Have you ever dreamed of sailing along the Nile, the longest and most legendary river in the world? Have you ever wondered what it would be like to witness the awe-inspiring pyramids, temples, tombs, and monuments of ancient Egypt? Have you ever wanted to immerse yourself in the rich and diverse culture, history, and heritage of the land of the pharaohs?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, then a Nile river cruise in Cairo, Egypt is the perfect choice for you. A Nile river cruise is the ultimate way to experience the ancient wonders of the Nile, as you travel in comfort and style from Cairo to Luxor, Aswan, and beyond. You will enjoy the scenic views of the river, the lush greenery of the banks, and the stunning sunsets and sunrises. You will visit the most iconic and impressive attractions of Egypt, such as the pyramids of Giza, the sphinx, the valley of the kings, the temple of Karnak, the temple of Hatshepsut, the temple of Edfu, the temple of Kom Ombo, the temple of Philae, and the temple of Abu Simbel. You will also learn about the fascinating and complex history, mythology, religion, art, and architecture of ancient Egypt, as you are guided by expert and knowledgeable guides. You will also get to experience the modern and vibrant life of Egypt, as you explore the bustling and colorful markets, bazaars, cafes, and restaurants of Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan.
In this article, we will provide you with everything you need to know about Nile river cruises in Cairo, Egypt. We will cover the different types of Nile river cruises, the typical itineraries, the best time to go, the essential planning tips, the best way to book, and the most memorable experiences you can expect. By the end of this article, you will be ready to embark on your own Nile river cruise adventure and discover the ancient wonders of the Nile.
Nile River Cruise Types
There are many types of Nile river cruises available, depending on your budget, preference, and style. You can choose from luxury, private, budget, standard, deluxe, suite, or presidential Nile river cruises, each offering different features, facilities, services, prices, and experiences. Here are some of the main types of Nile river cruises you can consider:
Luxury Nile river cruises:
If you want to experience the Nile in the most lavish and elegant way possible, then a luxury Nile river cruise is the ideal option for you. Luxury Nile river cruises offer the highest level of comfort, quality, and service, as you sail on the most luxurious and sophisticated ships, such as the River Tosca, the Viking Ra, the Avalon Nile Adventure, the Scenic Aura, the Emerald Harmony, the Sanctuary Sun Boat IV, the Oberoi Zahra, or the Sonesta Star Goddess. These ships feature spacious and stylish cabins, exquisite dining options, premium entertainment and activities, state-of-the-art facilities, and personalized and attentive service. Luxury Nile river cruises also include the most comprehensive and exclusive itineraries, excursions, tours, and guides, as you visit the most remarkable and spectacular attractions of Egypt. Luxury Nile river cruises are the ultimate way to pamper yourself and indulge in the Nile river cruise experience.
Private Nile river cruises:
If you want to enjoy the Nile in the most intimate and secluded way possible, then a private Nile river cruise is the perfect option for you. Private Nile river cruises offer the most privacy, flexibility, and customization, as you sail on the most charming and cozy ships, such as the Nour El Nil Dahabiya, the Movenpick Royal Lily, or the Sonesta Amirat Dahabiya. These ships feature cozy and comfortable cabins, delicious dining options, relaxing entertainment and activities, cozy and comfortable facilities, and friendly and helpful service. Private Nile river cruises also allow you to create your own itinerary, excursions, tours, and guides, as you visit the attractions of Egypt at your own pace and preference. Private Nile river cruises are the best way to enjoy the Nile with your loved ones and friends.
Budget Nile river cruises:
If you want to experience the Nile in the most affordable and economical way possible, then a budget Nile river cruise is the ideal option for you. Budget Nile river cruises offer the most value, convenience, and accessibility, as you sail on the most practical and functional ships, such as the MS Nile Ruby, the MS Nile Dolphin, the MS Nile Goddess, or the MS Nile Premium. These ships feature basic and clean cabins, simple dining options, basic entertainment and activities, basic facilities, and efficient and courteous service. Budget Nile river cruises also include the most essential and popular itineraries, excursions, tours, and guides, as you visit the most important and impressive attractions of Egypt. Budget Nile river cruises are the best way to experience the Nile without breaking the bank.
