The Foreign and Commonwealth Office has given tourist areas along the Nile, including Luxor, Aswan, Abu Simbel, and Valley of the Kings, the thumbs up, especially when visited as part of an escorted tour. Most cruises start in Luxor and visit popular sites such as Esna, Edfu, and Kom Ombo before disembarking in Aswan. Other itineraries fly directly to Aswan and work their way north down the Nile to the same sights. Most cruises will last at least four nights.
There are many different vessels to choose from, ranging from escorted tours to self-guided tours. All cruise ships have discreet security on board, which is reassuring rather than intrusive. Airport-style metal detectors are also used to ensure safety. Cairo is considered safe to visit by the Foreign Office, and this advice has not changed since the US and UK joint strikes on Houthi bases.
Nile River cruises are a popular choice for exploring Egypt’s historical treasures and are generally considered safe for travelers. However, it is important to be cautious when traveling to Egypt, as there have been no recent reported terrorist acts against tourists. The crime rate is generally low, but visitors have reported armed robberies, muggings (including in taxis), sexual assaults, and break-ins to accommodation and other incidents.
The police/security will be much stronger now than before, so travelers should be safer. Travel from Hurghada to Luxor is generally safe, except for travel from Hurghada to Luxor, which takes about 1.5 hours. In conclusion, while Egypt offers a rich cultural heritage and a safe environment for tourists, it is essential to be cautious and aware of potential risks and dangers.
📹 What I Wish I’d Know BEFORE Doing My Nile River Cruise!
Seven out of ten travellers told me they really want to do a Nile River cruise. But almost all said they were unlikely to do it, because …
Can you travel along the Nile?
Explore the Nile River attractions by spending a few days in coastal towns or villages, or taking a Nile River cruise to visit iconic spots along the route. To make the most of your time along one of the world’s most historically remarkable rivers, consider adding seven exciting activities to your bucket list. One of the most relaxing activities is sailing on a felucca, a traditional wooden boat with white triangular sails used for centuries. This relaxing experience can be done from any dock near the river, not just one specific town.
Is the Nile safe at the moment?
The UK government has not issued travel advisories for popular tourist destinations in Egypt, including Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, and Sharm el-Sheikh. Nevertheless, the Foreign Office discourages all travel to the Governorate of North Sinai, including the crossing at Rafah, and within 20km of the Egyptian/Libyan border, with the exception of El Salloum, where it advises against all but essential travel.
Is cruising the Nile worth it?
The article discusses the Egyptian itinerary for a 10-day trip, focusing on the best places to visit. It suggests that a cruise is the ideal option for those who prefer river travel and don’t want to deal with inter-city travel and daily excursions. However, experienced travelers may prefer more than romance, as group excursions can feel restrictive and hiring private guides can increase prices. The author suggests that overland travel is a more suitable option, as it allows for private transfers and sightseeing at a lower cost than a well-reviewed cruise.
Can you take a trip down the Nile?
The Nile River continues to serve as Egypt’s primary source of water, sustaining numerous cities, including Aswan, Cairo, and Luxor. The presence of fertile land has enabled Egyptians to populate areas that would otherwise be uninhabitable, including the Sahara Desert. Egypt tours typically include a Nile River cruise, which allows visitors to observe the country’s notable sites and 5, 000 years of history and culture as they float by.
Are mosquitoes a problem on a Nile cruise?
Nile cruises are a relaxing and enjoyable experience, but the hot climate can sometimes attract mosquitoes. It is recommended to pack an insect repellent spray or band to avoid mosquito bites. Light clothes, such as a funky scarf, can be used as a cover-up at mosques or religious sites. For women, loose trousers and cool t-shirts are recommended. Classic Holidays offers custom-made itineraries with stops at famous places in Egypt, such as Luxor. To book your Nile cruise, contact Classic Holidays for more details. Remember to bring light clothes, loose trousers, and cool t-shirts for added comfort.
Is it safe to swim in the river Nile?
It is inadvisable to engage in swimming activities in the Nile River, given the absence of alligators and the concomitant risk of exposure to bacteria and infections. It is noteworthy that the southern area of Awan is the only region where alligators are rarely observed. Consequently, swimming in the river is not recommended.
Is Egypt safe in 2024 for tourists?
Egypt is a crime-free country with a majority of crime being petty theft. However, it is important to be cautious in densely populated areas like Cairo or Alexandria, as they are often inhabited by pickpockets and purse-snatchers. If you encounter any issues requiring law enforcement intervention, look for officers with a tourism police badge on their shoulders. Tour operators offer the largest selection of times and flight availabilities, so be flexible and creative when planning your trip to Egypt. Lonely Planet advises looking for officers with a tourism police badge.
Can you still cruise down the Nile?
