When considering value for money, this was a fantastic trip, which included; return flights from Cairo to Luxor, four nights accommodation on the boat with food, guides for the sites and the hot air balloon for a little over £500 per person. I am amazed how they managed that and cannot fault the trip when considering value for money.
The guides were also extremely knowledgeable and I would particularly mention Nam Bassam and Salema for all their assistance. They both looked after us above and beyond what we expected and nothing was too much trouble. They were both excellent.
I would give the trip 4.5 out of 5 overall, but the star rating only allows either 4 or 5.
The reason, I have not given 5 out of 5 was due to a change of itinerary, which did not really work as well as the original itinerary.
Originally, we were booked to fly to Luxor then sail to Aswan. Day one was going to be a trip to the Valley of the Kings. When we arrived in Luxor we were informed that we would be driving to Aswan to then sailing back to Luxor. The drive was about 4 1/2 hours. Taking the positive from this, we did get to see a lot more on the countryside, including towns and villages which was interesting but it did add a lot more to the travelling and no sightseeing of the ancient sites for the first day.
In relation to the boat, we were on the bottom level and there was a smell of diesel. I have since seen other people comment about this issue. There is nothing Sphinx of Egypt Tours could really do about that as I suspect the cabins on the bottom level are cheaper. However, if you can I would suggest you ask for a higher deck if at all possible. It would also be worth paying a little extra.
The only other suggestion I would make is to provide an optional extra to fly to Abu Simbel from Aswan, which I know some people do. The reason I would suggest this, is that you have to be up at 03:30 am, for a 04:30 mini bus departure from Aswan, which then entails a 3 1/2 drive each way. If you flew, it is 45 minutes by plane and you would also get a little longer in bed.
For the price Sphinx of Egypt Tours, I would not expect the flight to be included but it would be something I would now ask them if they could assist with for an extra fee.
Overall, very positive experience with Sphinx of Egypt Tours, would use them again, with great guides, especially Nam and Salema.
As per the above, would simply see if you could pay for extras, especially:
- Upper deck on the boat
- Flight to Abu Simbel, instead of drive
Highly recommended trip and tour company.