Nearly all Nile cruises sail the same 200km stretch of river between Luxor and Aswan, but the direction, number of nights, and stops on the way (Edfu, Kom Ombo, Esna) vary by itinerary. Most classic cruises run 3–4 nights one-way or up to 7 nights roundtrip from Luxor, docking each morning near a different temple.
Use the interactive map above to see exactly where each stop sits along the river and what you'll visit there — then compare it against our live Nile Cruise Finder to pick a ship and dates that match your route.
Both directions visit the same temples; the difference is mainly which stops you visit on the first vs. last day and whether you sail with or against the current (which affects engine noise/speed slightly more than comfort). Choose based on which city you're flying into first.
3 nights (Luxor→Aswan or reverse) covers the essential temples; 4 nights adds Abu Simbel or extra time at a stop; 7-night roundtrip cruises from Luxor add Dendera and Abydos temples further north. Most first-time visitors choose 3–4 nights.
Standard stops include Luxor (Karnak, Luxor Temple, Valley of the Kings), Edfu (Temple of Horus), Kom Ombo (Temple of Sobek and Horus), and Aswan (High Dam, Philae Temple, and optionally Abu Simbel).
A standard Nile cruise ship carries 60–150 guests with a fixed itinerary and set schedule. A dahabiya is a smaller, sail-powered private boat carrying under 20 guests, sailing at a slower, more flexible pace and able to dock in quieter spots away from the crowds.
Yes — through EZ Tour Egypt you can choose the direction, number of nights, ship or dahabiya category, and combine your cruise with pre- or post-cruise stays in Cairo or Hurghada as part of a private, tailor-made itinerary.