Kahila Nile Cruise 2026 — Review, Itinerary & Prices | 22m2 Cabins & 35m2 Suites from $629
Overview
Bottom line: The Kahila is a well-specified, spacious 5-star Nile cruise ship on the Saturday/Wednesday departure schedule, offering one of the most generous standard cabin sizes in its price range — 22m2 across all 68 double cabins — and notably spacious 35m2 suites. A closed-circuit video security system throughout the ship, fire alarms and smoke detectors in every cabin, a DVD player and satellite TV in every room, and a swimming pool and sun deck combine to make the Kahila one of the most safety-conscious and comprehensively equipped budget 5-star ships in the fleet. For travelers arriving in Luxor on Saturday who want a spacious, well-specified cabin without paying deluxe prices, the Kahila is a strong and consistent choice. From $629 per person.
Kahila Nile Cruise — Quick Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Ship Category | 5-Star Standard Nile Cruise |
| Total Cabins | 68 double cabins (22m2 each) · 4 suites (35m2 each) |
| Deck Layout | 5 decks — main deck, two upper decks, one lower deck, sun deck |
| Cabin Features | 22m2 · DVD player · satellite colour TV · music system · panoramic window · private bath with shower · mini bar · safe deposit box · telephone · individually controlled A/C |
| Suite Features | 35m2 · largest suite at this price on the Saturday schedule · all cabin features plus extra living space |
| Safety Features | Closed-circuit video security throughout · fire alarm in every cabin · smoke detector in every cabin |
| On-Board Pool | Swimming pool on sun deck |
| Route | Luxor to Aswan (4 nights / 5 days) · Aswan to Luxor (3 nights / 4 days) |
| Departures | Every Saturday from Luxor · Every Wednesday from Aswan |
| Price From | $629 per person |
| Board Basis | Full board — breakfast, lunch and dinner daily |
| Guide Languages | English · Spanish · German · Portuguese |
| Best For | Saturday arrivals in Luxor · travelers wanting spacious 22m2 cabins at $629 · suite seekers at budget price · safety-conscious travelers · DVD entertainment users |
Is the Kahila Nile Cruise Worth It?
Yes — 22m2 cabins and 35m2 suites at $629 on the Saturday schedule is excellent value. The Kahila's standard cabin size of 22m2 is generous for this price tier — most 5-star budget ships offer 16–19m2 standard cabins. The 35m2 suites are even more compelling: at $629 starting price, these suites are larger than the suite offering on most comparable Saturday ships and approach the size of cabin categories on deluxe vessels charging significantly more. The DVD player in every cabin, satellite TV, music system, closed-circuit video security throughout the ship, and individual fire alarm and smoke detector in every cabin create a vessel that is genuinely well-equipped and safety-oriented for its category. For Saturday arrivals in Luxor wanting a spacious, well-specified cabin with strong safety features at a mid-range budget price, the Kahila is a consistent and reliable recommendation.
Who Is the Kahila Best For?
- Travelers on the Saturday/Wednesday schedule whose international flights or Cairo visit naturally bring them to Luxor on Saturday morning.
- Travelers who want spacious 22m2 standard cabins at a price below most ships offering this size.
- Suite seekers at $629 — 35m2 suites at this price are rare on the Saturday schedule.
- Safety-conscious travelers who appreciate closed-circuit video security, fire alarms, and smoke detectors in every cabin.
- DVD and entertainment users who want an in-cabin DVD player alongside satellite TV.
- Families who want a swimming pool, full board buffet, and well-equipped cabins for children.
Who Should NOT Book the Kahila?
- If UV panoramic windows and bathtub cabins are the priority at this price, the A Sara Nile Cruise ($599, Saturday/Wednesday) has UV windows, bathtubs in every cabin, and a 100% non-smoking policy.
- If a Jacuzzi, sauna, or full spa are priorities on the Saturday schedule, the Moon Dance ($699, Saturday/Wednesday) has all three plus a beauty salon and gym.
- If billiards, table tennis, and sliding panoramic windows are specific requests, the Jaz Celebrity ($599, Saturday/Wednesday) has all of these with the JAZ hotel brand backing.