The SS Sudan, one of Thomas Cook and Son’s original fleet of Nile steamers, is the only one that still operates cruises on the Nile. The Sudan set sail on its maiden voyage in February 1921, from Cairo to Aswan. As a fan of Agatha Christie’s books, the author’s ultimate travel dream was to cruise the Nile on the Steam Ship Sudan, inspired by her famous book, Death on the Nile. Due to COVID, the author’s delayed honeymoon was the opportunity to finally fulfill this ambition.
The Karnak, a smaller steamer than the Papyrus and Lotus, was a memorable experience for most passengers. The promenade deck was occupied by an observation saloon, a smoking room, a small drawing room, and a dining saloon. The boat was not full, so most passengers had accommodation on the promenade deck. The experience was a once-in-a-lifetime experience and a memorable one.
Is cruising down the Nile safe?
Nile River cruises are a popular choice for exploring Egypt’s historical treasures and are generally considered safe for travelers. Cruise operators prioritize passenger safety and follow strict safety guidelines and regulations. The Egyptian government has made significant efforts to enhance the safety and security of tourists in recent years, including increased police presence at tourist sites and comprehensive security protocols.
Tourist police are stationed at major tourist destinations to provide assistance and support to travelers. This article aims to help travelers make an informed decision about embarking on a Nile River cruise in Egypt in 2023.
📹 The Nile River Explained in under 3 Minutes
The #Nile River in Africa is the longest river in the world and as such it brings so many interesting #Geography facts with it. It flows …
I went down the Nile in 1967. It was the most amazing experience of my very traveled life. I ran up the stairs into the Large pyramid. I was a skinny, fearless girl, on a trip around the world after graduating from college. A gift. Into the Valley of the Kings, riding a horse, a burto. Sure now is different. like everything. When I was so lucky to be there none of all these restrictions were in place. My friend and I often were INLY people going down the trap door in the desert at Luzor, and in to the tombs. I loved it, still do. I was back in Egypt years later, already quite changed.
We have been to Egypt five times over the past twenty five years. The first and last involving cruises. Egypt has changed dramatically and so have the cruises over the years. Wonderful on each occasion but the cruises are not relaxing with very early starts incredible heat, not for the faint hearted. On the last cruise my wife and I both had tummy upsets ( the on board cure looked very much like anti biotics )and were unable to go to Abu Simbel (we had been there twenty years previous and it is still the most impressive man made object I have seen) fortunately a family on the boat escorted our daughter to the site and she was awe struck. i would always recommend Egypt but your wonderful articles let people see the pit falls. Well done.
My wife and I went to Egypt in the late 1990’s and it was the best trip I have ever been on in my life since. From reading comments all over the place I’m glad we went when we did, sounds like things have changed. One important think for everyone to know, make sure you don’t go during Ramadan. Things like pools at hotels and most restaurants are closed and some activities are cut back. Not sure if this has changed since though. The only thing I got tied of very quickly are the shops and the badgering at all the shops, gets very old very quickly. As for security and safety, never felt threaten in anyway, every Egyptian we met were wonderful people. Though I was at the Pyramids and this guy would not leave me alone trying to sell me something and I swear out of nowhere this solider materialized and began dragging this guy away. It’s a must trip for everyone.
I took the Nile cruise through Viking last September. As a photographer, I was looking forward to the trip, and did my due diligence to make sure that I got the most out of the experience. I must admit that this was my first cruise ever, and that the idea of having a rigorous itinerary was going to be challenging, as we have always traveled logistically on our own. The first day of our Cairo excursion took us to the Egyptian Museum, and although our Egyptologist was excellent, the time spent there was only about 2 hours. I knew there was so much more to see, so I told him I’ll take a cab back to the hotel. I spent an additional 4 hours there. Unfortunately, all other site tours were of the same duration. For instance, at Karnak, all the tours arrive at about the same time, 9am, and leave around 11:30. Again, I told the guide that I’ll make my own way back (fortunately, the Viking dock in immediately outside the entrance). By noon, I had the place to myself. As I wondered through, I made friends with some of the guards who, for a small gratuity, gave me access to several restricted areas. As far as safety, I’m a 65 year old guy, 5’6″ at 150 lbs, carrying thousands of dollars of camera equipment and never felt the least bit worried about being a victim. I would certainly highly recommend the cruise, but more highly recommend breaking away from the tours to explore on your own. Like traveling anywhere, common sense goes a long way and is really invaluable.
