Next stop on our winter break adventure was a flight down to Luxor and the start of our 5 day, 4 night family Nile cruise. Shayna did the research and booking, and it turned out to be one of the most memorable parts of our Egypt trip.
We went with Egyptology Travels (link below), who would happily recommend
https://www.egyptologytravel.com/
Night before the cruise
We spent our first night in Luxor at the Steigenberger Resort which was much nicer than expected. Austin especially loved the buffet dinner and breakfast, while the kids were fascinated by the old school hotel phones and calling mum and dad’s room.
Day 1 Cruise Begins
We were picked up from our hotel and transferred to the ship. It was only then that the kids fully realised we were going to be sleeping on a boat. After a buffet lunch onboard, we headed out to Luxor Temple and Karnak Temple, two of the most impressive ancient sites in Egypt, before returning to the ship late for dinner.
Day 2 Valley of the Kings
An early 6am start for breakfast, then out to the Valley of the Kings and the Temple of Hatshepsut, guided once again by Adel who was outstanding throughout the trip. He was incredibly knowledgeable, shared great stories, and gave helpful advice about tipping and what to expect as we travelled downriver.
After lunch back onboard, we finally set sail, cruising down the Nile toward Edfu in the afternoon sun.
Day 3 Edfu and Kom Ombo
Another early wake up, followed by a horse and carriage ride to Edfu Temple, which Thea absolutely loved. It was a brisk morning, but the kids enjoyed the experience. After returning to the ship, we cruised on to Kom Ombo, home to the crocodile temple and museum, before continuing south to Aswan.
Day 4 Aswan
Up at 6.30am for visits to the Aswan High Dam which was very cold in the wind, and Philae Temple, reached by boat. The boat ride and island setting made this a highlight for the kids.
After lunch, we had a free afternoon, visiting the local souks where the kids experienced bartering for the first time. This included some tears from Thea when vendors did not immediately agree to her prices.
Day 5 Abu Simbel
A very early 3.30am wake up for the long drive to Abu Simbel. The three and a half hour trip was rough, with Austin getting quite car sick. We had about an hour to explore the site before the long journey back. While Abu Simbel itself was spectacular, it was a tough day with kids and we were all exhausted by the end. After returning to the boat, we transferred to our hotel.
What worked well
Adel our Luxor guide was exceptional. Knowledgeable, flexible, and very tuned in to what we wanted as a family.
The cruise itself ran smoothly overall. Information was not always clear in advance, but things worked out.
The ship and crew were fantastic, especially the food team. Always cheerful, accommodating, and the kids loved returning to towel animals waiting in our room.
Challenges
Tipping was confusing coming from New Zealand. Adel and online advice were helpful, but some guides suggested much higher amounts which added to the uncertainty.
Abu Simbel was incredible, but with kids it made for an extremely long and tiring day. If it were just adults, we would recommend it more easily.
This was a big, busy, unforgettable stretch of our winter break and a true once in a lifetime experience for our family.
#NileCruise #FamilyTravelEgypt #WinterBreakTravel #LuxorEgypt #Aswan #ValleyOfTheKings
#ExpatFamily #InternationalTeachers #TravelWithKids #EgyptTravelVlog
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