Now Open for Booking, New 19-Day “Grand Nile Journey” Will Explore Iconic Landmarks and Lesser-Known Destinations Along the Nile

Viking®  announced that its new 19-day Grand Nile Journey itinerary exploring Egypt is now open for booking. With departures beginning in 2028, the new itinerary offers Viking’s most in-depth exploration of Egypt to date, featuring four hotel nights in Egypt’s capital and a 14-night sailing between Cairo and Aswan on board the all-suite Viking Ra. Guests will discover the country’s renowned landmarks alongside lesser-visited archaeological sites and communities in Middle Egypt, gaining a deeper understanding of the history, culture and traditions that have shaped life along the Nile.

“Egypt has captivated travelers for generations, and we believe there is always more to discover,” said Leah Talactac, President and Chief Executive Officer of Viking. “At Viking, we design our itineraries for curious travelers who want to gain a deeper understanding of the places they visit. Our new Grand Nile Journey reflects that approach, giving guests more time to explore Egypt and experience the many layers of its history and culture.”

Grand Nile Journey

The new Grand Nile Journey itinerary features 17 guided tours designed to provide a more comprehensive exploration of the country’s significant history and traditions. Guests will begin in Cairo, where highlights include the Great Pyramids of Giza, the Great Sphinx and the Grand Egyptian Museum, before continuing along the Nile through the heart of Egypt.

Among the voyage’s distinctive experiences are visits to sites throughout Middle Egypt that offer a fascinating perspective on the country’s ancient civilizations. Guests will discover the Meidum Pyramid, which represents an important chapter in the evolution of pyramid construction. They will also explore the cliffside Noblemen’s Tombs of Beni Hasan, renowned for their depictions of daily life in ancient Egypt. At Tell el-Amarna, guests will encounter the remains of the once-lost royal capital established by Pharaoh Akhenaten, while a visit to Deir el-Muharraq monastery offers insight into Egypt’s Coptic Christian heritage and the site traditionally associated with the Holy Family’s journey through the country.

Continuing south, guests will experience the grandeur of ancient Egypt at the temples of Luxor and Karnak, the royal tombs of the Valley of the Kings and the Temple of Seti I at Abydos. The journey also includes time in Aswan, where guests can explore the island temple complex of Philae, immerse themselves in Egypt’s storied past during a visit to the monolithic temples at Abu Simbel and sail the Nile in a traditional felucca. Throughout the voyage, scenic sailing reveals the contrast between the Nile’s lush green riverbanks and the surrounding desert landscapes.

For guests wishing to extend their travels, Viking is offering pre and post land extensions that can be seamlessly combined with the Grand Nile Journey itinerary. Options include Cairo (two nights; with services of a Viking Host), offering more time to discover Egypt’s vibrant capital; Morocco (five nights; fully guided), showcasing its colorful markets and rich heritage; and Jordan—Dead Sea, Petra & Amman (four nights; fully guided), highlighting ancient wonders and dramatic landscapes.

The Viking Ra

Hosting 52 guests in 26 suites, the Viking Ra is built specifically to navigate the Nile River. Inspired by Viking’s award-winning river and ocean ships, the Viking Ra features the elegant Scandinavian design for which Viking is known.

Viking’s Growing Presence in Egypt

The new Grand Nile Journey expands Viking’s Egypt offerings, complementing the popular 12-day Pharaohs & Pyramids itinerary and the sold-out 12-day Total Eclipse on the Nile voyage in 2027, which offers guests the opportunity to witness a total solar eclipse in Egypt. Today’s announcement is the latest milestone as Viking continues to grow its offerings in Egypt; earlier this month, the company named its two newest ships in the region, the Viking Ptah and the Viking Sekhmet. Viking now operates a fleet of 10 elegant vessels in Egypt and expects to take delivery of two additional vessels in 2028.