How to Plan Your Steigenberger Minerva Nile Cruise in Aswan

Are you looking for a serene and relaxing holiday in Aswan? A Steigenberger Minerva Nile Cruise might just be what you need. This tour offers you an opportunity to explore Aswan and its environs while enjoying a comfortable stay onboard the Nile cruiser. In this how-to guide, we will take you through the steps to plan for this amazing tour.

Step 1: Booking Your Aswan Nile Cruise

Booking your Steigenberger Minerva Nile Cruise is a straightforward process. All you need to do is follow the link provided, book the tour here, and provide your details on the booking page. It’s important to note that the booking page has all the details you need to know about the tour, including the itinerary, the duration, the cost, and what’s included or excluded.

Step 2: Preparing for Your Aswan Nile Cruise

Preparation is key to maximizing your enjoyment of the tour. Here’s what you can do to prepare:

Pack Wisely

When packing for your Nile cruise, keep in mind that you’ll be on a boat for a few days. Pack light and comfortable clothes that are suitable for the warm Aswan weather. Also, include some sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect your skin and eyes from the sun.

Bring Your Camera

Your Nile cruise will take you through some of the most picturesque scenes in Aswan. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture these moments.

Bring Some Cash

While most of the expenses associated with the tour are covered, you might need some extra cash for souvenirs, snacks, or optional activities.

Step 3: What to Expect During Your Aswan Nile Cruise

The Steigenberger Minerva Nile Cruise is a three-day tour that takes you through some of the most exciting places in Aswan.

The Experience

During the tour, you’ll get to experience the Nile River and enjoy some fresh air away from the bustling capital. You’ll also get to enjoy the beautiful weather while exploring Luxor & Aswan and try to spot some rare creatures.

Highlights

Here is a brief itinerary for the Steigenberger Minerva Nile Cruise:

Day 1: Aswan Nile Cruise Tours

– Meet & assist at Aswan Airport or railway station – Embarkation – Lunch on board – Visit the High Dam the Granite Quarries and the Temple of Philae. – Afternoon Tea – Dinner on board – Nubian Folkloric Show – Overnight in Aswan – Meals: Lunch Dinner

Day 2: Kom Ombo and Edfu Temples

– Sail to Kom Ombo – Breakfast on Board – Visit the Temple shared by two gods Sobek and Haeroris in Kom Ombo – Sail to Edfu – Lunch on Board – Visit Horus temple in Edfu – Sail to Esna – Afternoon Tea – Dinner on board – Egyptian Galabeya Party – Overnight in Esna – Meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner.

Day 3: Luxor Nile Cruise Excursions

– Breakfast on board. – Visit to the West bank enjoying Valley of the Kings the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut and the Colossi of Memnon facing the Nile. – Lunch on board. The itinerary is subject to change based on the Nile river’s water levels and weather conditions.

Step 4: Enjoying Your Aswan Nile Cruise

To ensure that you make the most of your Nile cruise, here are some tips to keep in mind:

Listen to the Tour Guide

The tour guide will provide you with all the information you need to know about the different places you’ll visit. Pay attention and ask questions where necessary.

Be on Time

The boat has a strict schedule to keep. Be on time for all the activities to avoid delaying the whole group.

Interact with Other Travelers

This is an opportunity to meet people from all over the world. Make new friends and enjoy the company of fellow travelers during the tour.

Book Your Tour Now

A Steigenberger Minerva Nile Cruise is an excellent way to explore Aswan and its environs while enjoying a comfortable and serene stay onboard a Nile Cruiser. With this how-to guide, you’re now equipped to plan for your Nile cruise and make the most of your tour. Don’t forget to book your tour using the link provided, book the tour here, and get ready for an unforgettable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Aswan

If you are planning a trip to Egypt and want to explore something more than Cairo and Luxor, Aswan should definitely be on your list of must-visit places. Aswan is a beautiful city located in Southern Egypt, along the Nile River. Here are some FAQs that people have while planning a trip to Aswan.

1. What is the best time to visit Aswan?

Aswan is a fairly hot city, and it’s best to avoid visiting during summers as temperatures can go up to 50°C. The best time to visit Aswan is in winter, from November to February, when the temperatures are mild and pleasant. Moreover, the Nile Festival is held in October and November, so if you plan your trip during that time, you can experience the beautiful festivals and events.

2. How can I reach Aswan?

Aswan has its own airport, and flights are available from Cairo and other major cities of Egypt. Moreover, Aswan is well connected to other cities via buses and trains. You can take a sleeper train from Cairo, which is a beautiful experience, or catch a public bus from Luxor or Abu Simbel.

3. What are the top tourist attractions in Aswan?

Aswan is home to some of the most beautiful temples, tombs, and ancient ruins. Some of the top tourist attractions in Aswan are:

– Abu Simbel Temples:

The Abu Simbel Temples are one of the most impressive sights in Aswan, located 280 km south of the city. The temples were built in honour of the Pharaoh Ramses II and his wife Nefertari.

– Philae Temple:

Philae is an island in the Nile River that houses the temple of Isis, the goddess of fertility and motherhood. The temple is beautifully preserved, and the island has a serene environment.

