Sailing the Nile in Style

Regular price: $8,659.00
Sale price: $8,659.00

Class

Travel Date

Room Type

Quantity

Dahabiya Experience

Small Group Nile Sailing Experience and Independent Holiday (min 2, max 16 passengers)

12 Days ex Cairo

Departure Dates (Thursdays):

2025: Nov: 13 | Dec: 11
2026: Jan: 07 | Feb: 19 | Mar: 12 | Apr: 16 | May: 07, 21 | Sep: 03, 17 | Oct: 08, 29 | Nov: 12 | Dec 03

Cairo Pyramids Area (2) | Dahabiya (7) | Cairo Downtown area (2)

Prepare to be transported on a 12-day small group journey that captures the soul of Egypt in the most unforgettable way. From the moment you arrive, fast-tracked through Cairo’s bustling airport, you’re immersed in a land where ancient wonders meet timeless elegance. Explore the mighty Pyramids of Giza, the enigmatic Sphinx, and the dazzling new Grand Egyptian Museum with your own private Egyptologist. Then, step aboard the your Dahabiya —a graceful, wind-powered sailboat that takes you back to the golden age of Nile travel. Glide through lush landscapes, past sleepy villages and grand temples, where each day reveals a new chapter of Egypt’s majestic past. From the haunting beauty of Luxor’s tombs to dinner beneath starry skies in Kom Ombo, this is not just a holiday—it’s a journey into history, culture, and wonder. End with a deep dive into Cairo’s medieval heart, where narrow alleys whisper stories older than time itself.

Highlights:

A warm welcome with a personal meet and assist inside immigration, together with your Egyptian visa on arrival, followed by express immigration assistance
Experience a serene 7 night journey along the Nile on your luxury Dahabiya, experiencing age old traditions along the banks of this life-giving river
Visit the iconic Pyramids, including the Great Pyramid of Khufu, and the enigmatic Sphinx
Discover an extensive collection of Egypt's most treasured artifacts at the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM)
Visit the magnificent temples of Karnak and Luxor, and the Valley of the Kings
Marvel at Edfu Temple, one of Egypt's best-preserved temples dedicated to the falcon god Horus
Relax with a cocktail as you watch the sunset on the Nile
Indulge in the diverse Flavors of Egyptian cuisine by sampling traditional dishes such as koshari falafel, ful medames (mashed fava beans), and freshly baked bread prepared by personal cruise chef
24/7 service and full back-up from our local Egypt representative

Notes:

Any departure under 8 passengers will have local guides in each city as opposed to an escort through out the trip.
Order of sightseeing may vary, and cruise schedules may operate in reverse
Itineraries may be changed without notice due to river flows, local or other conditions and these changes are beyond the responsibility of Innovative Travel or our local operators.
In the case of local uncooperative weather conditions your Dahabiya may be assisted by a powered vessel

Itinerary
Accommodation
Important Information

Day 1: Cairo

Welcome to Egypt. On arrival at Cairo Airport, you will be welcomed by our local Airport representative PRIOR to immigration who will assist you with your included Egyptian Visa. Your special fast track immigration service ensures priority access. After immigration clearance, you will be assisted with your luggage collection and customs control by our local team, then transferred by private vehicle to your Giza. You will be assisted with your hotel checking then spend the remainder of the day at leisure to unwind after your travels. Overnight Cairo.

Day 2: Cairo (B)

A day to remember! Meet your Egyptologist guide and embark on a full day sightseeing tour of the Pyramids, Sphinx and the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM). Begin your day with a visit to the impressive site of the Pyramids whose construction began in 2690 BC. The Pyramids of Mycerinus, Chefren and the Great Pyramid of Cheops are the only survivors from the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Face the mystical Sphinx, reputedly used as target practice by Napoleon’s troops.