Egypt For Travel Expert Assessment
"The Kahila is a well-specified, dependable ship for the Saturday/Wednesday departure slot. The 22m2 cabin size is the feature that stands out — at $629 you are getting a cabin that most ships charge $100 or more extra for. The 35m2 suites are genuinely impressive for this price point. The closed-circuit video security and individual fire alarms in every cabin are features that safety-conscious travelers and families specifically request, and very few budget ships in this category can offer them. We recommend the Kahila consistently to travelers arriving in Luxor on Saturday who want a comfortable, spacious cabin without moving into the mid-range price tier."
— Egypt For Travel Operations Team — ETA Category A Licence No. 1947
What You Will See — Sites Visited on the Kahila Nile Cruise
Every Kahila departure includes private guided visits with a licensed Egyptologist to all of the following:
| Location | Sites Visited |
|---|---|
| Luxor East Bank | Karnak Temple · Luxor Temple · Avenue of Sphinxes |
| Luxor West Bank | Valley of the Kings (3 tombs) · Temple of Hatshepsut · Colossi of Memnon |
| Edfu | Edfu Temple — arrived by horse-drawn calesh from the dock |
| Kom Ombo | Kom Ombo Temple · Crocodile Museum |
| Aswan | Philae Temple (by motorboat) · Aswan High Dam · Unfinished Obelisk |
| Schedule: Saturday from Luxor (4 nights) · Wednesday from Aswan (3 nights) |
Included
- Meet & greet at Luxor or Aswan by our representative
- Private licensed Egyptologist guide throughout all touring days (English, Spanish, German, Portuguese)
- Private air-conditioned vehicle between the ship and every temple
- Full board — breakfast, lunch and dinner on board daily
- All entrance fees: Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, Valley of the Kings (3 tombs), Hatshepsut Temple, Colossi of Memnon, Edfu Temple, Kom Ombo Temple, Crocodile Museum, Philae Temple (by motorboat), Aswan High Dam, Unfinished Obelisk
- Horse-drawn calesh from Edfu dock to Edfu Temple
- Motorboat to Philae Temple across the Nasser reservoir
- All port taxes and service charges
- 24/7 Egypt For Travel WhatsApp support throughout your cruise
Excluded
- International flights to and from Egypt
- Egypt tourist visa — $25 USD per person, paid on arrival at Cairo Airport
- Personal travel insurance (strongly recommended)
- Tips and gratuities — Egyptologist guide: $10–15 per person per day · driver: $5–10 per day · cruise crew: $10–15 per person total on final day
- Tomb of Tutankhamun KV62 — approximately $40 per person extra entrance at the Valley of the Kings (not included in the standard 3-tomb ticket)
- Abu Simbel excursion — optional add-on from Aswan, approximately $140 per person by road
- Hot air balloon over Luxor — optional, approximately $120–160 per person; must be pre-arranged at booking
- Alcoholic beverages on board
- Wi-Fi on board (available with charge)
- Any meals not specified in inclusions above
- Personal expenses and shopping
Cruise
Cabin Facilities (all cabins)
| ✓ Private bathroom with shower and hairdryer | ✓ Satellite colour TV |
| ✓ DVD player | ✓ Music system |
| ✓ Individually controlled air conditioning | ✓ Telephone |
| ✓ Closed video circuit (CCTV) | ✓ Fire alarm and smoke detector in every cabin |
| ✓ Double: 22 m² · Suite: 35 m² | |
Itinerary:
5 Days - Luxor / Aswan
Day 1: Arrival in Luxor – Begin Your Nile Cruise Vacation
Upon your arrival at Luxor Airport or Train Station, our representatives will warmly welcome you and assist in boarding your Nile Cruise. Following a delightful lunch served on board, embark on an awe-inspiring trip to the eastern bank of Luxor along the Nile.
Explore the monumental Karnak Temple, the world's largest ancient religious site. Take your time to leisurely wander through this extensive complex, representing the reigns of numerous pharaohs.
Next, visit the splendid Temple of Luxor, constructed by Amenhotep III and Ramses II, for ceremonial festivities dedicated to the deity Amun. End your day with a delectable dinner served aboard the cruise. Overnight at Luxor.
