Nile Cruise

The best way to appreciate Egypt

Despite Egypt being one of the most populous countries in Africa with over 80 million people, the vast majority of its land is uninhabited desert.  Most of Egypt exists in a thin strip on either side of the River Nile, so there can be no better way to truly appreciate this historic country than a cruise down the 4,130 miles of the river.

Egypt is full of inspiring sights, from the busy hustle and bustle of Cairo, the Pyramids of Menkaure, Khafre and Khufu at Giza, to the Valley of Kings at Luxur.  You’ll be able to view an ancient history like nowhere else on Earth; a civilization that existed for three thousand years before falling to the Roman Empire.

Most Nile cruises start logically in Cairo, as the majority of tourists fly into the country via Cairo International Airport; and most Nile cruises start just as logically with a tour of the capital.  You’ll no doubt take in a trip to the Egyptian Museum and its wondrous treasures, and you’ll experience the Coptic Quarter with its ancient churches.  Close to Cairo are the wondrous pyramids at Giza, which are a must-see.  Beware though, Giza is not the cleanest place in the country, and the vendors thrusting their wares in your face can become a little intimidating.

Although your cruise may begin in Cairo, you’re not likely to board there.  Instead, your cruise company will probably fly you down the Nile to Luxor.  Your schedule is likely to be quite hectic as there is usually so much to see, so don’t be afraid to take a day off now and again to enjoy the facilities your ship will no doubt offer.  Most ships will have sun decks and offer spa treatments.  A day of indulgence is as important as a day of sight-seeing.  Your cruise company is also likely to offer entertainment which will give you a chance to socialize with your fellow passengers; be gregarious and you could make some lifelong friends.

Be careful of paying over-the-odds for trips and excursions.  Before you go it is often worth seeing what is on offer and doing a little homework to see if it’s worth the money.  You will not have time to do everything whilst you are on the cruise, so make sure you’ve selected the items that are of most interest to you and which previous travellers have recommended.

Whilst in Luxor, the Valley of the Kings cannot be missed.  There are 63 tombs, but it’s not possible to visit them all.  The most memorable are the tombs of Ramses I, Ramses III and Ramses XI.  You can pay extra to visit the tomb of Tutankhamun if you wish but all his majestic treasures now reside at the Egyptian Museum.

Egypt is more often brutally hot than not so dress loosely, but appropriately.  The Egyptian dress code means keeping as much as the flesh covered as is possible.  Make sure bottled water is always available and protect the top of your head with a hat, and those exposed parts of you with sunscreen.

Most cruises either disembark or turn around at Aswan.  Here you can see Lake Nasser, the world’s largest manmade lake, and visit an ancient Nubian village before you head back north or head home.

A cruise down the Nile is easily the best way to see Egypt in a nutshell.  You’ll be amazed at what people achieved without modern machinery, and you’ll take home the kind of memories you’ll treasure forever.