Secrets of the Nile Egyptian Cruise
April 20 thru May 1, 2026
Discover the secrets of one of history’s greatest civilizations as we cruise OUTbound along the banks of the Nile. Explore ancient wonders like the Pyramids of Giza, the Great Sphinx, the breathtaking Temple of Luxor, and the mystifying Valley of the Kings. This unforgettable itinerary includes exclusive experiences, such as a private tour of the tomb of the Two 'Brothers' and a private lunch at the Abdeen Presidential Palace. Our expert Egyptologist guides will take you from the pyramids of Cairo and the ancient capital of Luxor to the desert outpost of Aswan and the magnificent Temple of Ramses II. Uncover the many mysteries and secrets that have shaped Egypt’s past and continue to influence the future of this remarkable land.
Come sail with us to discover the Secrets of the Nile & Ancient Pharaohs of Egypt!
Book today and choose a payment plan that fits your budget! Choose from either convenient quarterly payments or spread your payments out over monthly installments. Either way, OUTbound has a payment plan designed for you!
All Included, All Inclusive!
• All shore excursions
• All onboard meals & hotel buffet breakfasts
• Select standard spirits, international beers & wines
• Bottled water, soft drinks, specialty coffees & teas
• Concierge services for personal guidance & reservations
Ama Lilia
82 Passengers / 13 Suites / 22 French Balcony Staterooms / 6 Riverview Staterooms
Launched in 2024, the Ama Lilia is a true treasure of the Nile. Specially curated with upscale regionally-inspired décor and 41 staterooms, including 13 marvelous suites, the Ama Lilia will carry our OUTbounders through Egypt in style with even more unforgettable, exclusive, and immersive experiences than ever before.
Relax while taking in the exquisite views of the Egyptian landscape and all its riches while staying in state-of-the-art comfort, pampered by your warm and welcoming crew, professionally trained to deliver unparalleled service.
Date | Port | Arrive | Depart |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monday, April 20 | Cairo | 1:00pm | overnight |
| Tuesday, April 21 | Cairo | overnight | |
| Wednesday, April 22 | Cairo | overnight | |
| Thursday, April 23 | Luxor | 10:00am | overnight |
| Friday, April 24 | Luxor | 11:00pm | |
| Saturday, April 25 | Edfu | 9:00am | 6:00pm |
| Sunday, April 26 | Abu Simbel | 8:00am | 1:00pm |
| Aswan | 3:00pm | overnight | |
| Monday, April 27 | Aswan | 11:00am | |
| Kom Ombo | 1:00pm | 10:00pm | |
| Tuesday, April 28 | Luxor | 10:00am | 9:00pm |
| Wednesday, April 29 | Qena & Luxor | 8:00am | 2:00pm |
| Thursday, April 30 | Cairo | 8:00am | overnight |
| Friday, May 1 | Cairo | 2:00pm | depart |
Welcome to Egypt and the eclectic capital city of Cairo. Upon your arrival, you will be met by an OUTbound representative who will help you with your luggage and the customs and immigration process. With a new visa in your passport, your journey into wonder starts with a three-night stay at your luxury hotel, the St Regis Cairo. Settle into your room and meet your fellow OUTbounders at a welcome reception fit for a pharaoh to kick off our grand adventure together.
For centuries, Cairo has played a central role in religious and cultural developments in Egypt. Today, we’ll see the Citadel of Sultan Salah al-Din al-Ayyubi, one of the most impressive defensive fortresses dating to the Middle Ages. Its strategic location on the Muqattam Hills gave it a formidable defensive position and offered an unrestricted panoramic view of Cairo. After, we’ll visit Old Cairo’s narrow golden-stone streets. One of the oldest cities in the world, Coptic Cairo is home to the Babylon Fortress, the Hanging Church, and the Greek Church of St. George.
