Egypt's Incredible Nile River

(42 Reviews)
100% Recommended

Ted Blank

Woodbury, MN
Tailor-Made Journeys

You understand that extraordinary vacations aren’t simply a function of dollars and cents, and you know that they certainly aren’t just pulled off the shelf. 

Journeys of a lifetime are carefully designed with imagination, creativity, atten...

AmaWaterways' Beautiful AmaDahlia.

If your ideal vacation involves a combination of history, adventure and unique experiences, then a cruise along the Nile fits the bill.


You’ll get an unforgettable look at the wonders of ancient Egypt. Ever since British archaeologist Howard Carter discovered the long-hidden tomb of Tutankhamun in the Valley of the Kings in 1922, travelers have been captivated by Egypt. I can’t think of a better way to explore this fascinating country than by taking a journey along the river that has played such a vital role in its development. 


River cruise ships are smaller than oceangoing vessels, so you’ll be traveling in a more intimate space, and get closer to the sights. You’ll also have a terrific opportunity to become immersed in your destination. On a Nile River cruise, an expert in Egyptian history and culture will help you appreciate everything that you’re seeing. 


AmaWaterways, Abercrombie & Kent and Alexander + Roberts are among the companies that offer luxury Nile River cruises, ranging from nine to 13 days. All three are known for their high level of service, attention to detail and carefully crafted itineraries, with onboard dining that includes local favorites as well as Western cuisine. 


Whichever river cruise you select, your trip will begin with several days of sightseeing in Cairo. At the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities, you’ll have a chance to view some of the 120,000 artifacts in its collection, including treasures from the tomb of King Tut. You’ll be awed by the Great Sphinx and the Giza complex with its three pyramids, the largest of which is one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. And the new Grand Egyptian Museum, located near the pyramids, is scheduled to open this year. 


From Cairo, you’ll fly south to Luxor to begin your Nile cruise. Stops include the grand Luxor Temple complex, the fabled Valley of the Kings, where the rulers of ancient Egypt are buried, the well-preserved Temple of Horus, dedicated to the falcon-headed god, and Abu Simbel, with its colossal statues of Pharoah Ramses II. 


With AmaWaterways, you’ll board the AmaDahlia, built in 2021. The ship has room for 72 passengers in 36 staterooms, including 16 spacious suites. You can take a dip in the sun deck pool with its breathtaking views, get a rejuvenating massage and work out in the well-equipped fitness room. Excursions include a visit to a Nubian village, a ride around Elephantine Island in a felucca, a traditional Egyptian sailboat, and a late-afternoon tea at the historic Old Cataract Hotel, a 19th-century Victorian palace made of rose granite.  And, stay tuned for a brand-new ship in 2024!


Abercrombie & Kent’s Nile River cruises take place aboard the Sanctuary Sun Boat III, which includes room for 36 passengers in 14 luxury cabins, 2 Presidential Suites and 2 Royal Suites with a balcony. Common areas include the Sahara Lounge, with a design that suggests an Egyptian royal hunting tent, and Cleopatra’s Oasis, where you can watch the lush landscape roll by as you take a dip in the pool. Special activities include a hot air balloon ride, where you’ll get a bird’s-eye view of the Nile and the temples that line its shores, and a lesson in preparing local dishes during a Chef’s Table experience. 


Alexander + Roberts cruises takes place aboard the sleek and modern Oberoi Philae, which has room for 44 passengers. Accommodations include cabins, suites and suites with terraces. The ship has an outdoor temperature-controlled swimming pool on the sun deck and a 24-hour health center. Special activities include a camel ride across the desert and visit the Temple of Philae, rescued from rising waters after the completion of the Aswan High Dam in 1970. 


Before or after your cruise, consider extending your trip with a visit to nearby Jordan and awe-inspiring Petra, Israel, or even Dubai.  


Despite covering much the same territory, each Nile River cruise ship has its own character and each cruise has elements that make it stand out. It can be difficult to choose the right one on your own. That’s where the guidance of a cruise expert becomes invaluable. I’ll explain the similarities and differences and help you pick the voyage that best meets your interests, timeframe, and travel style.

See more travel stories
Return to my Discover More on a Luxury River Cruise page
©  Travel Leaders Group