Do you sometimes imagine yourself as the protagonist in a thrilling story?
Perhaps stepping into Hercule Poirot’s shoes during his meticulous investigation in Agatha Christie’s classic “Death on the Nile,” or living the glamorous espionage of James Bond’s “The Spy Who Loved Me?”
Then you must actually be dreaming of the majestic Nile in Egypt, a river that has long captured the imagination of storytellers and travellers alike!
But this ribbon of life winding through Egypt’s golden sands offers more than a just backdrop for fictional intrigue!
It’s a land of treasures and adventure, and what better way to explore the wonders of ancient Egypt and this country’s timeless allure, than with a cruise along the world’s largest river?
Imagine waking up to the gentle sway of your ship, sunlight glinting off temple obelisks while you glide past villages unchanged for centuries.
As you embark on a Nile River cruise, you’ll understand why it’s the perfect way to explore the remains of an ancient civilisation.
But before you pack your linen suit and your binoculars, let’s answer the questions that will ensure you make the most of this unforgettable and iconic journey!
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Where Do Nile Cruises Begin and End?
Nile River cruises take place along the whole of this river in Egypt, but by far the most popular routes are between Luxor and Aswan in the south of Egypt.
On average it takes between 3 and 4 days to make this journey, with boats regularly operating in both directions.
This is a great way to travel between these amazing 2 cities, giving you the opportunity to experience both of their world-class historical treasures, as well as many of the temples and sights located between them.
Where is Best to Start A Nile River Cruise?
Luxor, situated on the Nile’s east bank and known as the ‘world’s greatest open-air museum,’ is the main starting point for most Nile cruises.
With direct access to the Luxor Temple, Temple of Karnak and Valley of the Kings, it’s the right place to embark if you want to dive straight into Egypt’s rich past.
Discover my top Luxor itinerary for more inspiration about this incredible destination.
On the other hand, Aswan in upper Egypt, offers a more relaxed and scenic beginning for a Nile cruise.
Here you can begin your adventure with the Temple of Philae, the Unfinished Obelisk and Nubian cultural experiences, giving you the chance of a calmer start before heading north.
Check out my list of the top things to do in Aswan to help plan your time in this city.
While less common, some Nile River cruises also start in Cairo, allowing you to explore the Great Pyramids, the Great Sphinx and the Grand Egyptian Museum before going on a longer Egypt tour southward.
What Will You See on a Nile River Cruise?
A cruise on the river Nile involves more than lounging on the sun deck watching desert landscapes and riverside villages drift by – although this is a key part of the experience too!
In addition, you’ll explore ancient wonders like the Valley of the Kings with its painted tombs, the magnificent Temple of Horus in Edfu, and the unique dual Temple of Kom Ombo.
Between visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Karnak Temple in Luxor, you’ll also have the chance to explore local culture in Nubian villages and bustling Aswan markets, or even take to the skies above them for a sunrise hot-air balloon ride.
From dusk to dawn, each moment on the world’s longest river becomes an unforgettable experience, while the Nile’s rhythm carries you through a living museum of incredible human achievement.
What is the Best Month for a Nile Cruise?
Timing is really important when planning your Nile cruise.
The best time to embark on this river journey is from October to April, when the weather is mild, with temperatures ranging from 21°C to 30°C.
In case you are not so heat-sensitive, you can also consider May or late September, when you’ll encounter fewer crowds in tourist areas, but high temperatures.
Avoid summer months, as the temperatures can be as high as 45°C!
To escape large crowds and high cruise fares, you’ll also want to steer clear of the peak tourist seasons around Christmas and Easter too.
If you are flexible with your free time, the best months for a Nile river cruise are November or March, which offer fewer tourists and an altogether calmer atmosphere.
How Much Does a Nile River Cruise Cost?
A Nile River cruise can range from as little as 300€, to more than 5,000€ per person, depending on your cruise type, season, and what’s included in your tour.
Peak season prices rise 30-40%, while summer offers better fares, but only if you are ready to face scorching heat in exchange for the best deals.
Top Tip: The time of booking matters! Early bookings in off-peak seasons lock in special fares and free upgrades, so plan ahead and you might get a great deal!
The cost of a cruise on the world’s longest river also varies based on the level of experience you want.
A mid-range cruise offers the best value at 600-1,300€, with guided tours led by Egypt experts and great onboard amenities.
If you want a slower and more intimate experience, consider a Dahabiya, the traditional Egyptian sailboat that can accommodate up to 14 passengers.
And if you are seeking ultimate luxury, there’s always the option to splurge for a taste of pharaonic opulence from ancient times.
There’s 4-night Nile cruises starting at 3,000€, while an 11-night cruise, including Egypt and the Pyramids of Giza, can go up to 6,000€.
Luxury cruises feature elegant suites with private balconies, hot tubs, and Egyptian-inspired décor, as well as butler service, gourmet dining by expert chefs, and even roundtrip airport transfers.
Onboard amenities typically include swimming pools, spas, fitness centres, and evening entertainment with live music and traditional dance.
Top Tip: Always compare operators for inclusions like guided tours and hotel transfers to maximise value.
Which is the Best Nile River Cruise?
