Travel lovers and history fans are in for a treat this spring as Viking Cruises prepares to unveil a new five‑part television series that will take viewers deep into the heart of Egypt and Jordan. The series, anchored by host Trevor Cochrane, brings ancient wonders and modern scenes to screens across Australia starting late February, offering an immersive look that blends travel, culture and storytelling.
A Journey Through Time on the Nile and Beyond
The new Explore TV series from Viking will air for five consecutive Saturdays at 3 p.m. on Channel 9, beginning on Saturday, February 28 and running through March 28, 2026.
Set against the backdrop of two of the world’s most storied regions, the show follows host Trevor Cochrane as he sails aboard the elegant Viking Amun, a purpose‑built Nile river ship designed for comfort and cultural immersion.
Viewers will see iconic ancient sites alongside everyday life. From the bustling markets of Cairo to the desert landscapes of Jordan, the series promises a sweeping travel narrative that tells the story of civilizations shaped by rivers, empires and enduring traditions.
“What makes this series unique is that it goes beyond sightseeing. It is about living the journey with expert insight and heartfelt storytelling,” said Michelle Black, Viking’s managing director for Australia and New Zealand.
Exploring Egypt: From Cairo to the Nile
The first episode opens in Egypt’s capital, Cairo, where viewers join Cochrane as he meets with a Viking Egyptologist and guides through some of the city’s most famous destinations.
Highlights include vibrant scenes from:
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Khan el‑Khalili market, a historic bazaar alive with colors and crafts.
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The Citadel of Saladin, standing high with panoramic city views.
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The Mosque of Muhammad Ali, a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture.
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The Egyptian Museum of Antiquities, housing relics from thousands of years of history.
The first episode concludes at the Saqqara Step Pyramid, one of the earliest monumental tomb complexes in human history.
In the second episode, the adventure continues at the Giza Plateau, where the Pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx loom over the desert. The journey then follows the Nile south to Luxor, the ancient world’s religious center, featuring the Temples of Karnak and Luxor.
Deep Dives into History and Local Life
The series grows richer with episodes that combine breathtaking imagery with insider experiences. The third episode explores the West Bank of Luxor, including a sunrise hot‑air balloon ride before visiting the Dendera Temple Complex, the Valley of the Kings, and the awe‑inspiring temples of Abu Simbel.
Viewers also witness local traditions up close. The fourth episode transports audiences to Aswan, where Cochrane enjoys leisurely high tea at the historic Old Cataract Hotel and sails the Nile aboard a traditional felucca, connecting ancient river culture with modern life.
This episode also showcases Nubian villages and the beautifully preserved Temples of Philae and Horus in Edfu. It ends with a cultural immersion in Old Cairo’s Coptic Quarter, revealing the many layers of Egypt’s rich faith and heritage.
The narrative does more than document ruins and temples. It shines a light on the people who continue to thrive along the Nile and shape the stories of these ancient lands.
Crossing Borders Into Jordan: Petra and Jerash
While several episodes focus on Egypt’s river‑centered heritage, the final installment expands the journey into Jordan through a post‑voyage extension.
This episode takes viewers from the salty shores of the Dead Sea to historic sites such as:
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Mount Nebo, associated with ancient biblical history.
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Madaba, known for its centuries‑old mosaics.
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Petra, the spectacular “Rose City” carved into sandstone cliffs.
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Jerash, one of the best‑preserved Roman provincial towns in the world.
The Jordan segment underscores the theme that history is not confined to museums or texts, but is embedded in the land and lived through culture and tradition.
Bringing Travel to Screens With Expertise
One key strength of the series is its blend of professional historical insight and engaging television storytelling. Expert Egyptologists join Cochrane throughout the series to share context and interpretation, helping viewers better understand the deep past as well as present‑day realities.
Viking’s focus on purposeful travel and smaller group experiences is reflected in every episode. The company’s Nile river ships carry about 82 guests, allowing for calmer itineraries and richer cultural engagement than mass cruise operations often permit.
This smaller‑ship approach has become a hallmark for Viking and reflects broader industry trends toward experiential travel that values learning and connection.
In celebration of the series launch, viewers will also have a chance to win a 12‑day Pharaohs & Pyramids voyage for two, a once‑in‑a‑lifetime experience that embodies the same spirit of exploration the show seeks to convey.
Why This Matters
Today, travel series like this do more than entertain. They act as cultural bridges connecting audiences to faraway lands through storytelling that respects both heritage and local communities.
In an age where travel inspiration often begins on screens and devices, shows like this may influence where people journey physically and shape how they think about history, culture and environment.
