Secrets of Egypt & the Nile

Secrets of Egypt & the Nile

About This Cruise

Embark on the adventure of a lifetime through Egypt and along the Nile on this 11-night river cruise and land experience. Guided by expert Egyptologists, you will stand in awe before the iconic Pyramids of Giza and the enigmatic Sphinx, marvel at the countless artifacts on display at the Grand Egyptian Museum and descend into the mysterious Valley of the Kings and Queens. You will also be treated to exclusive experiences like a private lunch at the regal Abdeen Presidential Palace. Allow Egypt’s ancient wonders and hidden treasures ignite your spirit of discovery on this luxurious, one-of-a-kind journey.

Type

River, Luxury

Ship

AmaCleo

Departure Date

13 June 2028

Cruise Line

AmaWaterways

Duration

11 Nights

Select Your Cabin Type
Select your cabin type
Call Us at 01 6874149

Itinerary

Egypt

Cairo

CAIRO. Arrive in Cairo, where you will be met by an AmaWaterways representative who will help you with your luggage and the customs and immigration process. With your baggage and customs taken care of and a new stamp in your passport, you will now be driven to your hotel.

Egypt

Cairo

CAIRO. A full day of captivating attractions await, beginning with the exquisite new Grand Egytian Museum, the world’s largest archaeological museum with its 100,000 artifacts on display, many never seen by the general public until the opening in 2025. With 12 main galleries, the museum is home to some of the greatest masterpieces ever crafted, including the unique collection of Pharaonic art including ancient mummies and the complete and priceless treasures of Tutankhamen, the Boy King. Afterwards, enjoy a delicious lunch featuring local and international cuisine. Then, visit the Mosque of Muhammad – also known as the Alabaster Mosque – which majestically sits on the summit of the Citadel of Saladin's courtyard. From the arcaded courtyard, enjoy the breathtaking view across the city to the Pyramids of Giza. Inside the Mosque, marvel at an ornate interior and a splendid array of lamps suspended from the intricately decorated ceiling. Afterward, join an evening Welcome Reception hosted by your Cruise Manager. (B, L, WR)

Egypt

Cairo

CAIRO. Discover the monuments at the UNESCO-designated ancient capital of Memphis. Visit the huge statue of Ramses II, the Alabaster Sphinx and the necropolis of Sakkara – site of the famous step pyramid of King Zoser, the oldest pyramid on earth. Next, enjoy a lovely lunch at the famous Mena House, a historic palatial hotel, based in the shadow of the great Pyramids of Giza. Afterwards, you’ll explore the Great Sphinx and the iconic Giza complex, which consists of three large pyramids built between 2,589 BC and 2,504 BC. Enjoy the evening at your leisure. (B, L)

Egypt

Cairo

CAIRO - LUXOR. This morning, visit Coptic Cairo, a neighborhood know for its historic churches and monestaries. Then take an early afternoon flight south to Luxor —formerly known as Thebes, the capital city of the New Kingdom of Upper Egypt. Luxor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to two astonishing temples — Karnak and Luxor. Be welcomed your luxurious river cruise ship to begin your Nile River Valley cruise. Relax and settle in and before dinner, meet your crew and celebrate with a Captain’s Welcome Cocktail. (B, L, D)

Egypt

Luxor

Since the early steamers visited Egypt in the nineteenth century, Luxor has remained a tourist hotspot. Situated on the east side of the Nile in the centre of The Nile Valley, Luxor is an ideal location for tours and trips to surrounding places of interest.