Optional (supplement applies): Take a Camel Ride across the sands of the desert with the Pyramids in the background or take a walk inside the Great Pyramid ( no recommended for those with claustrophobia)

A reservation is included for lunch at the 9 Pyramids Lounge with stunning views overlooking the ancient Pyramids of Giza. This is a unique dining experience, unlike anything else in the world (payment for lunch to be made locally at the restaurant). View the 9 Pyramids Lounge Facebook Page for more details: https://www.facebook.com/9PyramidsLounge

This afternoon, embark on a captivating visit to the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), one of the largest and most comprehensive archaeological museums in the world located near the Pyramids. Spanning over 5,000 years of history, this museum boasts an extraordinary collection of artifacts that trace the rich cultural heritage of Egypt inspired by the boy King Tutankhamun. Scheduled to open in July. The GEM has unveiled 12 of its main galleries, offering a glimpse into its vast treasures. As you step inside, you’ll be welcomed by the imposing figure of Ramses II, a colossal statue that has been relocated from Tahrir Square and now stands proudly in the museum’s grand foyer. From here, you'll journey through the newly opened galleries, where over 15,000 meticulously curated artifacts are displayed. These exhibits span millennia, showcasing the incredible achievements of ancient Egyptian civilization, from its earliest dynasties to the grandeur of its later empires. With each step, you'll delve deeper into the stories of pharaohs, gods, and everyday life, uncovering the mysteries and marvels of one of the world's oldest and most influential cultures. (The GEM also has a shopping complex and cafes).

Optional Tour (supplement applies): Top off an unforgettable day with an incredible evening attending the Sound and Light Show at the Pyramids

Day 3: Cairo – Luxor - Embark on Dahabiya cruise (BLD)

This morning you will be transferred to Cairo Airport for your flight to Luxor. On arrival in Luxor step aboard your Dahabiya for a week of serene sailing on the legendary Nile. Enjoy a welcome lunch as the ship’s timeless beauty and attentive staff begin to work their magic. In the afternoon, explore Luxor’s East Bank, home to the magnificent Temple of Karnak—an awe-inspiring complex of sanctuaries, pylons, and the vast Hypostyle Hall with its 137 towering columns. The tour continues with the striking Luxor Temple, glowing in golden hues at sunset. Tonight, the dahabiya remains moored on the Nile banks of Luxor, allowing you to enjoy your first evening with gentle breezes, starry skies, and the echoes of ancient history.

Note: Dahabiya itinerary is subject to change based on navigational conditions. The order of visits may vary, but all sites will be covered.

Day 4: Luxor – Esna (BLD)

Begin your day with an unforgettable visit to the fabled West Bank of Luxor. Walk in the footsteps of archaeologists through the Valley of the Kings, where Tutankhamun’s tomb was famously discovered in 1922. Nearby, visit the Valley of the Queens and the mortuary temple of Medinet Habu, one of the best-preserved temples from the New Kingdom. Stop to admire the immense Colossi of Memnon before returning to the dahabiya for lunch. By noon, the vessel sets sail southward toward Esna. As the sails rise and the Nile unfolds around you, relax on deck and watch the lush riverbanks drift by. Tonight, you’ll be moored near Esna for a peaceful evening under the stars.

Innovative Bonus: Entry into Tutankhamun and Ramses VI included

Day 5: Sailing to Edfu (BLD)

After breakfast, enjoy a full day of scenic sailing as the dahabiya makes its way to Edfu. This tranquil stretch of the Nile offers the perfect opportunity to unwind. Lounge on the sun deck with a book, sip a cool drink, or simply absorb the rhythms of river life—fields of sugarcane, children waving from the shore, and herons gliding across the water. The cruise arrives in Edfu around 6:00pm, where you’ll be moored beside a lush Nile island. The quiet ambiance and natural beauty of the surroundings make for a magical overnight stay.

Day 6: Temple of Edfu & Island Dining in Kom Ombo (BLD)

Your morning begins with an optional visit to El Silsila, a fascinating sandstone quarry site where pharaohs once sourced materials for their temples. By early afternoon, explore the twin temple of Kom Ombo, dramatically perched along the Nile’s edge. This unique site honors two gods—Sobek, the crocodile god, and Horus the Elder—with mirror-image sanctuaries and fascinating reliefs. The small yet captivating Crocodile Museum is also nearby. Return aboard for dinner as the dahabiya continues toward Aswan, mooring for the night beside a serene island close to the city.

