African River Cruises
Ever thought about taking a panoramic city tour of Cape Town in all its beauty? Or riding the Table Mountain Cableway for amazing views of the city and ocean? Take a fun day trip to Simon's Town to see cute penguins, visit Nelson Mandela's historic cell where he was held for 18 years, and learn about the powerful Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg. An African river cruise will open your eyes.
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Shekhar • traveled in December, 2024
Noor and team did a splendid job in managing this trip. The communication was on point and any questions were promptly answered. Abaas and Mohammed were absolute superstar tour guides. While Abaas entertained us with his funny and unique style of tour guiding as well as acting as a candid photographer, Mohammed's in depth knowledge and genuine smile won everyone's hearts. Way to go guys!
Amazing 8 nights Visit Cairo, Nile Cruise, Abu Simbel & Hot Air Balloon - B
Bobby • traveled in December
On our Egypt Tour and Nile Cruise we had an extremely wonderful time. The representatives, guides, and drivers your company provided were extremely professional and courteous at all times. The information you provided about Egypt upon arrival was extremely helpful, especially the extra activities and tipping information. When touring in a foreign country one of the most difficult things to know is how much to tip each individual you deal with. The information about walking around the streets was extremely helpful also. We tried to learn a few Arabic words but our foreign language skills are minimal at best. The two guides you provided had a real love for Egypt and it's history. This was evident anytime they spoke with us about the sites we visited. We learned alot about Egypt present and past from these two gentlemen. The guides also provided a lot of good information about places to buy some good quality gifts. They were very flexible, able to change the schedule on the fly to make sure we saw and did everything we were scheduled to do and at the same time help us with any extra activities we wanted to do. The sites were beautiful, the camel ride was fun, and the Nile cruise was very relaxing. We really enjoyed our time in Egypt, met many interesting people and would very much like to visit again as there are still a lot of things to see and learn. Thanks again for a wonderful time, you all were the best. Thank You, Bobby and Debra Carroll
15 Days Ancient Egypt & Lake Nasser Cruise - L
Luis • traveled in October
The tours guides were excellent but when I booked all the entrance fees in all the tours included in the itinerary were included and I had to pay all those fees because the person in charge of the tours said that they were not included. So as soon as I get back to US I’m going to complain to Expedia about it because they were lying about their promotion.
Nile Cruises From Luxor to Aswan for 5 Days 4 Nights
10 best river cruises through Africa
Compiled by
NadineAfrica travel expert at TourRadar
- Safari Cruise along the Zambezi River - South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe with extended stay at the Cape Peninsula (port-to-port cruise) (including Livingstone)
- Discover Seychelles, Tanzania and Kenya 2028
- Luxurious 4-Night Nile Cruise (Luxor-Aswan)
- 4-Night Nile Cruise: Karnak, Kom Ombo & Philae Highlights
- 15 Days Ancient Egypt & Lake Nasser Cruise
- Luxury Nile cruise Luxor & Aswan for 7 nights includes tours
- Ultimate Egyptian Experience: 10-Day All Included Tour with Cairo GEM, Nile Cruise, Alexandria & Safari (Abu Simbel & Hot Air Balloon)
- Egypt Highlights package in 9 Days
- Wonders of Egypt: 6-Days 5-Nights- Cairo and 4-Days Nile Cruise Luxor to Aswan, Air Balloon, Abu Simbel including Flights from Cairo
- Safari Cruise along the Zambezi River - South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe (port-to-port cruise)
Sail Lake Kariba's 200km expanse aboard African Dream ship, weaving through hidden inlets and drowned forests. Float down Chobe River's channels to Sedudu Island, relish sunset boat safaris, and savor Zambezi River dining near Victoria Falls.
Duration 13 days Destinations South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator CroisiEurope River Cruises From $18,418
9% Off- NZ$16,669You save $1,749
Duration 20 days Destinations Kenya, Tanzania, Seychelles Age Range Ages 12+ Operator Emerald Cruises From $63,370
50% Off- NZ$31,616You save $31,754
Luxurious 4-Night Nile Cruise (Luxor-Aswan)
6 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“We managed to absorb a lot of knowledge and the understanding of their rich history.”
