As the desert light turns to amber, board a private traditional felucca sailboat and drift on the Nile with the temples and palm-lined west bank glowing all around you. The oldest form of transport on the world's greatest river, taken in the most beautiful possible light.
What to expect
Your captain — likely the third generation of his family to sail this stretch of river — sets a course toward the west bank as the light softens and the temple's pylon catches the last gold of the day. Fresh mint tea and local fruit are served on cushioned benches. You may drift past local fishermen casting nets, buffalo cooling in the shallows, and children waving from mud-brick villages. As the stars emerge over the Eastern Desert, the felucca tacks back to the cruise dock.
Good to know
Best timed for the final 90 minutes before your all-aboard call — typically 17:30–19:00 on Nile river cruise itineraries. Confirm exact timings with your cruise. A light wrap or shawl is recommended as evenings on the Nile can be surprisingly cool even in autumn and spring. Pre-book to ensure the best-maintained vessels are reserved for you.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Edfu — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.