Egypt

Luxor

LUXOR - EDFU. Begin the day with a visit to the Valley of Queens, home to the mummified remains of more than 30 queens and princesses. Next, visit the tombs of ancient Egypt in the Valley of the Kings — one of the most famous archeological sites in the world. The spectacular rock-cut tombs located on the west bank of Luxor include that of the enigmatic King Tutankhamun, whose mummified remains are still here on display. This site also includes Seti 1’s Tomb, where you’ll enjoy rare access. Afterwards, go to Deir el-Bahri to see the Temple of Hatshepsut, one of Egypt’s most successful pharaohs and the country’s first female ruler. Your day’s adventure concludes with an up-close view of the Colossi of Memnon — two gigantic statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III. Once back on board your ship, relax on the Upper Deck and take in the amazing scenery or join the chef at an informal cooking class. (B, L, D)Note: As of spring 2024, Queen Nefertari’s Tomb has been temporarily closed with no official reopening date. Until reopening, the equally impressive Seti 1 tomb will be visited as an alternative.

Egypt

Edfu

EDFU. The city of Edfu is best known for one of Egypt’s most remarkably preserved temples, dedicated to Horus, the falcon-headed god. Built in 230 BC, it is the second-largest temple in Egypt and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with walls that display compelling details about the religion and language of the country’s Greco-Roman period. After visiting Edfu, relax on board and take in the Nile River’s timeless landscapes as the ship continues onward to Aswan. (B, L, D)

Egypt

Aswan

ASWAN. Enjoy the freedom to spend the morning at leisure in Aswan, or depart early on an optional excursion to Abu Simbel, available at an additional cost. A short flight over Lake Nasser leads to the awe‑inspiring temples of Abu Simbel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site more than 3,000 years old. Back in Aswan, the afternoon unfolds gently with a felucca ride around Elephantine Island, a serene stretch of the Nile long associated with the god Khnum. Later, enjoy an optional afternoon tea at the historic Old Cataract Hotel, a rose‑granite palace overlooking the Nile. This classic high tea experience, offered at an additional cost, pairs time‑honored tradition with sweeping river views. *Note: If cruising on the AmaLilia, at times due to flight schedules, the optional outing to Abu Simbel will take place the morning of Day 8. On Day 7, you will visit Philae Temple, the Nubian Village, felucca ride and optional outing for High Tea at the Cataract Hotel.

Egypt

Aswan

ASWAN - ESNA. Board a motorboat and cruise to the UNESCO-designated Philae Temple complex, boasting some of the most stunningly restored and preserved hieroglyphs in Egypt. It was constructed between 380 BC and 362 BC and dedicated to the goddess Isis, the wife of Osiris and mother of Horus. Next head to a colorful Nubian village on Hisa Island. Meet the warm and friendly Nubian people who will welcome you to their village. During the afternoon, cruise to the Great Temple of Kom Ombo, where its soaring columns dramatically rise above the Nile River. Unique in Egypt, this temple is dedicated to two gods — the crocodile god, Sobek, sitting on the right; and the falcon-headed Haroeris, “The Good Doctor.” After visiting Kom Ombo, relax on board and take in the Nile River’s timeless landscapes as the ship continues onward to Luxor. In the evening, join your crew outside in a celebration of local customs with the chance to don a Galabeya, traditional Egyptian attire, and toast to the rich culture and history of the Nile River Valley. (B, L, D)

Egypt

Kom Ombo

No summary for this day yet.

Egypt

Luxor

ESNA - LUXOR. Spend a morning of scenic cruising along the glistening Nile River. Relax on the Sun Deck as you cruise from Esna back to Luxor. First, explore the Temple of Karnak, the largest religious complex in Egypt and one of the largest in the world, covering about 200 acres in a vast network of columns, hieroglyphics, obelisks, sphinxes and colossi — even a lake is on the grounds. The Hypostyle Hall is a great architectural marvel and filled with its roof blocks, supported by colossal 134 columns standing at 70 feet high, with 12 larger columns standing at 80 feet high lining the central aisle. This hall is still the largest room of any religious building in the world. After visiting the temple, journey to a museum and discover the art of papyrus making. Learn how the ancient Egyptians used this special plant that flourished in the Egyptian Delta and Nile River Valley. Made from the aquatic papyrus plant, also known as paper plant, this unique writing material served many purposes in ancient times from sails, cloth, food and especially paper for important documents and texts. Afterwards, you will visit the Temple of Luxor, constructed over hundreds of years by Amenhotep III, Ramses II, Tutankhamun and other pharaohs. You then have the option of heading back to the ship to relax or visiting the colorful Luxor Market, where you can find eye-catching piles of spices, jewelry and clothing as well as irresistible smells of incense and perfumes. (B, L, D)

