- Four-night Nile cruise on the intimate five-Star MS Movenpick Royal Lily or Royal Lotus, which has 56-60 spacious cabins, a spa, and an on-deck swimming or plunge pool
- Final night at the Movenpick Resort Aswan on the Elephantine Island with 360-degree views of the Nile
- Two full days in Cairo to see the sights at a relaxed pace including the Pyramids of Giza, El Azhar Mosque and the lively bazaar
- The colossal Karnak and Luxor temples with your expert guide
- Hieroglyphs and hidden tombs of the pharaohs in the Valley of the Kings

Nile Cruise & Aswan – Premium Adventure
Reviews
Add your own reviewRemarkable Trip, But Crowded Venues
The temples and tombs of Egypt are really unique. It is amazing to visit ancient sites that cover a span of over 2,600 years, yet are linked by a consistent aesthetic and belief system. The carvings and paintings in each temple and tomb different from the others. The amount of artwork in each one is quite extraordinary. The dry climate has preserved much of the colour in some of the decorations. Being in the presence of the Pyramids gives a whole new meaning to the term “monumental”. Both hotels were exceptionally good. The Cairo Zamalek has lots of good restaurants, and the largest and most complete gym that we have ever encountered in any hotel. The Movenpick on Elephantine Island was also superb, and their emphasis on recycling and the use of compost (they have an extensive kitchen garden) was impressive. The staff at both hotels and on the boat were all very helpful.
Most Inspirational Moment
The engravings in the tombs of the Valley of the Kings made us think of the hundreds of artisans who worked in each of them, of how the work has endured, and how their descendants are the Egyptians of today. The paintings of everyday life in the tombs in Saqqara, which are almost five thousand years old, were quite moving.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Ahmed was very helpful and knowledgeable. I pestered him with questions constantly, and he was always eager to share his knowledge and enthusiasm. He was also very helpful in dealing with our transfers, which were not with the rest of the group. Akmar was also very helpful in getting us through Cairo Airport and into the hotel when we arrived after midnight. He had lots of good advice on dealing with the many hawkers and vendors that one encounters.
Advice for Potential Travellers
February is in the high season, and the tour boat was part of a flotilla of fifteen to twenty identical vessels travelling to the same docks at the same time. The temples and tombs (with the exception of Memphis and Saqqara) were very crowded. Experienced guides suggested that late September is an ideal time to visit when the heat is not too oppressive (although warmer than February) and the crowds are much smaller. Be prepared for lots of early mornings. Don't miss the trip to Saqqara. Abu Simbel was fascinating, but be prepared for eight hours on a bus. Take some small denominations in Egyption currency for baksheesh in various locations. Toilet attendants expect 5 EG - less than 20 Euro or USD cents.
Suggestions
For the cost of this trip, too many of the venues are expensive add-ons. We understand that marine safety standards in Egypt are not the same as those in western countries. The cruise boats had no safety drills, and no life jackets. Likewise the small ferry boats at Philae and the felucca at Aswan (which was a really delightful part of the trip) had no life jackets. At both places, we did see at least one other group wearing lifejackets in these vessels. Given the demographic and probable range of fitness and swimming skills in our group, this should be addressed. We have been on much more basic vessels in non-Western locations - including a trip on the Amazon over a decade ago - and lifejackets were provided.
You must do this once in your lifetime
Just returned from our Egyptian trip. It was truly amazing. Our guide Ahmed was outstanding – he looked after everyone so well and kept us right with everything from dealing with occasional aggressive hawkers at the temples to protocols around mosque visits. He has a masters in Egyptology and brought all the sites to life for us. The trouble with the antiquities in Egypt is that they are so stunning that everywhere else you visit will pale into insignificance. Someone made Tutenkamun’s mask and built pyramids 3000-4500 years ago when our ancestors were scraping a living in caves and mud huts. The trip takes in all the must see treasures – Cairo, the pyramids & sphinx, Valley of the Kings, the temples & Nile. The accommodation and food was of a really high standard. Egypt actually has a very low crime rate against tourists and we found the Egyptian people to be so warm, welcoming, helpful & friendly. None of the 10 females in our group of 16 had any problems at all. Everyone felt safe & secure at all times. In terms of fitness, my wife had an acute knee problem but still managed all activities without difficulty- it is level1. Most people will only ever do Egypt once. This trip ticked all our boxes and gave us memories for a lifetime.
