There are hundreds of choices you can make when it comes to traveling between Luxor and Aswan. But there was one cruise line that stood out to us, Lazuli Voyages. If you ever get the opportunity to take a trip to Egypt and go on a Nile cruise I promise you won’t regret traveling with them! Keep reading to learn about why we chose Lazuli!

One of a Kind Authentic Experience 

Both my fiancé, Kevin, and I are Egyptian and have visited our home country many times. We thought we had seen it all. But after having the opportunity to sail down the Nile, on a Dahabeah, we were exposed to so many aspects of Egypt’s deep and rich history.

Speaking of the dahabeah, it was the choice of travel for the royals and dignitaries in Egypts colonial era. They were known for transporting luxurious amenities and having large open roof decks built for leisure and diplomacy alike. With time they became the vessel of choice for travelers around the world, looking to explore Egypt’s rich history. 

Our Dahabeah honors this history with its intimate layout, wonderful cabins, and design features that encompasses a modern take on classic Egyptian luxury. On Lazuli’s Dahabeah you can take in the sunrise or sunset on the expansive roof deck, enjoy afternoon tea & treats, or even spend time relaxing in a jacuzzi. You can learn about Egypts history from one of their incredible guides (shout out to Jacob, he was ours!) while enjoying family friendly games with the Egyptian countryside as your backdrop. 

However, the true magic of Lazuli happens with the destinations they choose, which are only truly accessible on a sailboat. 

Destinations on your Voyage

Lazuli’s voyages doesn’t simply take you to major destinations. They build a story of Egypts history that illustrates the many cultures that live as one today. Each day is planned from meals, tours, to moments of relaxation so you can focus on building memories with your family. 

You begin you tour in Luxor and end in Aswan. Along the way Lazuli arranges for you to see some of the most important monuments in Egyptian history. To learn about the full 5 day, 4 night itinerary we took, you can check it out here! 

We wanted to share a few of our favorite memories:

The cultural excursions to local villages. You’ll have the opportunity to visit 3 unique villages in Egypt including Basaw, Daraw, and the Nubian Village. 

Basaw is a fishing village with approximately 700 residents on an island in the middle of the Nile. Here you’ll learn about the daily life, farming practices, participate in sun bread baking, and fish with the locals. 

Daraw is a market town, where small local villages converge to trade goods. You’ll be able to sample locally grown produce from the Nile Delta, interact with textile workers and tradesmen, and even enjoy a cup of coffee in the market square. It’s hectic and busy, but it’s a one of a kind Egyptian experience 😉.

The visit to the Nubian village begins with a boat ride through the Cataract rock formations, characteristic of the Nile in Aswan. When you arrive you’re greeted by a beautifully colored town, a fragrant market, and even some camels! You have the opportunity to visit a local Nubian family, where you learn about Nubian architecture, art, and sample incredible local food.

We had an unforgettable experience with these families and it helped us realize how much of a cultural tapestry Egypt truly is. 

Visits to historical temples

Temples will be a part of almost every Nile cruise itinerary. What’s sets Lazuli apart are the tour guides, who soon become close family friends, and the small group you experience the history of Egypt with. 

Each visit to a temple is told like a story, which is great for every member of the family. Lazuli prides themselves on having the most qualified staff. They have such a deep knowledge of Egyptian history and you’ll leave with a deeper understanding and connection to ancient Egyptian history. 

Food & Friendship 

Take it from two Egyptians, you’ll have one of the delicious family style meals every day.  From riverside barbecues to incredible sunrise breakfasts, you’ll sample all of the best home cooked food Egypt has to offer. In addition to a great set menu, the crew is very adaptable to dietary preferences and sometimes just cravings for the day! 

The people that made our trip truly exceptional were the crew and our tour guide, Jacob!

Final note for parents: the crew not only ensures a positive experience for your child but also adapts the space based on their age to ensure everyone is safe.

We can’t wait to return to Egypt and hopefully enjoy another Nile cruise with Lazuli Voyages alongside our friends and family! 

Warmly,

Nadda & Kevin