Your Nile journey begins in Luxor, where you will board the elegant MS Salima Nile Cruise before lunch. After settling into your cabin, the adventure starts with a guided tour of the Karnak Temple Complex, the largest religious site in the ancient world, famous for its grand Hypostyle Hall of 134 towering columns, sacred lake, and monumental obelisks. Later in the afternoon, you’ll visit the Luxor Temple, beautifully illuminated by the setting sun, where colossal statues of Ramses II and the Avenue of Sphinxes showcase Egypt’s timeless grandeur. Dinner and overnight stay on board in Luxor.

After breakfast, cross the Nile to the West Bank to explore the legendary Valley of the Kings, where pharaohs prepared for eternity in richly decorated tombs. Optional entry is available to the tombs of Tutankhamun or Seti I. Continue to the stunning Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, a unique terraced structure built into the cliffs of Deir el-Bahari, dedicated to Egypt’s first female pharaoh. On the way back, pause at the Colossi of Memnon, two towering statues of Amenhotep III that have stood for over 3,000 years. Return to the ship for lunch, then sail through the Esna Lock, a fascinating experience, before continuing toward Edfu. Dinner and overnight on board.
Optional: Early morning hot air balloon ride over Luxor for a breathtaking aerial view of the temples and farmlands.

This morning, you’ll visit the impressive Temple of Horus at Edfu, one of Egypt’s best-preserved temples, reached by horse-drawn carriage. Dedicated to the falcon god Horus, it features monumental pylons, intricate reliefs, and sacred chambers, including the Holy of Holies. After sailing south, enjoy lunch on board before arriving at Kom Ombo Temple, a unique double temple perfectly mirrored, dedicated to Sobek, the crocodile god, and Horus the Elder. Here you’ll also visit the Crocodile Museum, home to mummified crocodiles and fascinating artifacts. Dinner and overnight as the cruise continues toward Aswan.

Begin your day with a visit to the High Dam, one of Egypt’s greatest modern achievements, offering panoramic views of Lake Nasser. Then take a short motorboat ride to the magical Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis, relocated stone by stone to Agilkia Island by UNESCO. Your final stop is the Unfinished Obelisk, lying in the granite quarries of Aswan, providing insight into ancient stone-working techniques. In the afternoon, relax onboard or choose optional experiences such as a traditional felucca sail or a visit to a colorful Nubian Village, where you’ll enjoy vibrant houses, warm hospitality, and authentic southern culture. Dinner and overnight in Aswan.

After breakfast on board, it’s time to disembark in Aswan. For those seeking to extend their adventure, an optional excursion to Abu Simbel is available. These colossal rock-cut temples of Ramses II and Queen Nefertari stand as one of the most remarkable monuments in Egypt. Relocated by UNESCO, the temples are aligned with the rising sun, creating a breathtaking spectacle of light and history. This optional visit is a perfect finale to your unforgettable MS Salima Nile Cruise journey.