I want to take you on a journey… not just to a destination, but into the heart of an unforgettable experience. My choice for a group trip: AmaWaterways’ 12-day/11-night Nile River cruisetour.
Why AmaWaterways?
I was seeking an experience that transcended the ordinary, where each day brought a new revelation in comfort and luxury.
Why, you might ask, did I want a cruisetour with a 7-night cruise instead of the shorter options? Simply put, the Nile isn’t just a river; it’s a ribbon of life tying together millenniums of culture, history, and breathtaking beauty where some of the most famous ancient sites are located directly on the river. A longer cruise means more than just additional days; it’s about immersing ourselves in the rhythm of Egyptian life at a leisurely pace, uncovering hidden gems along the riverbanks, and truly connecting with the ancient stories that echo and whisper in every temple and tomb.
Other factors were just as important: itinerary, price, final payment date, optional payment plans, cabin size, passenger-to-staff ratio, onboard amenities, inclusive and optional tours, features and benefits, drink packages, etc.
So after much research and comparisons, I believe this AmaWaterways’ Secrets of Egypt & the Nile cruisetour will truly be a transformative experience. AmaWaterways is annually recognized in the travel industry as one of the best river cruise companies in the world. Plus, they will debut a new river crusieship “AmaLilia” on the Nile in early 2024.
With this cruisetour, the ancient and the modern mingle effortlessly, gifting you with unforgettable travel tales you’ll share and re-share for many years to come.
AmaWaterways Secrets of Egypt & the Nile Itinerary summary
- Day 1 – Cairo: Arrival in Cairo, assistance with luggage, customs, and immigration, followed by a transfer to the hotel.
- Day 2 – Cairo: A full day of sightseeing starting with the Egyptian Museum, home to artifacts and the treasures of Tutankhamen. Lunch featuring local and international cuisine, followed by a visit to the Mosque of Muhammad and an evening Welcome Reception.
- Day 3 – Cairo: Exploration of ancient Memphis, including the statue of Ramses II and the Alabaster Sphinx, followed by a visit to Sakkara and lunch at Mena House. Afternoon spent at the Giza complex and the Great Sphinx.
- Day 4 – Cairo to Luxor: Flight to Luxor and embarkation on the AmaLilia for a Nile River cruise. Introduction to the crew and a Captain’s Welcome Cocktail.
- Day 5 – Luxor to Edfu: Visit the Valley of Queens and exclusive access to Nefertari’s Tomb. Exploration of the Valley of the Kings and the Temple of Hatshepsut, with a view of the Colossi of Memnon. Evening cooking class on board.
- Day 6 – Edfu to Aswan: Tour of the Temple of Horus in Edfu, followed by a relaxing cruise along the Nile to Aswan.
- Day 7 – Aswan: Free time or optional excursion to Abu Simbel. Afternoon felucca ride around Elephantine Island, optional afternoon tea at the Old Cataract Hotel, and an evening belly dance performance on board.
- Day 8 – Aswan to Esna: Visit to the Philae Temple complex, and a Nubian village. Afternoon cruise to the Temple of Kom Ombo and an evening dressed in traditional Galabeya.
- Day 9 – Esna to Luxor: Scenic cruising and exploration of the Temple of Karnak. Visit a papyrus museum and the Temple of Luxor, with an optional visit to the Luxor Market.
- Day 10 – Luxor to Qena to Luxor: Sail to Qena for a visit to the Temple of Hathor in Dendara. Return sail to Luxor.
- Day 11 – Luxor to Cairo: Disembark from the AmaLilia in Luxor and fly to Cairo. Visit the Abdeen Presidential Palace and its museums, followed by a special lunch and tour of old Cairo, including Coptic Cairo.
- Day 12 – Cairo: Departure from Cairo.
Each day in this itinerary is packed with rich cultural experiences, historical explorations, and relaxing moments, making it a truly comprehensive Egyptian adventure.
I repeat, choosing a 7-night cruise was crucial to me. It will allow us to delve deeper, to arrive earlier than the masses, to take our sweet time at each landmark, and to absorb the essence of Egypt beyond the typical tourist gaze. This isn’t just a cruise; it is a journey through time, a luxurious and leisurely exploration that only a longer stay on the Nile could provide.
Who should go on this trip-of-a-lifetime with SelfishMe Travel?
History and cultural enthusiasts, active travelers, and curious adventurers who want to explore one of the oldest civilizations on Earth.
I often find myself reflecting on the myriad of experiences yet to come on this Nile journey with AmaWaterways and it brings a huge smile to my mind. Each day will be a new chapter in a story that spanned centuries, a story told not just through guided tours but through the quiet moments on the deck, watching as life unfolds along the river’s edge.
If you’re intrigued and ready to join this life-altering experience with me from March 17th-28th, 2025, then don’t miss out! Immerse yourself in a world teeming with rich history, vibrant culture, and luxury, unlike anything you’ve experienced before.
Let’s create memories together that will last a lifetime. Click the RED button below to secure your spot and immerse yourself in the magic of Egypt. Your epic journey awaits!
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