World's 'most beautiful' river cruise with ancient temples, hippos and legends

05 December 2023 , 09:27

1003     0

There are plenty of different cruise lines offering sailings in Egypt (Image: Viking Cruises)

Brits looking for inspiration for their next cruise holidays may want to consider a trip to Egypt next year, as the River Nile has just been named the world's most beautiful river cruise destination.

It's not difficult to see why, when you consider the sun-soaked river banks with lush green scenery, the towering ancient temples and intricate carvings, and the rich history to be found at almost every stop along the way. After all, legends have sailed these waters such as Cleopatra.

When it comes to excursions, you'll be spoiled for choice with fascinating destinations. For example, it's a short drive to the Valley of the Kings where, hidden amongst the rocks, you'll find huge underground temples with artefacts, paintings and carvings that are still preserved from Ancient Egyptian times, with guides on hand to explain the significance of certain images and the history of the kings who lie there.

The River Nile has been named the world's most beautiful river cruise destination (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Of course Egypt is famed for its incredible temples and there are plenty of ancient ruins to explore whether you're whiling away a few hours exploring the grounds at the famous Hatshepsut Temple, Karnak Temple or Luxor Temple.

Meanwhile from the river cruise ships you can take in the sun-baked landscapes that look like something straight out of a fairytale - and keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife that call the River Nile home including hippos, Nile crocodiles, turtles, and heaps of fish and bird species.

Eight remote and beautiful but brutal jobs if you want to leave it all behind

Many cruise lines also have extra perks for guests such as onboard Egyptologists who can talk you through the country's incredibly rich history, and point out certain landmarks you won't want to miss on your travels.

There's heaps to explore with shore excursions to iconic temples and pyramids (Getty Images/Westend61)

The good news is that because the River Nile is a popular destination, there are plenty of holiday firms that offer sailings. For example, TUI's upcoming new ship TUI Al Horeya will sail in winter 2024-2025 on itineraries aalong the Nile that include pharaohs, feluccas, obelisks and tombs.

The five-star refurbished ship will carry 145 passengers and offer single and standard cabins plus suites, a top-deck swimming pool, two whirlpools, an entertainment area, restaurant, alfresco dining, lounge bar, wellness studio and a shop. The season will run from November 7, 2024 to April 24, 2025 with prices from £1,399pp including flights from Gatwick on December 5, 2024, and transfers. You can find out more and book at tui.co.uk/river-cruises.

Meanwhile, Riviera Travel offers a host of Egypt river cruises including sailings along the Nile, promising "a journey of magic and mystery, visit the ancient tombs and legendary pyramids engulfed by stunning desert scenery". Viking Cruises is another firm which offers Nile river cruises from Cairo, with ports of call including the likes of The pyramids and the Sphinx, Cairo’s Museum of Egyptian Antiquities, featuring the treasures of King Tutankhamen and The Necropolis of Thebes.

Top 10 most beautiful river cruise destinations

1. Nile
2. Seine
3. Rhine
4. Danube
5. Amazon
6. Mekong
7. Douro
8. Mississippi
9. Yangtze
10. Chobe

You can find out more on payingtoomuch.com.

Julie Delahaye