Venture into the Grand Egyptian Museum for a morning steeped in history, where you can explore the precious artifacts from King Tutankhamun’s tomb, offering insights into the young pharaoh’s life and legacy. The Solar Boat exhibit is another highlight, featuring a meticulously restored cedar wood barge. This afternoon, we’ll witness the grandeur of the Pyramids themselves as we explore the Giza plateau. Finally, we’ll see the enigmatic Sphinx, a limestone marvel that has guarded these necropolis grounds for millennia.
After checking out of our hotel, we’ll visit the Step Pyramid of Djoser in Saqqara, one of Egypt’s most iconic monuments, which revolutionized stone architecture and royal burials as the very first pyramid that the ancient Egyptians ever built. After, we’ll get a rare tour of the Tomb of the Two ‘Brothers’... history’s first-ever recorded same-sex couple. The tomb belongs to Khnumhotep and Niankhkhnum, who held the titles “overseer of the manicurists of the Great House”. We’ll then take an early afternoon flight to Luxor, where we’ll board our luxurious riverboat and meet our crew.
Today we’re on a quest to see the Valley of the Kings, including the tomb of the enigmatic King Tutankhamun and the tomb of Seti I, one of the deepest and most beautifully decorated tombs ever discovered. We’ll then visit the Temple of Hatshepsut, the queen who pretended to be a king in order to become ruler of Egypt during the Eighteenth Dynasty. Your day’s adventure concludes with an up-close view of the Colossi of Memnon... two gigantic statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III.
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 our ship continues to sail onward to Aswan.
Today we’ll fly to Abu Simbel to see the famous Temple of Ramses II. Carved out of the mountain on the west bank of the Nile between 1274 and 1244 BC, this imposing main temple of the Abu Simbel complex was as much dedicated to the deified Ramses II himself as to Ra-Horakhty, Amun and Ptah. Over the centuries, both the Nile and the desert sands shifted, and this temple was lost to the world until 1813, when it was rediscovered by chance by the Swiss explorer Jean-Louis Burckhardt. Later tonight, we’ll end the day with a traditional folkloric-style belly dance onboard our ship.
This morning we’ll visit the tiny island of Philae near Aswan. From early times, Philae captured the imagination of countless travelers to Egypt. The Philae Temple complex was dedicated to Isis, the goddess of love, wife of Osiris and mother of Horus. After our time on the island, we’ll travel by boat for to visit a local Nubian tribe and get a special glimpse inside their daily life. We’ll be treated to a traditional dance and spend some time learning about these descendants of an ancient civilization that thrived in the Nile valley.
This morning we’re sailing to Kom Ombo, a small town along the Nile. In the heart of one of Egypt’s fertile agricultural regions, Kom Ombo is surrounded by vast fields of sugarcane and corn. The town’s highlight is its namesake temple, the Grand Temple at Kom Ombo, perched on a low hill overlooking the Nile. The temple is unique because it is, in fact, a double temple, dedicated to Sobek, the crocodile god, and Horus, the falcon-headed god. The layout combines two temples in one, with each side having its own gateways and chapels.
Spend a morning relaxing on the Sun Deck as we sail from Esna back to Luxor. We’ll visit the Temple of Karnak, the largest religious complex in Egypt. Next, we’ll discover the art of papyrus making, learning how the ancient Egyptians used this special plant that flourished in the Egyptian Delta. Made from the aquatic papyrus plant, this unique writing material served many purposes in ancient times from sails, cloth, food and especially paper. You’ll then visit 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.
Known in ancient Egypt as Caene, Qena’s location on the banks of the Nile River has bolstered its prosperity over millennia. Merchants and travelers have long journeyed here from the Red Sea through the valley, bringing goods from Persia and beyond. The Sheikh el-Qenawi Mosque on the main square serves as a monument to the city’s rich and all-embracing Islamic and Sufi past. Qena is mostly known as the gateway to the magnificent ruins of the Dendera Temple. Its stone gate and towering columns adorned with hieroglyphics are some of Egypt’s best-preserved structures.
