Secrets of Egypt & the Nile
12 Days Land & Cruise Tour Roundtrip from Cairo, Egypt with AmaWaterways
For many travellers, the treasures of the Pharaohs have sat at the absolute top of the bucket list for a lifetime.
AmaWaterways’ Secrets of Egypt & the Nile itinerary transforms that lifelong dream into a seamlessly sophisticated reality, offering an extraordinary 11-night land and river cruise package that begins and ends in Cairo. Sailing aboard the stunning, brand-new AmaNubia, an intimate boutique vessel welcoming just 76 guests, this journey balances five-star luxury with deep cultural immersion, taking you from Egypt’s vibrant capital straight into the timeless, golden rhythm of the Nile.
Nile River, Egypt
Expect an expertly curated blend of vibrant city discovery and a tranquil 7-night river cruise. Your journey starts with three nights in Cairo exploring the iconic Giza Pyramids and the Great Sphinx before you fly to Luxor to board the AmaNubia.
From there, you can look forward to sailing past traditional villages, exploring the Valley of the Kings, and visiting majestic temples in Edfu, Aswan, and Kom Ombo, all before returning to Cairo for a final, exclusive tour of the Abdeen Presidential Palace.
With your own certified Egyptologist leading the way, the standard logistics simply disappear, leaving you to enjoy an ultimate ancient adventure in pure, effortless luxury.
Optional itinerary extensions in Dubai, Jordan, and Alexandria are also available.
Onboard AmaNubia
Arriving on the Nile in September 2026, the AmaNubia is AmaWaterways’ brand-new boutique ship, welcoming just 76 guests in 38 elegantly appointed staterooms and suites. This intimate vessel beautifully blends upscale comfort with locally inspired Egyptian accents. Between excursions, guests can relax on the spacious Sun Deck by the pool, enjoy the tranquil wellness room, or simply soak in the sweeping views of the passing desert landscape.
The dining experience on board is equally spectacular. Guests can savour beautifully curated menus at Journeys Restaurant, the ship's main venue serving a blend of Western classics and authentic local flavours. For a truly memorable evening, guests can also indulge in an exclusive, multi-course tasting menu at the signature specialty restaurant, The Chef’s Table. Paired with AmaWaterways' famously warm service, the ship provides the ultimate five-star sanctuary.
Your Itinerary
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Arrive and settle into the rhythm of Egypt’s vibrant capital as your timeless journey begins.
Begin your adventure in Egypt’s historic capital. A warm and elegant welcome awaits as you settle into your luxury hotel. Relax and unpack while the distinct pulse, sounds, and energy of this magnificent city hum just beyond your windows, setting the stage for the incredible history waiting to be uncovered.
Hotel Check-in
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Discover timeless treasures of antiquity and look out over the city from soaring historic mosques.
Step deep into Egypt’s ancient past with a morning visit to the magnificent Grand Egyptian Museum, home to the priceless treasures of King Tutankhamun and countless newly unveiled wonders. After enjoying a locally inspired lunch, continue your exploration at the breathtaking Alabaster Mosque, where you can take in sweeping views across the Cairo skyline. Conclude your day of discovery with an evening welcome reception featuring refreshing drinks and local small plates.
Grand Egyptian Museum Visit
Local Lunch
Alabaster Mosque
Evening Welcome Reception
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Step into the ancient world of pyramids, pharaohs, and timeless guardians of the desert horizon.
Wander through Memphis, Egypt’s earliest capital, and explore the sprawling Sakkara necropolis, where the magnificent Step Pyramid of Djoser rises as the oldest stone pyramid structure in the world. After pausing for a flavorful local lunch, continue your journey across the plateau to stand before the iconic Pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx, the timeless guardians of the desert that have captivated travelers for millennia.
Choose from a variety of activities to enjoy on your cruise
Sakkara Necropolis Visit
Local Lunch
Pyramids of Giza and Memphis
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Journey from sacred, hidden sanctuaries to the timeless waters of the Nile.
Discover the quiet, ancient sanctuaries of Coptic Cairo, exploring its historic churches and rich religious heritage. Afterward, transfer to the airport for your flight south to Luxor. Upon arrival, your luxurious river vessel awaits; step aboard, settle into your stateroom, and toast to the majestic river cruise ahead with an exclusive welcome from your captain and crew before enjoying a relaxing, free evening on the Nile.
Visit to Coptic Cairo
Flight to Luxor
River Cruise Embarkation
Free Evening
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Walk among royal tombs carved into golden cliffs and stand before monumental desert temples.
Journey deep into the Valley of the Kings and Valley of the Queens, where ancient rulers were laid to rest in spectacular subterranean chambers. Stand inside the breathtaking, highly detailed tomb of Seti I and visit the final resting place of King Tutankhamun. Afterward, marvel at the sweeping terraces of Queen Hatshepsut’s mortuary temple and the towering, ancient Colossi of Memnon before returning to your ship to unwind on deck as you sail down the Nile.
Choose from a variety of activities to enjoy on your cruise
Tomb of Seti I Visit
Valley of the Kings and Queens Tour
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Step into one of Egypt’s most exquisitely preserved sanctuaries where ancient myths come to life.
