There’s something timeless about Egypt. The land of the pharaohs, with its monumental temples, iconic pyramids, and complicated hieroglyphics, also has a modern capital city that runs at full blast with a turbo charge above that. For the Nile isn’t just Egypt’s lifeline; it’s the thread that stitches together history, myth, and daily life. Fly overhead and you’ll see a country of desert, save for the thin green strip of life that borders both sides of this mighty river.
A Viking Osiris cruise tour is an amazing way to see this famous waterway and learn about the incredible history of ancient Egypt.
At the time of travel, the Viking Sobek was the newest ship in the cruise line fleet. In line with the Viking Nile Cruise fleet, engineers built the Sobek with elegance and comfort in mind. The designers wanted it to feel as though it was a retreat from the (not inconsiderable) hustle and bustle of street life in Egypt, but also to have subtle nods to Egypt’s cultural heritage. The ship’s layout and decor emphasise open spaces, light-filled areas, and soothing colour schemes. And while the streets of Egypt may be busy, the Nile itself is a symbol of serenity.
I’m told that the sister ships on the Nile all follow the same layout: the Viking Osiris, Viking Aton, Viking Hathor, Viking Sobek and those coming in the next few years which includes the Viking Amun and the Viking Thoth coming in 2025 and the Viking Sekhmet and the Viking Ptah coming in 2026.
The new Nile sister ships have all outside staterooms with a river view whereas MS Anatares starts with French balconies and the Viking Ra has only two stateroom categories: a Suite and a Veranda Suite.
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If you’ve never been on a Viking ship, know that the company stays true to its Scandinavian roots across its entire fleet, whether on the rivers or at sea-and the Viking Aton is no exception. “We have five big ideas for all Viking ships everywhere: residential modernism, Scandinavian heritage, craft, nature, and exploration,” Riviere said, adding that it’s a brand concept that gives the company and its design team structure.
The detailsMost land tour operators offer a river cruise on the Nile River, from three to seven nights, with hotel stays in Cairo book-ending the trip.
Here are some key highlights of the staterooms available on Viking Nile cruises:
- Standard Stateroom: These are the entry-level rooms, offering cosy spaces with large picture windows that let you enjoy views of the river. Each cabin is equipped with all the essentials, including a queen-sized bed, a desk, and a private bathroom with modern fixtures.
- Veranda Stateroom: For a more immersive experience, these cabins offer floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors that open to a small balcony, allowing you to enjoy unobstructed views of the Nile from the comfort of your cabin.
- Veranda Suites: The Veranda Suites offer comfort and space, with a separate living area and a private balcony where you can relax and watch the Nile drift by. The large, well-appointed suites include a king-sized bed, premium bedding, and a larger bathroom with more luxurious features. They are also a great solution if you’re travelling as a couple and one of you is an early riser or a night owl.
Each cabin is equipped with all the modern amenities you’d expect, such as flat-screen TVs, Wi-Fi access, a mini-fridge, and individual climate control.
Egypt’s sun can be fierce, even in winter, so the sun deck takes the sensible precaution of offering plenty of shade as well as sun. The Aquavit Terrace on the Viking Sobek is where great views meet casual comfort. Positioned at the stern, it’s my favourite spot for dining. The seating is simple yet stylish, with cushioned chairs and tables shaded by a canopy, perfect for escaping the midday sun. The vibe is laid-back but polished, with soft seating, subtle lighting, and a mix of contemporary and classic décor.
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The bar menu includes everything from local favourites like Egyptian beer and hibiscus cocktails to international classics like a crisp gin and tonic or a smoky whisky neat. You’ll also find plenty of non-alcoholic options, including fresh juices and expertly brewed coffee. This is also where the lectures and evening entertainment take place.
The main dining room feels fairly enclosed, with different sized tables to cater for different sized parties. The ship also has a boutique for picking up souvenirs and gifts, and a library where you can immerse yourself in books about Egypt’s ancient history. And plenty of glass walls in the common areas, so that you never miss a view.
The main restaurant offers a variety of global and Egyptian-inspired dishes, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Mealtimes vary according to the excursions but don’t worry, the tour guides will never leave you hungry. Each trip includes a lovely locally themed evening where staff wear traditional clothes (the galabeya) and the menu is entirely Egyptian.
It’s also worth noting that while your booking includes all meals on the ship and all breakfasts, for most of the land based itinerary, you will need to cover your own meals and drinks. The same goes for the alcohol package. The final night is spent at the InterContinental Hotel Citystars Cairo. This is closer to the airport for early transfers and right next to a huge modern mall for last minute shopping.
The Pharaohs and Pyramids itinerary offers a thorough introduction into the wonders of ancient Egypt, with a carefully curated route that takes you through some of the most iconic landmarks of the region. I’ve travelled to Egypt a number of times and was amazed at how much this itinerary manages to fit in. The pace is energetic rather than relaxed but it never crosses the line into manic.
