Find Bliss on a 12-Day Luxury Dahabiya Nile Cruise

12 days in Egypt

Strictly limited to 18

Exclusive Access

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Overview of the Luxury Dahabiya Experience

Embark on a 12-day Dahabiya cruise through Egypt, an exclusive journey designed for just 18 guests seeking privacy, comfort, and authentic discovery. Begin in Cairo with a visit to Dahshur and Saqqara, home to the earliest pyramids, before experiencing a VIP private entry to the Giza Plateau. Step inside the Great Pyramid of Khufu, stand before the mighty Sphinx, and explore the spectacular Grand Egyptian Museum, where Tutankhamun’s treasures are displayed.

From Cairo, fly to Luxor and sail the Nile on a Dahabiya, a beautifully crafted two-masted vessel that recalls the golden age of Nile travel. Over five serene nights aboard your luxury Dahabiya Nile cruise, enjoy personalized service and a peaceful atmosphere far from the crowds. Guided by an expert Egyptologist, explore Luxor’s Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut Temple, and the grand Karnak and Luxor Temples.

As you glide toward Aswan, visit Edfu and Kom Ombo Temples, then travel to Abu Simbel, the breathtaking rock temples of Ramses II and Queen Nefertari - a true highlight of any luxury cruise on the Nile.

In Aswan, admire the Philae Temple and the Unfinished Obelisk, before returning to Cairo to explore the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization, Islamic Cairo’s mosques, and the lively Khan El Khalili Bazaar.

What is a Dahabiya?

Discover what a Dahabiya truly is - a graceful, wind-powered sailing boat that once carried Egypt’s elite and foreign explorers along the timeless Nile. Today, these beautifully restored vessels offer an intimate and elegant way to sail the Nile, blending old-world charm with modern five-star comfort. Each luxury Dahabiya features spacious cabins, refined décor, and personalized service, creating a serene atmosphere far removed from the bustle of large cruise ships.

As you drift past palm-lined banks and ancient temples, you’ll experience Egypt as travelers did centuries ago, slowly, peacefully, and in style. For those seeking the best Dahabiya cruise, this journey represents the perfect balance of authenticity and indulgence, the ultimate way to cruise the Nile in luxury and uncover the soul of Egypt in complete comfort.

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Why Sail the Nile on a Dahabiya?

Private VIP access to the Giza Plateau – enter 3 chambers in the Great Pyramid and stand between the paws of the Sphinx.
5-night sailing on the Nile River aboard a luxury Dahabiya – intimate and elegant travel experience.
Expert Egyptologist guide throughout the 12-day tour, bringing ancient sites to life.
Visit the Grand Egyptian Museum, Dahshur, Saqqara, and Egypt’s most iconic temples.
Explore the treasures of Luxor, Aswan, and Abu Simbel during your 12-day Nile cruise.
End your 12 days in Egypt exploring Islamic Cairo, the Royal Mummies Hall, and the Khan el-Khalili Bazaar.

Your 12-day Dahabiya Cruise: The Itinerary

DAY

Arrival in Cairo & Pyramid-Side Stay

Arrival at Cairo International Airport, where our representative will greet you with a sign bearing the company name and assist with all arrival formalities.
Private transfer to the legendary Marriott Mena House, a historic hotel offering breathtaking views of the Pyramids.
Optional Excursion: Egyptian Museum & Citadel of Salah El Din
Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.

DAY

Discover Dahshur & Saqqara’s Ancient Wonders

Breakfast at the hotel.

Visit Dahshur to see the Red Pyramid and Bent Pyramid, remarkable examples of early pyramid engineering.
Afternoon tour of Saqqara: Imhotep Museum, Step Pyramid of Djoser, Tomb of Kagemni, and Pyramid of Unas.
Optional Tour: The Exquisite Tomb of Wahtye, Priest of the Fifth Dynasty
Lunch at Saqqara El Seyahi Restaurant, featuring authentic Egyptian cuisine.
Return to the Marriott Mena House hotel.

Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.

DAY

Exclusive Access to the Great Pyramid & Sphinx

Breakfast at the hotel.

Early morning pick-up and transfer to the Giza Plateau.
Private access to the plateau before public hours – experience the pyramids in complete tranquility.
Enter the Great Pyramid of Khufu with exclusive access to the Queen’s and Subterranean Chambers – a truly rare privilege.
Private entry to the Great Sphinx enclosure, an experience few visitors ever enjoy.
Explore the Giza Plateau during public hours, viewing the pyramids from multiple perspectives.
Stop at Panorama Point for sweeping views of all three pyramids.
Lunch at the 9 Pyramids Lounge, overlooking the plateau.
Optional afternoon visit to Old Cairo: the Hanging Church, Abu Serga, Saint Barbara, Ben Ezra Synagogue, and Amr Ibn Al-Aas Mosque.
Return to the Marriott Mena House for dinner and overnight stay.