Egypt

Luxor

LUXOR - QENA - LUXOR. Set sail to Qena to explore its ancient Egyptian heritage. You’ll go to Dendara to visit the best-preserved temple in Egypt, the Temple of Hathor – the Goddess of Love, to whom the powers of joy, feminine love and motherhood were attributed. The temple was built by Ptolemy and a group of Romans who worshipped her; so don’t miss the back of the temple where there is a relief depicting Cleopatra with Caesarion, her son by Julius Caesar, the Roman Emperor who brought us the months of July and August. Following your visit here, sail back to Luxor. (B, L, D)

Egypt

Qena

No summary for this day yet.

Egypt

Luxor

LUXOR - DISEMBARKATION - CAIRO. Disembark the ship in Luxor and fly back to Cairo where you will be taken to the Abdeen Presidential Palace, considered one of the most luxurious palaces in the world. The palace consists of multiple museums, including the Silver Museum; the Arms Museum; the Royal Family Museum; a Presidential Gifts Museum and a Historical Documents Museum, which is a relatively new addition. It is also one of the official residences and places of work for the President of Egypt. Afterwards, be treated to a very special lunch at the palace. Finally, you’ll explore the old part of the city, which includes Coptic Cairo, where the Hanging Church and Ben Ezra Synagogue are located. (B, L)

Egypt

Cairo

No summary for this day yet.

Egypt

Cairo

CAIRO. Bid farewell to Cairo and prepare for your flight home. (B)

Overview

Embark on the adventure of a lifetime through Egypt and along the Nile on this 11-night river cruise and land experience. Guided by expert Egyptologists, you will stand in awe before the iconic Pyramids of Giza and the enigmatic Sphinx, marvel at the countless artifacts on display at the Grand Egyptian Museum and descend into the mysterious Valley of the Kings and Queens. You will also be treated to exclusive experiences like a private lunch at the regal Abdeen Presidential Palace. Allow Egypt’s ancient wonders and hidden treasures ignite your spirit of discovery on this luxurious, one-of-a-kind journey.

Suite

Owners Suite

Spacious Staterooms and Suites

Unwind in thoughtfully designed rooms with room to relax and enjoy the river views. Elegant décor and comfortable spaces create a peaceful retreat to start and end the day.

Comfort and Understated Luxury

Experience the art of subtle indulgence in every room. Soft fabrics, marble-tiled bathrooms, and thoughtful touches elevate each room into a sanctuary of effortless luxury.

  • Lily Deck
  • Owner's Suite
  • French & Outside Balcony

Suite

Grand Suite

Spacious Staterooms and Suites
Unwind in thoughtfully designed rooms with room to relax and enjoy the river views. Elegant décor and comfortable spaces create a peaceful retreat to start and end the day.

Comfort and Understated Luxury
Experience the art of subtle indulgence in every room. Soft fabrics, marble-tiled bathrooms, and thoughtful touches elevate each room into a sanctuary of effortless luxury.

  • Jasmine Deck
  • Grand Suite
  • French & Outside Balcony

Suite

Luxury Suite

Spacious Staterooms and Suites

Unwind in thoughtfully designed rooms with room to relax and enjoy the river views. Elegant décor and comfortable spaces create a peaceful retreat to start and end the day.

Comfort and Understated Luxury

Experience the art of subtle indulgence in every room. Soft fabrics, marble-tiled bathrooms, and thoughtful touches elevate each room into a sanctuary of effortless luxury.

