Exploring the Enigmatic Tombs of Egypt’s Valley of the Kings
Stepping into one of the 65 known tombs nestled within Egypt’s Valley of the Kings can be a spine-tingling experience. Carved deep into desert limestone by hand, these ancient sites, dating back 3,000 years, serve as a remarkable glimpse into antiquity.
Highly decorated passages quarried into the limestone lead to a tomb in the Valley of the Kings. Photo Credit: Tom Stieghorst
Descending into these tombs during a cruise on AmaWaterways’ AmaLilia provides an awe-inspiring experience. The vibrant colors adorning the walls have been preserved for millennia, sealed beneath one of the world’s driest climates.
The intricate depictions of vultures and cobras guarding the pharaoh invoke a sense of reverence, while hieroglyphics blanket the surfaces, presenting a mystery that only experts can decode. Among the tombs, the famous burial site of King Tutankhamun lies just 28 feet below ground. Discovered in 1922, it housed 5,398 funerary treasures, many crafted from solid gold.
A Nile river cruise reveals the awe-inspiring remnants of a civilization that flourished over 4,500 years before Columbus’s voyage to America. The eight-day itinerary includes site visits to monumental wonders such as the temples at Karnak and Luxor, the imposing statues of Ramses II at Abu Simbel, and the iconic Great Pyramid of Giza.
For many on board, exploring the Nile wasn’t a prior destination, but its significance became apparent throughout the journey, showcasing the concept of “the thinking person’s cruise,” as defined by industry experts.
The Philae Temple was dismantled and relocated after its original island location was flooded by construction of the Aswan High Dam. Photo Credit: Tom Stieghorst
Advantages of Experiencing Egypt by Water
Exploring Egypt from the water offers unique advantages, as many of the must-see historical sites are located along the Nile. Traveling between temples by ship is not only simpler but also safer than navigating Egypt’s highways. The refreshing breezes from the river provide relief during temperatures that soared to 110 degrees in mid-April.
The serenity of sailing adds to the experience: mornings greet you with the tranquil sight of the greenish river, flanked by lush marsh grasses, date palms, and minarets. The winding waters lead past countless banana tree groves under clear blue skies, enhanced by scenes of local fishermen and their colorful wooden boats.
The ancient temple at Abu Simbel in southern Egypt features four 70-foot tall statues of Ramses II. Photo Credit: Tom Stieghorst
Expert Guidance Enhances the Experience
The benefits of the journey were amplified by the insights of two dedicated Egyptologists, Marwa Abbas and Randa Abdel Wahab. Their guidance transformed the trip into an educational expedition, illuminating the wonders that guests encountered. A memorable refrain from Wahab, “yalla, yalla” (let’s go), punctuated our explorations.
The cruise’s demographic included mostly couples aged 60 and above, with a mix of Canadian, American, and Australian passengers. The ship accommodates 82 guests over four decks and is equipped with two dining venues, a lounge, a small gym, massage facilities, and a shaded sundeck featuring a pool.
The AmaLilia, one of the newest vessels on the Nile, boasts a contemporary design. Its sister ship, AmaDahlia, offers a different aesthetic, as experienced in a tour while in Luxor. The riverboat experience commences with a three-night stay in Cairo at the luxurious St. Regis Cairo. Travelers explore the treasures of Giza, including the Grand Egyptian Museum, Saladin’s Citadel, and Coptic Cairo’s ancient churches and synagogues.
The Temple of Luxor was one of the most venerated sites in ancient Egypt. Photo Credit: Tom Stieghorst
Dining and Entertainment: A Taste of Egypt
Onboard cuisine blends Egyptian and Western flavors, complemented by select Egyptian wines. Although not every dish appealed, several, including a surprising pasta-and-chickpea creation, impressed with their rich flavors. The culinary team enthusiastically showcased traditional dishes.
Evening activities included screenings of classics like “Death on the Nile,” captivating performances by Nubian dancers, and lighthearted contests such as mummifying guests in toilet paper.
Travel Logistics for Convenience
AmaWaterways efficiently managed transfers, ensuring a smooth passage through customs and passport control both upon arrival and departure. The perfect touch for a 4:45 a.m. flight departure.
Overall, a journey along the Nile not only unveils the rich tapestry of Egypt’s history but also allows for a comfortable, safe exploration of one of the world’s oldest civilizations.
