A breathtaking 16-day slow travel experience sailing on a private Dahabiya.
Sail in style on a private Dahabiya from Aswan to Cairo, uncovering hidden temples, sacred tombs, vibrant villages, and world wonders along the Nile. This slow-travel journey blends luxury cruising, cultural encounters, and iconic treasures.
Arrive at Cairo Airport and take a connecting flight straight to Aswan. Upon arrival, you will be escorted to your luxurious, private wooden Dahabiya. Settle into your beautifully appointed cabin, enjoy a welcome lunch on the sun deck, and take in the serene views of the Nile.
Begin your slow, peaceful journey down the river. Stop at Esna to explore its vibrant local markets and the partially excavated Temple of Khnum. Later, visit the ancient, off-the-beaten-path rock tombs of El Kab, an area rarely visited by large cruise ships.
Wake up to the gentle lapping of the Nile. Disembark at Edfu and take a traditional horse-drawn carriage through the town to the magnificent Temple of Horus. Marvel at the soaring pylons and incredibly intact roof before returning to the Dahabiya for a sunset dinner.
Explore the ancient sandstone quarries of Gebel Silsila, where the stones for Egypt's greatest temples were cut. Later, sail to Kom Ombo to visit the unique double temple dedicated to the crocodile god Sobek and the falcon god Haroeris.
Arrive back in the Aswan area to explore the engineering marvel of the High Dam. Take a small motorboat to the island of Agilkia to wander through the beautiful, romantic columns of the Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis.
Embark on an incredible overland journey through the desert to the majestic Abu Simbel temples. Stand in awe of the four colossal statues of Ramses II, carved directly into the mountainside. Return to your Dahabiya in the afternoon for a relaxing evening.
Spend an entire day simply enjoying the luxury of slow travel. Lounge on the sun deck with a book, watch the timeless agricultural life of the Nile banks pass by, and enjoy exquisite, freshly prepared meals from your onboard chef.
Dock in Luxor and cross to the legendary West Bank. Descend into the vibrantly painted tombs of the Valley of the Kings, explore the breathtaking, terraced Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, and take photos with the massive Colossi of Memnon.
Spend the day exploring the monumental East Bank. Walk through the towering, awe-inspiring hypostyle hall of Karnak Temple, the largest religious complex ever built. In the evening, visit the beautifully illuminated Luxor Temple.
Sail north of Luxor to visit the beautifully preserved Temple of Hathor at Dendera, famous for its vivid blue ceiling and zodiac reliefs. Continue to Abydos to explore the Temple of Seti I, known for some of the finest, most delicate carvings in all of Egypt.
Venture into Middle Egypt, an area completely untouched by mass tourism. Visit Tel El Amarna, the short-lived, revolutionary capital built by the heretic pharaoh Akhenaten and Queen Nefertiti. Explore the ruins and the unique art style of the Amarna period.
Continue sailing through the serene landscapes of Middle Egypt. Dock to visit the Middle Kingdom rock-cut tombs of Beni Hassan, featuring incredibly detailed and colorful scenes of ancient daily life, hunting, and wrestling.
Arrive near the fertile Fayoum Oasis. Take an overland excursion to see the beautiful Lake Qarun, the waterfalls of Wadi El Rayan, and the ancient ruins scattered throughout this lush, agricultural depression.
Your 14-day sailing journey culminates as the Dahabiya docks in the bustling capital of Cairo. Spend the day resting onboard, enjoying your final meals prepared by the chef, and taking in the contrast of the massive city from the water.
Disembark for a full day of touring. Meet your Egyptologist to explore the legendary Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, and the Valley Temple. In the afternoon, marvel at the modern architectural wonder of the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) before returning to the boat for your final night.
Say a fond farewell to your Dahabiya crew. Your driver will transfer you to Cairo International Airport, ensuring a smooth departure after an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime journey.