– Nubian Museum:

The Nubian Museum is a beautiful museum that showcases the history, art, and culture of the Nubian people who lived in Egypt.

– Unfinished Obelisk:

The Unfinished Obelisk is an ancient monument, located in a granite quarry, that was never completed. It is believed to be the largest obelisk ever attempted.

– Elephantine Island:

Elephantine Island is located in the Nile and is a beautiful spot to relax and unwind. It’s a great place to take a walk and explore some of the ancient ruins and temples.

4. Is it safe to travel to Aswan?

Aswan is generally a safe city to travel to, with very low crime rates. However, it’s important to take standard tourist precautions, such as avoiding deserted areas at night, keeping your valuables safe, and being careful of pickpockets in crowded areas.

5. What are some traditional foods to try in Aswan?

If you’re a foodie, Aswan won’t disappoint you. Some of the traditional foods that you must try in Aswan are:

– Foul:

Foul is a dish made of mashed fava beans, mixed with olive oil, lemon, and garlic. It’s usually eaten for breakfast with bread.

– Koshari:

Koshari is a dish made of rice, lentils, and macaroni, mixed with tomato sauce, and topped with fried onions.

– Hawawshi:

Hawawshi is a type of pita bread filled with minced meat, onion, and spices, then baked in an oven.

– Aswania:

Aswania is a dessert made of rice flour, butter, and sugar, flavoured with cardamom, and topped with nuts and raisins.

6. What are some cultural do’s and don’ts while in Aswan?

It’s important to respect the local culture while visiting Aswan. Here are some cultural do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

– Dress conservatively:

Egypt is a Muslim country, and it’s important to dress conservatively, especially while visiting religious places.

– Remove your shoes before entering mosques:

It’s customary to remove your shoes before entering mosques.

– Avoid public displays of affection:

Public displays of affection aren’t common in Egypt, and it’s best to avoid them.

– Respect the local customs and traditions:

It’s important to respect the local customs and traditions, such as not eating or drinking in public places during Ramadan.

7. What are some popular souvenirs to buy in Aswan?

Aswan is famous for its colourful Nubian pottery, handcrafted jewelry, hand-painted papyrus art, and beautiful woven rugs. You can buy these souvenirs from the markets and bazaars of Aswan, such as the Aswan Market, Spice Bazaar, or the street markets at Nubian villages. In conclusion, Aswan is a beautiful city, and a perfect destination to explore the history, culture, and traditions of Egypt. By keeping these FAQs in mind, you can plan your trip to Aswan and have a wonderful time exploring this beautiful city.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Aswan

Aswan is a beautiful city located in the south of Egypt, known for its historical and cultural significance. It has been an important spot for ancient Egyptians since Pharaonic times and is considered as one of the most popular destinations for tourists visiting Egypt. Here are some of the best activities you can do while visiting Aswan.

1. Explore the Philae Temple

The Philae Temple is a magnificent temple located on a scenic island in the Nile River. It was built in the honor of the goddess Isis during the Ptolemaic period and is a magnificent example of classical Egyptian architecture. Exploring this temple is a must for visitors to Aswan.

2. Visit the Unfinished Obelisk

The Unfinished Obelisk is a massive stone obelisk that was never completed. It is located in an ancient quarry in Aswan and is believed to have been commissioned by Queen Hatshepsut. Visitors can learn about the techniques used by ancient Egyptians for carving stone and how the obelisk was never finished.

3. Take a Boat Ride on the Nile

The Nile is the lifeblood of Egypt and is considered the longest river in the world. Taking a boat ride on the Nile River is a perfect way to explore the stunning views of the Aswan cityscape. You can hire a felucca, a traditional wooden sailing boat, and experience the tranquility of the Nile.

4. Visit the Nubian Village

The Nubian Village is a great example of the Nubian culture and lifestyle. The community has strong ties to ancient Egypt, and visitors can learn about the culture while enjoying colorful and vibrant surroundings. There are lots of crafts and unique souvenirs to purchase that make for perfect gifts for loved ones back home.

5. Visit the High Dam

The High Dam is a critical and significant feature in the history of modern Egypt. It was constructed during the reign of President Nasser and was a masterpiece of engineering during its time. Visitors can learn about the history of the dam and enjoy a stunning view of the Nile.

6. Enjoy the Aswan Botanical Gardens

Aswan Botanical Gardens is a vast botanical garden located on an island in the Nile River. Visitors can take a scenic boat ride to the island and explore the rich flora and fauna of the area. You can experience a picnic in the garden and take endless photographs around the stunning landscapes.

7. Explore the Nubian Museum

The Nubian Museum offers a great insight into the history of the Nubian culture. Visitors can learn about the traditional life of the Nubians, and they can also explore the ancient Egyptian artifacts and artwork displayed in the museum. The museum’s architecture is eye-catching and offers an interesting way to explore this rich culture.

Final thoughts

Aswan is a truly magnificent city that offers a rich history and culture of ancient and modern Egypt. Visitors will enjoy experiencing the Egyptian way of life, as well as exploring the treasure trove of historical monuments and landmarks. This guide can help you make the most of your time in Aswan while also helping you learn and appreciate the different aspects of the city’s history and lifestyle. Remember to book ahead for peak travel times to ensure that you can experience all that Aswan has to offer fully.