12 Day AmaWaterways River Cruise from Cairo to Cairo 2026

Day 1 Cairo

Begin your journey in Egypt’s vibrant capital. A warm welcome awaits as you settle into your elegant hotel, where the pulse of the city hums just beyond the windows.

Day 2 Cairo

Step into Egypt’s past at the Grand Egyptian Museum, home to the priceless treasures of King Tut and countless wonders newly unveiled. After a locally inspired lunch, visit the Alabaster Mosque and enjoy sweeping city views before an evening welcome reception with drinks and small plates.

Day 3 Cairo

Wander through Egypt’s earliest capital, where the Step Pyramid of Sakkara rises as the oldest in the world. Pause for a leisurely lunch before exploring the iconic pyramids and Sphinx, timeless guardians of the desert horizon.

Day 4 Cairo

Discover the quiet sanctuaries of Coptic Cairo before flying south to Luxor, where your luxurious river vessel awaits. Step aboard, settle in, and toast to the adventure ahead with your captain and crew.

Day 5 Luxor

Journey through royal tombs carved deep into golden cliffs. Stand before the artistry of Seti I’s tomb and the resting place of King Tutankhamun, then marvel at Hatshepsut’s temple and the towering Colossi of Memnon before returning to your ship to unwind on deck.

Day 6 Edfu

Sail into Edfu to explore one of Egypt’s best-preserved temples, dedicated to Horus, the falcon-headed god. Ancient carvings whisper stories of devotion, strength, and ritual as you step into this remarkable sanctuary.

Day 7 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.

Day 8 Kom Ombo

Visit Philae Temple, devoted to Isis and surrounded by shimmering waters, before journeying to a colorful Nubian village alive with music and warmth. Later, explore the dual temple of Kom Ombo, uniquely dedicated to both falcon and crocodile gods, before celebrating the evening in traditional galabeya attire.

Day 9 Luxor

Cruise leisurely back to Luxor, where ancient wonders await. Explore Karnak’s vast forest of towering columns, discover the ancient art of papyrus making, and wander through the illuminated Luxor Temple before savoring the vibrant colors and scents of the local market.

Day 10 Qena

Sail to Qena and step into the beautifully preserved Temple of Hathor at Dendera, dedicated to the goddess of joy and love. Admire its intricate reliefs, including the likeness of Cleopatra, before cruising back to Luxor.

Day 11 Cairo

Disembark in Luxor and return to Cairo, where an exclusive private tour of Abdeen Palace awaits. Relish its gilded halls, fascinating museums, and regal history before enjoying an elegant palace lunch.

Day 12 Cairo