Most Inspirational Moment
Tutenkamun’s mask, the Sphinx,the Valley of the Kings & Karnak. I am a sailor & also really enjoyed the felucca sailing.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Ahmed was so inspirational and outstanding. He devoted himself to ensuring everyone had a really positive experience of Egypt and really went the extra mile for us.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Be aware that the trip involves a lot of early starts to visit sites before they get crowded. Bedtimes were therefore early.
Suggestions
If you enjoy travelling, you really must visit Egypt at least once in your life. This trip easily exceeded our expectations and I can recommend it without reservation as a great way to see the best of the country.
Exploring The Nile
Overall an excellent trip. However, it would have been better to have an extra night in Cairo. The schedule was too busy for the one day we had in Cairo and we did not get to see the mosque or markets and yet were out for 11 hours. We saw The Pyramids, The Sphinx, and Cairo museum. The long day meant we did not get to experience the hotel in Cairo. The ship and hotel in Aswan were very good. Food in Cairo and on the ship was excellent.
Most Inspirational Moment
The Valley of the Kings and Abu Simbel were amazing and riding a camel which I had not planned on doing!
Thoughts on Group Leader
Very good. Rania looked after everyone and gave us lots of information and made all the arrangements very smooth. Occasionally things were not clear but this was not a problem.
Suggestions
I feel that the optional trips were very over priced and the mark up on the entrance tickets unacceptable. For example the light show at Karnak Temple was $15 but we were charged $45. The transport could not have accounted for the difference as we were no more than 10 minutes from the ship and we went to the light show without the guide. So this makes me feel that Exodus are making a big profit on all of the optional trips. This will make me consider future trips where there are optional excursions that are extra.
Nile Cruise + Aswan
This was an excellent trip in April 2022 – great itinerary, so much culture, fantastic guide (Tarek) and such delicious food on the Nile boat. I loved every minute of it, and so glad I went. Particular highlights for me were the temples at Karnack, Valley of the Kings, the food on the Nile boat and the yellowness of the sandstorm that engulfed us on our way back from Abu Simbel! It is however, not a trip for the faint-hearted. There are LOTS of early starts. Almost every day was a start before 7am and on a couple of days, it was up at 3am. There is LOTS of walking, I think I did about 27 miles in the 9 days – to/from temples, round museums, in/out of airports, to/from local markets etc. Personally, I am not sure I would label this as ‘leisurely’ – yes, there were no hills to climb, but it was often uneven, sandy ground we walking on and when I went, Egypt was also going through a heatwave, so it was 43 or 44 degrees every day. I ignored some of the optional extras so I could have some down time on the boat. I would also add that in additional to the ‘essentials’ listed on the what to take, you also need: sunhat, scarf to cover your shoulders and women need to wear a long skirt for the day they are going into the mosque in Cairo. Refillable water bottle and light/comfortable walking shoes – very essential! Also, take US dollars as your main currency (small denominations and not ripped notes). You will need some Egyptian pounds for some of the attractions, but everywhere they just want hard currency – even at the local markets. Final word of advice – don’t bother with the extra walk INSIDE the pyramid in Cairo. It is near vertical, baking hot and nothing to see at the end of it. My legs were wobbly for hours afterwards. Overall, this was a totally amazing trip though and hope you enjoy it.
Most Inspirational Moment
I loved the temples at Karnack for their sheer scale and the Valley of the Kings for the colours and preservation.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Tarek was our tour leader and he was amazing. So knowledgeable and such a nice man.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Yes - see my earlier notes. Be prepared for lots of early mornings, lots of walking and a feast of amazing sights for your eyes to take in. Refillable water bottle and comfy walking shoes an absolute must! Remember to dress respectfully for the country. Light /cotton scarves to cover your shoulders from the heat (women need to wear these to go into some of the attractions too). Women need to wear a long skirt on the day when you go to the mosque in Cairo. Take US dollars.
Start
Finish
Availability
Adult Price From
Optional Single Supplement
Friday Friday
24 Mar 2023 24 Mar 2023
Saturday Saturday
01 Apr 2023 01 Apr 2023
Availability Guaranteed (Available) Only 5 spaces left!
Adult Price From USD 4,179
Optional Single Supplement +USD 1,216
Leader Mr. Ahme El Meligy
Leader Mr. Ahme El Meligy
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
21 Apr 2023 21 Apr 2023
Saturday Saturday
29 Apr 2023 29 Apr 2023
Availability Sold Out
Adult Price From USD 4,179
Optional Single Supplement +USD 1,216
Leader Mr. Andrew Nematalla
Leader Mr. Andrew Nematalla
Availability
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead and is now fully booked, although we may have people holding spaces without payment. Please contact our Sales team for further information.
