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For centuries taking a boat down the Nile was the only way to travel through Egypt and today, it’s an atmospheric introduction to the country and its history.
Over the last 10 years a new breed of luxury boats has been introduced with modern facilities like WiFi access and small on-board spas. The most typical cruise is for seven nights, following the Luxor to Aswan and return route and most include visits to all the main sites, such as the Valley of the Kings and the Temple of Kom Ombo.
Days, interspersed with sightseeing, float by at a leisurely pace and meals feature Egyptian cuisine, with dinner often followed by belly dancing. If you’re looking for an Agatha Christie-style experience opt for the high-end boats.
Is it for you?
Great for culture vultures who want to see Upper Egypt without the hassle of going it alone.
When to go
Avoid the hottest months from June to September when temperatures can soar to 42°C/107°F.
Must-see shore excursion
Edfu Temple, built by Cleopatra’s father, is the country’s second largest temple.
What to take
A sun hat and plenty of suncreen for sightsightseeing. Ladies should be prepared to cover up; Egypt is a Muslim country.
What to try
Full medames, made with slow-cooked fava beans, olive oil and lemon juice, topped with hard-boiled egg, is often eaten at breakfast.
What to buy
Leather goods, brass and copperware, hand-loomed cotton, spices and papyrus paintings are all good buys. Be prepared to haggle.
What to pack
Read our essential guide to what to pack for a Nile Cruise
River cruising is going through an unprecedented boom with luxurious new ships and exciting new destinations planned for 2012. With the likes of Viking and their groundbreaking long-ships, never before has there been so much choice, such luxury or so many new ships cruising the rivers of the world. Although river cruising still has a rather staid image, what’s on offer is actually incredibly exciting, from chic little expedition … [Read more...]
Looking at the riverboats crammed three or four deep along the banks of the Nile in Luxor, you could be forgiven for thinking there was no room for any more, especially given the turbulent time Egypt has had recently. Nile cruising, however, seems as popular as ever, albeit with some very attractive price offers. Travellers on a budget can reckon on paying from £700 upwards for a week, including flights and excursions, for a basic … [Read more...]
Nile cruises operate in Upper Egypt, between Aswan and Luxor, from September to May, although the best time to visit is in the cooler months of November to March. Most visitors make the most of Egypt by adding to the cruise. Stay in Cairo for a few days to see the Pyramids, the Sphinx and the Museum of Antiquities. Or take a second cruise, from Aswan, across Lake Nasser, for the blissful tranquillity of life on a lake boat and some of the lesser-known … [Read more...]
First time cruiser, Emily Payne, has boarded the MS River Tosca to travel the Nile in style. … [Read more...]
We speak to the cruise lines caught up in the recent outbreak of political protests. … [Read more...]
You hear the words “cruise on the Nile” and images of Cleopatra and Nefertiti swirl in your mind. The reality? Absolutely exotic, but in a different way. … [Read more...]
Egypt, with its majestic pyramids, is top of most people’s must-see list and a cruise from Luxor to Cairo, on the world’s longest river is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Temperatures range between an minimum of 14°C in winter (November to April) and a maximum of 30° C in summer (May to October) so here’s how to pack accordingly… 1. Sun Protection The Egyptian sun is incredibly strong and if you’re planning a trip … [Read more...]
It may be one of the oldest forms of travel - linking countries and providing historic trading arteries - but today more and more people are discovering the joys of river cruising for pleasure. Rarely carrying more than 300 passengers, river cruising is an intimate and informal experience, offering a window on the world. … [Read more...]
Egyptian cruises appeal to the adventurer in all of us. However for a voyage with a difference, set sail on the Nile in a Dahabiya. … [Read more...]
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