After a few years of uncertainty, the popularity of Nile River cruises seems to be on the rise again. This part of the world has so many treasures to share – both physically and metaphorically – and anyone interested in the history of the Ancient Egyptians will enjoy a memorable experience.

So, if you’ve been inspired to follow in the footsteps of kings, queens and pharaohs, here are a few things you should know about your Nile river cruise.

They Take Place In Spring And Autumn

Temperatures along the Nile regularly hit the 40-degree marker throughout the summer and so most river cruises take place outside of this time. The heat and humidity combine to make it almost unbearable between June and August and that’s before you’ve stepped inside one of the tombs. April and October are possibly the best times to travel because they offer high temperatures without the sweltering heat that could make you uncomfortable during your trip.

You’ll Travel Like Royalty

Back when pharaohs ruled these lands, they used to sail up and down these revered waters with their queens. Now, hundreds of years later, you can glide along the Nile whilst admiring the same landscapes and exploring temples created in their name. The royal feeling also extends to the ships, especially if you sail aboard a vessel like SS Misr. Originally built for King Farouk, she has since been transformed into luxury floating accommodation complete with air-conditioning, private balconies and bathtubs.

There Will Be So Many Highlights

The main reason people chose a Nile River cruise is to see all the sights relating to the Ancient Egyptians. On some itineraries, even before you set sail, you’ll visit the Pyramids of Giza from Cairo and tour the enthralling Egyptian Museum. Then, of course, you’ll have the opportunity to discover the Valley of the Kings and the Temples of Karnak in Luxor, bringing to life a 500-year period of history that attracts so much interest. Other highlights include the tombs at Beni Hassan, which highlight how burial styles changed over the years, and the Aswan Dam. All this makes for a fascinating trip and that’s without mentioning the time when you can simply sit back and enjoy the azure sky contrasting against the golden sands.

Guides And Special Guests Will Enhance Your Trip

When looking at such a vast and intriguing point of history, an expert guide can really help you grasp and understand what you are seeing. Granted, these sights are all magnificent in their own right, but when you learn the stories behind them and the reasons they were created, your overall experience is lifted to a whole new level. Many of our Nile River cruises offer the services of local guides and passionate guest speakers who can answer any questions and bring your surroundings to life.

Don’t Forget These Must-Pack Items

Being a bit more adventurous than other river itineraries and with a more exotic nature, there are a number of things you should remember to pack for your Nile River cruise. Mosquito spray and sun cream should be two of the first things in your case and will make your holiday infinitely more comfortable. Then, ensure you have a sturdy pair of walking shoes that will help you navigate the sandy hills in many of the ports. Lastly, a pair of binoculars will make chill-out time on your balcony all the more interesting.

If you would like to know more about our Nile River cruises, our knowledgeable team will be able to help you choose an itinerary. Give us a call on 0800 954 0064 or click here to submit an online enquiry.