A Nile river cruise is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience one of the historical cornerstones of modern civilisations. The longest river in the world, running its course through some of the most impressive and renowned ancient architecture in the world, the Nile cuts a course that simply must be experienced to believed.
This guide highlights our five tips for making the most out of a Nile river cruise, and will show you that, although the Pyramids of Giza are not to be missed, they are simply just one aspect of the experience on offer.
Explore outside of Egypt, see Sudan…
Egypt, home to the impressive Pyramids of Giza, the marvellous Valley of the Kings and so much more ancient history, it’s a wonder anyone ever needs to leave Egypt on the Nile, right? Wrong! In fact, there’s so much to do outside of Egypt on your Nile river cruise, that it’s a shock many travellers overlook it.
In Sudan, just down the river from Egypt, you’ll find more pyramids per square mile than anywhere else in the world at Meroë Royal City – who would’ve thought?
The ancient city of Meroë is situated on the eastern bank of the river Nile, and was once the capital of the ancient kingdom, the Kingdom of Kush. After internal unrest, rebellion and war, the kingdom unfortunately collapsed, and today, the city serves as a breath-taking reminder of a civilisation gone-by.
Smaller in size than other, more popular pyramids, the remains at Meroë Royal City are still mightily impressive.
…and Uganda!
Beyond Sudan, there’s a whole world to experience in Uganda. Take the mesmerizingly beautiful Murchison Falls National Park for instance, its naturally-striking cliffs contrasting against the lush, life-giving greenery while the waters thrash about below. This is a sight to behold, and one that has to be seen to be believed.
Beyond the thrilling landscape, this Ugandan national park contains a whole host of exciting and indigenous wildlife, including the aptly-named Ugandan kob, buffalos, Rothschild’s giraffes and the unmistakably-distinct African bush elephants.
Peer into another, ancient world at the Valley of the Kings
Most are familiar with the historical tales of Tutankhamun, and the many treasures he was buried with in his ancient tomb. But did you know you can visit the very place where this legendary pharaoh was buried? And the best thing about it, it’s right on the Nile.
The final resting place for Tutankhamun, along with Seti I and Ramses II, the Valley of the Kings provides an unrivalled insight into the 16th to 11th century BC, which was when the tombs were active. Each buried with their belongings: treasures, pets and wine, the pharaohs were mummified and expected to be carried through to the eternal afterlife.
Decipher unknown hieroglyphics at Karnack Temple complex in Luxor, Egypt
Intricate, beautifully crafted and full of ancient-world detail, the Karnack Temple complex holds a display of wonderfully-mysterious carvings, resembling hieroglyphics.
Climbing up towards the sun above, the Karnack Temple complex would’ve shot up to the sun-gods to the ancient Egyptians, and its towering presence, still today stands tall above the crisp, golden landscape. In fact, in ancient times, it was thought that the complex was home to Amun-Re, the Egyptian sun god.
The obelisks and pillars of the at Karnack Temple complex are a must-see on your next Nile cruise.
Make use of any on-board luxury while you’re there
Besides the incredible, unrivalled history, architecture and wildlife on offer on-land, it’s important to take time to unwind on your cruise ship, taking full advantage of the amenities on offer.
Perhaps your Nile river cruise comes equipped with luxurious suites, a choice of international cuisines and spa treatments for downtime, for example. Maybe it’s that wine bar of extensive collection of whisky you’ve been meaning to try out. At the end of the day, whichever ship feature you’re the most excited about, make sure you take full advantage of it and enjoy your Nile river cruise the way it’s meant to be enjoyed!
This article is brought to you by Cruise Compete. CruiseCompete.com allows you to easily compare multiple offers from Cruise Experts