DAY

Full Day at the Grand Egyptian Museum

Breakfast at the hotel.

Spend the day exploring the Grand Egyptian Museum, the world’s largest archaeological museum.
Discover the museum’s extensive galleries, including the iconic treasures of Tutankhamun.
Lunch at Zooba Restaurant inside the museum, offering a modern twist on authentic Egyptian cuisine.
Return to the Marriott Mena House for dinner and overnight stay.

DAY

Fly to Luxor & Embark on Your Nile Cruise

Morning flight from Cairo International Airport to Luxor.
Upon arrival, meet and receive assistance from your private tour manager at Luxor Airport.
Guided visit to the magnificent Karnak Temple Complex, one of the grandest monuments of ancient Thebes.
Transfer to embark on the luxurious Dahabiya Nile Cruise.
Lunch served on board while sailing along the Nile.
Afternoon visit to the Luxor Temple, beautifully located on the east bank of the Nile and dedicated to the rejuvenation of kingship.
Return to the Dahabiya for dinner and overnight stay in Luxor.

DAY

Valley of the Kings & Temples of the West Bank

Breakfast on board.

Visit the Valley of the Kings, the eternal resting place of Egypt’s New Kingdom pharaohs.
Optional entry to the world-famous Tomb of Tutankhamun.
Optional Tour: Exclusive Visit to the Tomb of Amenhotep III (WV22).
Continue to the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, an architectural masterpiece carved into the cliffs of Deir el-Bahari.
Stop at the Colossi of Memnon, two monumental statues of Amenhotep III guarding the Theban plain for over 3,400 years.
Return to the Dahabiya to enjoy lunch on board while sailing toward Esna.
Romantic candlelight dinner on board as you pass through the Esna Lock.

DAY

Edfu Temple & Scenic Nile Sailing

Morning sailing from Esna to Edfu.
Breakfast on board while enjoying the scenic Nile views.
Visit the impressive Temple of Edfu, dedicated to the falcon god Horus.
Lunch on board during the cruise from Edfu to Kom Ombo.
Enjoy views of Gabal El Silsila, the ancient sandstone quarries, from the boat.
Dinner and overnight stay on board.

DAY

Kom Ombo & Nile Island Experience

Breakfast on board.
Visit the fascinating Temple of Kom Ombo, uniquely dedicated to two gods — Sobek and Horus.
Sail from Kom Ombo to Herbyab Island, enjoying the serene Nile scenery.
Snack lunch served in a beautiful riverside setting on the banks of the Nile.
Continue sailing from Herbyab to Aswan.
Dinner and overnight stay on board.

DAY

Majestic Abu Simbel Excursion

Early morning transfer in a private, air-conditioned deluxe vehicle to visit the awe-inspiring Abu Simbel Temples, carved into the mountainside by Ramses II.
Return to Aswan and rejoin your luxurious Dahabeya Nile Cruise.
Lunch on board, followed by an afternoon at leisure.
Dinner and overnight stay on board in Aswan.

DAY

Philae Temple, Nubian Heritage & Flight to Cairo

Breakfast on board and check-out.
Visit the Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis, beautifully relocated to Agilkia Island to protect it from the rising Nile waters. Its tranquil location makes it one of Egypt’s most romantic monuments.
Enjoy a traditional lunch at an Old Nubian House, where authentic flavors and warm hospitality reflect the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Continue to the Unfinished Obelisk, an immense monument that provides unique insight into ancient stone-carving techniques.
Transfer to Aswan Airport for your flight back to Cairo.
Upon arrival, meet our representative for a private transfer to the Four Seasons Hotel at First Residence.
Overnight stay in Cairo.
Dinner at the hotel.

DAY

Civilization Museum, Islamic Cairo & Khan El Khalili

Breakfast on board.
Guided visit to the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC), featuring the Royal Mummies Hall and a remarkable collection spanning Egypt’s rich history.
Continue to Islamic Cairo, exploring masterpieces of Islamic architecture:
The elegant Mosque of Sultan Hassan, a marvel of Mamluk design.
The neighbouring Al-Rifai Mosque, resting place of kings and shahs.
The ancient Ibn Tulun Mosque, one of Cairo’s oldest and largest, renowned for its unique spiral minaret.
Lunch at the celebrated Naguib Mahfouz Café, a cultural landmark in the heart of Khan El Khalili Bazaar.
Stroll along El Moez Street, lined with medieval mosques, palaces, and markets reflecting Cairo’s golden age.
Walk through Khan El Khalili Bazaar, where vibrant shops and skilled craftsmen bring Cairo’s history to life.
Return to the Four Seasons Hotel for an overnight stay.
Farewell dinner at the hotel.

