Discover Egypt in the most refined way possible on an intimate 7-night luxury Nile journey combining Aswan, Luxor, and a four-night cruise aboard the exclusive Zein Chateau. Designed for travelers seeking boutique river cruising, private touring, and insider access, this handcrafted itinerary blends legendary temples, world-class Egyptologists, iconic heritage hotels, and beautifully curated experiences. From sunrise balloon flights over the Valley of the Kings to sunset felucca dinners, this is the elegant, small-ship Nile cruise discerning travelers search for - without the crowds and without compromise.
After a private meet & greet and transfer from the airport, settle at the iconic Sofitel Legend before easing into your Egyptian experience with cocktails in the garden. In the evening, gather for a welcome dinner that sets the tone for the days ahead.
Settle into your floating palace with lunch before heading out to Philae Temple, the island sanctuary relocated to save it from rising Nile waters. Continue to the Unfinished Obelisk for a glimpse into ancient craftsmanship, then sail toward Kom Ombo to explore its rare twin design dedicated to Sobek and Horus. Arrive at the temple at twilight for an atmospheric visit, then return on board for dinner as the river settles into evening.
Drift down the Nile as you arrive at the cliff-side tombs of Silsila, then continue sailing toward Edfu. Here, explore one of Egypt’s best-preserved temples, a remarkably intact shrine whose inscriptions reveal stories and beliefs from the centuries after Alexander the Great. Return on board for dinner as the river carries you onward.
Begin with a visit to Esna Temple before cruising toward Luxor and enjoying lunch on board. In the late afternoon, explore Luxor Temple as the light turns warm across its columns, a site devoted to kingship and shaped over centuries by rulers from Amenhotep III and Tutankhamun to Alexander the Great and Ramesses II. Return on board for dinner as evening settles over the city.
Spend the day exploring the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut’s temple, Deir el-Medina, Medinet Habu and the vast complex of Karnak, moving through some of Egypt’s most iconic archaeological sites, including the hidden royal tombs carved into the cliffs. After this deep dive into ancient history, return to the dahabiya for a celebratory dinner with views over Luxor.
Transfer to the Winter Palace and enjoy a full day at leisure to unwind or explore at your own pace. In the evening, set out on a private felucca sail, gliding past Elephantine Island, Lord Kitchener’s Botanical Gardens and the Agha Khan Mausoleum on one of these graceful traditional boats, before ending the day with dinner on the water.
Begin the day with a sunrise hot air balloon flight over Luxor, followed by breakfast in a unique setting. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure before gathering in the evening for a farewell dinner at one of our favorite restaurants.
A final breakfast before departure. You leave with memories, stories, and about 2,000 more photos than planned. Looking to expand in the region or beyond Egypt? Consider Petra (Jordan) or the UAE. Our team would be delighted to assist in the planning.
Our day-to-day itinerary may, from time to time and prior to departure, need to be altered or slightly modified to address possible unforeseen logistical and weather challenges. In such rare instances, Art In Voyage guarantees delivery of the content of the itinerary yet, in a different order.
All listed retreats (hotels, villas, and barges) are, at times, subject to changes. In such rare instances, similar or higher standards will be upheld.
Travel insurance, once purchased, goes into effect upon payment of the premium. You have 15 days from that date to cancel it (providing no claims have been filed or initiated during that period). Beyond 15 days, it becomes non-refundable/non-changeable/non-transferrable.
In case of a cancelation at more than 90 days prior to departure, your deposit will be returned minus a $1,000 per person administrative fee.
In case of a cancelation within the penalty period: Find a replacement at least 30 days prior to departure and your journey will be fully refunded, minus a $1,000 per person administrative fee.