Went on Viking last November, the weather was perfect. No problems, met in the arrivals lounge and helped through. Amazing egyptologist Walid. I think Viking must have their own moorings because we never parked side by side. Used dollars for everything- take new notes and lots of ones. The coach drivers etc are happy to break larger notes. Security was excellent and we never felt at risk. It is a muslim country, they arent particularly strict but of course it’s good manners to cover up. Medicine for upset tummy was available from reception on the boat, start it straight away, it’s quick and effective. The vendors are a hassle and exhausting after a few days but just be firm and keep walking by. We had an amazing time, the sights were astonishing and an organised trip meant little to no anxiety
I’m not sure I’d recommend this for everyone, but in 2000 my wife and I stayed at the Windsor Hotel in Cairo. I buttonholed the desk clerk and asked what he could do for me with regard to a Nile Cruise. He advised me to come back in the afternoon. So, the offer was made: Overnight train from Cairo to Aswan, boat trip to Elephant Island, day tour of Aswan Dam, overnight in a 4 star hotel (with towels turned into animals on the bed), next day air flight to Abu Simbel, with tour guide, back to Aswan, onto tour boat loaded completely with French tourists, two Aussies, one American from Spokane and my wife and myself. Down the Nile for four days, visiting every site, Philai, Kom Ombo, Edfu, until we got to Luxor…all tours, guides included. $700USD cash for the both of us! Sure, it was a bit of a risk, but it paid off. In Aswan, we were offered a private tour in Luxor of Nefertari’s tomb, Valley of the Queens (three days downstream), for $200pp, but I had checked out the site before, so I declined and hired a taxi in Luxor for 6AM to get us to the ticket office at 7AM when it opened; admission was $25pp. The site didn’t open until 9AM, so we bought our driver breakfast and asked that he wait for us. Another couple of bucks got us an extra 20 minutes in the tomb. Major score. After Luxor, a bus ride to Hurghada, and a 3AM ferry to Sharm-el-Sheikh, where we decompressed after two weeks of Egyptian street vendors’ pestiferous assailments. Then on to Jordan! Thanks for your great cruising commentaries.
Having done over 70 cruises and on the Nile the the key question you should have asked is: “How are the kitchens inspected on the river cruise ship”. On our river cruise ship the kitchens were inspected by scientists and health inspectors from England every month. The other subject you did not mention was “kick-backs” for the guides. The guides take you to vendors where they receive a “commission” which is probably not the most economic or best place/vendor to purchase goods. The pestering is unrelenting and intrusive. My wife was robbed on a Nile cruise in Luxor. It was an experience.
My husband & I just got back from a month in Egypt. We had a wonderful time. We felt VERY safe (safer than at home, really). Our cruise was on the Amwaj Livingstone which was great (but our cabin was mid-ship on the 3rd floor). Food was great. People are SUPER friendly. Yes, bring lots of US $5s and $1s, they’re quite useful. Bring your own TP, usually they hand you some as you go in, but sometimes not! What a wonderful place. I can’t wait to go back! Edit: we were also concerned about potentially getting ill, but then relaxed, at fresh fruit (we did wash it in bottled water), had ice at the nicer hotels, ate raw veggies/salad… no issues. I had brought all the medications that we might potentially need, but didn’t need a thing.
Mom and I have booked an East Mediterranean trip that stops in Alexandria, Egypt. Imagine my utter delight when a 12 hour excursion to Saqqara, the Giza pyramids, the Sphinx and the Western Plateau was offered. I basically became I school girl and ran around the house. I’m so excited and I definitely now need to add some things to my packing list now that I’ve seen this article.
I’ve been over 40 times. 272€ for the whole week. No problems. I don’t used the guides as I’ve been so often. A taxi for the whole day is 20€. The water taxi is 15 cents over the nile. When you are accosted just stand exactly between the 2 shops and ask what they want. As that is no man’s land. They can’t talk to you. Learning Egyptian Arabic will help too.
Gary, I very much enjoy your articles which are really useful but your Nile Cruise seems to have been a bit out of your comfort zone. We havet done the cruise twice and recognise all the points you have made. You certainly do need to keep within the tourist ‘bubble’ but Nile cruises really need a lot of preliminary research to avoid the problems you encountered. It’s a very different world to conventional cruising, but get it right and it is a an unforgettable experience. The secret is to treat it as off a one off experience and not as an extentsion to conventional cruising. Egypt Nile cruises are indeed a unique experience but something that really does need a lot of preliminary research. We did this and had a fantastic time on both occasions. We also took high tea at the Old Cataract Hotel and swam in the pool on an overnight stay. Sublime! Colin B
Hello and thank you. We were fortunate to have a Nile cruise aboard the Oberoi Zahra as part of our Egypt and Jordan trip through Tauck Tours. Everything you say is spot on. They are very touchy about cameras and security. Just a point, bring a couple of hundred new $20 dollars. I required a physician and the Egyptian doctor required American dollars for his services and medicine plus the tip for the crewman who went to get him.
