Egypt’s Lesser Known Cruise Destination
River Nile cruises have been popular with visitors for years and more recently, Egypt has an alternative cruise destination to offer. Lake Nasser was formed when the Aswan High Dam was built across the River Nile. The lake is more than 300km long and is 35km wide at it’s widest point. The rising waters of Lake Nasser also meant that a number of ancient temples had to be relocated as well as some villagers whose former homes were swallowed up.
Lake Nasser has turned into a real attraction for anglers with some excellent fishing for those in search of Perch, Catfish and Tiger Fish. These fish were all originally found in the River Nile before the Aswan High Dam was built and once Lake Nasser was formed, these species thrived on their new environment. Lake Nasser offers anglers the best Perch fishing in the world.
As an inland cruise destination, Lake Nasser is coming into it’s own. Lake Nasser cruise depart from Aswan and sail the length of Lake Nasser to Abu Simbel. Passengers are able to explore some of Egypt’s lesser known ancient sites which are just as impressive as the better known ones.
Lake Nasser cruises last either 4 or 7 nights. Abu Simbel is the destination for both cruises as they depart from Aswan. The cruise stops off at various places including Kalabsha, Wadi El Seboua, Amada and finally Abu Simbel. The journey from Aswan to Abu Simbel takes 4 days and at this point passengers can disembark and take the 3 hour road trip back to Aswan. Passengers also have the option to stay on board and cruise back up to Aswan.
Its not just the ancient Egyptian sites that are impressive, the scenery around Lake Nasser is spectacular. The landscape around Lake Nasser varies from rugged hills to flat beaches. The lake is also home to fisherman and local Bedouin. There is also a variety of birdlife living near the lake including ducks, geese, pelicans, heron as well as various birds of prey. Desert animals and reptiles can be seen while cruising the lake.
Although the popularity of cruising the River Nile is as strong as ever, Lake Nasser offers tourists an alternative cruise exploring ancient Egypt’s past in a spectacular setting.