Added: 08/21/2005 |
Nile Cruises. Are You Ready for the Cruise of a Lifetime?River Nile is considered to be the longest river in the world, its length is 6695 kilometers (4184 miles). It is an African river (although it is usually associated only with Egypt), which flows into the Mediterranean Sea. The Nile is divided into two branches: White Nile (from equatorial East Africa) and Blue Nile (from Ethiopia). The Nile was, and still is, used to transport cargo. When we speak about the Nile, many people think of crocodiles. No wonder! The Nile crocodiles are known to be the largest in the world. They played a very important role in Egyptian culture. Most of the Nile crocodiles are 4 meters long; they have nests on the banks of the river, where female crocodiles may lay up to 60 nests at once.
Besides being very beautiful and fascinating, the river Nile seems to be very mysterious, probably because of the novels by Agatha Cristie, whose books' plots took place on the ship plying the Nile.
People, who are interested in this river, its history and present day role, may choose some of Nile cruises and journey along the famous river on a cruise boat. Many people choose such holidays because cruise ships make many stops in ancient Egypt, so they can see both the whole river and the most important and famous sights, such as pyramids, for example. But frankly speaking, it is not the best way to see much of Egypt, and if you want to see all the sights in this country, it is better for you to travel by car and live in hotels. In case if you want to feel the history behind your journey and would like to relish wonderful scenery, Nile cruises suit you perfectly. Cabins on cruise ships are as comfortable as hotel suites, they are provided with all the facilities you might need during your journey: swimming pools, saloons, fitness-centers, restaurants etc.
You will travel accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, who will show you all the sights. Average Nile cruises look like that: you start your journey in Luxor, Egypt's tourist capital. It is known for its many ancient tombs. You can walk there, take a taxi or go by a horse-drawn carriage. You can find the famous Valley of Kings (Tutankhamun's tomb is situated there) in this city. Your next destination is Kom Ombo. It is a famous temple. The most interesting things you can see there are mummified crocodiles. After visiting Kom Ombo temple you will go to Edfu. Edfu temple is situated some 100km south of Luxor, it is the best preserved ancient temple. It was built by Cleopatra's father circa 1st Century BC. You can also visit Aswan. It is Egypt's southernmost city, and it is larger, than Luxor. The Nile is most beautiful in Aswan.
If you have chosen a Nile cruise holiday, your boat will have stops at all the above-mentioned places. If you have stayed in some city at a hotel, you can also go to some places by boat. Such Nile cruises usually take the whole day.
It is not advisable to go to Egypt (even if you think of Nile cruises) in summer, because of very high temperature. Daytime temperatures in June can reach up to 42C. Be sure you drink plenty of water and go sightseeing either early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
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