Should I book the cruise through a tour company or directly?

Book directly with cruise lines like Sonesta, Oberoi, or Sanctuary for better prices and service. Tour companies add 20-30% markup for the same product.

Is it worth paying extra for a suite on the Nile cruise?

Yes, if your budget allows. Suites have proper windows instead of portholes, more space, and better bathrooms. The price difference is usually $100-150 per night.

Can I do this itinerary in reverse (Luxor to Aswan)?

Yes, but southbound cruises are less common and more expensive. Most cruise schedules run north with the current from Aswan to Luxor.

How much should I tip guides and cruise staff?

Budget $5-10 per day for your cruise guide, $20-30 total for cruise staff, $10-15 for day tour guides. Tip in Egyptian pounds or small US bills.

How to Plan a Classic Egypt Itinerary: Cairo, Nile Cruise, Luxor, and Aswan

A classic Egypt trip takes 8-10 days: 3 days in Cairo for pyramids and museums, then fly to Aswan for a 3-4 day Nile cruise to Luxor, plus 1-2 days exploring Luxor's temples. Book the cruise first as it determines your internal flight timing.

Plan your route direction. Fly Cairo to Aswan, cruise north to Luxor, then fly Luxor back to Cairo. This follows the Nile's flow and gives you the Valley of the Kings as your finale rather than your opener.
Book the Nile cruise first. Cruise availability determines everything else. Book 2-3 months ahead for December-March peak season. Choose 3-night (Aswan-Luxor) or 4-night (includes Edfu and Kom Ombo stops). Expect $200-400 per person per night for decent quality.
Arrange internal flights. Book Cairo-Aswan and Luxor-Cairo flights after confirming cruise dates. EgyptAir operates multiple daily flights. Allow 3 hours between flight arrival and cruise boarding for transfers and check-in.
Time your Cairo days. Schedule 2-3 days in Cairo before flying south, then 1-2 days after returning from Luxor. This splits your time and gives you airport flexibility. Book your Giza pyramid visit and Egyptian Museum tickets in advance.
Add Luxor extension. Plan 1-2 extra days in Luxor after the cruise ends. You'll want full days for Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple complex, and Luxor Temple without rushing between cruise excursions.

Should I book the cruise through a tour company or directly?: Book directly with cruise lines like Sonesta, Oberoi, or Sanctuary for better prices and service. Tour companies add 20-30% markup for the same product.
Is it worth paying extra for a suite on the Nile cruise?: Yes, if your budget allows. Suites have proper windows instead of portholes, more space, and better bathrooms. The price difference is usually $100-150 per night.
Can I do this itinerary in reverse (Luxor to Aswan)?: Yes, but southbound cruises are less common and more expensive. Most cruise schedules run north with the current from Aswan to Luxor.
How much should I tip guides and cruise staff?: Budget $5-10 per day for your cruise guide, $20-30 total for cruise staff, $10-15 for day tour guides. Tip in Egyptian pounds or small US bills.