Be prepared to take photos using only your phone in Egypt. On almost every occasion in the major temples or museums only phones were allowed but some would allow you to use cameras – at a cost. Depending on the cruise organisation, you might find that your boat is moored quite a way out of town. For instance, in Luxor we were a 10-15 minute taxi ride out of town, surrounded by fields and no passing traffic, so you had to take the first driver you could. In hindsight, if the boat had left from Luxor on the morning we boarded it would have been better because we basically paid for the additional night onboard in a location away from easily accessible attractions or local sites. The drive from Aswan to Abu Simbel is between 3- 4 hours and we left at 3am to get there in the morning to avoid the heat, however one of the checkpoints didn’t open until 5 or 6am. It was worth paying the extra (US$100) to see King Tut or Seti tombs in the Valley of the Kings – they will be quieter, less crowded and more colourfully decorated – however even inside those tombs I got hassled by the local employee wanting a gratuity because he showed me some iconography.
Thanks for all your tips Gary. Just back from 4 days Cairo, 7 days Nile cruise. Absolutely a must do and work the excursions into your costs it’s why you’re there. Agree with 90% of what you advised. We did Abu Symbol by coach (no flight option) and was still worth every minute on the coach. Only thing I would differ on is the issue of forward cabins. We were assigned the very front cabin upper deck and it was one of only two suites on our boat. Fab cabin, walk in wardrobe, full bath shower, sitting area, dressing table and two windows 😮. The problem of noise was eliminated by going with a line that moored slightly separate to the other lines. We moored with max 1 other boat all week. Their mooring points at each stop where clearly sighned and only used by a few named boats. Trip was on the “Nile Symphony” they have 4 boats working at moment and tour was booked through “Titan”. Hope this over long comment is of some help to some.
Having done a similar trip in January (with Tauck) I found your article informative and interesting…especially when it comes to the differences between your trip and ours. While we probably somewhat paid more for a once in a lifetime trip than you did, we are glad we did….some examples of the differences….. a big one for you was that the Tauck provided an very high end ship ( no cheesy entertainment though) had a private dock so no rafting with other cruise ships….. we actually stayed at the Old Cataract Hotel one night including dinner in their famous main dining room which was amazing, abu simbel was included with a private charter…no one got sick on our trip and we were assured about the safety of the meals they provided ( including lunch at the RITZ Carlton )……the cruise, while only four nights I believe was augmented by the Marriott hotel overlooking the pyramids in the beginning and ending with the St Regis in Cairo which too was awesome…going in January had less people than in your articles with very. In comfortable weather.
As a lady I travelled solo all the times I went to Egypt and NEVER did I encounter any problem whatsoever! I love travelling in the local buses and on the trains and found it very exciting and wonderful to be part of the local people,who are very kind and helpful. I suppose some people are just more scared of life than others!
Great article!! My husband and I visited Egypt in November 2022. You are correct that there is not a lot of down time. But seeing everything is so worth it!! I definitely recommend Abu Simbel and I loved Queen Hatshepsut’s temple!! November was a great time to go, sunny and 80 degrees. It does get warmer the farther south you travel. This is a trip you want to take sooner rather than later. We unfortunately had a couple older ladies that couldn’t handle all the walking and heat so they missed out on half of the places we went. Awesome experience!!
I did a three- night cruise from Aswan to Luxor a couple of years back. It was amazingly good value given I was taking up a cabin alone, it was only about US$300 including all meals and three tours with a guide. I booked it on Viator. The food was always a very nice buffet, and the boat was luxurious with a swimming pool. The cabin was as good as a decent three- star hotel. There were lots of similar boats doing the same trip. Three nights was enough given that I stayed at Aswan and Luxor before and after the cruise so I did my sightseeing there separately.
Both articles are excellent and fair (if not a little kind). I think it’s worth noting that the Luxor/Aswan cruise is an illusion, the distance (and sites), can be covered in a taxi either way between the towns in a matter of hours. I don’t know if the 600 mile Aswan to Cairo cruise still exists, but it will be less crowded as are the many sites between Abydos and Cairo. There is a Lake Nasser cruise to various salvaged Nubian Temples (including Abu Simbel), but the generally mediocre standards still apply on both. The prices quoted strike me as somewhat excessive. In recent years the experience has become Benidorm on the Nile. It’s worth a trip, but manage your expectations.
I loved our hot air balloon ride in Luxor. Throughout our trip and on our 7 day cruise we had early mornings to avoid crowds and the worst of the heat eg. 3 hour bus ride to Abel Simbel and we were on site by 8.15am. By 10am the site was busy and by 12pm it was hot. We had an armed guard on our bus trip and at some other sites. We got used to seeing glimpses of his automatic weapon beneath his suit jacket. Who wears a suit in Egypt? He looked out of place but he was a nice chap. My travel Dr was adamant, must use bug spray due to the various mosquito bourne viruses. I had lots of meds for an upset stomach but the locals gave me strong Turkish coffee with lemon. 2 weeks in Egypt was memorable and we added Israel and Jordan, which were fabulous.
