Looking for a way to beat the heat in the summer? Look no further! I have the perfect idea for you: kayaking in the Nile.
I have a friend who dreamed of kayaking the Nile. So passionately did she want to try it that she wearied me day and night with photos of other people’s Insta-perfect kayaking trips. By now, you may have realized that you don’t really have to twist my arm to get me to try something new. That’s why, even though I’m not exactly a boat person (don’t try to tell me Titanic didn’t disturb you even just a little bit!), I agreed to take the plunge…but only figuratively. I intended to organize the trip, get us all there, and then cheer from the bank.
We booked the trip through Go Kayak. Go Kayak provides the boats, life preservers, and guides. They operate on the western bank of the Nile – in the district of Badrishin – from a variety of small marinas all within the same general area. Go Kayak confirms the exact location of the marina a day or two before your reservation. Our first adventure with Go Kayak started out here.
Everybody had a blast! And, of course, I ended up out on the water, paddling my little heart out and wishing I’d had the nerve to bring my camera out there with me.
(The Nile – it was calling to me!)
Know before you go: Rates are always changing, but at the time of writing the cost per kayak was 200 LE. Each kayak seats one comfortably, two snugly. Most kids and adults prefer to kayak individually, but parents may find that smaller kids are more eager to try it if mom or dad is in the same boat.
If your reservation with Go Kayak is greater than eight people, you will likely need to split up into two groups. In this case, I recommend you bring snacks and games to keep younger kids entertained while waiting for the other half of your group to finish its 45- minute turn.
(Sunrise or sunset – anytime is a good time to kayak)
After some basic bank-side training, an expert guide will help you get into your kayak and out on the Nile. You can stick right next to the guide or venture off on your own. I will say that paddling is harder than it looks. If you’re headed upstream, stay to the edges of the river where the current is weakest.
(Il Campo – just a boat-ride away)
Ambitious paddlers will find ll Campo a couple of kilometers upstream. Il Campo is a Nile-side haven where you can let the kids run wild in a clean environment. You’ll find archery, a ropes course, crafts, food, grills to rent – the works. While not as dear to our hearts as #SahSah Felah, Il Campo is definitely worth trying out.
(Ropes and parkour at Il Campo)
Transportation: For us, a boat is the most logical method of transportation when headed off on a kayaking adventure. We take the #Maadi ferry to Abu el-Nomros and, from there, a two-minute tuk-tuk ride to any of the local marinas. You can, of course, take an Uber or drive yourself. All of these marinas have make-shift parking within their gates; you just need to get out of your car and ask someone on the inside to open up the gate for you.
Now you have a perfect Instagram-worthy activity on your summer calendar. You’re welcome! I’ll see you there!
