When we talk about Egypt, one of the first few things that come to our minds is River Nile! Did you know it is the longest river in the whole world? Not just the longest, but the most celebrated one too! Why? This ancient river gave birth to the oldest civilization of the world!

The Egypt that we know today would not have existed without the Nile. The Nile is not just like any other river. It has a long and rich history! And is worshipped by the people of Egypt for it gave them a home. And that’s not all! There are many interesting facts about this river that will make you pack your bags and make a visit to the Nile!

Interesting River Nile Facts For Kids

How long is the river Nile?

This is the most searched question about this river. Want to know the answer? The river Nile is about 4,000 miles long! This makes it the longest river in Africa and also in the whole wide world. Isn’t that amazing? This is larger than the entire surface area of the United States! No wonder it is called as the father of African rivers!

Where is the river located?

The great Nile is located in Africa. It has its origins in Burundi, a country situated in the middle of the continent. From there it flows towards north-eastern Africa and empties into the Mediterranean Sea. Have you heard about the Mediterranean Sea?

Which two rivers combine to form river Nile?

The mighty Nile is formed from the White Nile and the Blue Nile. The two rivers originate at lakes separated by over 2000 kilometres. Then they meet in Sudan forming the great Nile! Big things happen through teamwork, right?

What is the importance of the river Nile to Ancient Egyptians?

1. The ancient Egyptians largely depended on the river Nile. Nile was the source of their existence. It was at the banks of this river where the world’s largest civilization flourished. River floods every year provided them with moist, nutrient-rich soil. They used it to grow crops and make their living.
2. The river was a great source of water, food and transportation for the Egyptians. Most of them lived near the river to have access to drinking water and food such as fish. The river was also useful in travelling from one place to another.
3. There was a special type of plant called ‘reeds’ that grew alongside the river. Why was it special? The Egyptians used reeds to make a paper called ‘papyrus’. They used this paper to write books, messages, and letters to families. Reeds were also used to make boats that helped them to travel. We all love boat rides, don’t we?

What are the animals found here?

Crocodiles, turtles, and baboons are the most prominent animals living on this river. Apart from them, over 300 different kinds of birds are also found here. These include eagles, ibis, and the Nile Valley Sunbird. Which is your favorite amongst these?

The construction of the Aswan High Dam

Egyptian History has a lot of stories about the Nile for its floods that it received every year. Now it no longer receives the yearly floods. This is because of the construction of the huge Aswan High Dam in 1970. The dam regulates the flow of the river and generates electricity.

Festival at the Nile!

The people of Egypt hold a 2-week holiday called ‘Wafaa al-Nil’ in August every year. This is to show their gratitude for the ancient flooding that happened in the Nile. It is a very popular festival where they prepare boats with flowers. And sail through the waters with joyful dances and chants.

What’s your favorite festival?