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Sail in a Felucca on the Nile, Luxor

  • Luxor, Upper Egypt, Egypt

  • Bucket List Experience

Coastline of the river NIle near Luxor. Nile is 6,853 km long. The Nile is an "international" river shared by eleven countries
Last updated: 28 April, 2024

One of the best ways to experience the magic of the Nile – and to see a glimpse of the authentic Egypt away from the tourist trail – is to go sailing in a traditional felucca (sailing boat).

Sit back on cushions as the single sail guides you upriver alongside farmland and villages, past grazing water buffaloes and camels – landscapes unchanged for thousands of years. Boatmen will offer drinks and may sing with drums.

Logistics

Price from: £6
Minimum age: Any
Age suitable: 8+
When: All year around

Getting there & doing it

Hire a boat opposite the Sofitel Winter Palace, or near the ferry landing on the West Bank. Rent by the hour and arrange the price and duration with the boat captain. Baksheesh (tips) will be expected at the end. Take your own drinks and snacks.

Or ask your hotel to arrange your felucca – you pay more but get a fixed price. Some agencies (Abercrombie & Kent) and hotels including the Hilton Luxor can arrange Champagne breakfasts or sunset cocktails onboard.

The river is broad in Luxor, and the East Bank heavily developed around Luxor city, so ask to go to the east side.

When to do it

Feluccas are available for hire all year round, at all times of the day. They are usually not allowed to sail at night.

Late afternoons are best, when the sun cools down and winds pick up, blowing off the desert. Avoid sweltering in the midday sun.

Avoid July and August, when it gets uncomfortably hot.

Who to go with: organised tours

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Our selection of the best Viator tours of this attraction or activity

Luxor Sunset Felucca Ride and Banana Island with Lunch or Dinner

  • Luxor

Luxor Sunset Felucca Ride and Banana Island with Lunch or Dinner

Viator

Luxor Sunset Felucca Ride and Banana Island with Lunch or Dinner
Have a chance to explore the natural life of Luxor on this amazing trip in nature. Relax on board of a sailing boat, watch the birds, the farms, walk around the banana island "an Island covered with banana plantations". Get back with sunset views behind the West Bank hills. With door-to-door transport by an air-conditioned vehicle. Lunch or dinner at the banana island restaurant included but beverages are not included. - Have peace of mind and enjoy a trip in nature to discover the real Egyptian life in Luxor. - Relax on board of a sailing boat for about 45 minutes to the banana Island. - Enjoy lunch or dinner and eat organic banana on the island. - Take it easy with door-to-door transfer at your hotel in Luxor.

Price $50

Min age 0

Rating 4.77 / 5 [67 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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Amazing Sunset sailing by Felucca in Luxor -2 Hours (Private)

  • Luxor

Amazing Sunset sailing by Felucca in Luxor -2 Hours (Private)

Viator

Amazing Sunset sailing by Felucca in Luxor -2 Hours (Private)
Sunset sailing on a felucca in Luxor is a breathtaking experience. Feluccas are traditional wooden sailboats that gracefully glide along the Nile River, providing a unique and tranquil way to witness the stunning sunset over Luxor's ancient landmarks. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky transforms into a palette of warm hues, casting a golden glow on the surrounding temples and landscapes. The gentle swaying of the felucca, the soothing sound of the water, and the majestic scenery create a magical ambiance that captures the essence of Egypt's rich history and natural beauty. It's a serene and romantic way to connect with the past while enjoying the present moment.

Price $45

Min age 0

Rating 4.92 / 5 [64 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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Destination guides

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  • Upper Egypt, Egypt

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Luxor

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