2 Weeks in Nile River

What You Should Know Before Going On A Nile River Tour

The Nile is most closely associated with Egypt, when in fact, it flows through a total of 9 African countries. River cruises along the Nile are most popular in Egypt, and this is the primary offering. Typically Nile River cruises run between 4-9 days.

Trips to Egypt and the Nile River are great for history buffs, archaeology nerds, and adventurous travelers seeking to step outside their comfort zone.

Nile River Cruises

Nile River cruises usually follow similar routes, beginning in Aswan and sailing north to Luxor. The number of stops you make and sites you visit along the way depends on the length of your cruise.

However most excursions along the cruise will allow the opportunity to visit the main sites in Egypt that most tourists to Egypt long to see: the pyramids, Abu Simbel temple, and The Valley of the Kings. You’ll get your share of hieroglyphics and egyptology along a Nile River Cruise.

Most Nile River cruises feature traditional Egyptian modes of transport in addition to a normal river cruise vessel. This includes riding in feluccas, with their distinctive sails; you might also take a camel ride through the desert.

Luxury Nile River Cruises 

A luxury cruise on the Nile usually means that the boat you will be traveling on is of much higher quality, with larger rooms and a higher quality of service. You can also expect certain perks, luxury cruises often include more meals, both of your flights, and other kinds of benefits.

For example, some luxury cruises will give include a complimentary SIM card for your mobile device, bottled water throughout the entire tour, and guaranteed guided tours at every attraction. This reduces the hassle of having to worry about your own details or coordinate your own guides, or missing out an experience without one. 

How Long Are Nile River Cruises?

Shared by 10 other countries besides Egypt and spanning 6,650 kilometers (4,132 miles), it is no surprise that the Nile River is the longest one in the world. It then makes sense why Nile River cruises are usually around two weeks in length.

While there are shorter options for Nile River cruises, the smallest of which is just a few days, these options seriously cut down on travelers’ ability to see as much of Egypt as possible. These shorter cruises provide minimal time to explore the famous urban centers of Luxor or Cairo that juxtapose so well with their ancient counterparts in the desert.

Longer Nile River cruises give travelers the luxury of time for exciting activities such as camel-riding, scuba-diving and museum tours.

Will I Visit the Pyramids?

While the Sphinx is undeniably one of the most well-known attractions for travelers on the Nile River, the astounding pyramids that dot the harsh desert landscape are also popular.

Most cruises along the Nile River will make stops at the Great Pyramids of Giza and Sakkara Pyramids. Not only are these pyramids symbols of amazing architectural feats, but also the final resting places of ancient Egypt’s famous rulers.

King Tut’s famous tomb and the Valley of Kings are crucial aspects of Egyptian culture and are therefore a highlight of the majority of Nile River Cruises. The ancient temples of Hathor, Abu Simbel, and even Edfu are just as ancient as the pyramids and are also available for exploration with numerous Nile River cruises.

Best Time to Take a Nile River Cruise

• October through January

Surrounded on all sides by miles of unrelenting desert terrain that is broken only by cities and towns, the Nile River is a unique source of life for the Sahara desert region. While picturesque and green in some areas, Nile River cruises come with a unique set of natural phenomena that some travelers may opt to avoid.

The months of October until January are the best times to travel the Nile River by cruise. This is because earlier months of the year (March through May) are notorious for desert sandstorms and summers (July through August) are the hottest months for the region. Travelers who do not mind a colder vacation should visit during December and January, as the winter season for the region is the perfect (and most popular) time to visit the Great Pyramids and temples.

It is important to note that the cultural event of Ramadan takes place around the end of April until the end of May (it changes by the year). This tradition brings travelers from across the globe for food, cultural events, and colorful wares that can be found in few other places in the world on such a large scale. While it is one of the best times to visit the Nile River, booking lodging and travel accommodations for cruises in advance is crucial.

The Weather on the Nile River

Egypts weather is typically very hot, reaching temperatures around 100 degrees F in the warmest months between June and August.

When touring temples, you can expect to experience even a few degrees higher, as the heat radiates from the stones, and many tourists are milling around exploring the sometimes tight spaces and pathways.

As a result, tours through Egypt can be more physically exhausting than some might expect. A cruise is a good way to reduce the extreme duress of traveling in between sites on foot and in cramped taxis, and is well suited to older travelers.

It is also better to avoid the heat at all costs, making the best time to visit in between October and April, when the heat is less intense, and there are fewer crowds of tourists.

What to Wear on a Nile River Cruise

The heat is going to dictate your packing list, but also remember that Egypt is a predominantly muslim country, so for exploring Cairo and other cities, wearing relatively conservative clothing is recommended. This stands true especially for women.

1. Sun Hat / Head Scarf - There isn’t a lot of shade to be found along the Nile, or the many temples you’ll visit along the way. A wide brimmed sun-hat, or a handy pashmina, will save you a lot of discomfort from the sun beating down. The pashmina, or small head scarf, will also be helpful for women when you try to enter any of the historic mosques on your trip -- covering your hair is respectful, and many places, required.  But definitely don’t let either replace sunscreen! Both are essential for a comfortable trip.
2. Breathable layers - Lightweight clothing that covers shoulders and legs is ideal for traveling along the Nile. Not only does it provide more sun protection, it is respectful of the culture. Consider fabrics like linen and cotton, and in light colors that won’t absorb the heat.
3. Bug spray - Most river environments are ideal homes for mosquitos, and the Nile is no exception. Keeping bug spray nearby is going to be essential for your comfort! And definitely keep windows closed in your room as much as possible, especially at night.
4. Sturdy shoes - Many of the temples you’ll explore have uneven surfaces, and stubbing toes is something you’ll want to avoid. Rubber soled and closed toed sandals are a great choice, as they will still allow your feet to breath, while also being protective. Due to the hard surfaces, flats and flimsy sandals with no support will also tire your feet out a lot more quickly.

Dos and Don'ts on a Nile River Cruise

While Nile River cruises will stop for tours at staggering temples and ancient resting places, it is important for travelers to remember that the sites are both sacred and subject to Egyptian law. It is strictly forbidden to take any piece of the architecture home. Pictures are allowed in most landmarks, but flash photography may not always be.

By listening to tour guides, travelers can become aware of which regulations they are expected to follow at the sites they visit. Travelers are strongly cautioned against trekking alone in the desert without a guide or group for support. When it comes to long days of hiking or boating, sunscreen is a necessity to avoid a painful vacation.

In the same way, remaining hydrated prevents the risk of illness or heatstroke. As a conservative country, women should consider wearing clothing that covers their shoulders and pants if possible. This is especially true in mosques or other religious buildings and should be followed by men as well.

Carrying Egyptian pounds (national currency) is a requirement to purchase goods and souvenirs from vendors. Fortunately, haggling is allowed in marketplaces but not in stores or restaurants. Tipping is also a custom in Egypt. While travelers may see a “service” charge on bills, this goes directly to the restaurant and not the waiter.