Just a copy paste of the comment I made in your previous article, I made it a few days after the article was out and it may interest some people to learn of a different experience. I was in Egypt for 3 weeks in September 2010. I also took a cruise on the Nile, but one way only from Luxor to Aswan, so it was only 4 days. The main difference in my cruise was that it was on a Dahabiya, a small sailboat (bigger than a Felouque, like the one we see at 9:27 in you article) that had only 6 cabins and a suite, the wind permitted to sail only one day, the rest of the time, we where pulled by a small tugboat. The only motors we heard where small generators a few hours each day to charge batteries for the AC in our cabins. On my cruise, we where only 6 passengers, a couple, two sister and the daughter of one. I was alone. For the excursions on the different sites, the other passengers had all been in Egypt before, so they didn’t took the guided tour, I was alone whit the guide, he would start by showing me around and give the explanations on everything and then wait for me near the entrance taking a coffee while I took all the pictures that I wanted. Since it was a smaller boat, we didn’t stop at the standard spot where all the bigger boats where stacked one against the other, the staff chose beautiful spots where we where alone, we even had a picnic on a small island one night. If you ever go back on the Nile, I strongly suggest that type of cruise. You can check some of the pictures I took on the cruise flic.
WOW, Gary, this article was very revealing. My friends and I went on a Nile cruise in 2007, and it looks like it was a good time to go. Egypt is amazing, and it is sad that it now has to be so policed. 😔 There were, still, the pushy (and I don’t blame them as they have families that need to fed and housed) vendors, but were given instructions on what to do and what not to do. We did have one female traveller who did what she was told not to 🙄 and got the vendor in trouble 😠 The Nile cruise was wonderful. We did the 7 days cruise and 3 days in Cairo. We had to pay for toilet paper then too.
Interesting… our 12 night Egypt Land and River vacation in 2007 was one of the best trips we have ever taken… We never went in and out via the shop areas and vendors weren’t allowed to try to sell you anything unless you cross the painted line into the shop area at every location. We did have the security check points and screenings, but that’s been the whole world since 2001.
I would like to debunk the issue of health and safety concerning the water in Egypt. I made my first cruse on the Nile back in 2006 and heard the same warning before going there. Even about not even touching the water in the flood. But the water in the Nile is in overall fine. Especially upstream. Downstream in Kairo you can find trash tossed into the water. Sure you should drink bottled water, but I have no problem brushing my teeth with the tapwater or eat vegetables cleaned with the tap water. Same standard as many I-countries. The real issue in Egypt surprisingly few knows about are about the big beach hotell facilities most tourists lives in when visiting Egypt. Like in Hurghada. They do reuse grey/brown water (your pee and poop) from the facility to water the hotell complex’s gardens around the swimmingpools and restourants during the nights when the guests are all asleep. And this is done unfiltred. This is an extreme bioazard spreading bacterias and diseases among people. I do understand their goal of saving water, but this need to stop.
I really want to go to Egypt like most people. It’s been on the top of my bucket list since I was a child. But after seeing all the blogs about the businesses and markets people haggling you. I’m afraid I would get in trouble. Because I would tell someone in a quick heartbeat to get out of my face and not to touch me (put anything on me)I’m not buying your stuff, and that they need back up. I’m interested to know if they put something on you, you just walk away and ignore them. What can they do? Because seriously that doesn’t fly in America 🇺🇸
Thomas Cook, who organised the Nile cruise segment of our Egypt trip for us, advised us against a more expensive cabin. Get the one with the window on the water line, he said, as you won’t be spending much time in the cabin!! How right he was. It was quite hectic some days – being woken at 0530 to have breakfast to go on a bus trip to the site to get there before the heat of the day – but it was worth it, and we were very happy with our waterline cabin and slept like logs!
Thanks for this enlightening article! Watched it before we left on our two -week trip to Egypt. We just returned last week. We did a three day Nile cruise. The food on the cruise was nondescript but OK. It was so hot there were no bugs! We did not get Pharaoh’s revenge because our guide said never drink anything with ice and no raw vegetables. Used bottled water for teeth brushing and drinking. It was an amazing experience that I will never forget. It felt secure enough and it seemed like an even-keel trip overall in terms of safety. Our guide was exceptional!
My one and only cruise was a Nile cruise on Oberoi phile. It was over 20 yrs ago when I was 18 and boy how things have changed! I was in visiting my childhood friend and his family who lived in Cairo (his mom still lives there and has a travel agency that she an Egyptian woman has owned for over 20yrs, SEEgypt) so my experience was different from regular tourists. But it was an amazing cruise.
