Despite sitting adjacent to two large bodies of water – the Red Sea and the Mediterranean – Egypt is almost entirely a desert environment with the exception of areas on the Nile – the world’s longest river. Cairo, the country’s capital with a population of over 22 million, has a fascinating history and was originally settled in 973 CE by an Islamic sect called the Fatimids. It’s name means “the triumphant city”. Of course, history pre-dates this with the famous pyramids being built between 4,000 and 5,000 years ago.

Egypt has numerous archaeological sites of major significance, including the Valley of Kings, which is the resting place of the kingdom’s pharaohs. The Pyramids of Giza need little introduction sitting on the outskirts of Cairo. They are burial grounds for generations of pharaohs. Abu Simbel is a historic site comprising two massive rock-cut temples near the border with Sudan. Luxor Temple is a large complex located on the east bank of the Nile River in the city today known as Luxor and was constructed approximately 1400 BCE. The list goes on!

The country is highly indigenous in that 98% of all people - around 110 million - are original Egyptians with the vast majority being Sunni Muslims. Arabic forms the main language, however, literacy is very low compared to the developed world. Sadly, women lag way behind men, with about 40% of the country’s women considered to be illiterate.

In conjunction with our local operators, Blue Dot has developed a wonderful tour of this fascinating country comprising mainly of a cruise on the Luxury MS Darakum, with some quality land components. Over 14 days, you’ll experience the very best that the country has to offer.

MS Darakum is the only five star super deluxe Nile cruise operating the long cruise program - Aswan – Cairo. It offers an unforgettable journey while cruising through 7,000 years of history. Special Moroccan-inspired design with 03 Sundeck levels, cabins with two colour themes and large panoramic windows. The Mövenpick MS Darakum enjoys a private dock in Luxor. She has less than 50 spacious and uniquely designed cabins and suites, all with private bathrooms, a/c, bathtub, minibars, hair dryers, Smart TV with Marine Satellite, free internet WIFI and a water purification system. All meals – breakfast, lunch, and dinner are provided.