous markets in the Middle East, Khan el-Khalili offers a vibrant shopping experience with a wide range of goods, from spices and perfumes to jewelry and souvenirs.

Cultural 1-2 hours Moderate (prices vary depending on items)

Coptic Cairo

This area is home to some of the oldest Christian churches in Egypt, including the Hanging Church and the Church of St. Sergius and Bacchus. It's a fascinating place to explore for those interested in the history of Christianity in Egypt.

Historical 1-2 hours Low (around $5-10 for entrance fees)

Nile River Cruise

A Nile River cruise offers a unique way to see Cairo from a different perspective. Many cruises include dinner and entertainment, making it a memorable experience.

Cultural 2-3 hours Moderate to Expensive (depending on the cruise package)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Koshari

A popular street food made with a mix of rice, lentils, chickpeas, pasta, and fried onions, topped with a spicy tomato sauce.

Main Dish Vegetarian

Ful Medames

A traditional breakfast dish made with mashed fava beans, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil, often served with bread.

Breakfast Vegetarian, Vegan

Molokhia

A green leafy vegetable soup made with jute leaves, garlic, and coriander, often served with rice or bread.

Main Dish Vegetarian, Vegan

Kofta

Grilled minced meat skewers made with a mix of ground beef, lamb, or chicken, seasoned with spices and herbs.

Main Dish Contains meat

Popular Activities

Desert safaris Quad biking in the desert Hot air balloon rides over the Nile Nile River cruises Beach relaxation in Alexandria or Hurghada Spa and wellness treatments Exploring ancient temples and ruins Visiting museums and galleries

Best Time to Visit

October to April

This period offers the most pleasant weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The temperatures are mild, making it ideal for exploring the city's historical sites.

15-28°C 59-82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Arabic
Widely spoken: English, French
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other parts of the city

Currency

Egyptian Pound (EGP)

Time Zone

EET (GMT+2)

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Cairo is generally safe for tourists, but pickpocketing, scams, and harassment can occur, especially in crowded areas. It's important to stay vigilant, be aware of your surroundings, and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded areas.
• Avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit or deserted areas.
• Be cautious when using taxis, and always agree on a fare or use the meter before starting your journey.

Getting there

By air

Cairo International Airport • 20 km from city center

By train

Ramses Station

By bus

Cairo Bus Station, Turgoman Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The metro is the fastest and most efficient way to get around Cairo. It has three lines and is relatively affordable.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Careem

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Cairo Islamic Cairo Zamalek Giza

Day trips

Alexandria

220 km from Cairo • Full day

Alexandria is a beautiful coastal city with a rich history, offering a mix of ancient landmarks, beaches, and vibrant culture.

Luxor

670 km from Cairo • Overnight

Luxor is often referred to as the world's greatest open-air museum, offering a wealth of ancient Egyptian landmarks and temples.

Aswan

870 km from Cairo • Overnight

Aswan is a charming city on the Nile, known for its beautiful landscapes, ancient temples, and relaxing atmosphere.

Festivals

Cairo International Film Festival • Late November to early December Cairo Jazz Festival • Late January to early February Cairo Fashion Festival • April

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Arabic phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals.
Hire a guide for major attractions, such as the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Egyptian Museum, to gain a deeper understanding of their history and significance.
Bargain when shopping at markets and bazaars, as it's expected and can help you get a better deal.
Dress modestly and respectfully, especially when visiting religious sites, to show respect for local customs and traditions.
Be prepared for heavy traffic and crowded streets, especially during peak hours and in popular tourist areas.