Egyptian Discovery Cruise
Uncover the ancient secrets of Egypt amid the welcoming culture of today. See the pyramids from astride a majestic camel. Explore the Temple of Karnak’s 136 soaring pillars. Visit Queen Nefertari’s tomb in the Valley of the Queens. Skim the waters of the Nile by traditional felucca. Enjoy the fragrances of Aswan’s spice market. Join our expert Egyptologists on a 12-day cruise tour through Egypt on board our modern Nile ships, owned and operated by Viking.
Here are some of the highlights that you will see on an Egypt river cruise:
- Millennia-old treasures in Cairo’s Egyptian Museum
- The Great Pyramids of Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure
- The mighty Citadel of the Mountain
- Sprawling temples of Luxor and Karnak in Luxor
- Tombs of the Valley of the Kings
- The remarkably preserved Dendera Temple complex
- Esna’s towering Temple of Khnum
- Aswan’s Nile via felucca sail
- A Nubian home and school visit
- Horse-drawn calèche ride to Edfu’s Temple of Horus
Cairo Roundtrip. Multiple departures available from September 2026 to December 2028
The price is based on departure on 21 Sep 2027 on the Viking Sobek
- Standard (B) from $12,695 pp twin share / $25,390 pp sole use*
- Veranda(A) from $14,895 pp twin share / $29,790 pp sole use*
- Veranda Suite (AA) from $18,895 pp twin share / $37,390 pp sole use*
- Explorer Suite (ES) from $23,195 pp twin share / $46,390 pp sole use*
For pricing on alternative departure dates, please call our team.
* Please note: prices are subject to availability at the time of booking and may change or be withdrawn at any time without notice.
Itinerary
Day 1 – Cairo, Egypt
Arrive in Cairo and check into your hotel. Begin your Egyptian adventure in the country’s vibrant capital, where thousands of years of history blend with lively streets, fascinating neighbourhoods and the timeless Nile River.
Day 2 – Cairo, Egypt
Discover the legendary Great Pyramid of Giza, the only surviving Wonder of the Ancient World. Continue through historic Old Cairo, known for its remarkable Islamic architecture, traditional crafts and fascinating cultural heritage.
Day 3 – Cairo, Egypt
Explore the historic heart of Cairo along Muizz Street, once the city’s main thoroughfare. Admire beautifully preserved mosques, mausoleums, palaces and residences that reveal the city’s rich Fatimid and Islamic history.
Day 4 – Luxor, Egypt
After breakfast, fly to Luxor and board your Nile ship. Explore the magnificent Karnak and Luxor Temples before discovering the Valley of the Kings, home to the ancient tombs of Egypt’s most powerful pharaohs.
Day 5 – Qena, Egypt
Cruise north to Qena, a historic city that flourished as an important trading centre. Visit the spectacular Dendera Temple, renowned for its towering columns, detailed hieroglyphics and remarkably preserved ancient architecture.
Day 6 – Luxor, Egypt
Return to Luxor and explore the wonders of ancient Thebes. Discover the East Bank, once the City of the Living, and the West Bank, known as the City of the Dead and home to royal tombs and ancient monuments.
Day 7 – Esna, Egypt
Arrive in Esna, a historic town with a lively local atmosphere. Browse the colourful market before visiting the impressive Temple of Khnum, famous for its Roman-era Hypostyle Hall and beautifully carved columns.
Day 8 – Aswan, Egypt
Cruise onward to Aswan, the gateway to ancient Nubia. Experience the region’s distinctive culture and traditions while taking in beautiful Nile scenery and learning about the area’s rich artistic and archaeological heritage.
Day 9 – Aswan & Kom Ombo, Egypt
Continue exploring Aswan and discover the story behind the impressive Aswan High Dam and Lake Nasser. Later, cruise to Kom Ombo to visit its unique riverside temple, dedicated to two ancient Egyptian deities.
Day 10 – Edfu & Luxor, Egypt
Visit Edfu’s magnificent Temple of Horus, one of the best-preserved temples in Egypt, and learn about its fascinating mythology. Continue to Luxor and explore the city’s impressive collection of ancient Egyptian artefacts.