I went on a package tour on a Nile River cruise. The boat was really old. Every time the engine started, clouds of black diesel smoke filled the cabin. Having an LGBT+ group was fun because we all got to know each other. One always find one or two other couples whose company one can enjoy, and others whom you avoid like the plague. Asking about the boat crucial. Vigilance with water at all times (including salads) crucial. I forgot one night and cleaned my teeth with tap water on autopilot, and realized only when finished what I had done. As a result I began to feel terrible at the Aswan dam, so I had to pass on a few activities there plus on the flight up to see the repositioned towering pharaohs which are the highlight of a Nile excursion south of the dam. Instead I lay on my cabin and felt I was near death’s doorstep for 24 hours. Joy. Take loo paper with you on daily excursions in your bag. Take water with you including a spare bottle. I witnessed one area where we had to stand forever waiting in line. There was a stall there selling bottled water. For some reason our tour wanted us to see some tedious cove on an island. But behind the ticket shed, there was a guy filling used plastic water bottles from a hose then resealing them with some gadget which put a new looking, unbroken seal on top. Then he’d go into the store and put them in the fridge. If your assigned Egyptian tour guide for the whole trip recommends a store for you and then asks you to tell her what you bought and its price, it is so that she can visit the store once you’ve left it then get her cut of the price.
Nile cruise is totally overrated. 1. the schedule of visiting temples is not designed for tourists. It depends on the boats time: sometime it stops at night, other times you have to get up 6 am to see temples. 2. it is not just your boat stops and people from your boat visiting the temples. There will be hundreds of boats and hundreds of people from the boats at the temple the same time. I remember that my boat reached Luxor around 4-5pm, and by the time I arrived at the Luxor temple, people were pushing each other at the temple. Next morning I visited it again around 10am and it was almost empty! So if you don’t like crowds and don’t want to be pushed around sightseeing, don’t go to the cruise and book your own tour. 3. the food is mediocre which would be fine if many passengers including I did not get stomach problems. I never figured out what caused it since it was buffet. People in my group took turns getting sick. On the last day of the cruise, we decided on a McDonald’s at Luxor. Everyone was fine next day. My conclusion is that don’t be deceived by the romanticism of Cruise on Nile. Reality bites. I don’t understand why they don’t tell you the truth in these articles!
I have done this trip twice, the river cruise experience was exactly as described. We enjoyed it so much. The only thing I noticed was the paying of “back-shish” or tipping. In Australia we are not used to tipping! But as wages are so low, it is the only way for some Egyptians to make a living. So if you ask anyone to do/ get something for you, it is customary to tip this person. Always carry small change for toilets, you may have to pay extra for toilet paper! Also if yo go from Aswan to Abu Simble, be prepared to leave early in the morning and if you are going by bus, it is escorted by armed policemen for the 4 hour trip.
Everything you said was “Spot On”. I wish I had brought more US singles than buying Egyptian pounds. We knew in advance not to drink the water. There was enough security that even if most of them were on their cellphones, one would catch trouble before it happened. Vendors can be insistent, but exercise Jedi Mind tricks, “This is not the customer you want.” AMA was good but it had a few shortcomings. The people are friendly. The country is one foot in the 21st Century and one foot in 1200BCE. The best thing is the history you will see and the history you will learn. Thanks for spreading the word, Gary.
Heres my advise. I did a very similar tour in March 2023, it’s safe, l didn’t always stay in the bubble. I wandered around cario, luxor, aswan, Alexander, on my own. Sometimes late at night, if someone hassles you ignore them. Gary touched on the money, the hotels have ATM’s which you can put dollars, pounds, euros, what ever in and get egyptian pounds out. This will save you a lot of money, as you get a very good exchange rate. Next don’t pay entrance fees up front, even the eygption government warns you about this. My tour wanted $150 + $100 tips. I paid the entrance fees on the gate total $60, the main tour manager takes the tips, but the coach driver, guide, crew, never see it. He pockets that, its a scam. Tip the people you want to tip, 10 eygption pounds will do, about $1
Egypt is amazing. The ‘aggressive vendors’ are tiring, but overwhelmingly the Egyptian people are wonderful. I left the ‘group bubble’ and wandered away from the beaten path as much as possible and had zero problems. The food was very good, everywhere. Most speak English, but learning a couple basic greetings in Arabic goes a wonderfully long way and brings smiles. Bring lots of $1 and $5 bills (in ‘new’ condition if possible), for lots of small things like tips, donations, a cold drink, access to the toilet, etc. Agreed, the toilets are an experience to be missed (!) Keeping your head down and ignoring everyone is rude – treat them nicely and they will return the politeness.
I used to study in Egypt and also work as a guide for the Czech tourists coming to visit in the mid 90s. The funny thing is how little has changed on the cruise! Yes, you have wifi, everybody has mobile phones and photos, the food shown looks better (and I was to many 5star ships with the groups), the security is a bit tighter too. But overall, I guess, even the ships look the same and the galabeia parties etc. Funny.
We just returned from our ten night Egypt land/cruise with Avalon. Two nights Cairo, Five nights Nile, two nights Cairo, with two additional pre-trip nights we booked. Your articles were sooo helpful. Thank you! I will note that our ship MS Farah, was not fully booked so they moved us from further aft to further midship without us asking. That helped with some noise. We also were only docked front to back once. Other than that, we were very pleased and felt like we got a similar level of service and experiences as you did with AMA Waterways. My one additional warning would be to emphasize the physical nature of the trip – we joked that there wasn’t an OSHA (US occupational safety) regulation Egypt didn’t break! By the way, we used followed your water advice and dietary advice and had zero issues – same with everyone in our group. Again, thank you!
