Nile cruise: everything to know before you go

1. When to go on the Nile?

The right season runs from October to April, and the best of it is between November and February. It's 20 to 25°C, the sky is clear and you can visit the temples comfortably. Summer (June to August) is another story: it's very hot. Only people who handle the heat well go then, often at lower prices.

December and February are the most requested months, so book several months in advance if you want the best cabins. Spring (March-April) is a very good compromise, with fine weather and fewer people.

2. The Luxor–Aswan itinerary

The classic route links Luxor and Aswan over 3 to 4 days, in either direction. Most of the time you start in Luxor and sail up to Aswan, stopping at the great temples along the river. The stops not to miss:

• Karnak Temple: the largest religious complex in Egypt, with its famous hypostyle hall of 134 columns.
• Valley of the Kings: the tombs of the New Kingdom pharaohs, including Tutankhamun's.
• Edfu: the Temple of Horus, one of the best preserved in the country.
• Kom Ombo: its twin temple on the riverbank offers superb sunrises.
• Philae and the Aswan Dam: the Temple of Isis, a jewel of Ptolemaic architecture.

Our advice: add 2 days in Cairo beforehand (Giza pyramids, museum, Old Cairo) and, if you feel like it, a few days in Hurghada on the Red Sea to finish gently.

3. Which cabin to choose?

Your cabin makes a real difference to your comfort. If you can, choose:

• A high deck (deck 3 or 4): less engine vibration, clear views and direct access to the solarium.
• A central or forward position: avoid cabins right at the back, which are often noisier.
• The 2nd or 3rd floor for the view: enjoy the panorama of the Nile from your private balcony at dawn.

Most of our ships are all-inclusive 5-star catamarans: meals, drinks, pool and themed evenings included. And the welcome on board lives up to Egypt's reputation: warm and attentive.

4. What budget should you plan for?

The price depends on the season, the cabin and the itinerary. It goes from the cruise only (cabin + full board) to complete trips from Morocco with the flight, Cairo, the cruise and the Red Sea. The details and exact price of each package are on the trip page.

Keep a separate budget for tips (bakshish, often collected on board), extras and a few optional visits. And always carry some cash in small notes: you'll use it all the time.

5. Experiences not to be missed

• Hot-air balloon ride over Luxor: at sunrise, a superb view over the Valley of the Kings and the Nile.
• Felucca ride in Aswan: sailing at sunset, the most authentic experience.
• Visiting the temples at evening light: the Karnak sound and light show is spectacular.
• Luxor market: spices, alabaster and local crafts, ideal for souvenirs.

6. Our expert tips