Nile River Cruises

Helpful Tips to Know Before You Go

• Be sure to pick an itinerary that suits your interests. Shorter Nile River cruises will give you a great look at the most grandiose wonders of the region, but a longer cruise – or even an extended stay in Cairo – will provide more opportunities to explore these incredible places in detail.
• The best time to cruise the Nile River is generally between October and April. In this range, the weather will be warm but not overly hot, making it more comfortable to enjoy long walking tours of the many magnificent sites at your ports of call. Bring suncream and a sun hat for the daytime, comfortable shoes for your walks, and a jacket for the chilly evenings and nights.
• Respect the modesty standards of the ports you visit. Ladies will be expected to cover up in many places; in particular, if you plan on visiting a mosque or other religious areas, it’s a good plan to bring covering clothing.
• In Egypt, there is a type of tipping culture called ‘baksheesh’ – this can involve giving small amounts of money even to people who have not performed work for you, as a sort of charity. This is quite an integral part of the cultural norm, and you should come prepared with change to give baksheesh.
• The currency in Egypt is the Egyptian Pound, and the language spoken is Egyptian Arabic. It can be a good idea to prepare a phrasebook ahead of time to help with interactions with local vendors, but your guides will handle most translations you can expect to need.

Things to Do

• Appreciate natural beauty. While the man-made marvels are the more famous of the region, nature has its own wonders to appreciate. From the stark beauty of the Nubian Desert to the remarkable landscapes created by the Nile’s waters, there’s plenty for nature-lovers to adore. Animal enthusiasts can spot exotic local birds, Nile crocodiles, and more.
• Visit World Heritage Sites and World Wonders alike. The Pyramids at Giza, the Valley of the Kings, and the Karnak Temple Complex are all examples of sites whose significance in human history cannot be overstated. Marvel at the works of ancient civilisations for yourself when you tour these incredible places.
• Explore magnificent monuments. From the Great Sphinx to particularly educational examples like the Unfinished Obelisk, the Nile will carry you through cities world-famous for the incredible historical marvels on offer.
• Discover local cultures. When you cruise the Nile you’ll be calling at cities where the long histories of the region are on full display. Visit museums to learn about the past, then explore the cities themselves, exploring colourful local markets and bazaars, exploring galleries and botanical gardens, and so much more.
• Delight in local flavours. Each of the ports you pass through will have their own delicious street stalls, restaurants, and local favourites. Try the classic Egyptian kushari in one or many of its mouth-watering variations, delight in street delicacies from market stalls and waterfronts, and discover new favourite flavours. 

Why Book With Kenwood Travel

When you book with us, you take advantage of decades of collective cruise experience, as well as the talents of our dedicated cruise specialists. With expert local knowledge and access to many of the best prices available, you can be sure that we’ll craft you the Nile River cruise of your dreams. From giving you advice on your itinerary to helping you secure an amazing deal, we’re here to help with every little detail, ensuring that your cruise along the Nile is the unforgettable experience you deserve.