An Egypt Nile Cruise itinerary is a beautiful opportunity to see the sights along the Nile and have fun with your travel companions. One of the world’s most fascinating rivers is the Nile. This river has stood for unity, tranquility, and affection for as long as anyone can remember. In this piece, I will advise you on creating a memorable itinerary for your Nile cruise in Egypt.
What Types of Egypt Nile Cruises?
If you’re interested in seeing Egypt from the comfort of your Nile River cruise itinerary, you may choose from various cruises. Each has unique features that set it apart, but any of them is an excellent choice for a vacation in this historically rich area.
Depending on your needs, interests, and budget, you can pick from several Nile cruise itineraries in Egypt. A few examples of popular Nile cruises in Egypt are as follows:
1- Luxury Nile Cruises
Provide passengers deluxe accommodations and services, including fine cuisine, spa treatments, and private balconies overlooking the river. Smaller boats on the Nile often carry fewer passengers, making for a more intimate and exclusive experience for those who book one of these trips.
2- Mid-Range Nile Cruises
These cruises are less expensive than luxury cruises and provide excellent service and facilities, including swimming pools, restaurants, and bars. More people are on board cruises at the middle price level, making for a more energetic experience.
3- Dahabiya Nile Cruises
Miniature, traditional sailboats that take passengers on a more personal and genuine River journey. Since fewer cabins and guests are on a Dahabiya nile cruise, the atmosphere is more intimate, and the service is more attentive to each guest.
4- Felucca
Simple, rustic sailing trips aboard small, traditional sailboats down the Nile. Felucca cruises are typically utilized for short-day or overnight vacations and may have few onboard amenities or services.
5- 5 Star Standard Nile Cruises
Top-notch Egypt, A Nile cruise is an elegant and sophisticated way to see Egypt’s ancient monuments and sights from the water. A standard 5-star Nile cruise will include first-rate facilities, plush lodgings, gourmet meals, and attentive staff. These cruises typically have luxurious suites or cabins with large windows and balconies overlooking the Nile. The ships are floating resorts with swimming pools, fitness centers, spas, and nightclubs.
Choose any Nile cruise itinerary, and you’ll see some of Egypt’s most famous landmarks while gaining a profound appreciation for the river’s rich history and breathtaking natural beauty.
Where do Egypt Nile Cruises Depart From?
Cruises down the Nile typically set off from either Luxor or Aswan in Egypt. Luxor is the departure point for cruises heading north to Aswan in Upper Egypt. Whereas Luxor is located in the north, Aswan lies in the south and serves as the departure point for cruises to that city.
You can choose from various Nile cruises depending on your travel needs and budget. The cruise might last a few days to over a week, depending on your chosen route and package. Egypt’s rich history and culture can be experienced in a new and exciting way on one of the many Nile river cruise itineraries that offer guided tours of ancient temples and tombs along the River.
Best Places to Visit on an Egypt Nile Cruise Itinerary
An Egypt Nile cruise itinerary will surely be one of the highlights of your trip to Egypt due to the abundance of historical and cultural sites along the river. While on an Egypt Nile cruise, you shouldn’t miss seeing these top attractions:
1. The Valley of the Kings
Located on the western bank of the Nile not far from Luxor, the Valley of the Kings was once used as a burial ground for ancient Egyptian royalty. During the New Kingdom, it was used as a burial site for pharaohs and other prominent figures (c. 1550-1070 BCE).
There are about 60 tombs in the valley, including those of illustrious Egyptians, including Tutankhamun, Ramesses II, and Tuthmosis III. Carvings, paintings, and hieroglyphs depicting the pharaohs’ lives and afterlife journeys adorn the tombs.
2. Karnak Temple
Being one of Egypt’s most excellent temple complexes, the Karnak Temple in Luxor is a must-see for any traveler on an Egypt nile river cruise itinerary. Dedicated to the god Amun, its construction spanned centuries.
3. The Temple of Hatshepsut
The Temple of Hatshepsut stands west of Luxor on the Nile’s western bank. Hatshepsut, the first female pharaoh, commissioned its construction during the New Kingdom era.
4. Colossi of Memnon
Located on the western bank of the Nile, not far from Luxor, are the two enormous stone statues known as the Colossi of Memnon. They’re some of the giant ancient statues ever erected in Egypt, dating back to the New Kingdom.
5. Kom Ombo Temple
About in the middle of the distance between Luxor and Aswan is the little town of Kom Ombo. The Kom Ombo Temple is one of a kind since it honors not one but two deities: Horus, the falcon-headed god, and Sobek, the crocodile-headed god.
6. Temple of Edfu
Located on the western bank of the Nile, Edfu is a small city. You can visit the Temple of Horus, one of Egypt’s most well-preserved ancient structures.
7. Temple of Philae
One of the most breathtaking ancient Egyptian structures is the Temple of Philae on an island not far from Aswan. This temple honored the Egyptian goddess Isis and was constructed during the Ptolemaic era.
8. Abu Simbel Temple
Abu Simbel is an archaeological site very far from anywhere, just on the border between Sudan and Egypt. Two enormous temples were hewn from the rock here, constructed by Pharaoh Ramses II.
