When To Go on a Nile River Cruise?

As one of the world’s most iconic rivers, the Nile has attracted many visitors curious to explore Egypt’s rich history and culture. Embarking on a Nile River cruise is a dream come true for many, taking you into the heart of Egypt, home to fascinating ancient wonders. Cruising the Nile is an amazing experience. You will feel like you are traveling back in time as you witness Egypt’s archaeological wonders.

Sure, you can cruise the Nile River at any time of the year. Each season allows you to enjoy a unique experience. But if you are wondering when the best time to cruise the Nile is, read our guide below. We will talk about what you can expect from your Nile River cruise when you visit at different times of the year.

What to Expect in Each Season?

You can enjoy a unique experience for each season on the Nile. If you know what to expect each season, you can best decide on when exactly is the best time to cruise the Nile.

* October to April (High Season)

The peak tourist season on the Nile is from October to April. Because it’s a popular time to go on a Nile river cruise, expect that there will be lots of tourists who will be visiting the region, and Nile cruises tend to be more expensive.

The reason October to April is a popular time for cruising the Nile is mainly because of the mild and comfortable weather. When you visit during this time of the year, you will find it more enjoyable to explore since you will not be dealing with the intense summer heat that Egypt is known for. During this time, the temperatures are usually between 20°C and 30°C  (68°F and 86°F) during the day. Evening can be cooler, and it is a great time for taking a stroll along the riverbank.

October to April is also a popular time for sightseeing in Egypt. Popular sites like the Valley of the Kings and Karnak Temple tend to be full of tourists. If you don’t mind the crowd, it’s highly recommended to schedule your visit during this time. However, make sure you book your Nile River cruise as early as possible to guarantee a slot and to save money. When you book closer to your cruising date, the prices tend to be higher.

* May to September (Low Season)

Hate the tourist crowds? Then schedule your Nile River cruise between May and September. This is the low season in Egypt because the weather is usually warmer. If you hate exploring in the summer heat, this may not be a good time to visit. But if you are coming here for a cruise, then you will not worry about the heat since the ships are air-conditioned. What is great about coming here during the low season is that you can enjoy cheaper rates on cruises and accommodation!

Just make sure you dress appropriately for the weather. Wear lighter clothes and lather up with sunscreen. During the day, the temperatures can soar over 35°C (95°F), especially around July and August.

Another way to beat the heat is to choose air-conditioned ships when booking Nile River cruises. Also, it is best to schedule it early in the morning or late afternoon. That way, exploring sites like Luxor, Edfu, and Kom Ombo will be more comfortable.

* Holidays (Special Events and Festivals)

Many tourists would cruise the Nile in Egypt on certain holidays. This allows them to really get to know the local culture. One of the most popular holidays is the Abu Simbel Sun Festival. This usually happens in February and October. During this holiday, you will see the rising sun shining towards the inner sanctum of the Abu Simbel Temple. Since this is a very popular event, many local and international visitors will visit Egypt during this holiday.

Another unique time to book a Nile River cruise is during the holy month of Ramadan. Cruising schedules will change since locals would be fasting. Sightseeing will have to be done earlier than the normal schedule, and many business establishments will cut their opening times. There are not too many tourists who would come to the Nile during Ramadan, so it’s the perfect time if you want a quieter Nile River cruise experience.

Why You Can Cruise the Nile Any Time of Year?

Many tourists are wondering about the best time to cruise the Nile. However, you can actually enjoy this activity anytime of the year. It doesn’t matter whether you come here during the high or low season. You are guaranteed to have a wonderful experience regardless of the time of the year.

Although Egypt has great weather from October to April, be warned – there are many tourists coming to the country during these months. Because of this, many places are very crowded, and what’s worse is that the accommodation options will be limited and are really expensive. It is best to schedule your visit from May to September. Sure, the weather is already hotter this time, but don’t worry – the cruise ships are air-conditioned.

Our Recommendation for the Best Time to Go on a Nile Cruise.

We recommend you schedule your Nile River cruise between October and April. During these months, Egypt’s weather is pleasantly mild. Therefore, you can go sightseeing and enjoy some outdoor activities in comfort, and you can book the best Nile cruises easily from here.

October to April is considered the best time to cruise the Nile for all kinds of visitors, including families, couples, and even solo travelers. You can enjoy your cruise in comfort and even join some other activities, such as touring riverside towns and visiting ancient temples.

• FAQs

What is the best month to take a Nile River cruise?

The best month to go on a Nile River cruise is from October to April. If you visit Egypt during these months, the weather is pretty nice. You can go out without worrying about the heat. For some visitors, November and February are also a good time. That’s because the weather is still pleasant during this time around, and the best part? There are not many tourists!

Is it hot to cruise the Nile in summer?

Yes, it is too hot to go cruising on the Nile in summer, especially in June and August. The temperatures can go more than 40°C  (104°F) during the day. But you can still enjoy your cruise since these ships are equipped with an air conditioning system. You will be comfortable while staying in your cabin. But if you are to cruise in summer, you can join those cruises early morning or late afternoon, which is not quite as hot.

When is the cheapest time to go on a Nile cruise?

If you’re trying to save money, visit during the low season. This is from May to September. These are the cheapest months to go on a Nile cruise since there are not too many visitors coming to Egypt due to the warm summer weather. Many accommodations will be at reasonable prices as well, and some cruise companies will offer packages at discounted rates.

Can you go on a Nile Cruise all year round?

Yes, of course, you can go on a Nile cruise any time. It really does not matter what date you go to Egypt. You can always experience cruising the Nile regardless of the season. Many cruises have regular itineraries all throughout the year. But if you are visiting in the high season, you must book your cruise as early as possible.