DAY

Departure from Cairo

Breakfast at leisure.
Private transfer to Cairo International Airport for your departure flight.
End of services with our warmest wishes for a safe journey home and unforgettable memories of Egypt.
Optional Excursion After the Tour: Alexandria

Luxury Dahabiya Cruise: Prices

Dahabiya Cruise Price:

Double Occupancy: from $8,855 USD per guest
Single Supplement: $4,555 USD for a private room
Deposit: $1,500 USD per person to confirm your place

Balance: payable 90 days prior to departure (full payment required for bookings made within 90 days)

Payment Options:
Secure your reservation with a bank transfer or credit card. Visa and Mastercard are accepted with 3-D Secure authentication. Please note: bank transfer fees are the traveler’s responsibility, and credit card payments via a secure link carry a 2.5% bank processing fee.

What’s Included in the Tour Package

Meet and Greet at Cairo Airport upon arrival and departure.
Private airport transfers (pick-up and drop-off).
Services of a professional, English-speaking Egyptologist guide.
Dedicated Tour Leader accompanying you throughout the trip, assisting with logistics and available 24/7.
Accommodation:

4 nights at Marriott Mena House 5★ Hotel (breakfast and dinner included).

5 nights aboard Luxury Dahabeya Nile Cruise 5★ (full board).

2 nights at Four Seasons at First Residence 5★ Hotel (breakfast and dinner included).

Domestic flights: Cairo to Luxor, and Aswan to Cairo.
Private access to the Giza Plateau (including the Khufu Pyramid & Sphinx Enclosure).
Entrance tickets for all sightseeing as per the itinerary.
All meals as outlined in the program.
All transfers in a modern, air-conditioned private coach bus.
Bottled water provided during visits.

What’s Not Included (and How We Help)

International flights (The Inside Egypt team will be happy to assist you with booking flights if required.)
Optional excursions
Entry visa fee: $25 USD
Gratuities: $350 USD per person
Personal expenses

Check Availability

Photo Gallery from our 12-Day Tours

Helpful Pre-Trip Resources

Accommodation & International Travel

Guests wishing to enjoy upgraded accommodations in Cairo or during sailing the Nile on a Dahabiya may request room enhancements. Information on available options and pricing will be provided ahead of your 12-day Dahabiya cruise. Please note that upgrades are subject to availability.

Your itinerary begins with arrival day in Cairo. Throughout the day, our team will be at the airport to greet guests and arrange transfers to the cruise ship. To ensure a smooth start and time to settle in before dinner, we suggest booking a morning or early afternoon flight.

The final day of the program is dedicated to departures. Hotel check-out is at noon, and transfers to Cairo International Airport will be scheduled to align with each guest’s flight time.

International flights to and from Egypt should be arranged independently. To coordinate your transfers, please share a copy of your confirmed flight schedule with us. If you would like assistance in booking flights, our team will be glad to help.

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Enhanced Excursion Choices

Can I add extra activities to my tour?
Absolutely! You can include optional experiences to make your journey even more unforgettable.

Wahtye Tomb in Saqqara - $660 USD per person (minimum 3 people)

Discover the magnificent Tomb of Wahtye in Saqqara, one of Egypt’s most impressive recent archaeological finds. Dating back to the Fifth Dynasty (around 2400 BC), it belonged to a high-ranking priest who served Pharaoh Neferirkare. The tomb is beautifully preserved, with colorful reliefs showing scenes of daily life, rituals, and offerings, a stunning glimpse into the artistry and culture of the Old Kingdom. The tomb can only be entered after obtaining special permission.

Pyramids Sound & Light Show – $125 USD per person

Enjoy an evening show that brings the pyramids’ history to life through lights, music, and narration.

Hot Air Balloon Over Luxor – $175 USD per person

Float above Luxor and the Nile at sunrise for stunning panoramic views and incredible photos.

Tomb of Amenhotep III (WV22) in Luxor - $660 USD per person (minimum 3 people)

Visit the Tomb of Amenhotep III (WV22) in Luxor’s Western Valley — the final resting place of one of Egypt’s most powerful pharaohs of the 18th Dynasty. The tomb is remarkable for its grand scale, elegant decorations, and well-preserved reliefs depicting the king’s journey to the afterlife. A rare opportunity to explore a site usually closed to the general public, offering an intimate look into Egypt’s royal burial traditions.