Day 7: El Silsila (Optional) & Kom Ombo Temple (BLD)

Your morning begins with an optional visit to El Silsila, a fascinating sandstone quarry site where pharaohs once sourced materials for their temples. By early afternoon, explore the twin temple of Kom Ombo, dramatically perched along the Nile’s edge. This unique site honours two gods—Sobek, the crocodile god, and Horus the Elder—with mirror-image sanctuaries and fascinating reliefs. The small yet captivating Crocodile Museum is also nearby. Return aboard for dinner as the dahabiya continues toward Aswan, mooring for the night beside a serene island close to the city.

Day 8: Sailing to Aswan (BLD)

Today offers a relaxed and graceful sail toward Aswan, with time to absorb the changing landscape and reflect on the journey so far. As the dahabiya glides closer to its final destination, pass small villages and palm-lined shores that reveal a slower, simpler way of life. Take in the gentle rhythm of the Nile, the comfort of the sun deck, and the elegant service that defines your cruise experience. The vessel moors near Aswan Bridge by afternoon, allowing for a peaceful evening in preparation for the final day’s discoveries.

Day 9: Aswan (B)

Today, delve into Aswan’s modern and ancient marvels. Begin with a visit to the iconic Aswan High Dam—an engineering feat completed in 1971—and the older dam built in 1902. These monumental projects forever changed Egypt’s relationship with the Nile. Next, explore the enchanting Philae Temple, dedicated to Isis, goddess of magic and motherhood. Rescued and relocated to Agilkia Island after the creation of Lake Nasser, the temple is a testament to both ancient artistry and modern ingenuity. Return to the dahabiya for a final celebratory evening onboard.

Day 10: Aswan – Cairo (B)

After a final breakfast aboard The Nile, it’s time to disembark. Though the journey ends in Aswan, the memories of tranquil Nile days, starry nights, and the wonders of ancient Egypt will stay with you forever.

Optional (supplement applies): Visit to Abu Simbel

The two temples of Abu Simbel are amongst the most magnificent monuments in the world. Considered one of the most impressive archaeological sites in all of Egypt, not only for its historical significance, but also for the great engineering success in moving these temples to their present location. The master builder was Ramses II, one of Egypt’s greatest Pharaohs. The larger temple celebrates the Pharaoh himself while the smaller one honours his wife, Queen Nefertari. When the new Lake Nasser Dam was built in the 1960s, the temples were moved to save them from a watery grave. In an amazing feat of engineering, the temples were hewn into huge blocks of thirty tonnes each and relocated 180m further inland.
The optional tour includes flights Aswan/Abu Simbel/Aswan, meet and assist in Aswan and Abu Simbel, small group or private transfer to the temples, and priority entrance and guides.

Transfer to Aswan Airport for your flight to Cairo. On arrival at Cairo Airport, you will be transferred to your downtown hotel.

Day 11: Cairo (BL)

Step back in time and explore the enchanting streets of Medieval Cairo on this private full-day tour. Begin your journey through history at Al Moez Street, a vibrant open-air museum lined with grand mosques, mausoleums, schools, and palaces from the Fatimid, Ayyubid, Mamluk, and Ottoman periods. Enter the old gates of Cairo and soak in the medieval atmosphere that still lingers in this historic district. Cross Al Azhar Street to visit Wekalet el Ghoury, a 16th-century caravanserai, and the nearby Zeinab Khatoun House, a rare example of domestic Mamluk architecture. One final taste Egyptian delights in a farewell lunch with sweeping views of Cairo’s skyline and the Citadel from Al Azhar Park. In the afternoon, visit the Mosque of Ibn Tulun, Egypt’s oldest surviving mosque, with its unique spiral minaret inspired by Samarra in Iraq. Next door, tour the Gayer-Anderson Museum, a beautifully restored Ottoman house filled with Islamic art and artifacts—also featured in the James Bond film The Spy Who Loved Me. A rich, immersive experience of Cairo’s medieval soul.

Day 12: Cairo (B)

This morning you will be transferred to Cairo Airport for your onward flight.

