Arrive in Cairo, where you will be met by an AmaWaterways representative who will help you with your luggage and the
customs and immigration process. With your baggage and customs taken care of and a new stamp in your passport, you
will now be driven to your hotel.

A full day of captivating attractions await, beginning with the exquisite new Grand Egyptian Museum, the world’s largest
archaeological museum with its 100,000 artifacts on display, many never seen by the general public until the opening in
2025. With 12 main galleries, the museum is home to some of the greatest masterpieces ever crafted, including the unique
collection of Pharaonic art including ancient mummies and the complete and priceless treasures of Tutankhamen, the Boy
King. Afterwards, enjoy a delicious lunch featuring local and international cuisine. Then, visit the Mosque of Muhammad –
also known as the Alabaster Mosque – which majestically sits on the summit of the Citadel of Saladin's courtyard. From the
arcaded courtyard, enjoy the breathtaking view across the city to the Pyramids of Giza. Inside the Mosque, marvel at an
ornate interior and a splendid array of lamps suspended from the intricately decorated ceiling. Afterward, join an evening
Welcome Reception hosted by your Cruise Manager.

Meals: B, L, WR

Discover the monuments at the UNESCO-designated ancient capital of Memphis. Visit the huge statue of Ramses II, the
Alabaster Sphinx and the necropolis of Sakkara – site of the famous step pyramid of King Zoser, the oldest pyramid on
earth. Next, enjoy a lovely lunch at the famous Mena House, a historic palatial hotel, based in the shadow of the great
Pyramids of Giza. Afterwards, you’ll explore the Great Sphinx and the iconic Giza complex, which consists of three large
pyramids built between 2,589 BC and 2,504 BC. Enjoy the evening at your leisure.

Meals: B, L

This morning, visit Coptic Cairo, a neighborhood know for its historic churches and monestaries. Then take an early
afternoon flight south to Luxor —formerly known as Thebes, the capital city of the New Kingdom of Upper Egypt. Luxor, a
UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to two astonishing temples — Karnak and Luxor. Be welcomed your luxurious river
cruise ship to begin your Nile River Valley cruise. Relax and settle in and before dinner, meet your crew and celebrate with
a Captain’s Welcome Cocktail.

Meals: B, L, D

Begin the day with a visit to the Valley of Queens, home to the mummified remains of more than 30 queens and
princesses. Next, visit the tombs of ancient Egypt in the Valley of the Kings — one of the most famous archeological sites
in the world. The spectacular rock-cut tombs located on the west bank of Luxor include that of the enigmatic King
Tutankhamun, whose mummified remains are still here on display. This site also includes Seti 1’s Tomb, where you’ll enjoy
rare access. Afterwards, go to Deir el-Bahri to see the Temple of Hatshepsut, one of Egypt’s most successful pharaohs and
the country’s first female ruler. Your day’s adventure concludes with an up-close view of the Colossi of Memnon — two
gigantic statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III. Once back on board your ship, relax on the Upper Deck and take in the
amazing scenery or join the chef at an informal cooking class.

Note: As of spring 2024, Queen Nefertari’s Tomb has been temporarily closed with no official reopening date. Until
reopening, the equally impressive Seti 1 tomb will be visited as an alternative.

Meals: B, L, D

The city of Edfu is best known for one of Egypt’s most remarkably preserved temples, dedicated to Horus, the falcon-
headed god. Built in 230 BC, it is the second-largest temple in Egypt and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with walls that display compelling details about the religion and language of the country’s Greco-Roman period. After visiting Edfu, relax on board and take in the Nile River’s timeless landscapes as the ship continues onward to Aswan.

Meals: B, L, D

Enjoy free time in Aswan or go on an optional excursion to Abu Simbel (must be prebooked). If you purchased the optional
excursion, enjoy an early morning flight over Lake Nasser to the more than 3,000-year-old Abu Simbel, a UNESCO World
Heritage Site dedicated to Ramses II, one of the most active of pharaohs, along with the smaller temple dedicated to his
chief wife Queen Nefertari. The front of the main temple has four gargantuan statues of Ramses II on his throne, each
measuring nearly 70 feet high and discovered half buried in sand in 1813. Later in the afternoon, take a peaceful ride in a
felucca, a traditional Egyptian sailboat, around beautiful Elephantine Island, which locals say is the home to legendary
Egyptian god Khnumo. Cap the day off with an optional late afternoon tea at the historic Old Cataract Hotel, a 19th-century
Victorian Palace crafted in rose granite. Delight in an authentic “high tea” experience and revel in the stunning views
overlooking the Nile and Elephantine Island. After dinner tonight, continue to experience Egyptian magic with a traditional
folkloric-style belly dance on board your ship. 