Medinet Habu Temple in Luxor - $135 USD per person

Explore the impressive Temple of Medinet Habu, one of Luxor’s most beautifully preserved monuments. Built by Pharaoh Ramses III, the temple is famous for its massive pylons, colorful reliefs, and detailed battle scenes celebrating the king’s victories. It offers a fascinating look into the grandeur and artistry of Egypt’s New Kingdom temples.

Camel Caravan in Aswan – $90 per person

Experience a scenic camel ride through the desert near Aswan. Travel by motorboat to Gharb Soheil, ride your camel across golden sands to a hilltop viewpoint over the Nile, and relax with traditional Nubian tea before heading back.

How do I pay for optional excursions?
You can pay in cash or by credit card (2.5% card fee) directly to your tour leader upon arrival.

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Optional Premium Excursions

Looking to make your Egypt tour even more special?
Add one of these exclusive experiences to your itinerary when booking your Dahabiya Nile cruise:

Egyptian Museum & Citadel of Salah El Din (Day 1) – $315 USD per person

Spend the day exploring Egypt’s remarkable past at two iconic sites, with lunch included. The tour does not include 1 additional night at the Marriott Mena House, which can be purchased via the booking form.

Alexandria Discovery (Day 12) – $495 USD per person double / $590 USD single

Travel to the Mediterranean coast to see the legendary Library of Alexandria, ancient catacombs, and Greco-Roman treasures, followed by a scenic seaside meal. The trip includes 1 additional night at the Four Seasons Hotel at First Residence, with breakfast included. Please be advised that dinner is not included.

Can I arrange these ahead of time?
Yes! We recommend booking online in advance to guarantee availability and seamless planning.

For more details or to customize your trip, contact us anytime. Our optional upgrades are designed to elevate your journey and create unforgettable memories.

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Post-Tour: Saudi Arabia 5-Day Add-On

Trip to Saudi Arabia and Egypt

5 Days / 4 Nights – Jeddah, AlUla & Riyadh
Extension following the 12-day Dahabiya Cruise (Days 13–17)

Day 1: Jeddah

Fly from Cairo to Jeddah to begin your adventure. Visit the Tayebat Museum, admire the Floating Mosque on the Red Sea, and wander through the UNESCO-listed Old Town, known for its coral architecture and Nassif House. Overnight in Jeddah.

Day 2: Jeddah to AlUla

Board a short flight to AlUla, a stunning desert valley filled with Nabatean and Dedanite heritage. In the evening, marvel at the iconic Elephant Rock at sunset and explore the Old Town and the lively Al-Jadidah Arts District. Overnight in AlUla.

Day 3: AlUla Discovery

Discover the Hijaz Railway, the ancient kingdom of Dadan, and Jabal Ikmah—often called an open-air library for its rock inscriptions. After lunch, visit Hegra (Madain Saleh), the country’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing magnificent Nabatean tombs. Conclude the day at Harrat View Point for a beautiful sunset panorama. Overnight in AlUla.

Day 4: AlUla to Riyadh

Fly to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia’s vibrant capital. Tour the UNESCO-listed Diriyah and its At-Turaif district, birthplace of the Saudi kingdom. Continue to the National Museum, Murabba Palace, and Masmak Fort before finishing the day with a stroll through Dirah Souq. Overnight in Riyadh.

Day 5: Departure

Enjoy breakfast before your transfer to Riyadh International Airport for your onward flight.

Accommodation

Jeddah – Mövenpick City Star (5★)
AlUla – Caravan by Habitas (5★)
Riyadh – Narcissus Hotel & Spa (5★)

Tour Inclusions
• One-way flight from Cairo to Jeddah
• Five-star accommodations with breakfast and dinner
• Domestic flights (Jeddah–AlUla, AlUla–Riyadh)
• Private English-speaking guides, entrance fees, and sightseeing
• Lunches at local restaurants, transfers, service charges, and taxes

Exclusions
• Saudi entry visa (300 SAR + 140 SAR medical insurance)
• Drinks not specified above
• Gratuities and personal expenses

Pricing (per person)

Twin/Double: $6,395 USD
Single Supplement: $2,445 USD
Deposit: $1,500 USD upon booking
Final Payment: Due 90 days before departure

Booking Information

To include the optional 5-Day Saudi Arabia Extension, select this add-on when reserving your Dahabiya Nile cruise through our website. An additional night in Cairo is required after the main tour; it can also be booked directly via the same form.

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