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When travelling independently, you spend a lot of time waiting around or bartering in Egypt. Viking, however, have arranged all the tickets and all the transfers in advance. They handle the police stops for paperwork and always have fresh, bottled water available for you. This may not seem like a particularly big deal but it makes a huge difference when it comes to efficient travel.
The Pharaohs and Pyramids itinerary spans 12 days, starting and ending in Cairo, Egypt’s bustling capital. You’ll travel on the Nile between the legendary cities of Luxor and Aswan (flying between Cairo and Luxor) and exploring the ancient temples, tombs, and monuments that have fascinated travellers for centuries.
Here’s a brief overview of the itinerary’s highlights:
- Arrive in Cairo.
- Aswan: Discover the beauty of Aswan, including the Temple of Philae and the colourful Nubian villages.
Note, all of the excursions mentioned in this itinerary are included as part of the Viking Nile Cruise unless I’ve mentioned that they’re not.
The Cairo Citadel is one of those places where history feels like it’s alive and buzzing with stories. But it’s not just the history that hits you - it’s the panoramic views. From the top, Cairo stretches out in all its chaotic glory. At the heart of the Citadel is the stunning Mosque of Muhammad Ali. Inside, the marble floors, intricate carvings, and overhanging dazzle. Making friends! Situated in the heart of Cairo right by Tahir Square, this treasure trove of artefacts is like stepping into the world’s oldest time capsule.
At the museum’s heart is the world-renowned collection of King Tutankhamun’s treasures, including his golden death mask that honestly has to be seen to believed. You could easily lose yourself for hours in the labyrinth of galleries, which hold everything from royal mummies to ancient papyri, statues, and jewellery.
Note: Cairo’s museums are in a state of flux as the new Grand Egyptian Museum is taking shape. At the time of visiting and writing, Tutankhamun’s treasure lies here but they are slated for a trip across town. Check before you go - although I’m sure that the Viking cruise director will be ahead of the game with this.
An early morning haze cloaks Cairo, which can obscure the country’s most famous view. The Saqqara Pyramid was the very first step in the ancient Egyptians’ quest to reach the heavens. Standing tall in the vast desert of Saqqara, this early pyramid - known as the Step Pyramid of Djoser - is the oldest in Egypt and a groundbreaking achievement in the world of architecture. The pyramid may not have the grandeur of Giza’s Great Pyramid, but its historical significance is unmatched.
Djoser’s Step Pyramid was the first to use stone for construction rather than mudbrick, marking the start of a new era in Egyptian architecture. It’s made up of six stacked levels, giving it its stepped appearance. And here’s the kicker: Saqqara doesn’t just house one pyramid. It’s a vast burial site, dotted with ancient tombs and structures that give you a sense of Egypt’s evolving design and beliefs.
What trip to Egypt is complete without a photo of the pyramids with some camels? Standing in the shadow of the Great Pyramid, you can’t help but feel a rush of awe and disbelief. These ancient wonders have been around for over 4,500 years and not only are they still standing, the labyrinthine corridors inside them are too. Well, that and the crowds and the hawkers and the camels.
Karnak Temple is one of the heavyweight champions of ancient Egyptian architecture - massive, imposing, and absolutely impossible to ignore. Walking through the Hypostyle Hall is like stepping into another world. With 134 towering columns - each one as high as a five-story building - it feels less like a temple and more like a forest of stone. The walls are covered in inscriptions, depicting everything from battle victories to divine blessings, and as you wander through, you get the sense that the gods are watching your every move. Karnak’s sheer scale is mind-boggling, but what really gives it its mystical aura is its history. This is where the power of Egypt’s gods and kings came alive in elaborate rituals, and the grand processions would have filled the air with music and incense.
Built primarily by Ramses II, Luxor Temple is a visual feast, with towering statues of the king standing guard and majestic pylons flanking the entrance. The lines between past and present blur, and you can almost hear the echoes of ancient priests chanting under the flickering light of oil lamps. Here’s a fun fact: the temple was originally connected to Karnak by an avenue of sphinxes, making this the perfect spot for a slow, regal stroll across ancient Egypt.
A hot air balloon ride over Luxor is more than just a bird’s-eye view - it’s a chance to soar over 4,000 years of history with the kind of perspective that’ll make you feel like you’ve unlocked a secret level of Egypt. As the balloon rises at dawn, the golden light spills over the West Bank, illuminating the temples and tombs below like something out of a dream. The silence of the balloon is broken only by the gentle whoosh of the burners, as you float effortlessly above the ancient landscape. From here, it’s impossible not to feel the weight of history - how civilisations rose and fell beneath the very land you’re gliding over. As the balloon drifts towards the river, the sight of the Nile winding through the valley is a reminder that you’re standing in the footsteps of pharaohs - just with a much more comfortable view.
