A luxury cruise on the Nile River
Travel writer Colleen McDaniel, shares their firsthand experience sailing the Nile on our 12-day Pharaohs & Pyramids river journey on board the Viking Osiris’ maiden voyage.
Discover deserts and world wonders in a region where history lives on in holy relics, ancient temples and mosques, while modern culture pulses in bazaars and souks. Welcome to North Africa and the Middle East, a vast region full of unique destinations that will inspire the soul and awaken the senses.
With so many different destinations located close to a shoreline - and to ensure maximum comfort throughout your journey - North Africa and the Middle East is made for water exploration.
Whether you choose an ocean voyage that takes you through the Suez Canal or a river journey along the Nile - the longest river in the world - Viking can take you there.
DISCOVER LANDS OF ANTIQUITY
Explore the Great Pyramids of Giza in Egypt. Marvel at the beauty of Islamic art in Morocco. Discover an ancient rock-hewn city in Jordan. Retrace biblical history in Israel. Embrace Oman's authentic culture. And don't miss the mighty Bosphorus in Turkey's Istanbul, where continental Europe and Asia meet.
North Africa and the Middle East are regions of immense cultural and historical significance - often called the lands where the foundations of modern civilization were laid. Take a journey of discovery on a Viking ocean voyage from the Mediterranean to Israel and the Middle East via the Suez Canal, or an Atlantic Ocean crossing that ventures to Morocco and Senegal. Or choose a country-intensive Viking river journey on the Nile in Egypt.
However you choose to explore, you’ll delve more deeply into the culture of this incredible region - and stay longer in port - with Viking.
A voyage with us is designed to be destination-focused and culturally enriching – it’s why we’ve become known as ‘The Thinking Person’s Cruise'. Our bespoke itineraries allow you to immerse yourself in the unique history and culture of each destination on a deeper level, offering a window into the rhythms of local life, its working world and taking you behind closed doors with our signature Privileged Access excursions.
Explore the possibilities of a Viking voyage today.
TRAVEL GUIDES & TIPS
The best way to experience a destination is with the guidance of a local, and that’s exactly how Viking helps you explore. Here you’ll find our handy destination guides, as well as our top tips to help you plan your visit.
FOOD, BEVERAGES & RECIPES
The flavours and fragrances of a dish can evoke fond memories of travels past, and ignite your imagination for travel in the future. We have curated some of our best-loved recipes, customs and culinary traditions – and we highly recommend cooking along at home!
HISTORY
Like you, Viking believes that understanding a destination’s past is fundamental to appreciating it’s present. Here you will find a window into the historical record of the forces that have shaped this destination, and continue to play an important role in the cultural fabric you see today.
ART, MUSIC, FILM & LITERATURE
Appreciating a destination’s art tells the stories of its people, and its soul. It has been said that the basic condition required to appreciate art in all its many forms is a chair, a statement that’s never rung truer than right now. We hope you enjoy this virtual journey into the wonderful world of art, music, films and literature.
CRUISE NORTH AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST WITH VIKING
NORTH AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST EXTENSIONS AND TOURS
More days mean more to discover with extension packages you can add before or after your Viking voyage or cruisetour. Enjoy additional days to explore your embarkation or disembarkation city or see a new destination altogether with a choice of exciting locations.