*Guests can reserve the optional tour to Abu Simbel at time of booking your Nile adventure
*Abu Simbel: $510.00 per person (highly recommended to book early)
*High Tea: $75.00 per person (highly recommended to book early)

Meals: B, L, D

Board a motorboat and cruise to the UNESCO-designated Philae Temple complex, boasting some of the most stunningly
restored and preserved hieroglyphs in Egypt. It was constructed between 380 BC and 362 BC and dedicated to the
goddess Isis, the wife of Osiris and mother of Horus. Next head to a colorful Nubian village on Hisa Island. Meet the warm
and friendly Nubian people who will welcome you to their village. During the afternoon, cruise to the Great Temple of Kom
Ombo, where its soaring columns dramatically rise above the Nile River. Unique in Egypt, this temple is dedicated to two
gods — the crocodile god, Sobek, sitting on the right; and the falcon-headed Haroeris, “The Good Doctor.” After visiting
Kom Ombo, relax on board and take in the Nile River’s timeless landscapes as the ship continues onward to Luxor. In the
evening, join your crew outside in a celebration of local customs with the chance to don a Galabeya, traditional Egyptian
attire, and toast to the rich culture and history of the Nile River Valley.

Meals: B, L, D

Spend a morning of scenic cruising along the glistening Nile River. Relax on the Sun Deck as you cruise from Esna back to
Luxor. First, explore the Temple of Karnak, the largest religious complex in Egypt and one of the largest in the world,
covering about 200 acres in a vast network of columns, hieroglyphics, obelisks, sphinxes and colossi — even a lake is on
the grounds. The Hypostyle Hall is a great architectural marvel and filled with its roof blocks, supported by colossal 134
columns standing at 70 feet high, with 12 larger columns standing at 80 feet high lining the central aisle. This hall is still the
largest room of any religious building in the world. After visiting the temple, journey to a museum and discover the art of
papyrus making. Learn how the ancient Egyptians used this special plant that flourished in the Egyptian Delta and Nile
River Valley. Made from the aquatic papyrus plant, also known as paper plant, this unique writing material served many
purposes in ancient times from sails, cloth, food and especially paper for important documents and texts. Afterwards, you
will visit the Temple of Luxor, constructed over hundreds of years by Amenhotep III, Ramses II, Tutankhamun and other
pharaohs. You then have the option of heading back to the ship to relax or visiting the colorful Luxor Market, where you can
find eye-catching piles of spices, jewelry and clothing as well as irresistible smells of incense and perfumes.

Meals: B, L, D

Set sail to Qena to explore its ancient Egyptian heritage. You’ll go to Dendara to visit the best-preserved temple in Egypt,
the Temple of Hathor – the Goddess of Love, to whom the powers of joy, feminine love and motherhood were attributed.
The temple was built by Ptolemy and a group of Romans who worshipped her; so don’t miss the back of the temple where
there is a relief depicting Cleopatra with Caesarion, her son by Julius Caesar, the Roman Emperor who brought us the
months of July and August. Following your visit here, sail back to Luxor. 

Meals: B, L, D

Disembark the ship in Luxor and fly back to Cairo where you will be taken to the Abdeen Presidential Palace, considered
one of the most luxurious palaces in the world. The palace consists of multiple museums, including the Silver Museum; the
Arms Museum; the Royal Family Museum; a Presidential Gifts Museum and a Historical Documents Museum, which is a
relatively new addition. It is also one of the official residences and places of work for the President of Egypt. Afterwards, be
treated to a special lunch at the palace.

Meals: B, L

Bid farewell to Cairo and prepare for your flight home. 

Meals: B

Upon arrival and after you have cleared customs and immigration, an AmaWaterway's representative will meet you and transfer you to the 5-star St. Regis Amman, now an established landmark in Jordan's capital city.

Once part of the Roman Empire, Jordan is home to a legacy of Roman architectural treasures. Just outside the city is the
extremely well-preserved ancient city of Jerash, dating back 6,500 years and considered one of the best examples of
Roman influence in the Middle East. After exploring this historic site, enjoy lunch at the award-winning Lebanese House
Restaurant, which offers a unique atmosphere. In the afternoon, tour Amman’s Old City neighborhood with its rolling hills,
historic sites, and colorful markets. Afterwards, browse a sweet shop and sample kanfeh, an ultra-creamy Middle East
dessert.

Meals: B, L

Venture west to Madaba, “The City of Mosaics,” known for its famous mosaics—beautiful reminders of the Byzantine era.
Afterwards, visit the Dead Sea, one of the world’s most intriguing natural wonders. Situated at approximately 1,500 feet
(460 meters) below sea level, the Dead Sea is one of the world’s saltiest bodies of water, and its healing waters have been
sought after for more than 2,500 years. After lunch at a seaside resort, enjoy some time to relax and go for an easy swim—
or float, due to the natural buoyancy because of the high salt content of the sea. Afterward, head south, arriving in Petra in
the early evening.