On our cruise, we booked a supposedly 5 star cruise ship. It was not. It was at best a 3 star based on the accommodations but the staff was fabulous. I found it odd that there were no female staff on the whole ship. Only male staff. We had the galabaya dance too which was quite fun. We picked up our galabaya dresses in Cairo from a shop our guide knew. We went in early February and the temps were in the 60’s-70’s during the day and 40’s at night. No bugs that I recall. He’s right about the portable toilets. They are horrendous. I labeled them Cholera & Dysentery.
My husband and I did a Nike cruise in 2019. It was so incredibly interesting! A real experience! Before we went we had purchased Egyptian cash and unfortunately our Canadian bank gave us this in large bills. At no time during the cruise were we able exchange these for smaller bills. We had a few Euros in coins and that is all we were able to spend in the markets. Very disappointing for us and the vendors.
I did this one years ago so my information is outdated but it was very similar to this article. I was very similarly “bubbled” off and guarded. I was safe and protected though I did notice that in Cairo we were being escorted by a guy in a suit who was armed with some kind of Uzi under his jacket! I didn’t get an upset stomach because I did that same things as this guy did. My brother did and he that local remedy that worked for him. It is very action packed with a lot to do. I skipped a couple sites because I needed some downtime. Glad I did it but wouldn’t go again.
Hi Sir Gary. First time I’m hearing the word Egyptologist. QUESTION? The labeled plates of food was a display to show the menu? Have never seen that. Good to know of good security. Groups of 24 a good size. Didn’t know GI issues were common. Guess water for ice was filtered. Thanks for all the great insights as usual.
Thanks for a very useful article. Yes, getting the trots in Egypt is almost a given. Having worked there I experienced the most severe diarrhea imaginable, as did the dozens of other incoming European workers on the project with which I was involved even though we were staying in good hotels. As the narrator said, brush your teeth with bottled water, no salads unless you prepare it yourself and wash with bottle water, don’t eat anything that ‘hasn’t been passed through a flame’, as the company doctor advised us. No ice creams, nothing that anyone has peeled, peel it again yourself, locals don’t always have good (or any) knowledge or understanding of basic hygiene. Having said that, the sights are amazing, just take care with what you out in mouth or what touches your lips or you’ll spend all your time painfully on the toilet.
Thank you Gary for such an informative article, you are definitely a cut above the rest in your information sharing of the very relevant details that people need to know! You are a real traveller who concentrates on the things that matter for most people I’m sure. I have learned so much from your articles, you have really made a very positive difference to our cruise and travel experiences with your tips. We seem to have very similar tastes and an appreciation of good standards. Thank you, we will keep Egypt in mind but probably a hotel based itinerary I’m not sure I could risk the possible “noise” pollution in particular, we like our rest 😂. Subscribed x 🥰🏴🇬🇧
We (my husband and I) have visited Egypt – specifically Luxor – 19 times. we have NEVER had any problems about being an LGBT+ couple. Like the threat of “upset stomach” which also NEVER happened to us. We walked everywhere, used local transport, the local’s ferry across to the West Bank of the Nile. All the Egyptians we met were extremely friendly and concerned about our welfare. We are still in touch with about a dozen of them. The “dangers” of Egypt are greatly exaggerated and articles like this do nothing to dispel this myth.
We enjoyed our cruise and the ballon ride over luxor at dawn was great. Security for our American group we had a suited policeman with a machine gun with us at all times in the bus at the sites. We also had a escorted armed police cruiser assigned to our bus. They do this for American based tours only, not Britt tours like Amarway.
Thanks Gary but not much on the Nile sailing experience itself. A timetable would be good. You have to wonder if the train and a few felucca trips plus some decent hotels in Luxor delivers a better experience. I think you have overdone “the bubble”. In Egypt the Government limits where tourists can go so for most they are in a bubble as well. The hawkers at the main Indian sites are much the same but at least in India it’s easy to escape the bubble and enjoy a more relaxed India. The fancy dress night sounds cringeworthy in modern times
I’ll mention one thing about restrooms in the Middle East. The native population do not relieve themselves like we do in the Western world. I toilet facility in many places is a hole in the ground and a water hose that hangs nearby to clean up after. Unheard in the West. So naturally, places like Port-o-John’s are disgusting. No one sits down. They point and shoot and let the next guy worry about it. The next guy/gal does the same. It’s a mess. Expect that and you will not be surprised. If you can’t handle that issue, best not to travel in the area at all.
