Planning a Classic Nile River Cruise from Cairo to Aswan
To do this right, fly from Cairo to Luxor to begin a 3-to-4 night Nile cruise, ending in Aswan. Do not try to cruise from Cairo, as the river segments are often restricted; use domestic flights to connect the major historical hubs.
- Book your internal flight first. Book a flight from Cairo to Luxor. EgyptAir operates multiple daily flights (approx. 1 hour flight time). Do not attempt to take a cruise ship directly from Cairo to Luxor; it is not standard for tourism.
- Choose your cruise direction. Select a Luxor-to-Aswan itinerary (3 nights) or Aswan-to-Luxor (4 nights). Luxor-to-Aswan is generally better for gradual historical immersion starting with the massive Karnak temple complex.
- Secure your permits. If you plan on visiting Abu Simbel from Aswan, book this transport 48 hours in advance through your hotel or cruise ship; it requires a police-monitored convoy or private tour operator.
- Book entrance tickets. Many major sites now require tickets to be purchased via the official Ministry of Tourism portal using a credit card; keep your QR codes saved offline in your phone.
- Do I need to tip for everything?
- Yes. Tipping (baksheesh) is a central part of Egyptian culture. Keep a dedicated stash of small bills (5, 10, 20 EGP) for bathroom attendants, drivers, and guides.
- Can I drink the tap water?
- No. Stick strictly to bottled water, even for brushing your teeth if you have a sensitive stomach.