The Temple of Hathor at Dendera is a love letter to the goddess of music, dance, joy, and beauty. Hathor wasn’t just the goddess of good times; she was the one you called on for protection, fertility, and of course, the occasional party. And Dendera?
The Valley of the Kings is where Egypt’s most famous pharaohs - like Tutankhamun, Ramses II, and Seti I - were laid to rest, and it’s not your average burial ground. Some tombs are more famous than others (hello, Tutankhamun - yes, he’s still there), but all are packed with history. And while Tut’s tomb may be small compared to others, the treasures found within - like his iconic gold mask - are anything but modest. Walking through the rooms, you get a real sense of the man behind the discovery - his desk, his tools, and the simple surroundings where one of the world’s greatest archaeological finds was planned.
The Temple of Queen Hatshepsut is involves the story of a woman who defied tradition and carved her own path to power. Hatshepsut took power at a time when the throne was reserved for men, but she didn’t just rule - she built. Her temple is a testament to her power, her vision, and her ambition. The reliefs on the walls tell her story, from her divine birth to her famous trade expeditions to Punt.
Tucked away in the bustling town of Esna, just south of Luxor, this unassuming temple might not have the fame of its bigger counterparts, but what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in charm and mystery. Dedicated to the ram-headed god Khnum, Esna’s temple stands at the end of a souk that stretches to the riverbanks of the Nile. Interestingly, it’s the only place in Egypt to show a horse in hieroglyphics. What makes Esna truly special, though, is the feeling that you’ve stumbled upon something rarely seen by the masses. Unlike the more famous sites, there’s a sense of intimacy here .
Having done both before, I felt torn. In the end, I chose the trip to Abu Simbel, despite the flight and early start. Abu Simbel isn’t just a monument; it’s a statement. And a bold one at that. Carved into a cliff more than 3,000 years ago, the twin temples of Ramses II were designed to awe both gods and enemies. Four colossal statues of the king himself stare unblinkingly across Lake Nasser, a testament to power, ego, and some seriously impressive engineering. And here’s the magic: twice a year, on February 22 and October 22, the rising sun shines directly into the temple, illuminating Ramses’ face deep inside the sanctuary. And there’s another twist: this isn’t even the original location. In the 1960s, the entire site was dismantled and moved uphill to save it from flooding when the Aswan High Dam was built.
Completed in the 1970s, this colossal structure is now responsible for irrigation, electricity, and flood control for millions of people. What’s more, the dam created Lake Nasser, one of the world’s largest artificial lakes. But again, it wasn’t always here.
But, I’ll be honest with you. Shopping in Egypt is not for the faint of heart. Viking, therefore, take you to recommended vendors who are more used to the more reticent way of shopping in the UK, Ireland and America. First, let’s talk carpets. These aren’t just any carpets - these are handmade.
🇪🇬 Shopping in Egypt: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW!
For those who want to see Egypt through a historical and educational lens, one that inspires a spirit of exploration and prioritizes an appreciation for the natural beauty of this desert land of contrasts, Viking may be the perfect choice.
There are a plethora of historical texts and novels set in Egypt, including Agatha Christie’s iconic Death on the Nile, memoirs from famed archeologists, and wildlife photography books that guests can find in their private libraries in their staterooms, as well as in the communal libraries on the ship. Guest lecturers and in-house Egyptologists onboard also ensure that Viking guests can have a question about Ramses II or Queen Hatshepsut readily answered.
Viking is also best for those who might be planning several trips to Egypt and are looking for a seamless sailing experience, no matter what ship they end up on. Viking is rapidly growing its fleet on the Nile, with plans to launch two more ships, Viking Hathor and Viking Sobek, in 2024 and 2025, respectively. The company has already made its 2026 season aboard the Viking Hathor available to book for those looking to lock in their fares early, as the 2024 and 2025 seasons dwindle in availability.
Fares for Viking’s 12-day Pharaohs & Pyramids itinerary begin at $5,999 per person, including 11 guided tours.
Here are some travel tips to enhance your Viking Nile River cruise:
- Comfortable shoes are a must.
- Wear comfortable, loose-fitting fabrics that protect from the sun while allowing you to stay cool.
- Attend the enrichment talks from your Egyptologists.
- The ship does not have a gym, so if you are workout inclined, you can pack some exercise bands to use on the Sun Deck.
Viking Nile Cruise Ships
Viking is rapidly growing its fleet on the Nile, with plans to launch two more ships, Viking Hathor and Viking Sobek, in 2024 and 2025, respectively. Here's the current lineup of Viking Nile cruise ships:
| Ship Name | Capacity | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Viking Osiris | 82 guests | Sleek Scandinavian design, three-deck atrium, Aquavit Lounge, pool |
| Viking Aton | 82 guests | Signature Aquavit Terrace, minimalist pool with glass wall, residential modernism |
| Viking Ra | 26 staterooms | Suite and Veranda Suite categories |
| MS Antares | 31 staterooms | French balconies |
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