Nile River Cruise Itinerary
The typical Nile river cruise itinerary varies depending on the direction, length, and season of the cruise. However, most Nile river cruises start from Cairo, the capital and largest city of Egypt, and end in either Luxor or Aswan, the two main destinations of the Nile. The length of the cruise can range from 3 to 15 days, depending on how much time you have and how much you want to see. The season of the cruise can also affect the itinerary, as some attractions may be closed or inaccessible during certain times of the year. Here are some of the main destinations, ports, and stops that Nile river cruises visit, along with the main attractions, sites, and highlights that they offer:
Cairo:
Cairo is the starting point of most Nile river cruises, and the most populous and vibrant city of Egypt. Cairo is a city of contrasts, where the ancient and the modern, the traditional and the cosmopolitan, the sacred and the secular, coexist and collide. Cairo is home to some of the most iconic and impressive attractions of Egypt, such as the pyramids of Giza, the sphinx, the Egyptian Museum, the Citadel of Saladin, the Mosque of Muhammad Ali, the Khan el-Khalili bazaar, and the Coptic Cairo. Cairo is also a city of culture, history, and heritage, where you can experience the diverse and rich influences of the Pharaonic, Islamic, Christian, Ottoman, and colonial eras. Cairo is also a city of life, where you can enjoy the bustling and colorful markets, cafes, restaurants, and nightlife of the city. Cairo is a city that will captivate and fascinate you, and a city that you will never forget.
Luxor:
Luxor is the end point of most Nile river cruises, and the most important and magnificent destination of the Nile. Luxor is often called the world’s largest open-air museum, as it is home to some of the most ancient and splendid monuments of Egypt, such as the temple of Karnak, the temple of Luxor, the valley of the kings, the valley of the queens, the temple of Hatshepsut, the colossi of Memnon, and the tomb of Tutankhamun. Luxor is also a city of culture, history, and heritage, where you can learn about the fascinating and complex history, mythology, religion, art, and architecture of ancient Egypt, as you are guided by expert and knowledgeable guides. Luxor is also a city of beauty, where you can enjoy the scenic views of the Nile, the green fields, the palm trees, and the desert mountains. Luxor is a city that will awe and inspire you, and a city that you will always remember.
Aswan:
Aswan is the alternative end point of some Nile river cruises, and the most charming and serene destination of the Nile. Aswan is often called the pearl of the Nile, as it is home to some of the most beautiful and enchanting attractions of Egypt, such as the temple of Philae, the temple of Abu Simbel, the high dam, the lake Nasser, the Nubian village, the botanical garden, and the elephantine island. Aswan is also a city of culture, history, and heritage, where you can experience the diverse and rich influences of the Nubian, Egyptian, Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Arab, Turkish, and British cultures, as you explore the various monuments, museums, and markets of the city. Aswan is also a city of relaxation, where you can enjoy the peaceful and tranquil atmosphere of the Nile, the islands, the cataracts, and the sand dunes. Aswan is a city that will soothe and delight you, and a city that you will always cherish.
Giza:
Giza is the first stop of most Nile river cruises, and the most famous and spectacular attraction of Egypt. Giza is the site of the ancient necropolis of the Old Kingdom of Egypt, where the most magnificent and majestic pyramids, sphinx, and tombs of the pharaohs and their queens, nobles, and officials are located. Giza is also the site of the Great Pyramid of Khufu, the only surviving wonder of the ancient world, and the largest and oldest pyramid ever built. Giza is also the site of the Great Sphinx of Giza, the largest and oldest statue ever carved, and the most mysterious one.
Practical Information
Currency:
The currency in Egypt is the Egyptian pound (EGP), which is divided into 100 piastres. You can exchange your currency at the airport, banks, hotels, or authorized exchange bureaus, or withdraw cash from ATMs. You can also use credit or debit cards at some places, but cash is more widely accepted and preferred. You should always check the exchange rate and the commission fee before exchanging or withdrawing money, and keep the receipt for any transaction. You should also always carry some small notes and coins with you, as they are useful for tipping, bargaining, or buying small items. You should also always be careful and cautious of counterfeit or damaged notes, and never accept or give them.