This morning we will leave our ship and fly back to Cairo, where we will tour the Abdeen Presidential Palace. The palace consists of multiple museums, including the Royal Family Museum, a Museum of Presidential Gifts and a Historical Documents Museum. Afterwards, we’ll be treated to a special lunch at the palace. Finally, you will explore the old part of the city, which includes Coptic Cairo, where the Hanging Church and Ben Ezra Synagogue are located. We’ll have one last dinner together before leaving amazing Egypt the next morning.
Date | Port | Arrive | Depart |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monday, April 20 | Cairo | 1:00pm | overnight |
| Tuesday, April 21 | Cairo | overnight | |
| Wednesday, April 22 | Cairo | overnight | |
| Thursday, April 23 | Luxor | 10:00am | overnight |
| Friday, April 24 | Luxor | 11:00pm | |
| Saturday, April 25 | Edfu | 9:00am | 6:00pm |
| Sunday, April 26 | Abu Simbel | 8:00am | 1:00pm |
| Aswan | 3:00pm | overnight | |
| Monday, April 27 | Aswan | 11:00am | |
| Kom Ombo | 1:00pm | 10:00pm | |
| Tuesday, April 28 | Luxor | 10:00am | 9:00pm |
| Wednesday, April 29 | Qena & Luxor | 8:00am | 2:00pm |
| Thursday, April 30 | Cairo | 8:00am | overnight |
| Friday, May 1 | Cairo | 2:00pm | depart |
Welcome to Cairo! For centuries, Cairo has played a central role in religious and cultural developments in Egypt. Today, the city is home to the only Wonder of the Ancient World still intact... the Great Pyramids of Giza. Upon your arrival at the airport, you’ll be met by an OUTbound representative who will help you with your luggage to transfer to our hotel, the stunning St Regis located on the Nile River. This evening, meet your fellow OUTbounders at our welcome reception.
A full day of exploration awaits, beginning with a visit to the Alabaster Mosque, which sits majestically on the summit of the Citadel of Saladin’s courtyard. From the arcaded courtyard, you’ll enjoy the breathtaking view across the city. After an authentic lunch at a local restaurant, we visit Coptic Cairo, part of Old Cairo which encompasses the Babylon Fortress, the Hanging Church, and the Greek Church of St. George. After touring each of these sites, you’ll have free time to shop the local bazaar or explore the ancient narrow streets on your own.
Today you’ll discover Egypt’s history as never before with a full morning exploring the magnificent Grand Egyptian Museum. The GEM is the brand new, state-of-the-art future dedicated to preserving Egypt’s past. We’ll have lunch at the famous Mena House, a historic palatial hotel, based in the shadow of the great Pyramids of Giza. We’ll spend the afternoon exploring the iconic pyramids and take a camel ride to the most famous panoramic viewing site of the Giza complex. We’ll end our day with a visit to the Great Sphinx, guardian of the ancient pyramids and symbol of Egypt’s glorious history.
After breakfast, we’ll check out of our hotel and visit Sakkara... site of the famous step pyramid of King Djoser, the oldest pyramid on earth. You’ll get an OUTbound Exclusive tour of the Tomb of the Two ‘Brothers’, history’s first recorded same-sex couple, Niankhkhnum and Khnumhotep... the king’s hairdressers and the supervisors of his manicurists. The assumed romantic relationship between the men is based on depictions of the two men embracing and standing nose to nose, a gesture in ancient times reserved for spouses. In the afternoon we’ll fly to Luxor to board our riverboat on the Nile.
Your day starts with a visit to 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 are located on the west bank of Luxor, where we will visit the most famous tomb of all pharaohs, King Tutankhamun. Next, we’ll venture inside the tomb of Seti I, one of the longest, deepest, and most beautifully decorated tombs ever discovered. Finally, we’ll visit Deir el-Bahri to see the Temple of Hatshepsut, one of Egypt’s most successful pharaohs and the country’s first female ruler.
