Once in a lifetime, absolutely worth it! - We debated between different Nile cruise tours, and settled on the one with Egypt Best Holidays. I was skeptical at first, but all the positive reviews are spot on. Khaled El Saady is the kind of guy you see in the movies - an Egyptologist who knows the ins-and-outs. When we got off the train from Cairo, he was easy to find - holding a sign with my name. Two men grabbed our bags, and without breaking stride said ‘these men will carry your bags to the car. They will ask for money after.’ Khaled helped us throughout by getting our tickets and advising who to tip, and who to ignore. This trip is worth it. Once in a lifetime opportunity, and our Egyptologist explained and shared stories the whole way. If you can, do not skip the hot air balloon ride. It’s really early, but my wife was radiantly glowing afterwards. Some tips: plan to spend about 700EGP per person for tickets to the temples. Not expensive, and you can stop by an ATM if needed. (also, when using foreign ATMs, decline the offer to convert to USD. Your bank does it already, and cheaper). Also, plan to have smaller bills before getting on the train. Water is 9EGP, cans of soda are cheap. ATMs give large bills that can be hard to break. August is hot - 105+, and you will spend a lot of time outside. Don’t cut short your free time because you got heatsick. Dress light and breezy. Take a parasol or umbrella. Get rehydration packets you can put in water bottles. Most of all, enjoy these sites. They are absolutely stunning, and the pictures you see and take make more sense after hearing the stories about each place.

Great experience on the Nile - Cruising on the Nile, being able to relax and take in the surroundings was amazing. Great food, accommodation and visits. Highly recommended.