Dato', traveled in January
A 5-star vessel showcases UNESCO heritage sites along the Nile. Traditional felucca sailing combines with luxury amenities while visiting ancient temples. Egyptian cuisine, cooking classes, and entertainment fill the voyage between Luxor and Aswan.
Duration 5 days Destinations Luxor, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Aswan Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Truly Egypt Tours From
50% Off- NZ$1,930
Sonesta St George sails Africa's legendary Nile from Luxor to Aswan. UNESCO sites including Karnak Temple and Valley of the Kings await. Full-board dining and cultural entertainment complement guided shore excursions along this historic waterway.
Duration 5 days Destinations Luxor, Valley of the Kings, Valley of the Queens, Esna, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Philae, Aswan Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, German, Italian, Portuguese, French, Spanish Operator Sun Pyramid Tours From
50% Off- NZ$1,454
15 Days Ancient Egypt & Lake Nasser Cruise
12 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“We've traveled out of the country for many years and this trip went smoother than any of them.”
Jessica, traveled in October
The legendary Nile awaits aboard premium vessels like Movenpick Prince Abbas. Ancient temples from Luxor to Abu Simbel unfold before you, with traditional felucca sailing around Kitchener Island. Guides rated 4.9 (50+ reviews) lead comprehensive shore excursions to UNESCO sites.
Duration 15 days Destinations Luxor, Valley of the Kings, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Aswan, Philae, Agilkia Island, Kitchener Island, Abu Simbel, CairoSee all destinations Age Range Ages 6+ Operator Vacations to go travel From $10,338
30% Off- NZ$7,236You save $3,101
Luxury Nile cruise Luxor & Aswan for 7 nights includes tours
45 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“It is amazing and we are so satisfies from their service.”
Reza, traveled in December
Luxurious 23m² staterooms with Egyptian cotton linens await on the legendary river. UNESCO sites like Karnak Temples and Valley of the Kings feature prominently. Optional Abu Simbel excursion complements included tours with expert guides.
Duration 8 days Destinations Luxor, Esna, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Aswan Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Truly Egypt Tours From
30% Off- NZ$3,411
Ultimate Egyptian Experience: 10-Day All Included Tour with Cairo GEM, Nile Cruise, Alexandria & Safari (Abu Simbel & Hot Air Balloon)
3 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The tour was an incredible experience, and the guides' knowledge of Egyptian culture was impressive.”
Sharon, traveled in January
Boat safaris on the Kazinga Channel and Murchison Falls reveal African wildlife. Massive hippo pods, crocodiles, and waterbirds inhabit the waters between Lakes Edward and George, with afternoon excursions offering prime photography opportunities.
Duration 10 days Destinations Cairo, Giza, Aswan, Kom Ombo, Edfu, Luxor, Alexandria Age Range Ages 15+ Operated in English, German, Italian, Portuguese, French, Spanish, Chinese, Dutch, Russian Operator Golden Egypt From $6,547
50% Off- NZ$3,274You save $3,274
Egypt Highlights package in 9 Days
15 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“I can not believe the level of quality service, accommodations, excursions, knowledge and organization this tour offered.”
Mary, traveled in February
Princess Sarah I navigates from Aswan to Luxor along Africa's legendary river. Ancient temples like Philae and Kom Ombo reveal their secrets while guests enjoy full-board dining with Nile views. Three-night cruise includes expert guides and evening entertainment.
Duration 9 days Destinations Cairo, Giza, Aswan, Kom Ombo, Edfu, Luxor Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Egypt Tours Club From $4,652
50% Off- NZ$2,326You save $2,326
Wonders of Egypt: 6-Days 5-Nights- Cairo and 4-Days Nile Cruise Luxor to Aswan, Air Balloon, Abu Simbel including Flights from Cairo
2 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“A life changing tour! It was packed and non-stop but absolutely worth it. From being met at the airports, the boat and all transfers were done smoothly and effortlessly.”