Sail into Edfu to explore the magnificent Temple of Horus, one of the best-preserved ancient structures in all of Egypt. Dedicated to the falcon-headed god of power and protection, this soaring sanctuary features massive stone walls covered in intricate carvings. As you walk through its grand courts and hidden chambers, the ancient inscriptions reveal timeless stories of devotion, divine strength, and sacred pharaonic rituals.
Experiences Temple of Horus Tour
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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.
Choose from a variety of activities to enjoy on your cruise
Free time
Abu Simbel Excursion
Felucca Ride Around Elephantine Island
High Tea at the Old Cataract Hotel
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Discover sacred island temples, vibrant Nubian traditions, and unique dual sanctuaries.
Begin your day with a visit to the breathtaking Philae Temple, a sacred sanctuary dedicated to the goddess Isis that sits beautifully surrounded by the shimmering waters of the Nile. Afterward, journey to a colorful Nubian village, where you will experience the warmth, music, and vibrant local traditions of this ancient culture. Later, sail downriver to explore the fascinating double Temple of Kom Ombo, uniquely designed and symmetrically dedicated to two rival deities: Horus the falcon god and Sobek the crocodile god. Conclude your evening onboard by celebrating Egyptian culture during a lively, traditional Galabeya party.
Choose from a variety of activities to enjoy on your cruise
Nubian Village Visit and Philae Temple Tour
Great Temple of Kom Ombo Tour
Traditional Galabeya Evening Celebration
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Marvel at the staggering grandeur of ancient temples, learn timeless artisan crafts, and dive into vibrant local markets.
Spend a relaxing morning enjoying the changing desert landscapes during a scenic cruise back to Luxor. Upon arrival, step ashore to explore the staggering scale of the Karnak Temple Complex, wandering through its legendary Great Hypostyle Hall—a vast, breathtaking forest of towering columns. Next, discover the ancient art of papyrus making during a local workshop demonstration. As twilight falls, wander through the beautifully illuminated avenue of sphinxes at Luxor Temple before capping off your evening by savoring the vibrant colors, sights, and scents of the bustling local market.
Choose from a variety of activities to enjoy on your cruise
Scenic Cruising to Luxor
Karnak Temple Visit
Art of Papyrus Making Workshop
Illuminated Luxor Temple Visit
Luxor Market Visit
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Experience the beauty of Hathor’s sacred temple and sail back along the timeless Nile.
Sail northward to Qena to step inside the beautifully preserved Temple of Hathor at Dendera, dedicated to the ancient goddess of joy, love, and music. As you explore this spectacular complex, look up to admire the vibrantly colored astronomical ceilings and wander around the exterior walls to view the famous, intricate stone reliefs depicting the likeness of Queen Cleopatra VII. Afterward, return to the ship for a relaxing afternoon cruise back to Luxor, watching the beautiful riverbanks glide past.
Temple of Hathor at Dendera Tour
Cruise Back to Luxor
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Step into opulent royal palaces and relive the grand history of Egypt’s modern monarchy.
Bid farewell to your river vessel as you disembark in Luxor and catch your flight back north to Cairo. Upon arrival, an exclusive private tour awaits at the magnificent Abdeen Palace, one of the primary official residences of the President of Egypt and a masterpiece of late 19th-century design. Wander through its lavish, gilded reception halls and fascinating historical museums containing rare clocks, royal weaponry, and gifts from world leaders. Conclude this regal afternoon by enjoying an elegant lunch right within the palace grounds.
River Cruise Disembarkation
Flight to Cairo
Abdeen Palace Private Tour and Lunch
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Bid farewell with memories of a timeless journey as your incredible Egyptian adventure comes to a close.
Enjoy your final morning in Egypt's vibrant capital, savoring a last look at the city where your journey began. After checking out of your hotel, gather your belongings and prepare for your departure, carrying with you the unforgettable memories of soaring pyramids, majestic temples, and the gentle rhythm of life along the Nile.
Return Flight Home
From $11,563* per person twin share in a Category E Stateroom based on departure dates 22 May to 14 June 2027
*Dates, fares & itineraries are subject to change. Included Intra-Egypt Air $992 per person in 2026; $1024 per person in 2027. Prices include all taxes and fuel surcharges. Optional Jordan Pre-Extension Rates vary based on seasonality. $832 per person for Amman to Cairo intra-air, included in the advertised fare, of which a non-refundable deposit of $200 is required. Optional Dubai Pre- or Post-Extension Rates vary based on seasonality, and Dubai to Cairo flights are not included. Visas are not required for travel to Dubai.
Temple of Luxor, Egypt
Terms & Conditions: All rates are per person, cruise-only, include port fees and gratuities, and are based on double occupancy in an entry-level stateroom unless otherwise noted. Offers apply to select sailings and new bookings only. Unless a reduced single supplement is specifically stated, solo travelers in double-occupancy staterooms must pay the full single supplement before receiving any discounts. Ask about Solo Traveler promotions.
Offers are not combinable with other promotions or discounts, are capacity-controlled, subject to availability, and may change or end without notice. Stateroom upgrades, optional land programs, and airfare are not included. Additional restrictions apply. AmaWaterways reserves the right to correct errors or omissions at any time.
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