For seasoned travelers and first-time explorers alike, Egypt has always held an irresistible allure. The land of pharaohs, pyramids and the timeless Nile River continues to captivate the imagination. In 2025 or 2026, there’s no better way to experience Egypt’s wonders than with AmaWaterways’ 11-night Secrets of Egypt & the Nile itinerary, a journey that seamlessly blends ancient marvels with modern luxury, and—for a limited time—includes complimentary roundtrip airfare on select departures.

Why Egypt, Why Now?

Egypt is having a moment. With the highly anticipated Grand Egyptian Museum opening its doors and a renewed global appetite for meaningful, immersive travel, this destination is topping many bucket lists. River cruising on the Nile is now one of the most sought-after ways to experience Egypt’s treasures, offering both convenience and comfort in a region where logistics can be daunting for independent travelers.

AmaWaterways, a leader in river cruising, has responded to this demand with two luxurious and spacious ships—AmaDahlia and AmaLilia—designed specifically for the Nile. Their itineraries are crafted for travelers who crave authenticity, adventure and indulgence.

The Journey: From Cairo’s Grandeur to the Nile’s Mystique

Your Egyptian adventure begins in Cairo, where you will be welcomed with a three-night stay at a 4- or 5-star hotel, such as the luxurious Four Seasons Cairo at the First Residence, renowned for its central location and plush amenities. From this elegant base, expert Egyptologists (one for every 25 guests) guide you to the city’s most iconic sites: the awe-inspiring Pyramids of Giza, the enigmatic Great Sphinx and the dazzling new Grand Egyptian Museum, home to one of the world’s most significant collections of ancient artifacts.

After soaking in Cairo’s historic splendor, a short flight whisks you to Luxor, where your ship awaits. The seven-night Nile River cruise is the heart of the journey, offering panoramic river views from spacious staterooms, vibrant Egyptian-inspired décor and amenities such as a sun deck pool and onboard salon.

Immersive Experiences at Every Turn

Each day brings new discoveries. In Luxor, explore the Valley of the Kings and Queens, including the legendary tomb of Tutankhamun, and marvel at the monumental Karnak and Luxor Temples. In Edfu, visit the remarkably well-preserved Temple of Horus. At Kom Ombo, delve into ancient Egyptian religion at the unique double temple dedicated to Sobek, the crocodile god, and Horus, the falcon god.

As you cruise south to Aswan, experience the tranquil beauty of the Nile aboard a traditional felucca sailboat and enjoy breathtaking views of the riverbanks dotted with lush palms and timeless villages. On Heisa Island, guests are welcomed by a vibrant Nubian community, offering a rare glimpse into the region’s ancient culture.

AmaWaterways also curates exclusive moments that elevate your journey. A festive onboard galabeya evening invites guests to don traditional attire and celebrate with local music and cuisine, while a private lunch at Cairo’s regal Abdeen Presidential Palace on your final day provides a truly memorable finale.

Luxury and Peace of Mind, Every Step of the Way

Traveling with AmaWaterways means every detail is handled. From seamless transfers and domestic flights to daily excursions and English-speaking staff, guests can relax and immerse themselves in the experience without logistical worries. The ships themselves are designed for comfort, featuring spacious staterooms with panoramic windows, inviting public spaces and attentive service that consistently earns rave reviews.

One recent guest described her experience on AmaLilia as “the trip of a lifetime . . . an incredible, stress-free journey,” highlighting the friendliness of the ship’s Cruise Manager and crew. For those concerned about navigating Egypt independently, the guided, all-inclusive nature of this journey provides added reassurance.

A Limited-Time Offer: Complimentary Airfare

For travelers seeking exceptional value, AmaWaterways is currently offering complimentary roundtrip economy airfare from most U.S. gateways and major Canadian gateways on select Secrets of Egypt & the Nile departures through 2025 and into 2026—a savings that makes this bucket-list adventure even more enticing. Premium and business class upgrades are also available at a reduced cost, and the offer is valid for reservations made by July 31, 2025.

With staterooms still available for 2025 and 2026, now is the time to secure your place on this extraordinary journey. Your travel advisor can help customize your trip, including pre- or post-cruise extensions to destinations like Dubai, Jordan, and Alexandria if you are eager to explore even more of the region.

In a world where travelers are seeking the extraordinary, Egypt stands out as this year’s must-reserve destination. AmaWaterways’ Secrets of Egypt & the Nile offers you the perfect combination of luxury, authenticity and adventure, making it the perfect choice for those ready to unlock the mysteries of one of the world’s oldest civilizations in unrivaled style.