The Nile River
Visible from as early as 3150 BCE, when the ancient Egyptians first populated the area around it, the Nile River is one of the oldest and most iconic waterways in the world. Spanning over 6,700 kilometers (4,100 miles) in length, the Nile is the longest river in the world, stretching across eleven countries in the north-eastern part of the African continent, namely Egypt, Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, South Sudan, Sudan and Eritrea.
The main source of the Nile River comes from two smaller tributaries, the White Nile and the Blue Nile, in Ethiopia. As both merge together in the north of Sudan, the Nile River has created a massive valley with settlements, farms, and cities emerging along it, as millions of people become dependent on it for their livelihoods.
In fact, it is estimated that almost one-third of the Africa’s population is reliant on the Nile River. This explains why it is commonly referred to as the ‘lifeblood of Egypt’ and the ‘source of sustenance’ for Africa. It is no surprise that in mid-2017, the Nile River was recognised as a National Heritage Site of Egypt.
Without the Nile River, there would not be the pyramids, the tombs and the giant statues of pharaohs. The vast majority of ancient Egypt’s glorified history and much of its modern progress was made possible by the Nile. It is believed that the first Nile dam was built in 296 BCE by Ptolemyphylacos. This monumental structure allowed the ancients to control and irrigate the water, which enabled the growing of grains and foodstuffs, granting the citizens of ancient Egypt with stability and wealth.
Today, the Nile River has become an increasingly attractive and prominent traveled route among tourists. Navigating the Nile River by boat, offers an unforgettable charm as luxury cruises travel along its shallow water; showcasing stopping-off-points such as lavish ports, quaint villages, ancient sites, stunning temples and iconic wildlife. With this river proving to be one of the greatest wonders of the world, the undeniable allures of the Nile River captivates all like a magnet.
Exploring the River Banks
Exploring the River Banks is another viable way to uncover the mesmerising treasure trove of sights, sounds, and smells that the Nile has to offer. With most towns being accessible from the banks, adventurers would find pleasure in meandering through the diverse array of markets buzzing with local produce and vintage items, discovering timeless monuments and stunning archaeological findings, as well as enveloping themselves in the exotic allure of traditional bazaars and authentic cuisines.
The River Nile opens its doors to a variety of fish palates, in particular the world-famous Nile catfish. One of the most iconic dishes of Egypt, kunafa is a mouth-watering dessert and a must try during a visit to the country. The most popular beverage on the banks of the river is tea, to which anyone can indulge in a delicious cup over a leisurely chat with local folks, while other famous and iconic dishes include molokhia, ful medames, koshary and shawarma.
Taking one of the many local boats across the river can also help one gain a unique insight into the river’s history, as well as learning about how the inhabitants of the area continue their ancestral practices and carry on a life of sheer simplicity. Exploring further on by foot allows one to witness the magnificent scenes called Life on the Nile, as the citizens have been living their day-to-day lives along the banks and bankside shoats of the glorious river, admiring its power and strength while they go on with their mundane routines.
It is true that the Nile River continues to hold an air of mysticism and grandeur, both for its blessed geographical location as well as its locals’ love for tradition. The Nile will continue to foster wonderment, enchantment and a sense of mystery that is sure to keep the explorer gleaming with awe.
Planning the Trip
Planning a trip along the Nile River can involve a few considerations. The most important one is deciding on the route, as there are various routes one could take along the river.
The first step when planning your trip is to determine the budget. Cruises along the famous river can be found to suit all tastes and pockets, ranging from budget cruises that offer basic accommodation and food, to luxury cruises with five-star accommodations and exquisite cuisine. Deciding which one to take should be based on both budget and the experiences one wishes to receive during their trip.
The second step is to understand the different types of boats. Boats that mainly float along the Nile River tend to be called ‘feluccas’, which are small, wooden sailboats with two giant single masts and two triangular sails. Finding the one that best suits one’s interests, desires and comfort levels should be given some attention as well.
Another important factor to consider when planning a trip is the duration. It is important to consider how long one wishes to stay on the river and how much time one has to spend there. Short trips of a few days can be taken by hiring a felucca, however if one wishes to stay for a longer period, travelers are better off sailing in a larger cruise.
Safety & Precautions During the Trip
Traveling on the Nile is generally safe, as long as travelers take certain precautions. It is important to keep in mind that one must be aware of the potential dangers while exploring the banks as well as while on the boats.
When spending time in the waters, always be safe while swimming or canoeing. It is advised to never swim in the Nile during daytime due to the powerful Glareof the sun, not to mention the dangers the river has lurking in its depths.
It is also important to be conscious of the locals and how one should interact with them. It is important to respect their cultures, customs and traditions and also take into consideration that women should not share hotels rooms with male strangers.
Similarly, be aware of where one decides to stay overnight. As safety is paramount, it is important to choose to stay in a reliable and secure accommodation, such as a youth hostel or a hotel with a security guard on the premises.
Before heading off on the trip, it is advisable to register a travel itinerary with the embassy in Egypt to alert them in case of any emergencies or untoward incidents.
The Season
When deciding to take a journey on the Nile River, one must take into consideration the season that they are traveling in. There seems to be a consensus that the best season to visit Egypt is during the wintertime, when the weather is soothing and the temperature brisk. This is when you can enjoy the most of your trip, as the river and air temperatures are pleasant, while the landscapes are most saturated and peaceful.
Although, every season presents its own charms, keep in mind to avoid the summer season as much as possible, as the scorching heat can make anyone’s trip unbearable. Using blankets in the morning, eating light meals, and wearing appropriate clothes can protect you if planning a visit anytime during the summer.
Conclusion
Traveling along the River Nile is an experience you will never forget. Embarking on this journey means having a chance to explore the fascinating culture, history and diversity that lies along the river. One can indulge in the stunning sights and tastes that the river has to offer as well as find adventure in its depths. The glories and mysteries of the Nile River is undoubtedly an alluring combination that will guarantee an unforgettable experience.