9. The Nubian Village
Guests can taste authentic Nubian life at the Nubian Village, a traditional Nubian settlement near Aswan. You can experience conventional Nubian life by seeing the village and meeting the people.
Some of the highlights of a Nile cruise in Egypt include the following. An Egypt Nile cruise itinerary is truly once in a lifetime because each port of call provides a different perspective on Egypt’s illustrious past and vibrant present.
Best Time for Egypt Nile River Cruise Itinerary
When organizing a cruise, there are many details to think about. The first step in planning a Nile riverboat trip is picking the optimal month, which will rely heavily on your desired vacation experience.
October through April are the best time to do Nile cruise in Egypt, with January being the busiest due to New Year’s celebrations and the holiday season. However, there is less of a possibility of rain or storms during these months, so if you want a relaxing trip down the river with few interruptions (but are willing to miss out on some cultural events), this could be the perfect time for you to accomplish it!
But, try to avoid weekends during peak seasons, as they tend to attract more people than weekdays and hence may not have as many onboard events, such as entertainment acts, etc.
Essential Tips for the Perfect Egypt Nile Cruise Itinerary
- October through April are ideal for a Nile river cruise itinerary in Egypt because of the milder weather. You can avoid the sweltering heat of summer and enjoy more bearable temps.
- Light, breathable clothing and sturdy walking shoes are essential items to have with you on your trip. Protect yourself from the sun by bringing sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
- Be sure to drink plenty of water before, during, and after your Nile trip. Keep yourself well hydrated by drinking lots of water and avoiding dehydrating beverages like alcohol and coffee.
- As Egypt is conservative, dress respectfully and modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites. Wear anything that covers your legs and shoulders and stays loose.
- Because of the sun’s intensity, you should pack high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for Egypt.
- Pick a cruise line with a solid reputation for excellent customer service and a commitment to keeping its passengers safe.
- Credit cards are frequently accepted in Egypt; however, having cash on hand is helpful for tipping and other little transactions.
- Indulge in some of Egypt’s delicious regional specialties; the country boasts a long and illustrious history of culinary achievement. Try some authentic Egyptian food like koshari, ful medames, and mahshi.
If you follow these suggestions, your trip down the Nile in Egypt will go off without a hitch and be a wonderful experience.
Our Suggested Nile Cruise Schedule
1. 8-Days Cairo, Nile Cruise, and Alexandria Package
- Day 1: Arrive in Cairo.
- Day 2: The Pyramids of Giza & The Egyptian Museum.
- Day 3: Aswan city tour.
- Day 4: Nile Cruise Tour, Kom Ombo, Edfu Temples.
- Day 5: Nile Cruise – Luxor West Bank Tour.
- Day 6: Nile Cruise Tour, Luxor Eastern Bank.
- Day 7: Trip from Cairo to Alexandria.
- Day 8: Transfer to Cairo Airport for final departure.
Book now our 8 Days Cairo, Nile Cruise, and Alexandria Package
2. 9-Day Trip to Cairo, Nile Cruise, and Sharm El Sheikh
- Day 1: Arrive in Cairo.
- Day 2: The Pyramids of Giza & The Egyptian Museum.
- Day 3: Fly to Aswan – Aswan city tour.
- Day 4: Nile Cruise – Kom Ombo, Edfu Temples.
- Day 5: Nile Cruise – Luxor West Bank Tour.
- Day 6: Luxor East Bank – Fly to Sharm El-Sheikh.
- Day 7: Open day Sharm El-Sheikh.
- Day 8: Return to Cairo – Open Day.
- Day 9: Transfer to Cairo Airport for final departure
Book now our 9-Day Trip to Cairo, Nile Cruise, and Sharm El Sheikh
3. 11-Days Cairo, Nile Cruise, and Red Sea Holidays
- Day 1: Arrive in Cairo.
- Day 2: Cairo tours, Pyramids, and Egyptian Museum.
- Day 3: Nile Cruise Tour – The High Dam, Philae Temple.
- Day 4: Nile Cruise Tour – Kom Ombo and Edfu Temples.
- Day 5: Nile Cruise Tour – Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut Temple, and Colossi of Memnon.
- Day 6: Nile Cruise Tour – Karnak and Luxor Temples.
- Day 7: Hurghada Open day.
- Day 8: Hurghada Open day.
- Day 9: Hurghada to Cairo.
- Day 10: Cairo Open day.
- Day 11: Final departure from Cairo.
Book now our 11-Days Cairo, Nile Cruise, and Red Sea Holidays
Our Top Egypt Nile Cruise Itineraries
- 8 Day Egypt Tour Cairo, Nile Cruise & Hurghada
- 9 Days Cairo, Alexandria & Nile Cruise
- 11 Days Cairo, Nile Cruise and Sharm El Sheikh Holidays
- 12 Days Cairo, Alexandria & Nile Cruise
There is no reason to feel anxious if you are planning your first voyage down the Nile. We’ve taken care of every last detail for you! With any luck, this guide has shed some light on life aboard one of these great ships and the places it travels to. Book one of our Egypt Nile cruise excursions or select from one of our Egypt vacation packages to experience a lifetime trip in Egypt.
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