This morning we’ll explore the Temple of Horus, dedicated to the god Horus of Behedet, Lord of Edfu. To honor Horus, the people of Edfu built a grand temple from 237 to 57 BC, a young structure by Egyptian standards. The Temple of Horus is the most famous monument at Tell Edfu. Due to its completeness and state of preservation, it is the best example of a Ptolemaic temple building in Egypt. You’ll learn about the Festival of the Living Falcon, an annual celebration of the crowning of the sacred bird and the re-establishment of the pharaoh’s kingship and power.
We’ll take an early morning flight over Lake Nasser to 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 primary 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.
This morning we’ll take a small boat to the Philae Island Temple complex, boasting some of the most stunningly restored and preserved hieroglyphics in Egypt. The tiny island of Philae has captured the imagination of countless travelers to Egypt from ancient times. The island’s temple is dedicated to Isis, goddess of love, wife of Osiris and mother of Horus. Later, we’ll visit a colorful Nubian village on nearby Hisa Island where we’ll meet the warm and friendly Nubian people, descendants of an ancient civilization that once thrived in the Nile valley.
After a morning of cruising the Nile, we’ll visit the Great Temple of Kom Ombo with its soaring, dramatic columns. Unique in Egypt, this temple is dedicated to two gods... the crocodile god, Sobek, sitting on the right, and the falcon-headed god Haroeris. 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 and toast to the rich culture and history of the Nile River Valley.
This afternoon we arrive in Luxor. First, we’ll 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. The Hypostyle Hall is a great architectural marvel, filled with roof blocks that are supported by colossal columns lining the central aisle. Next, we’ll visit the Temple of Luxor, constructed over hundreds of years by Amenhotep III, Ramses II, Tutankhamun and other pharaohs.
Today we set sail to Qena and Dendara to visit the best-preserved temple in Egypt, the Temple of Hathor, 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. 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, we’ll sail back to Luxor in the afternoon.
Today we will disembark our 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 is also one of the official residences and places of work for the President of Egypt. Afterwards, we’ll be treated to a special lunch at the palace. Finally, you will explore the old part of the city, which includes Coptic Cairo, where the Hanging Church and Ben Ezra Synagogue are located.
The artfully decorated Panorama Lounge, located at the front of the ship on the Lotus Deck, was named for the superb views of the passing shorelines that guests will enjoy courtesy of the oversized windows. Intimate seating areas are peppered throughout the open floor plan, allowing you the choice of going all in with the group or enjoying a little private time between you and a smaller gathering of friends. Enjoy cocktails, games and nightly entertainment in this picturesque setting.
Enjoy a cocktail at the main bar with us while watching a spectacular sunset together. Located within the Panoramic Lounge, you’ll find originality and innovation, with a new twist on the ol’ purveyors of gin and tonics and buckets of beer. This is the place where you’ll spend an enjoyable evening nursing a cocktail with great friends, old and new! Whether you’re in the mood for a mixed drink or glass of wine, we invite you to join us and enjoy one of best bars on the Nile with your fellow OUTbounders. Order your favorite festive holiday cocktail you’ll savor after a long day of exploring ancient Egypt.
At your service, OUTbounders will find everything they need at the reception desk, located at the heart of the ship on the Lotus Deck. It’s the perfect place to meet with friends before dinner or ask any questions you may have during our voyage along the Nile. Here’s where you’ll leave each morning as we venture OUTbound to discover the treasures of ancient Egypt, and where you will return at the end of each day... greeted by a friendly smile and fresh drink.
The coffee bar is located just inside the lounge on the Lotus Deck. The automatic specialty coffee machine makes grabbing your favorite latte or cappuccino quick and easy. You’ll also find a wide selection of specialty teas from around the world. It’s the perfect place to meet friends or grab a quick nibble. Early risers will find fresh pastries here before breakfast, and night owls will quickly discover that this is the place for a late night bite before turning in for the evening.