Dress:
The dress in Egypt is generally conservative and respectful, especially in religious and rural areas. You should always dress modestly and appropriately, and cover your shoulders, chest, and knees. You should also avoid wearing tight, transparent, or revealing clothes, or clothes with offensive or provocative slogans or images. You should also wear comfortable and practical clothes, such as cotton, linen, or light fabrics, and avoid synthetic, woolen, or heavy fabrics. You should also wear sensible and sturdy shoes, such as sandals, sneakers, or boots, and avoid heels, flip-flops, or bare feet. You should also wear a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, and protect yourself from the sun. You should also carry a scarf, shawl, or jacket with you, as they are useful for covering up, keeping warm, or entering mosques or churches.
Culture:
The culture in Egypt is rich and diverse, with influences from the Pharaonic, Islamic, Christian, Ottoman, and colonial eras. You should always respect and appreciate the local culture, religion, and traditions, and learn some basic phrases and greetings in Arabic, the official language of Egypt. You should also greet people with a smile and a handshake, and use the right hand for eating, giving, or receiving. You should also avoid public displays of affection, such as kissing, hugging, or holding hands, as they are considered rude and inappropriate. You should also avoid discussing sensitive or controversial topics, such as politics, religion, or sexuality, as they may cause offense or misunderstanding. You should also avoid criticizing or insulting the country, the people, or the leaders, as they may cause anger or resentment. You should also avoid drinking alcohol, eating pork, or smoking in public, especially during Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, as they are considered disrespectful and forbidden.
Etiquette:
The etiquette in Egypt is polite and courteous, with some rules and customs that you need to follow. You should always ask for permission before taking photos or videos of people, places, or things, and respect their wishes if they decline. You should also avoid taking photos or videos of military or government buildings, as they are prohibited and illegal. You should also tip generously and appropriately, as tipping is expected and appreciated in Egypt. You should tip around 10% of the bill in restaurants, cafes, or bars, and around 5 to 10 EGP per person for guides, drivers, porters, or cleaners. You should also bargain politely and firmly, as bargaining is common and customary in Egypt. You should bargain for around 50% of the initial price in markets, bazaars, or shops, and never accept or pay the first price. You should also be friendly and humorous, as Egyptians are known for their hospitality and humor. You should also accept any invitations or offers of tea, coffee, or food, as they are signs of friendship and generosity.
A Nile river cruise in Cairo, Egypt is the ultimate way to experience the ancient wonders of the Nile, as you travel in comfort and style from Cairo to Luxor, Aswan, and beyond. You will enjoy the scenic views of the river, the lush greenery of the banks, and the stunning sunsets and sunrises. You will also learn about the fascinating and complex history, mythology, religion, art, and architecture of ancient Egypt, as you are guided by expert and knowledgeable guides. You will also get to experience the modern and vibrant life of Egypt, as you explore the bustling and colorful markets, bazaars, cafes, and restaurants of Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan.
A Nile river cruise in Cairo, Egypt is the best way to pamper yourself and indulge in the Nile river cruise experience, as you choose from the different types of Nile river cruises, such as luxury, private, budget, standard, deluxe, suite, or presidential. You will also benefit from the best and most competitive prices, deals, discounts, promotions, offers, and services, as you book your Nile river cruise with Cruise Critic, the leading online platform for cruise reviews, ratings, and information. You will also rely on the best and most professional staff, guides, and customer support, as you plan your Nile river cruise with Cruise Critic, the best source for Nile river cruise booking. You will also read and write the most authentic and honest reviews, ratings, and information, as you share your Nile river cruise experience with Cruise Critic, the best community for Nile river cruise travelers.
A Nile river cruise in Cairo, Egypt is the most memorable and unforgettable adventure of your life, as you discover the ancient wonders of the Nile, the land of the pharaohs, and the pearl of the Nile.
Don’t miss this opportunity and book your Nile river cruise with Cruise Critic today, and enjoy the Nile river cruise experience of a lifetime.
