Exploring the Upper Nile River
The river Nile is the longest river in the world, stretching 6,853 km from its source in Eritrea and winding through 10 African countries before it finally empties out into the Mediterranean Sea. The upper Nile river, in particular, is home to a wealth of historical sites and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for travellers. From ancient ruins to busy markets, these are just some of the things you can experience when visiting the Upper Nile river.
Rafting along the Nile
One of the most popular activities along the Nile is to go white water rafting. After safety instruction,iitineraries include going on a full or half day excursion, with the possibility of transport to a remote spot for an overnight campout. Experienced guides lead the journey, providing all the gear, equipment and instruction with options from leisurely rides to heart-pumping whitewater. Not to mention the stunning vistas you can take in from the vantage point of your boat! It also provides a great opportunity to spot wildlife around the banks.
Photography Opportunities
The Upper Nile is home to many unique sights, making it a great spot for photographers. From the prehistoric rock handprints to the ancient ruins of the temple of Abu Simbel, there are plenty of opportunities to get the perfect shot. There are also urban sites like the Nubian Museum, or the Islamic mosques in Aswan, perfect for taking colourful images which make amazing holiday mementos. The fantastic landscapes along the river provide amazing natural views which will never be forgotten.
Visiting Local Markets
Local markets are some of the best places to experience the culture of the countries you are visiting. Along the Nile, you can find bustling markets selling everything from traditional fabrics and spices to souvenirs like jewellery and statues. The bright colours, enchanting sounds of animal sellers and sweet smells of the spices will make you feel like you are truly in a different world. It is also always a good idea to sample the local cuisine, and many of the markets have street food vendors.
Learning about the History
Apart from the famous monuments and sites, the Nile is steeped in thousands of years of history. Between ancient temples and monuments like the Valley of the Kings and the Temples at Luxor and Karnak, there is a wealth of knowledge to be gained through guided tours and visits. The best way to learn is to visit the famed sites themselves, and witness the beauty of these ancient wonders.
Romantic Cruises and Scenic Boat Tours
A riverboat tour can provide an unforgettable, romantic experience while travelling down the Nile. Whether it is a full two-day tour or a simple boat ride to watch the sunset, the Upper Nile has plenty of options for every traveller. You can either rent a boat and sail off yourself, or join a group tour and see the sights with an experienced guide. A Nile cruise guarantees to provide a lasting memory of your time in Egypt.
Assiut Univeristy
Assiut University, located in the city of the same name, is one of the largest and most popular universities along the Nile. Founded in 1957, the university boasts 44 scientific departments, 68 research units and over 44,000 students. The campus has all of the amenities you would expect, plus a range of college-specific features, including an open air theatre, a mosque and an airliner. Assiut University is a good option for those wishing to study in Egypt, as it provides a high quality education at a relatively low cost.
Seeing the Sights From a Hot Air Balloon
For visitors looking for a more adventurous and unique experience, a hot air balloon ride is definitely worth considering. A flight over the Upper Nile reveals sweeping views of ancient sites and dramatic landscapes, with a scope and perspective that can only be witnessed from above. Once back at ground level, you’ll have plenty of time to experience and explore the sights for yourself.
Exploring the Ancient Ruins
The Nile is home to a multitude of Egyptian ruins, giving visitors the chance to explore the remains of ancient cities. From the Valley of the Kings to the Temple of Abu Simbel, every sight has its own story to tell. What’s more, tourists can appreciate seeing the historical progress made over the years and learn more about the culture of this region in the process.
Community Engagement
It is also possible to visit local communities and learn about daily life in the many villages and towns around the Nile. Many of the areas have maintained their traditional way of life, which includes fishing, weaving, farming and pottery. Visitors can experience rural life at first hand, as well as sample traditional cooking, dancing and music. These communities deserve respect and admiration for conserving traditions and culture for many generations.
Shopping for Wares
Another great activity that can be experienced on the Nile is shopping for goods. Many towns and villages have unique products which offer an insight into the culture and history of the area. From handcrafted jewelry and pottery to knitted rugs and baskets, Nile shopping is both fun and educational. Be sure to take advantage of the local knowledge and pick up a few souvenirs or gifts to bring back home.
Visiting Cultural Centers
The Nile is home to many cultural centers which offer tourists a chance to learn more about the region. You can explore the ancient ruins of temples and monuments, discover traditional artifacts in local museums, and even attend events like concerts, plays and festivals. Cultural centers provide a comprehensive experience which offers an insight into how the local culture has been shaped over time.
Spotting Wildlife
Lastly, the Nile is also host to some of the most spectacular wildlife sightings in all of Africa. Tourists can experience iconic animals like crocodiles, hippos, gazelles and baboons, as well as countless bird species. It is important to remember that the animals need to be respected and kept at a distance, but the sheer variety and beauty of the wildlife along the river is breathtaking.