Savor authentic regional delicacies as we cruise the Nile, along with more familiar western cuisine for those who are looking for a taste of home. All the food onboard is sourced from regional suppliers, meaning your meals are extremely fresh and always in season. You’ll enjoy plentiful buffets for breakfast and lunch with a wide variety of choices. Every OUTbounder will be invited to indulge in the multi-course dinner menus specially prepared to enhance your Egyptian experience. Throughout your voyage, you’ll be treated to unlimited mixed drinks, wine, beer or soft drinks.
The Chef’s Table is the place to sample the very best of Egyptian cuisine. Located on the Jasmine Deck at the rear of the ship, the Chef’s Table is a welcoming eatery with an outdoor patio offering covered, open-air seating. It’s the perfect place for dining alfresco while enjoying a refreshing drink and taking in the sights along the Nile. For our OUTbounders looking to experience some local flavors while watching the sunset, the Chef’s Table is the ideal spot for a stylish look and stunning views.
Your space for relaxation and rejuvenation, the onboard Wellness Area provides everything from facial treatments to massages, delivered by a trained beauty therapist. Downstairs on Acacia Deck, the salon has a hairdresser, where you can get haircuts, head and neck massages, and other services for a nominal fee. Be sure to book quickly at the reception desk when you embark because availability is limited.
If you stick to a daily fitness regime at home, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t keep it up on your vacation. The onboard fitness room has everything you need to work up a sweat on your travels so you can justify one more delightful dish or extravagant cocktail. The gym has a workout bike, free weights and a treadmill. If the fitness center isn’t where you want to be, then take advantage of the ship’s track. The walking track encircles the perimeter of the Sun Deck, so you can kill two birds with one stone... exercise and enjoy the view.
Built for Egypt’s warm climate, the cozy Sun Deck provides ample opportunity to sample the sun and gentle river breezes. The open-air aspect of the deck is the perfect place to enjoy a bite to eat and a drink or two with your fellow OUTbounders. Literally on top of the world, you’ll spend hours simply soaking up the views of the Nile as the ancient world around us drifts by. With plenty of comfy seating and a walking track for those active OUTbounders, there’s an option for everyone up top.
The Rooftop Bar is the perfect place to grab a drink while taking in the stunning views of the passing Nile. Located at the rear of the Sun Deck, the Rooftop Bar provides old favorites while offering unique Egyptian tastes. It’s the perfect way to cool down after a long day of exploring the famous Egyptian tombs. This is also the place to grab a drink and watch the show each evening as Ra, the ancient Egyptian God of, makes his daily exit in spectacular style with an unforgettable sunset while sailing the Nile.
The pool on the Sun Deck is the perfect place to relax with a few friends, enjoying a glass of wine or a freshly made cocktail under the beautiful Egyptian sky. It’s also the ideal way to spend your afternoon enjoying a panoramic view of the magnificent landscapes. It’s the ideal spot to visit with your fellow OUTbounders during the day while enjoying complimentary refreshments as the stunning scenery passes by.
Welcome to your home while we are in Cairo, the world-famous St Regis! Ideally positioned with views across the Nile River and Old Cairo, the impeccable St Regis offers their world-renowned service with effortless luxury. Styled as an homage to the Egyptian aesthetic and its connection to traditional artisanship, each space within the hotel has been designed to incorporate handmade furniture, Mashrabiya structures, bespoke wall coverings, and bejeweled paneling.
The St Regis Cairo has lavishly appointed rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, offering panoramic Nile River views and authentic views of Old Cairo with great attention to detail and a design that evokes the feeling of a residential home. Your room is furnished with a unique collection of pieces inspired by the Nile, which is accentuated with lilies, lotus flowers, birds, and luscious greenery that have been all nurtured by the mighty Egyptian river.