Photo by Kelly Repreza

Meals: B, L

Venture west to Madaba, “The City of Mosaics,” known for its famous mosaics—beautiful reminders of the Byzantine era.
Afterwards, visit the Dead Sea, one of the world’s most intriguing natural wonders. Situated at approximately 1,500 feet
(460 meters) below sea level, the Dead Sea is one of the world’s saltiest bodies of water, and its healing waters have been
sought after for more than 2,500 years. After lunch at a seaside resort, enjoy some time to relax and go for an easy swim—
or float, due to the natural buoyancy because of the high salt content of the sea. Afterward, head south, arriving in Petra in
the early evening.

Photo by Kelly Repreza

Meals: B, L

After breakfast, enjoy the ancient city of Petra, the “Rose City.” Visit the Siq, a narrow passageway nearly three-quarters of
a mile long carved into sheer rock walls. While the Treasury is the most well-known ruin in Petra, it’s not the only one. You
will also see the 4,000 spectator Theater, the Courts, Qasr Bint Pharaoun, Temple of the Winged Lion and other
monuments. After lunch at a local guest house, head to Wadi Rum with its red-pink, stunning natural arches and
mountains, and prehistoric rock engravings. Often referred to as the “Valley of the Moon,” it is a romantic and timeless
place. Enjoy a Jeep tour and traverse the unique desert landscape, featuring dramatic sandstone and basalt mountains,
making it one of the most beautiful deserts. Return to Petra and experience an authentic dinner at a Bedouin tent. Discover
the fascinating culture of these nomadic people who have lived in the desert for thousands of years.

Meals: B, L, D

Drive north to Mount Nebo, one of the most revered sites in Jordan where Moses first viewed the Promised Land. After a
local lunch nearby, return to Amman and Queen Alia International Airport for your flight to Cairo.

Arrive at the Dubai international airport, where you will meet an AmaWaterways’ representative and be transferred to your
hotel.

Visit the Dubai Museum housed in the Al Fahidi Fort, which is the oldest existing building in the city and a must-visit for a
taste of old Dubai. Afterwards, drive through the Al Fahidi historic district, commonly referred to as Al Bastakiya. Enjoy a
boat trip down the massive Dubai Water Canal, past many of the city’s luxury hotels and landmarks. Next, visit the Gold
Souk, Dubai’s most famous and visited souk, offering a huge selection of jewelry made from gold, silver and diamonds
before exploring the Spice Souk, where countless flavors, fragrant herbs and colorful spices will greet you at every turn.
Another highlight of the day is a visit to Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. In the afternoon, enjoy a desert safari
where you will be immersed in the beauty and customs of the desert, with activities such as dune bashing and sand
boarding, along with cultural elements such as shisha pipes, henna painting, belly dancing and more, followed by a
barbecue dinner. 

Meals: B, D

Start the day with a visit to Zayed Grand Mosque, the biggest in the country and well-known for its grand chandeliers. After
your visit here, you will drive past Emirates Palace and the sprawling Presidential Palace in Ras Al Akhdar, stopping at
each for photo opportunities as you make your way to Heritage Village. Once there, you can shop, explore regional artifacts
and watch local artisans as they mold pottery, blow glass sculptures and weave fabric on a loom. Conclude your day’s
adventure with a visit to Yas Marina, one of Abu Dhabi’s finest marinas, which includes dining, fitness and leisure facilities.
 

Meals: B

Check out of the hotel and transfer to the Dubai International Airport for your flight to Cairo.

Check out of your hotel in Cairo and take a private air-conditioned car via the desert road to Alexandria, checking in at the
luxurious Four Seasons Hotel in Alexandria for two nights, which features sweeping views over the Mediterranean, with
convenient beach access and within walking distance of several restaurants and shops. After getting settled in the hotel,
join your Egyptologist guide for an afternoon visit to the ancient Roman Amphitheater, the only one of its kind in Egypt,
which was only recently uncovered in 1960. Plus, explore the Greco Roman Museum, featuring a large collection of
antiquities such as statues, Coptic art, precious metals, textiles and jewelry.

Following your included buffet breakfast at the hotel, venture to the famous Alexandria Bibliotheca – a major library and
cultural center on the Mediterranean shore that features museums, galleries, a planetarium and more. You will also marvel
at the Citadel of Qaitbay, a picture-perfect 15th-century fortress with fairytale turrets that was erected on the site of the
former Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Delight in an included seafood lunch
overlooking the Mediterranean before an afternoon at your leisure to discover the magnificent city of Alexandria on your
own.

The next morning after a delicious buffet breakfast, you will be driven to the monasteries of Wadi el Natrun, a collection of
ancient Coptic Orthodox monasteries in Egypt’s western desert dating back to the 4th century. More than 400 monks
occupy this international pilgrimage site, and you will have a chance to connect with some of them during your time here.
Later in the day, be driven back to Cairo to spend the night resting at Le Meridian Airport Hotel.

Note: Most flights depart Cairo in the early morning hours; accommodating our guests in Cairo on the final night of this
extension ensures an easier morning transfer to the airport.

Head to the airport for your morning flight back home. A buffet breakfast is included.