Choosing the best Nile cruise really comes down to finding the right combination of itinerary, amenities, and budget to suit your travel plans.
Whichever boat you choose, the route remains quite similar between Luxor and Aswan, and will cover the main sights.
Most cruises include guided visits to ancient tombs and temples in their base price, along with at least one optional excursion or day tour of your choice.
However, the service and overall experience will be different depending on when you travel and the vessel you choose.
Premium vessels like the Oberoi Zahra and Historia Nile Cruise feature private balconies and expert-led tours to major sites.
The MS Mayfair offers elegant rooms with easy access to landmarks, Dahabiya sailboats provide intimate experiences. while family cruises welcome travellers of all ages.
Top Tip: Pay special attention to mooring locations and where your cabin is. In central Luxor, boats often dock alongside each other, meaning you need to cross through other vessels’ lobbies and gangplanks to reach yours. In addition, your balcony or window may directly face a neighbouring boat, potentially compromising privacy.
Make a checklist of what’s important when planning your cruise, and focus on operators with high ratings and positive guest reviews, selecting the best travel agency for your travel needs and style.
Is a Nile River Cruise Worth It?
A Nile River cruise offers fantastic value, combining luxury accommodations with remarkable historical experiences, which would be difficult to arrange independently.
They’ll allow you to efficiently cover major archaeological sites with tour guides, providing rich historical context at each stop, all while enjoying the comfort of unpacking just once.
The cruise format also delivers unique perspectives of rural Egyptian life along the east and west banks of the Nile, making it an unparalleled way to experience both ancient and modern Egypt.
In all honesty, the cruise on the Nile I enjoyed in Egypt was one of the top highlights of my time in this country.
Do You See The Pyramids On A Nile River Cruise?
On a typical Nile River cruise, you generally do not see the pyramids directly from the river, as they are located in Giza, near Cairo – which is north of both Luxor and Aswan.
As explained, Nile cruises usually run between Luxor and Aswan, but there are tour packages combining a Nile River cruise with visits to the capital city and its surroundings too if this is something you’d like to add on.
To see the Pyramids of Giza, choose a tour that includes Cairo, or plan a few days in Cairo and Giza, either before or after your cruise.
Learn more in this guide I wrote about the top things to do in Cairo.
Can You Drink Alcohol on A Nile River Cruise?
Yes, you can drink alcohol on a Nile River cruise.
Most cruise ships have bars where you can purchase alcoholic beverages of your choice.
Be aware that, if you’ve bought a drinks package with your cruise, it may include only local wine and beer, and there may be additional restrictions.
Either way, it’s important to be mindful of cultural sensitivities.
As Egypt is a Muslim-majority county, alcohol consumption is viewed differently compared to western cultures, so a moderate approach is advised.
Are Mosquitoes a Problem on the Nile?
Short answer, yes!
As with any large body of water, there are mosquitoes along the Nile river, particularly during certain times of the year.
While they rarely cause major issues for cruise passengers, it’s wise to take some preventive measures.
Mosquitoes are most prevalent at dawn and dusk, so make sure to wear long, loose clothing, and to use insect repellent (ideally with 50% DEET) to help prevent bites.
Egypt is malaria-free, but mosquitoes can carry other diseases like West Nile virus and dengue fever, so forget the perfume and spray on some repellent instead!
Will You See Crocodiles?
Seeing crocodiles on a Nile river cruise between Luxor and Aswan is rare.
The construction of the Aswan High Dam in the 1960s altered the Nile’s flow and trapped most crocodiles south of the dam.
However, if you extend your journey southward from Aswan to Lake Nasser, you might have a chance to spot them.
The good news, however, is that the Nile is a haven for birdwatchers, and is home to many fish species vital to local diets and ecosystems.
Are Nile River Cruises Safe For Solo Female Travellers?
Nile cruises generally offer a safe experience for solo female travellers, with most vessels providing comprehensive security measures, including surveillance systems, trained staff, and secure cabins.
The organised nature of cruise travel means you’ll explore historic sites with guides in a group setting, so you won’t be on your own too much.
Of course, it’s important to observe local customs and practical safety measures too.
This means it’s best to dress modestly (especially at religious sites), avoid solo nighttime excursions, and stick to well-lit, tourist-frequented areas.
While you may encounter persistent vendors or the occasional catcalling, politely declining unwanted attention will work effectively most of the time.
With proper planning and awareness, you can fully embrace the wonderful hospitality of Egypt and stay safe throughout your journey.
I travelled in Egypt as a solo female and can happily report I never encountered any issues.
In fact, this amazing country blew me away and my Nile river cruise was certainly a highlight.
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As you contemplate your own voyage down the Nile, you might not encounter the mysteries of Hercule Poirot or the adventures of James Bond, but surely you’ll discover something even more captivating – the real magic of Egypt.
From the gentle sway of your cruise ship, to the ancient temples rising from the sands, a Nile cruise will be the perfect backdrop for your own memorable Egyptian story.
This article was sponsored by Nile Cruisers but, as always, all views are my own.
This page contains affiliate links meaning Big World Small Pockets may receive a small commission on any purchases at no extra cost to you.
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