Lake Nasser Cruise Egypt

Overview

Highlights

• Abu Simbel and its temples of Ramses II at one end
• Amada, Derr and the tomb of Pennut on the Nubian shore
• Wadi El Seboua and Kalabsha temples on the Aswan leg
• Sails Lake Nasser rather than the Nile itself
• Beit El Wali visited alongside Kalabsha on the northbound run

Itinerary

1. 1Arrival in Abu Simbel – Temples of Ramses II

   Begin your Lake Nasser adventure with a warm greeting at Abu Simbel Airport or your hotel, followed by a private transfer to your cruise ship. After check-in and lunch, set out to explore the awe-inspiring Abu Simbel Temples, masterpieces carved into the mountainside by Pharaoh Ramses II. These colossal monuments were relocated in the 1960s to save them from the rising waters of the High Dam. Admire the grandeur of the Great Temple and the smaller yet equally captivating Temple of Queen Nefertari. Later, unwind on the sundeck with tea as you take in the tranquil lake views. Dinner and overnight stay on board. Meals: Lunch, Dinner Overnight: Onboard the cruise

2. 2Sail to Kasr Ibrim – Visit Amada, Derr & Tomb of Pennut

   Enjoy breakfast as the cruise sails northward. From the deck, catch a distant view of Kasr Ibrim, the last remaining Nubian fortress still visible above the water. Although landing is not allowed, the view offers excellent photo opportunities. Continue to visit three remarkable sites: the Amada Temple, the oldest monument on Lake Nasser with beautifully preserved reliefs; the Temple of Derr, a rock-cut sanctuary built by Ramses II; and the Tomb of Pennut, the resting place of a Nubian governor, relocated to avoid flooding. Return to the ship for lunch, followed by a Nubian cultural performance and cocktail reception in the evening. The cruise sails overnight toward Wadi El Seboua. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Overnight: Onboard the cruise

3. 3Discover Wadi El Seboua Temples – Sail to Aswan

   After breakfast, disembark to explore Wadi El Seboua, known as the “Valley of the Lions,” where two magnificent temples stand along a sphinx-lined avenue. Visit the temple built by Amenhotep III, dedicated to Horus of Nubia, followed by the Temple of Dakka, famous for its astronomical carvings, and the nearby Temple of Maharraqa. Return to the ship for lunch as you sail toward Aswan. Spend the afternoon relaxing on deck, enjoying the peaceful scenery of Lake Nasser. Overnight near Aswan. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Overnight: Onboard the cruise

4. 4Visit Kalabsha Temple – Disembark in Aswan

   After breakfast, disembark for a guided visit to the Temple of Kalabsha, one of the most impressive free-standing temples on Lake Nasser. Built during the Roman era and dedicated to the Nubian god Mandulis, it beautifully combines Egyptian and Greco-Roman styles. From the temple grounds, enjoy panoramic views of the Aswan High Dam. After the tour, check out and transfer to your hotel or Aswan Airport, marking the end of your memorable Lake Nasser journey. Meals: Breakfast Overnight: —

5. 1Arrival in Aswan – Temples and Embarkation

   Upon arrival in Aswan, meet your representative and transfer to your cruise ship. After lunch, begin your exploration with a visit to the High Dam, a modern engineering marvel controlling the Nile’s flow. Continue to Agilkia Island to see the enchanting Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis, and then visit the Unfinished Obelisk in Aswan’s granite quarries. Return to the cruise for dinner and overnight stay. Meals: Lunch, Dinner Overnight: Onboard the cruise

6. 2Sail to Wadi El Seboua – Kalabsha & Beit El Wali

   Start the day with a visit to the relocated Kalabsha Temple, showcasing scenes of Roman emperors alongside Egyptian deities. Continue to Beit El Wali, a small yet striking rock-cut temple built by Ramses II, known for its vivid wall carvings. After returning to the ship, enjoy lunch as you sail past the Tropic of Cancer toward Wadi El Seboua. Overnight onboard. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Overnight: Onboard the cruise

7. 3Explore Wadi El Seboua & Sail to Amada

   After breakfast, disembark to explore Wadi El Seboua, with its avenue of sphinxes and New Kingdom temples. Continue to the Temple of Dakka and the Temple of Maharraqa, both relocated during the UNESCO rescue project. Return to the ship for lunch as you sail toward Amada. Overnight onboard. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Overnight: Onboard the cruise

8. 4Visit Amada, Derr & Kasr Ibrim – Arrive in Abu Simbel

   Disembark to visit the Amada Temple, the Temple of Derr, and the Tomb of Pennut, each offering a glimpse into ancient Nubian artistry and devotion. Later, sail past Kasr Ibrim, viewing its ruins from the deck before reaching Abu Simbel. In the evening, you may attend the optional Sound and Light Show at Abu Simbel, where lights and narration bring the temples’ history to life. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Overnight: Onboard the cruise

9. 5Visit Abu Simbel Temples – Disembarkation

   After breakfast, visit the magnificent Abu Simbel Temples, the crowning highlight of your Lake Nasser Cruise. These monumental structures, carved into solid rock, honor Ramses II and his beloved Queen Nefertari. Their relocation remains one of the greatest archaeological achievements of modern times. After the visit, transfer to Abu Simbel Airport or your hotel, concluding your unforgettable journey. Meals: Breakfast Overnight: —

Gallery

Related trips