  • Lily Deck

  • Luxury Suite
  • French & Outside Balcony

Balcony

Category CA Staterooms

Balconies and Panoramic Views

Take in ever-changing scenery from your room, whether through a picture window, French balcony, or our signature twin balcony design. Each offers its own beautiful perspective of the river.

Comfort and Understated Luxury

Experience the art of subtle indulgence in every room. Soft fabrics, marble-tiled bathrooms, and thoughtful touches elevate each room into a sanctuary of effortless luxury.

  • Jasmine Deck
  • Category CA
  • French Balcony

Balcony

Category CB Staterooms

Balconies and Panoramic Views

Take in ever-changing scenery from your room, whether through a picture window, French balcony, or our signature twin balcony design. Each offers its own beautiful perspective of the river.

Comfort and Understated Luxury

Experience the art of subtle indulgence in every room. Soft fabrics, marble-tiled bathrooms, and thoughtful touches elevate each room into a sanctuary of effortless luxury.

  • Lotus Deck
  • Category CB
  • French Balcony

Outside

Category E Staterooms

Comfort and Understated Luxury

Experience the art of subtle indulgence in every room. Soft fabrics, marble-tiled bathrooms, and thoughtful touches elevate each room into a sanctuary of effortless luxury.

  • Acacia Deck

  • Category E
  • Fixed Window

chef

The Chef's Table

Join a few of your fellow travellers at The Chef’s Table, an intimate venue where the kitchen, usually hidden, becomes part of the entertainment. Watch as the chef meticulously chops, sears and plates a mouthwatering tasting menu in front of your eyes – a highlight of your culinary journey that is served with a selection of fine wines, all courtesy of AmaWaterways.

regional

Journey Restaurant

Experience award-winning cuisine inspired by the regions you sail through. Every dish is crafted from the freshest local ingredients and presented with elegance, turning each meal into a celebration of flavor, artistry, and place.

Regional Flavors and Fresh Ingredients
Taste the essence of every destination through cuisine crafted from locally sourced ingredients and using regional traditions, bringing the authentic flavors of your travel destination directly to your table.

Perfectly Paired Wines and Beverages
Pair dishes with regional wines, beers, or handcrafted cocktails, thoughtfully chosen by our sommeliers to complement each dish and enhance your dining experience throughout the journey.

Bar, Lounge

The Lark Lounge & Bar

This versatile space hosts a bar, dance floor, plenty of comfortable couches and big windows on three sides and is used for everything from the morning port talks, daytime reading and chatting to scenic cruising, afternoon tea and evening entertainment.

Sun Deck

Sun Deck

Enjoy fresh air and breathtaking Nile River views on the Sun Deck, where a refreshing pool awaits. Relax on a shaded lounger while sipping a cold drink or allow the ever-changing scenery to capture your daydreams.

Local Entertainment

Onboard Entertainment

Onboard Performances and Musical Evenings

Throughout many voyages, the ship’s lounge transforms into a stage for local ensembles, jazz duos, and classical quartets

Select sailings have Music Hosts, conductors and musicians who guide you through historical context, lead onboard performances, and deepen your connection with the region’s musical heritage.

Live Regional Performances On Ship

Even on non-themed sailings, enjoy musical offerings like local performances, curated playlists, and connections to the musical stories of the rivers you traverse.

Pool

Sun-Deck Pool

Find calm in beautifully designed areas made for rest and reflection, whether it’s a quiet lounge, the Sun Deck, or simply watching the river drift by.

Wellness, Salon, Spa, Gym

Spa

Rejuvenate body and spirit with soothing spa and massage treatments, offering the perfect balance of indulgence and serenity.

Gym

Fitness Centre

Stay energized with fitness classes, a session in the gym, or an afternoon pickleball game on board, or seek an active hike or bike ride on shore.

Exercise Class

Fitness Classes

Start the day with intention through gentle stretching, yoga, or quiet moments on deck, surrounded by fresh air and flowing scenery.