Day 2: Excursions in Luxor (West Bank attractions)
After a delicious breakfast on board, your knowledgeable tour guide will accompany you to visit the west bank of Luxor. You will embark on an exciting trip to the royal burial ground of 64 pharaohs in the Valley of the Kings, which is also the original resting place of the world-famous boy king Tutankhamun.
Next, you will visit the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, the only pharaoh queen, at Deir-el-Bahari. The temple's design is a unique blend of classical architecture and ancient Egyptian culture, and it boasts stunning views of the surrounding landscape. You will also visit the two gigantic statues of Memnon, which are a true testament to the grandeur of ancient Egyptian art and craftsmanship.
Back to your Nile Cruise. Enjoy a delicious lunch on board the cruise. Sail towards Edfu while enjoying your dinner. You will spend a comfortable and relaxing night on board the cruise in Edfu.
Day 3: Excursions to Temples of Edfu and Kom Ombo
Indulge in a delightful breakfast aboard our Nile cruise before embarking on an enriching journey to the Temple of Horus in Edfu. Accompanied by our expert guide, travel in traditional style via a Kalesh (horse cart) ride to explore this magnificent Ptolemaic temple, renowned for its impressive architecture and well-preserved chambers. Enjoy the towering statues of Horus guarding the entrance gate as you immerse yourself in ancient Egyptian history.
Following this captivating visit, savor a delectable lunch on board the cruise while sailing to Kom Ombo. Discover the unique Temple of Sobek and Haroeris. Sail to Aswan. Dinner and overnight in Aswan.
Day 4: Nile Cruise excursions in Aswan
After having breakfast on board the Nile Cruise, your tour guide will join you to start the day in Aswan. You will take a boat ride to the island of Agilkia to visit the Temple of Philae, which is dedicated to the goddess Isis and was rescued from the rising waters caused by the construction of the High Dam. You will marvel at the long colonnades, towers, and reliefs of Philae, including the latest hieroglyphic and demotic descriptions of Egypt.
After the visit, you will have lunch on board the Nile cruise and then have free time to relax and enjoy the facilities on board. Later in the evening, you will have dinner on board the cruise and spend the night in Aswan.
Day 5: Nile Cruise Disembarkation in Aswan
After a delightful breakfast on board the cruise, you will disembark at 08:00 am and be escorted to your transportation by our Egypt For Travel representative. Whether you are departing from Aswan Airport or Aswan train station, we will ensure a smooth and comfortable transfer for you.
4 Days - Aswan / Luxor
Day 1: Boarding On The Nile Cruise / Aswan Day Tour
Your Nile Cruise vacation to ancient Egypt begins as soon as you arrive at Aswan Train Station or Aswan Airport, where an Egypt For Travel representative will greet you. You will then be transferred to your Nile cruise by private air-conditioned vehicle for embarkation in Aswan before lunch. Savor a delicious meal onboard before heading out to explore the wonders of the region.
Your first stop will be the High Dam and the Temple of Philae on Isis Island, where you will be transported back in time to the glory days of ancient Egypt(Kemet Egypt). After Aswan day tour, return to your boat for an exquisite dinner onboard. As the night falls, you will spend the night in Aswan, surrounded by the serene beauty of the Nile River. Trust Egypt For Travel to provide you with an unforgettable journey through time and space, filled with adventure, luxury, and discovery.
Day 2: Explore Kom Ombo Temple and Sail to Edfu
After enjoying a delightful breakfast aboard your Nile cruise, embark on an enriching trip through ancient Egypt. Sail to Kom Ombo while relishing a delectable lunch onboard. Upon arrival, visit the renowned Kom Ombo Temple dedicated to the gods Sobek and Haroeris. Enjoy the awe-inspiring ancient architecture and delve into the impressive history with your Private tour guide.
Then, back to your Nile cruise and continue sailing to Edfu. Spend the evening surrounded by the serene beauty of the Nile River as you indulge in a lavish dinner onboard.
Trust us to curate a trip full of unforgettable experiences, adventure, and relaxation.
Day 3: Sail to Edfu& Tour To The East Bank
Embark on a fascinating trip through the wonders of ancient Egypt after indulging in a delectable breakfast onboard your luxurious Nile cruise. Visit the awe-inspiring Temple of Horus in Edfu and discover the secrets of the fascinating mythology of Horus, the god of the sky and kingship. Afterward, sail towards Esna while enjoying a delicious lunch onboard.
