Adventure Cruises in Aswan
Widely regarded as the lifeblood of east-central Africa, the legendary Nile River is the world’s longest and flows through 9 countries. The Nile River cruise from Aswan allows travelers to experience the life and settlements around this river in great detail. Most liners cruise the 200-km stretch between the cities of Aswan and Luxor in Upper Egypt and offer breathtaking views and a glance into the mystical charms of Egypt. A typical Aswan cruise itinerary usually begins at the High Dam and ends at Luxor in about 7-8 days.
Top Things to Do in Aswan
The meandering course of the Nile River cruise itineraries allows travelers to visit several sights where ancient Egyptian history and wisdom can be experienced in their full glory—be it the majestic, enigmatic pyramids of Giza or the city of Luxor with its cornucopia of medieval monuments and structures that tell of the Egyptian way of life.
Valley of the Kings: While the Pyramids of Giza rule the sights above the ground in Egypt, ancient Egyptians also crafted beautiful underground mausoleums for their beloved royalty to rest for eternity. The Valley of Kings, close to Luxor on the west bank of the river Nile, is the resting place for many a Pharaoh. The tombs of the famed Tutankhamun, Seti I, and other eminent personalities from the 18th, 19th, and 20th dynasties. The tombs are elaborately decorated, furnished, and equipped with the wherewithal (even underwear) the royalty would need in their journey into the next world, as the mystical Egyptians believed. The site is so vast that it still occasionally throws up a surprise for excavators.
Dendera: A mere 50 miles north of Luxor, on the west bank of the Nile River, is the Dendera complex, home to extremely well-preserved gems from ancient Egypt. The Ptolemaic-era Temple of Hathor, the goddess of love, beauty, and joy, is the most popular site in this complex. The temple was built across centuries and dynasties and contained influences from the Ptolemaic and Roman eras. The complex also houses a chapel dedicated to the deity Isis and a Christian Basilica.
Hot Air Balloon Rides: Since discovering every nook and cranny of Luxor city can be overwhelming, many tourists are attracted to hot air balloon rides over this ancient city. Held at sunrise, the panoramic views offered by these rides are incredible. The balloon lingers over the West Bank of the Nile River, and one can view the temples and green fields of the city from above. Flight times for balloon rides are usually between 45 minutes to an hour.
Top Tips for Visiting Aswan (only if tips are applicable)
Pack According to the Weather and Activities: The sun can be harsh in Egypt, so it is recommended that travelers pack hats, sunglasses, sun tan lotion, and tissues and keep them on their person at all times.
Arrive Early and Hire a Private Guide: The itinerary aside, hiring a seasoned private guide can allow travelers to experience Cairo not as tourists but as visitors and explorers. Guides are in the know of not only famous monuments and sites but also hidden gems spread across the city that can give travelers a taste of authenticity.
Best time to cruise Aswan
The best time to take up a Nile River cruise would be between October and April. The Egyptian climate gets too hot and cold in the Upper section where Luxor and Aswan, one of the main legs of the Nile River cruise. The time between October and April is best recommended since the weather is pleasant, and travelers can enjoy visiting sites like the Valley of Kings and Dendera without discomfort. June to August is the peak summer season in Egypt and is not recommended for those not accustomed to extreme heat – upward of 38ºC/100ºF. Moreover, the heat is harsher while in enclosed spaces like tombs. On the other hand, visiting Egypt between November and February usually means braving the bone-chilling cold. So travelers should plan and time their Nile River cruise between February to April and September to November.
Where do Aswan cruises depart from?
Reaching Aswan for a cruise is easy via train travel. If travelers are planning to come via Cairo, it is suggested that they board the train from Rameses train station in downtown Cairo. Visitors can find nightly trains plying to Luxor and Aswan around 8:30-10:30 p.m. It is advised that visitors book their overnight train one day in advance for their convenience and to avoid last-minute difficulties. They can expect to arrive at Aswan around noon to mid-afternoon.