Day 11 – Cairo, Egypt
After breakfast, disembark your ship and fly back to Cairo. Check into your hotel before exploring the historic Khan el-Khalili souk, a lively maze of shops and stalls showcasing traditional crafts, jewellery and local treasures.
Day 12 – Cairo, Egypt
Enjoy your final moments in Cairo and reflect on an unforgettable journey through Egypt’s ancient wonders. Bid farewell to your fellow travellers before travelling home, or extend your Egyptian experience with an optional extension.
*Please note that cruise itineraries are subject to change at any time by the cruise company and are not guaranteed.
Highlights
- Explore the iconic Pyramids of Giza
- Cruise the legendary Nile River
- Discover ancient temples and royal tombs
Uncover the ancient secrets of Egypt amid the welcoming culture of today. See the pyramids from astride a majestic camel. Explore the Temple of Karnak’s 136 soaring pillars. Visit Queen Nefertari’s tomb in the Valley of the Queens. Skim the waters of the Nile by traditional felucca. Enjoy the fragrances of Aswan’s spice market. Join our expert Egyptologists on a 12-day cruise tour through Egypt on board our modern Nile ships, owned and operated by Viking.
Here are some of the highlights that you will see on an Egypt river cruise:
- Millennia-old treasures in Cairo’s Egyptian Museum
- The Great Pyramids of Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure
- The mighty Citadel of the Mountain
- Sprawling temples of Luxor and Karnak in Luxor
- Tombs of the Valley of the Kings
- The remarkably preserved Dendera Temple complex
- Esna’s towering Temple of Khnum
- Aswan’s Nile via felucca sail
- A Nubian home and school visit
- Horse-drawn calèche ride to Edfu’s Temple of Horus
Inclusions
- One complimentary shore excursion at every port of call
- Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary)
- All onboard meals, featuring regional specialties & always available classics
- Beer, wine & soft drinks with onboard lunch & dinner
- 24-hour specialty coffees, teas & bottled water
- Port taxes & fees
- Ground transfers with Viking Air purchase
- Visits to UNESCO Sites
- Enrichment lectures & Destination Performances
- Onboard gratuities
Exclusions
- Airfares
- Travel insurance
- Shore Excursions
FAQs
Different departures operate on different Viking ships:
- Viking Amun – Elegant Nile ship offering modern comfort and panoramic views while cruising between Egypt’s ancient sites.
- Viking Anubis – Purpose-built for the Nile, combining contemporary Scandinavian design with intimate river cruising.
- Viking Aton – Stylish small ship with comfortable river-view accommodation, dining and relaxing onboard spaces.
- Viking Osiris – Modern Nile vessel designed for a refined cruising experience, with spacious public areas and river views.
- Viking Hathor – Purpose-built Nile ship offering comfortable accommodation and an intimate way to explore Egypt.
- Viking Sobek – Modern Nile ship featuring Viking’s signature Scandinavian-inspired design and relaxed onboard atmosphere.
What is the dress code?
During the day, dress is casual including shorts (if the season is warm), slacks or jeans and comfortable shoes for walking tours. There are no “formal nights” in the evening; recommended evening dress is “elegant casual.” For ladies, this may include a dress, skirt or slacks with a sweater or blouse; and for gentlemen, trousers and a collared shirt. A tie and jacket are optional.
Some shore excursions visit religious sites that require modesty of dress. To avoid being denied entry, we recommend men wear long pants and refrain from sleeveless shirts; and for women, clothing that covers the knees and tops that are not sleeveless or too revealing.
What is the tipping policy?
From the Program Director and Hotel Manager to restaurant servers and housekeeping, the onboard staff is dedicated to serving you. Gratuities are included on board. Any additional tipping is at your discretion; should you choose to tip your local guides and drivers, we recommend tipping at the end of each tour in cash. Most restaurants include service in their prices, and it’s customary to round up generously for good service.
Provided by: Viking CruisesFine Print
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