Cross the Esna lock and make your way toward Luxor, where you will be captivated by the stunning beauty of the Karnak and Luxor temples on the eastern Bank of Luxor.
Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Egypt as our knowledgeable Egyptologists guide you through the temples, sharing fascinating insights and stories along the way.
After a day filled with wonder and exploration, enjoy a splendid dinner onboard your cruise and spend the night at Luxor.
Don't miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to discover the magic of ancient Egypt.
Day 4: Explore Luxor's West Bank & Departure
Egypt For Travel ensures a seamless experience for their guests from start to finish. Enjoy breakfast on board the cruise before disembarking at 0800am and meeting your private guide, who will accompany you on a tour of the West Bank. Explore the fascinating Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut at Deir el-Bahari, and the Colossi of Memnon with expert guidance.
After the tour, you will be transferred to the Luxor train station or airport for your departure, marking the end of an unforgettable journey through ancient Egypt.
Prices:
Summer Rates (May- August)
Prices
Winter Rates (Sep- April)
Prices
Notes:
About the Kahila Nile Cruise
The Kahila Nile Cruise is a 5-star standard cruise ship operated by Egypt For Travel on the Saturday/Wednesday departure schedule between Luxor and Aswan. Its most defining feature is the standard cabin size: 22m2 across all 68 double cabins, and 35m2 across the 4 suites — dimensions that most ships in this price category do not match. The ship is distributed across 5 decks and equipped with a closed-circuit video security system throughout, individual fire alarms and smoke detectors in every cabin, a DVD player and satellite TV in every room, and a swimming pool and sun deck. Every shore excursion is operated by Egypt For Travel with a private licensed Egyptologist guide in your chosen language. Egypt For Travel holds Egyptian Tourism Authority Licence Category A No. 1947, founded 2010.
Why Day 3 Is Exceptional on the Kahila
Day 3 of the Kahila's 4-night itinerary combines Edfu Temple and Kom Ombo Temple in a single day — the two Nile-stop temples that guests consistently remember most vividly. Edfu, the most complete ancient temple in existence, is reached by horse-drawn calesh from the ship's dock, giving the approach the theatrical quality its builders intended. Kom Ombo's Crocodile Museum — mummified crocodiles sacred to the god Sobek — is the single exhibit most frequently described by guests as the most unexpectedly compelling moment of the entire cruise. These two temples, visited in sequence as the Kahila sails south through the afternoon, represent the Nile cruise at its most architecturally concentrated and historically rich.
Nile Cruise Prices
All Kahila Nile Cruise rates are quoted in US dollars per person per trip. Payments are also accepted in Euro (EUR) and British Pounds (GBP) at the current exchange rate. Prices may vary during Christmas, New Year, and Easter holiday periods. Once your Kahila Nile Cruise booking is confirmed by Egypt For Travel, rates remain fixed and will not change.