The St Regis Cairo is a premier location for exquisitely crafted cuisines. Our host hotel offers our OUTbounders a curated list of restaurants and bars that you can choose from. Designed to entice even the most discerning tastes, the culinary choices range from flavorful Italian fare at La Zisa, to sophisticated prime cuts at J&G Steakhouse Cairo and exceptional Asian dishes at Tianma. Paying tribute to the legacy of the St Regis Brand, The St Regis Bar & Water Garden is a great place to meet up with your fellow OUTbounders after a long day of exploring Cairo’s treasures.
As you would expect with the St Regis, your stay in Cairo will be filled with options while surrounded by luxury. Spend your day pampering yourself in the hotel’s luxury spa, take an afternoon lounging by the rooftop pool overlooking the Nile, or if you prefer, take a dip in the heated indoor pool to escape the Egyptian sun. Concierge service is available to help with any special requests or needs, and an available car service is ready and waiting if you decide to do a little exploring on your own.
Starting at $13,997 per person
Located at the front of the ship on the Lily Deck, the Owner's Suite offers a spacious living room with a separate bedroom and a queen-sized bed. Your bathroom features a bathtub, walk-in shower and double vanities complete with luxurious, locally inspired toiletries. A walk-in closet offers a vanity and ample space. Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors open up to both a private veranda and a French balcony off the bedroom, a perfect place to unwind after a long day of exploring the ancient treasures of Egypt.
(Approx 522 sqft; veranda 113 sqft)
Starting at $11,597 per person
Located on the Jasmine Deck, the Grand Balcony Suites offer a spacious living room with a separate bedroom, a queen-sized bed and ample closet space. The bathroom boasts a walk-in shower, bathtub and double sink vanity complete with luxurious, locally inspired toiletries. Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors in the living room open onto your private veranda, while the bedroom features a French balcony perfect for gazing out at the passing Nile.
(Approx 430 sqft; veranda 95 sqft)
Starting at $10,997 per person
Located on the Lily Deck, the Luxury Balcony Suites offer a spacious living room with a separate bedroom, a queen-sized bed and ample closet space. The bathroom boasts a walk-in shower, bathtub and double sink vanity complete with luxurious, locally inspired toiletries. Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors in the living room open onto your private veranda, while the bedroom features a French balcony perfect for gazing out at the passing Nile.
(Approx 430 sqft; veranda 95 sqft)
Starting at $8,997 per person
The Jasmine Staterooms offer a sitting area, ample closet space and a queen-sized bed that can be converted into two twin beds. The bathroom has a walk-in shower, vanity and luxurious, locally inspired toiletries. Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors create a French balcony perfect for taking in the passing Egyptian shoreline.
(Approx 215 sqft)
Starting at $8,597 per person
The Lotus Staterooms offer a sitting area, ample closet space and two twin-size beds that can be converted into a single queen-size bed. The bathroom has a walk-in shower, vanity and luxurious, locally inspired toiletries. Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors create a French balcony perfect for unwinding after a long day of exploring the ancient treasures of Egypt.
(Approx 215 sqft)
Starting at $7,997 per person
The Acacia Staterooms offer a sitting area, ample closet space and two twin-size beds that can be converted into a single queen-size bed. The bathroom has a walk-in shower, vanity and luxurious, locally inspired toiletries. Two large fixed windows provide the perfect views for gazing out at the passing Nile.
(Approx 215 sqft)
Are You Ready For Your Nile Cruise & Egyptian Adventure?
The countdown is on! It’s time to start planning all those little details that will make our OUTbound Secrets of the Nile Cruise even more amazing! Below are a few things to help you make the most of our vacation together. As always, if you have any questions that we haven’t covered, or have a special request, hit us up… either by phone at 916.683.1000 or email us at info@iamOUTbound.com.
Let’s get started!
Your Cruise Vacation Guide
Your Cruise Vacation Guide is your resource for our upcoming OUTbound trip to Egypt. Click on the link below to download your copy and to start getting ready already!
