Secrets of Egypt & the Nile

CAIRO - LUXOR - EMBARKATION. After checking out of the hotel, take a morning 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. 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. 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. It is still the largest room of any religious building in the world. Then be welcomed aboard your luxurious river cruise ship to begin your Nile River Valley cruise. Later this afternoon, you will visit the Temple of Luxor, constructed over hundreds of years by Amenhotep III, Ramses II, Tutankhamun and other pharaohs. After your visit, continue to experience Egyptian magic with a traditional folkloric-style belly dance on board the AmaDahlia. (B, L, D)

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, including Nefertari’s Tomb, where you’ll enjoy a private tour. 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. 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)

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)

ASWAN. Enjoy free time in Aswan or go on an optional excursion to Abu Simbel (must be prebooked). If you purchased the optional excursion, enjoy an early morning flight over Lake Nasser to the more than 3,000-year-old Abu Simbel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dedicated to Ramses II, one of the most active of pharaohs, along with the smaller temple dedicated to his chief wife Queen Nefertari. The front of the main temple has four gargantuan statues of Ramses II on his throne, each measuring nearly 70 feet high and discovered half buried in sand in 1813. Later in the afternoon, take a peaceful ride in a felucca, a traditional Egyptian sailboat, around beautiful Elephantine Island, which locals say is the home to legendary Egyptian god Khnumo. Cap the day off with an optional late afternoon tea at the historic Old Cataract Hotel, a 19th-century Victorian Palace crafted in rose granite. Delight in an authentic “high tea” experience and revel in the stunning views overlooking the Nile and Elephantine Island. After dinner tonight, continue to experience Egyptian magic with a traditional folkloric-style belly dance on board your ship. (B, L, D)

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)

Though small in size, Kom Ombo, Egypt, is home to an iconic archaeological masterpiece: The Temple of Kom Ombo. Built during the Ptolemaic dynasty, The Temple of Kom Ombo is a unique structure dedicated to two deities: Sobek, the crocodile god, and Horus, the falcon-headed god. Magnificent in both its design and significance, the temple provides a captivating window into the beliefs and rituals of ancient Egypt during the period.

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)

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)

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)

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Enjoy one special evening sampling your way through the multi-course tasting menu at The Chef's Table.

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Savor both exquisite Western and local fare infused with Middle Eastern spices at the Main Restaurant

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We realise that our guests have different tastes, so we’ve developed a menu of shore excursions in every port of call. In many destinations, you’ll be free to choose from one of several options — all of which are included in your cruise fare. There’s always a city tour designed to show you all the renowned highlights and landmarks in grand capitals and charming villages alike. Is it your first time in Vienna? Opt for an unforgettable exploration of the major sights led by a local, English-speaking guide that is well versed in history and culture. Have you already been to Nuremberg? Instead of taking the city tour, indulge in a bratwurst and beer tasting on one of our Special Interest Tours, which are specially designed to place you in the midst of local life. Are you looking for something more active? See the beautiful scenery of Austria’s Wachau Valley with a guided bike tour along the Danube. The choice is yours.

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Every year, we seek out new opportunities for our guests to experience local culture in a unique way. These tours are specially designed to give small groups the chance to be even more immersed in a destination. Here are just a few examples:

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On an AmaWaterways river cruise, you don’t just pass through a destination — you experience it. Each one of our itineraries is crafted with a paramount goal in mind: connecting you to the essence of life in each place you visit. We always make it a point to place our guests in small groups. This helps facilitate access to sights and landmarks, a more intimate setting, and more encounters with the locals. It’s a great way to take your time as you explore, get to know your fellow travellers better and find opportunities for up-close experiences. Every tour is led by a local, English-speaking guide who is very knowledgeable in the culture and history of the place you are visiting.

Choose your pace: In many cases, you’ll have a choice of gentle, regular and active tour paces. There are even some options for late risers.

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Make the most of your long-awaited vacation by adding our optional land packages before or after your sailing for an all-encompassing river cruise and land journey. Indulge your wanderlust and we’ll whisk you away between your ship and hotel, plus take you on specially curated guided tours with just the right amount of leisure time to explore the art, history or culinary delights in sought-after cities around the world.

Why Add a Land Package?

There are many benefits to adding a land package before or after your sailing. One of the simplest reasons is the convenience of making all your future travel plans in one step. Our concierge services allow you to reserve your river cruise, flights, airport transfers and land packages all at once. No need to call and research multiple providers – just contact your travel advisor and we’ll take care of it all. But the value of adding a land package doesn’t stop there.

World-Class Hotels

Whether you wish to rest and recover from flights or pamper yourself before returning home, you’ll find no better respite than the trusted, 4- and 5-star hotels we have carefully selected for you. Each luxurious property is centrally located near the major sights, such as Turkey’s Istanbul at Sultanahmet, just steps from the magnificent Blue Mosque. If you should wish to extend your vacation even further, your travel advisor can conveniently arrange extra hotel nights through AmaWaterways as well.

Our land packages include transfers between your hotel and river cruise ship, portage service and daily breakfast at the hotel. In addition, fascinating guided city tours and excursions are included, so you can:

• Discover breathtaking Mont St. Michel, France, the artistic inspiration for the movie Tangled
• Join a tasting of Czech beer while learning about the beverage’s long and illustrious history
• Visit Transylvania’s infamous Bran Castle, otherwise known as Dracula’s Castle
• Board a boat for a scenic ride along Italy’s Lake Como to the stunning lakeside village of Bellagio
• Rise with the sun at Cambodia’s UNESCO-designated Angkor Archaeological Complex

What's Included in Your Land Package

• Overnight stays at 4- and 5-star hotels conveniently located near the major sites
• Daily breakfast at the hotel
• Guided city tours
• Convenient transfers to and from the ship
• The services of a professionally trained Cruise Manager throughout your river cruise and land stay – unique in the industry

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You can always count on your floating hotel to provide you with all the amenities and conveniences you need to make your time in Egypt as comfortable as possible. Take in views of the Nile River from the Sun Deck or gather in the main lounge with fellow adventurers. With only 82 guests on board, enjoy the luxury of space to unwind, relax and connect with loved ones.

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The Lounge and Bar can be found on the Lotus Deck

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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.

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Nightly entertainment including a belly dance show, Galabeya Party and Darawish Show.

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Sun-deck pool and bar

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Wellness area with fitness room, nail and hair salon, and two massage rooms offering a variety of services*

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• Stateroom: Fixed Window
• Deck Info: Acacia Deck 
• Stateroom Size: 215 sq. ft.
• Category: E

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• Stateroom: French Balcony
• Deck Info: Jasmine Deck
• Stateroom Size: 215 Sq. ft.
• Category: CA

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• Stateroom: French Balcony
• Deck Info: Lotus Deck
• Stateroom Size: 215 Sq. ft.
• Category: CB

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• Stateroom: French & Outside Balcony
• Deck Info: Lily Deck
• Stateroom Size: 522 sq. ft.
• Category: OS

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• Stateroom: French & Outside Balcony
• Deck Info: Jasmine Deck
• Stateroom Size: 430 Sq. ft.
• Category: GS

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• Stateroom: French & Outside Balcony
• Deck Info: Lily Deck
• Stateroom Size: 430 sq. ft.
• Category: LS