Best Season to Cruise on the Kahila
| Season | Temperatures | What to Expect |
|---|---|---|
| October – April (Peak) | 18–28°C in Luxor and Aswan | Best conditions for temple visits. Comfortable mornings and evenings. Clearest light for photography. Book 4–8 weeks ahead for preferred cabin categories. |
| May – September (Summer) | 35–42°C in Luxor and Aswan | Lower prices and better availability. All temple visits scheduled at 06:30 to complete sightseeing before midday heat. Ship pool is essential. Summer prices are 15–20% below peak rates. |
| Christmas & New Year | 18–22°C — ideal | Highest demand period. Higher prices apply. 50% deposit required. Book 2–3 months ahead minimum. The Nile at Christmas is at its most atmospheric. |
Departure Schedule
| Departure | Day | Duration | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Luxor | Every Saturday | 4 Nights / 5 Days | Luxor → Edfu → Kom Ombo → Aswan |
| Aswan | Every Wednesday | 3 Nights / 4 Days | Aswan → Kom Ombo → Edfu → Luxor |
Choosing Between Saturday/Wednesday Ships — Kahila vs Competitors
Five ships depart Saturday from Luxor on the 2026 schedule. Your choice depends on what matters most to you:
| Ship | From | Best Feature — Why Choose It |
|---|---|---|
| Princess Sarah | $579 | UV panoramic windows · bathtub · gym · movie channel · non-smoking · 24-hour doctor |
| A Sara Nile Cruise | $599 | UV panoramic windows · bathtub in every cabin · 100% non-smoking throughout · gym |
| MS Nile Palace | $599 | Jacuzzi on sun deck · free spa, sauna and Turkish bath · 75 cabins · family cabins |
| Kahila Nile Cruise | $629 | Largest standard cabin 22m2 · 35m2 suites · DVD player · CCTV security · fire alarm in every cabin |
| Moon Dance | $699 | Full wellness: Jacuzzi · sauna · spa · gym · beauty salon — best facilities on Saturday schedule |
Nile Cruise Children Policy
| Age | Rate | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| 0 – 1.99 years | Free of charge | Sharing cabin with parents · no extra bed |
| 2 – 5.99 years | 25% of adult rate | Sharing parents' cabin |
| 6 – 11.99 years | 50% of adult rate | Sharing parents' cabin |
| 12 years and above | Full adult rate | Considered adult for pricing purposes |
If your tour package includes airfare, additional charges for children may apply. Contact Egypt For Travel to confirm your specific family pricing at booking.
Payment and Deposit Policy
| Period | Deposit Required |
|---|---|
| Standard booking (all dates) | 25% of total price |
| Christmas, New Year and Easter departures | 50% of total price |
The deposit is deducted from the final balance. The remaining amount can be settled up to one week before your arrival date, or in cash upon boarding. An installment plan over 6, 9, or 12 months is available — contact Egypt For Travel to confirm terms.
Entry Tickets Note
The Kahila Nile Cruise package includes entrance fees to all standard sites on the itinerary: Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, Valley of the Kings (standard 3-tomb ticket), Hatshepsut Temple, Colossi of Memnon, Edfu Temple, Kom Ombo Temple, Crocodile Museum, Philae Temple, Aswan High Dam, and the Unfinished Obelisk. Please note that entry to special archaeological sites is not included in the standard ticket, specifically the interior of the Tomb of Tutankhamun (KV62) at the Valley of the Kings, which requires a separate entrance fee of approximately $40 per person. Egypt For Travel recommends this additional entry for guests who visited the Tutankhamun galleries at the Grand Egyptian Museum in Cairo. Your guide will advise on site on the day.
Cancellation Policy
| Notice Before Departure | Cancellation Charge |
|---|---|
| 61 days or more | 10% of total price |
| 31 – 60 days | 20% of total price |
| 15 – 30 days | 50% of total price |
| 1 – 14 days | 100% of total price (no refund) |
Christmas, New Year and Easter departures: specific cancellation terms apply and are confirmed at booking. Travel insurance covering cancellation is strongly recommended for all guests.
Tipping Guide
Tipping is optional but genuinely appreciated by the Egyptian professionals who make the cruise experience work. Suggested amounts per person:
- Egyptologist guide: $5–10 per person per day
- Private driver: $3–5 per person per day
- Kahila cruise crew: $15–20 per person total, paid on the final day of the cruise to the head of service
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance covering medical expenses, emergency evacuation, trip cancellation, and personal liability is strongly recommended for all guests on the Kahila Nile Cruise. Egypt For Travel does not sell travel insurance but can advise on suitable policies at booking. Medical facilities in Luxor and Aswan are adequate for standard travel health issues. The Unfinished Obelisk site and Valley of the Kings involve walking on uneven surfaces — comfortable closed-toe shoes are essential.
About Egypt For Travel
Egypt For Travel — Egypt Today Travel Group
Egyptian Tourism Authority Licence Category A No. 1947
39 Zohair Sabry Street, Nasr City, Cairo, Egypt
WhatsApp: +20 155 555 2466
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.egyptfortravel.com
Our team responds to all inquiries within 2 hours during business hours (Cairo time, GMT+2).
Partner brands: Around Egypt Tours · Egypt Top Tours · Best Nile Cruises
All tours and cruises operated directly — not subcontracted.
