Splendours of Egypt & the Nile River Cruise ~ Uniworld

Journey of historical wonders

Discover the ancient wonders of Egypt

Embark on Uniworld’s Splendours of Egypt & the Nile, a 12-day journey that combines luxury with the grandeur of ancient Egyptian culture. This adventure begins and ends in Cairo, giving you the perfect introduction and farewell to one of the world’s oldest civilizations. A highlight in Cairo is the Egyptian Museum, where priceless pharaonic artifacts tell the stories of ancient royalty. From here, you’ll travel to Giza, where the iconic Pyramids and the Sphinx await. Standing before these monuments, you’ll sense the powerful legacy that has inspired generations of explorers and scholars. As you journey along the Nile, you’ll find yourself stepping back in time at the Temple of Karnak, an awe-inspiring religious complex that is unmatched in size and significance. Wandering through its towering ruins, you can almost feel the presence of those who worshipped here centuries ago. The Valley of the Kings, home to the ancient burial grounds of Egyptian royalty, provides yet another unforgettable experience as you explore the tombs and learn about the secrets of Egypt’s past.

Onboard the S.S. Sphinx, this journey is not only an exploration of Egypt’s historic treasures but also a retreat into exquisite comfort. This Uniworld Super ShipTM, newly launched with bespoke decor by local artisans, reflects the beauty and culture of Egypt in every detail. Featuring fine Egyptian cottons, hand-carved woodwork, and locally sourced marble, the ship celebrates Egypt’s craftsmanship while maintaining a focus on sustainability. With only 42 elegantly appointed suites, the S.S. Sphinx offers a sense of intimate luxury, allowing you to relax and recharge in between explorations. Whether dining at one of the two onboard gourmet restaurants, enjoying a refreshing dip in the pool, or unwinding with a massage, every experience on the S.S. Sphinx enhances the magic of Egypt’s landscapes and history. This remarkable itinerary is designed to immerse you fully in the sights, sounds, and tastes of Egypt, ensuring that your Nile cruise is as rich and captivating as the ancient culture you’ll uncover along the way.

All the things you need to know

Day 1: Arrive at Cairo International Airport. If your cruise/tour package includes a group arrival transfer or if you have purchased a private arrival transfer, a Uniworld representative will be on hand to greet you and escort you to the opulent Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza or to the stunning Nile Ritz-Carlton (or similar).

Day 2: The ancient quarter of Cairo is intense—the colors, the sounds, the density of people—and it’s likely been this way for thousands of years. Your local expert will show you a 12th-century citadel, the beautiful Alabaster Mosque and an unsurpassed collection of priceless artifacts, including mind-boggling treasures once buried with the boy king Tutankhamen.

Day 3: Prepare to be amazed at the legendary Temple of Karnak, a massive and absolutely astounding site, with gigantic columns, broad avenues lined with stone sphinxes and halls of truly epic proportions. This evening, you’ll revel in a Welcome Reception and Dinner onboard.

Like its twin shrine, the Temple of Karnak, the Temple of Luxor stands on the site of ancient Thebes, the once flourishing capital of Egypt’s New Kingdom. It was built over hundreds of years and even in ruins it is still an extraordinary place. You’ll also visit the Temple of Hathor, dedicated to the goddess of love and beauty.

The word “colossal” will take on a whole new meaning after today’s excursion to the gigantic twin statues known as the Colossi of Memnon. And that’s just the beginning—you’ll also visit the temple of one of Egypt’s rare female pharaohs as well as the Valley of the Kings, used as a royal burial place for nearly 500 years and where the mummified remains of Tutankhamen are on display.

After visiting a temple dedicated to a crocodile god today (don’t miss the display of some of the 300 mummified crocs found in the local area), hop aboard a small boat for a bird-watching excursion along the Nile.

Day 7: Today is an epic day, filled with wonders from start to finish. You’ll visit a marvel of modern engineering—the Aswan High Dam—as well as the Unfinished Obelisk and the beautiful Philae Temple complex, which was moved from one island to another back in the 1970s. But wait, there’s more. You’ll also take a ride in a felucca—a traditional Egyptian sailboat—and enjoy afternoon tea at a famous hotel depicted in Agatha Christie’s novel Death on the Nile.

Day 8: Spend the day at leisure or join us for an optional excursion to see the magnificent temples of Abu Simbel.

 

 

On today’s excursion, you’ll learn how the Temple of Esna was buried under debris for many centuries and is one of the last great Egyptian temples ever built. Your Egyptologist guide will share all sorts of fascinating insights about this significant cultural site and show you the façade bearing the last known hieroglyphic inscriptions ever recorded in Egypt.

 

Disembark in Luxor and transfer to the airport for your return flight to Cairo. Then, check in to your luxury hotel where you’ll have time to relax before dinner.

Day 11: It’s a day of Bucket List Moments today as we venture to see a number of amazing monuments—including the enigmatic Great Sphinx. You’ll have a thrilling opportunity to view the pyramids from an up-close perspective, the only way to fully appreciate their remarkable size and grandeur.

Day 12: Check out of your hotel and transfer to the Cairo International Airport for your flight home, or extend your trip with a memorable optional extension in Jerusalem.

With Uniworld, a thoughtfully curated selection of excursions is included, turning each day into a collection of special moments. From guided explorations of iconic landmarks to unique local experiences, every outing is crafted to immerse you in the heart of each destination. Whether it’s a private wine tasting in a sunlit vineyard, a cultural performance, or a historic city tour, Uniworld’s excursions add unforgettable depth and richness to your journey—each one seamlessly included for a truly all-encompassing experience.

Some of the Tour’s Included in this cruise…

  • Citadel of Salah al-Din, Alabaster Mosque and Egyptian Museum

  • Kom Ombo Temple

  • Life on the Nile Tour by Motorboat

  • Colossi of Memnon, Hatshepsut Temple and Valley of the Kings

  • Temple of Khnum

  • Pyramids at Giza, the Great Sphinx, and Sakkara Visit

  • Boat Ride in Traditional Nile River Felucca and Sunset Tea at the Old Cataract Hotel Aswan

  • Temple of Luxor

  • All-Inclusive Dining: Enjoy gourmet meals crafted by renowned chefs, featuring locally sourced ingredients and diverse culinary styles.

  • Free-Flowing Fine Wines and Spirits: Delight in complimentary fine wines, beers, and spirits served throughout the cruise, including at meals and in the lounge.

  • Excursions: Participate in a variety of included excursions, tailored to immerse guests in the culture, history, and highlights of each destination.

  • Onboard Entertainment: Experience engaging onboard activities, performances, and lectures, enhancing your journey with cultural insights.

  • Luxurious Accommodations: Stay in beautifully appointed staterooms with custom-designed décor and all modern amenities for a comfortable experience.

  • Personalised Service: Benefit from attentive service with a high crew-to-guest ratio, ensuring that every guest feels valued and well cared for.

  • Gratuities: All tips and gratuities for onboard staff and excursions are included, allowing you to relax without worrying about additional expenses.

  • Wi-Fi Access: Stay connected with complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the ship, making it easy to share your experiences and keep in touch with loved ones.

  • Fitness and Wellness: Enjoy access to onboard fitness facilities, wellness classes, and spa treatments designed to rejuvenate your body and mind.

  • Special Events and Experiences: Participate in unique experiences like cooking classes, wine tastings, and themed events that celebrate the local culture.

 

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We are here to help. Our travel experts will organise and book your dream holiday.
call us today or complete our online enquiry form to start your next adventure.

Let's Chat

We are here to help. Our travel experts will organise and book your dream holiday.
call us today or complete our online enquiry form to start your next adventure.