TOUR INCLUSIONS:

Fast Track meet and assistance prior to immigration at Cairo Airport
Egyptian visa for US, Canadian, New Zealand, Australian and UK passport holders
Airport departure assistance
24/7 service and full local backup from our seven regional offices throughout Egypt
4 nights’ accommodation in hotels specified with private facilities
Daily breakfasts at hotels; farewell lunch on Day 11
7-night Boutique Dahabiya Nile Cruise on full board basis
Private transfers in air-conditioned transportation
Economy Class domestic flights Cairo/Luxor and Aswan/Cairo
Small Group sightseeing on Nile Cruise and in Cairo, with English speaking Egyptologist-Guide
Bonus entry into the tombs of Tutankhamun and Ramses VI
Entrance fees
Egypt Travel Notes - issued by Innovative Travel

TOUR EXCLUSIONS:

International airfares
Optional tours and excursions
Porterage
Tipping/Gratuities (please refer to tour notes for a recommended guideline)
Personal Expenses
Departure taxes
Hotel charges for minibar or any extra charges
Egyptian Visa for non-US, Canadian, New Zealand, Australian and UK Passport holders
Any other services not clearly mentioned in the inclusions above

Accommodation based on the following or similar:

Cairo Pyramids Area

Hyatt Centric

Nile Cruise

Sonesta Dahabiya Cruise

Cairo Downtown Area

Sofitel Gezirah (partial Nile View Room)

Cruising the Nile
Please use cruise itineraries as a guideline only. The order of sightseeing and overnight destinations may vary and are subject to change due to the operation of Esna Lock, or at the discretion of the cruise company. Should a change of boat be required due to any unforeseen circumstances prior to departure, an alternative of the same standard or better will be offered if available.

There are many river boats that cruise between Luxor and Aswan. They provide accommodation and transportation for the majority of tourists travelling to Egypt. Each night and whilst moored for sightseeing, it is common for 4-5 cruise boats to be parked abreast of each other. The location of your boat will vary from port to port however in many cases your view from your cabin will be restricted to cruising periods only.

Sightseeing on Nile Cruise boats is operated by the cruise company. You will be allocated an English-speaking guide and small group of other English-speaking tourists for sightseeing upon embarkation. The order of sightseeing may vary depending on the local port authorities. If a tomb or temple is unable to be visited an alternative will be provided where possible.

Sightseeing (non-cruise)
All sightseeing unless specified is on a private basis with a driver and guide. Sightseeing generally takes place in the cooler periods of the day i.e. early morning or late afternoon therefore on occasion some early starts may be necessary to avoid the heat

Valley of the Kings
Not all the tombs within the Valley are currently open to the public. Many are closed periodically for resting and renovation. Entrance fees to three tombs is included in cruise packages.

Ramadan
During the Holy Month of Ramadan Muslims fast, abstaining from eating, drinking & smoking during daylight hours (approx. 7am-6.30pm). As a sign of respect, tourists should also try to refrain eating in public during the fasting hours. Restaurants and Cafes in Hotels and Cruise boats will be open, however limited alcohol may be available over this time. In 2026, Ramadan is expected to begin on the evening of Tuesday 17th February. After 30 days, or on sighting the full moon, Eid Al Fitr is celebrated & most public and private institutions close for at least three days.

Domestic Flights in Egypt
Flight times will be reconfirmed by the local operator upon arrival in Egypt.
Note: Flights from Cairo to Aswan and Luxor generally involve early morning starts due to flight schedules in the summer season. For flights to Abu Simbel certain flights are allocated to clients travelling for day trips from Cairo and overnight programmes. These flights are set by Egypt air and are outside of the operator’s control.

Dress Code
Modest dress is required for entrance to holy sites. Women – long skirt or long pants with shoulders and arms covered with a full cover head scarf to enter holy sites.

Hotels
Hotels in regional areas (i.e. Abu Simbel / Siwa / St Catherine) can be of a lower standard than the properties in the main tourist centres, with more basic/less developed infrastructure due to location and surrounding conditions. The options chosen are the best available.

Enquire About This Itinerary

Trip prices and dates are correct at the time of the website going live, however all offers are subject to reconfirmation at the time of booking. All featured tour itineraries and offers may be subject to change due to seasonal variations without notice, or due to local conditions or other conditions. Please confirm all details at time of booking. Travel insurance is mandatory for all Innovative Travel bookings. All passports must be valid for 6 months prior to your return to your home country. Visas are the responsibility of the traveller. Special VIP meet and assist offers are available in some destinations for New Zealand passport holders, for other nationalities please check at the time of booking. For full terms and conditions, please refer to our Booking Conditions page.