Viking has announced its new 19-day “Grand Nile Journey” itinerary, with departures beginning in 2028.
The new itinerary, which is now open for booking, features four hotel nights in Cairo, followed by a 14-night sailing from there to Aswan.
It will be operated by the Viking Ra. Built specifically to navigate the Nile River, the ship can accommodate 52 guests in 26 suites.
“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.”
Viking described the voyage as its most in-depth exploration of Egypt to date, combining renowned landmarks with lesser-visited archaeological sites in Middle Egypt, and featuring 17 guided tours.
In Cairo, guests discover the Great Pyramids of Giza, the Great Sphinx and the Grand Egyptian Museum, before continuing along the Nile through the heart of Egypt.
They will also discover the Meidum Pyramid, which represents an important chapter in the evolution of pyramid construction, and explore the cliffside Noblemen’s Tombs of Beni Hasan.
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.
Continuing south, guests will explore 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 past during a visit to the monolithic temples at Abu Simbel and sail the Nile in a traditional felucca.
For guests wishing to extend their travels, Viking is offering pre- and post-land extensions that can be combined with the Grand Nile Journey itinerary.
Options include Cairo (two nights; with services of a Viking Host); Morocco (five nights; fully guided) and Jordan—Dead Sea, Petra & Amman (four nights; fully guided).
The new itinerary expands Viking’s Egypt offerings, complementing the 12-day “Pharaohs & Pyramids” itinerary and the sold-out 12-day “Total Eclipse” on the Nile voyage in 2027.
Earlier this month, the company named its two newest ships in the region, the Viking Ptah and the Viking Sekhmet.
The company now operates a fleet of 10 vessels in Egypt, with two additional vessels expected in 2028.
As part of the Fall Sale, Viking is offering U.S. residents reduced airfare, special fares and a $25 deposit for the Grand Nile Journey from now through October 31, 2026.