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
19 May 2023 19 May 2023
Saturday Saturday
27 May 2023 27 May 2023
Availability Guaranteed (Limited) Only 2 spaces left!
Adult Price From USD 4,179
Optional Single Supplement +USD 1,216
Availability
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead but there are only 2 spaces left. Do not delay your booking!
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
22 Sep 2023 22 Sep 2023
Saturday Saturday
30 Sep 2023 30 Sep 2023
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Adult Price From USD 4,349
Optional Single Supplement +USD 1,216
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
13 Oct 2023 13 Oct 2023
Saturday Saturday
21 Oct 2023 21 Oct 2023
Availability Guaranteed (On Request) Only 2 spaces left!
Adult Price From USD 4,349
Optional Single Supplement +USD 1,216
Availability
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead but there are only 2 spaces left. Do not delay your booking!
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
10 Nov 2023 10 Nov 2023
Saturday Saturday
18 Nov 2023 18 Nov 2023
Availability Sold Out
Adult Price From USD 4,349
Optional Single Supplement +USD 1,216
Availability
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead and is now fully booked, although we may have people holding spaces without payment. Please contact our Sales team for further information.
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
17 Nov 2023 17 Nov 2023
Saturday Saturday
25 Nov 2023 25 Nov 2023
Availability Available
Adult Price From USD 4,349
Optional Single Supplement +USD 1,216
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
08 Dec 2023 08 Dec 2023
Saturday Saturday
16 Dec 2023 16 Dec 2023
Availability Available
Adult Price From USD 4,349
Optional Single Supplement +USD 1,216
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
05 Jan 2024 05 Jan 2024
Saturday Saturday
13 Jan 2024 13 Jan 2024
Availability Available
Adult Price From USD 4,399
Optional Single Supplement +USD 1,264
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
12 Jan 2024 12 Jan 2024
Saturday Saturday
20 Jan 2024 20 Jan 2024
Availability Available
Adult Price From USD 4,399
Optional Single Supplement +USD 1,264
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
02 Feb 2024 02 Feb 2024
Saturday Saturday
10 Feb 2024 10 Feb 2024
Availability Available
Adult Price From USD 4,479
Optional Single Supplement +USD 1,264
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
16 Feb 2024 16 Feb 2024
Saturday Saturday
24 Feb 2024 24 Feb 2024
Availability Available
Adult Price From USD 4,479
Optional Single Supplement +USD 1,264
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
01 Mar 2024 01 Mar 2024
Saturday Saturday
09 Mar 2024 09 Mar 2024
Availability Available
Adult Price From USD 4,479
Optional Single Supplement +USD 1,264
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
22 Mar 2024 22 Mar 2024
Saturday Saturday
30 Mar 2024 30 Mar 2024
Availability Available
Adult Price From USD 4,479
Optional Single Supplement +USD 1,264
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
19 Apr 2024 19 Apr 2024
Saturday Saturday
27 Apr 2024 27 Apr 2024
Availability Available
Adult Price From USD 4,479
Optional Single Supplement +USD 1,264
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
17 May 2024 17 May 2024
Saturday Saturday
25 May 2024 25 May 2024
Availability Available
Adult Price From USD 4,479
Optional Single Supplement +USD 1,264
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
20 Sep 2024 20 Sep 2024
Saturday Saturday
28 Sep 2024 28 Sep 2024
Availability Available
Adult Price From USD 4,649
Optional Single Supplement +USD 1,264
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
11 Oct 2024 11 Oct 2024
Saturday Saturday
19 Oct 2024 19 Oct 2024
Availability Available
Adult Price From USD 4,649
Optional Single Supplement +USD 1,264
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
08 Nov 2024 08 Nov 2024
Saturday Saturday
16 Nov 2024 16 Nov 2024
Availability Available
Adult Price From USD 4,649
Optional Single Supplement +USD 1,264
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
15 Nov 2024 15 Nov 2024
Saturday Saturday
23 Nov 2024 23 Nov 2024
Availability Available
Adult Price From USD 4,649
Optional Single Supplement +USD 1,264
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
06 Dec 2024 06 Dec 2024
Saturday Saturday
14 Dec 2024 14 Dec 2024
Availability Available
Adult Price From USD 4,649
Optional Single Supplement +USD 1,264
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesWould you like to include flights with your booking?
- ATOL protected
- Competitive flight prices
- Full refunds in the event of FCDO cancellations or major disruption at your UK departure airport
- Specialist support to rearrange flights and transfers
- Regional flights available from many UK airports
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