I had been on a tour in Egypt many years ago. Actually, we landed in Cairo about an hour after President Sedat was assassinated. I have wanted to go back but after seeing this article, I’ve changed my mind. The sellers at the Valley of the kings now looks like a bazaar although they are still as aggressive as before. I was able to walk through tombs and other places without feeling I was in a museum. It was wonderful. It gave the feeling, as it should, of antiquity. It is now too business like. Thank you for this article.
I am in Egypt once a year as a tourist from The USA. My advice is to NOT go with a large group of any kind. I have an Egyptologist guide from Cairo that takes us( 4 to 6 people) anywhere we want to in our own van. Cost for two weeks including airfare from Cairo to Luxor $2,000 US. Next bit of advice. Go in the summer. There are no tourists. Yes it’s hot but not that much more than winter. You will have no lines anywhere.
I was considering going to Egypt and a cruise for my upcoming honeymoon, but I heard that Egypt is not the place to travel to right now because of civil unrest or something to that like. Which i find so crapy because right now i couod go anywhere in the world i want on a honeymoon and thats the #1 place ive always wanted to go! Has any American traveled to Egypt since the pandemic?
We’ve learned a word at the first day; Barra …”Back off” 9:00 Our cabin was on the first deck over the water line and we had interested staff members passing in front of the window…. 10:33 My lonely excursion into “Luxor by night ” was a beautiful experience for me ( M,24) and I felt very safe alone in the city. 11:08 “Do y want an escort? I have a nice di.. !” A maybe 14 year old boy!!! Barra – Barra !
I have been on a tour of Egypt from Cairo to Abu Simbel in the south. The Egyptian tourist police are not always on the tourist side and some are very pushy themselves offering guides around temples. The hawkers at the great pyramids are extremely aggressive and argued with 4 off them trying to surround me. Our rep, a woman got between us and told me to leave as tourist police, ice were on their way, and it would not be pleasant for me. Not wanting to back down to bullies I refused and nearly ended up in a punch up ! Remember people this is really a third world country and health and safety is not on their list of priorities. Just remember the balloon that caught fire and German tourist died !
What’s up??…I was surprised that This article provides Exactly the same information as what was presented in the previous one, the “Epic Highs and Unwelcome Lows” Nile cruise article, so perusal them both is just a waste of time. I would think that there should at least be Some useful New information contained before making a new cruising article on essentially the same subject though I see that many of yours are, unfortunately, quite repetitive. Otherwise, your travel tips articles can be quite useful and enjoyable.
I am Rwandan, and on my google map account, I have marks of the sources of the Akagera river. ( you can see exactly when water comes out of the hills) I have marked around 65% of those, and continue when I have time The farthest source of the Nile is Nyungwe forest 🌳 Rwanda, there’s a article on YouTube of a journalist that shows.
Patriotic Brazilians have done so much to displace the Nile as the longest river of the World to no avail. The fact is that, which ever way it is measured, the Nile remains the longest river in the world. Nobody disputes the majestic Amazon as the largest river but in length it is a bit shorter than the Nile. The Nile basin is interesting. It includes some of the greatest “collection” of freshwater lakes in the World. These includes the Victoria (Nyansa) which is the largest tropical feshwater lake, the Kyoga and the Tana. These lakes are filled up with perhaps over 1000 species of fishes especially cichlids and barbs most being endemic. This will put the Nile basin as one of the most species rich species in the World. The Nile perch introduced by British colonialists to Lake Victoria did a lot of destruction of the native species of cichlids in the lake. In the past, it is thought that as much as 200 species had been lost unfortunately. But it is now being realized that most of the species did survive the onslaughter of the Nile perch by “hiding” in the less accesible parts of the massive lake and its smaller “satellites”
🎯 Key Takeaways for quick navigation: 00:00 🌊 The Nile River is the longest river in the world, with a length of 6695 kilometers. 00:54 🌍 The Nile flows from south of the Equator to the 31st degree latitude, covering 10% of Africa’s land area. 01:51 ☔ The Nile experiences extreme seasonal variations in water flow, with the Blue Nile contributing over 70% of the discharge during the wet season. 02:48 🌾 The Nile’s annual flooding and sediment flow have historically supported Egyptian agriculture, but the Aswan High Dam has disrupted this balance. Made with HARPA AI
When I was in 5th grade, I learned about the longest river, the highest mountain, the largest ocean, etc. That is 5th Grade. Then when I reached 11th grade the longest river meant nothing. It was only 10 percent of the Nile’s stream flow. the balance of the water and 100 percent of the silt that bult ancient Egypt came from the Ethiopian Highlands. I was advised to outgrow 5th grade statistics. There would have been no Egypt without the Blue Nile. But many have not outgrown 5th grade.
They said the Latin name it Nilus, and I asked how they came about the name if they didn’t hear it from the African. The Ancient Egyptian called River/sea miri/mmiri and the name Niile or Nile is from an African Language that means All. So they call it Mmiri Nile which means All of the Rivers. The Language is Igbo.