Stephanie, traveled in May
A 5-star cruise ship reveals Africa's legendary river. The route from Luxor's Karnak Temple to Aswan's Philae Temple crosses Esna Lock. Traditional entertainment and local cuisine accompany views of ancient Egyptian monuments.
Duration 6 days Destinations Cairo, Giza, Luxor, Valley of the Kings, Esna, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Aswan, Abu Simbel Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, German, Spanish Operator Egypt Gift Tours From
50% Off- NZ$1,895
Safari Cruise along the Zambezi River - South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe (port-to-port cruise)
1 Review by TourRadar travelers
Lake Kariba's sunken forests pass by aboard the African Dream, revealing hidden inlets rich with wildlife. Cruise Chobe River to Sedudu Island's marshes, and savor sundowner cruises while watching hippos and crocodiles in their natural habitat.
Duration 9 days Destinations South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator CroisiEurope River Cruises From $12,131
14% Off- NZ$10,382You save $1,749
What our customers ask about African River Cruises
What are the best times of year to take a Nile River cruise in Africa?
The Nile River cruise season peaks from October to April when Egypt's weather is most favorable for sightseeing. During September and October travelers find fewer crowds and better rates while December through February brings comfortable daytime temperatures averaging 25°C (77°F). A TourRadar traveler noted: "Our February cruise had perfect weather for exploring temples and enjoying the sundeck making every moment memorable." Most experienced travelers avoid June through August when Upper Egypt temperatures regularly exceed 40°C (104°F).
What are the main destinations and highlights visited on Africa river cruises?
The classic Nile River route connects Luxor and Aswan taking passengers to key archaeological treasures including the Valley of the Kings Karnak Temple and the temples of Luxor Edfu and Philae. Many routes offer Abu Simbel as an add-on excursion. A TourRadar traveler shared "The highlights were Abu Simbel—absolutely breathtaking. The hot air balloon ride over Luxor was magical offering stunning views of ancient temples" from their trip with Egypt Tours Club.
How much do African river cruises typically cost?
The price range for Nile River voyages spans from basic to ultra-luxury experiences. A 4-night journey starts at 550 USD while deluxe 7-night cruises reach 1850 USD. Premium experiences like AmaWaterways' South African cruise command 16280 USD for 17 days. A TourRadar traveler shared: "Our 5-star Nile cruise including Abu Simbel was excellent value at 920 USD for 7 nights with all meals and guided tours included."
What wildlife can I expect to see on African river cruises?
Each river offers distinct wildlife encounters. The Zambezi River draws elephants hippos and crocodiles while Chobe River cruises showcase large herds of elephants and buffalo. Nile cruises emphasize historical sites though water birds and occasional crocodiles make appearances. A TourRadar traveler on the Zambezi Queen reported: "The morning wildlife viewing from the boat was incredible - we saw entire herds of elephants coming to drink at the river's edge."
How long are typical Africa river cruise itineraries?
Nile River journeys commonly run 4-8 days with many travelers choosing 4-night trips between Luxor and Aswan. Extended programs like Uniworld's 12-day "Splendors of Egypt & the Nile" blend river cruising with land exploration. Statistics show 5-day itineraries are most popular with one TourRadar traveler commenting "The 5-day cruise was perfect to see all the major sites along the Nile."
What types of cultural experiences are available on Africa river cruises?
These river voyages connect travelers with local life through visits to Nubian villages traditional markets and archaeological wonders. Evening entertainment features belly dancing and regional music while vessels like the Zimbabwean Dream stop at authentic villages on Impalila Island. A TourRadar traveler observed: "Our guide Hassan made both sightseeing visits in Aswan & Luxor so enjoyable and aroused curiosity with his knowledge of local culture."
What are the typical cabin options available on Africa river cruises?
Nile River ships provide accommodations ranging from standard rooms to premium suites. The S.S. Sphinx offers four room categories from deluxe cabins to royal suites each with river views. Ships like the Princess Sarah feature 5-star rooms with private balconies. According to a TourRadar traveler "The Nile cruise was memorable with stunning landscapes and a tranquil Nile view from our room" during their 5-day Luxor to Aswan journey.
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