Flight Ideas
Since our Secrets of the Nile Cruise leaves and returns to Cairo, flights are super easy. Simply log onto your favorite airline’s website and look for roundtrip tickets to Cairo (CAI).
The airline you choose is completely up to you. While your flights to and from Cairo are not included, we’re always happy to help narrow down the best flight options with you. Simply give us a call or send us an email, letting us know where you’ll be flying from, if you have a preferred airline (based on frequent flyer miles or credit card points), and what class of service you typically like to book.
Getting to the St Regis Cairo
Your transfers to our host hotel, the St Regis Cairo, are included with your reservation. You will be met by an OUTbound representative upon your arrival in Cairo who will accompany you through the arrival and customs procedures before transporting you from the airport to our hotel.
The exact address of the St Regis is 1189 Nile Corniche, Boulaq Num.5, Bulaq, Cairo Governorate 11221, Egypt.
Be sure to enter your flight information as soon as you have booked your airline tickets so that we can arrange your hotel transfers.
Arrive Early In Cairo
For those of you who want to get an early start and arrive early in Cairo, we have you covered. Getting to Cairo a few days early is a great way to kick your jet lag, ensure that you and your bags all arrive in time for the start of our vacation, and start getting to know your fellow OUTbounders even before the trip has officially started.
You can arrive in Cairo as early as Friday, April 17th. We’ll make sure that you’ll be able to stay in the same room at the St Regis for your entire stay there. To add an early arrival, simply log onto your profile by clicking HERE, or send us an email letting us know the day you’d like to arrive and we can take care of that for you.
Theme Nights & Parties
Nothing makes an OUTbound event more fun than our THEME NIGHTS! This is your chance to express yourself with a fun t-shirt, wild wig or full blow costume. Feel free to show us what you got! As always with OUTbound, you are welcome to participate as much or as little as you like, it’s up to you!
Here are your OUTbound Secrets of the Nile Theme Nights!
Walk Like an Egyptian Night
After exploring the local markets (and finding the perfect galabeya!), we’ll bring the celebration onboard. Join us for Walk Like an Egyptian Night, where traditional garments and OUTbound energy come together for a fun and welcoming evening!
Gods & Pharohs Gayla
Channel your ancient power with modern glam! Tonight we celebrate Egypt’s legendary gods and pharaohs with a costume gala worthy of the afterlife. Gold, crowns, eyeliner, capes, the more dramatic, the better. Whether you arrive as a powerful pharaoh, a radiant deity, or a mythic creation of your own, this is your night to rule the dance floor like royalty!
Visa Requirements
Egypt requires a tourist visa for United States citizens upon entry. Your passport must have six months’ validity remaining to be allowed entry. Please allow two weeks to have your visa processed.
OUTbound Visa Service
If you prefer, OUTbound can take care of the visa application process for you for $75 USD per person. If you choose to have us arrange your visa for you, your visa will be waiting for you when you arrive at the Cairo Airport and meet your OUTbound representative.
You can add our visa service by clicking HERE or sending us an email requesting that we take care of your visa application for you.
Egyptian eVisa
You may also apply for an Egyptian visa on your own through Egypt’s official tourism website. The application process is fairly straight forward. Just fill out the required fields and upload your travel document. You can apply for your Egyptian visa by clicking HERE to go to Egypt’s official website.
Visa On Arrival
A visa on arrival is generally available at major airports in Egypt, including Cairo International Airport. The visa allows for a single entry and a stay of up to 30 days. It’s a convenient option for those who cannot obtain an e-visa in advance or prefer to wait for a visa upon arrival. Please allow an extra two hours if you are planning on obtaining a visa upon arrival. The process can be slow and the wait can be up to two hours depending on how many people are also in the process of obtaining a visa upon arrival.
Take A Picture!
Before heading out on a big trip, most travelers focus on packing the right clothes, confirming reservations, and making sure your passports are in hand. But seasoned OUTbounders know there’s another small step that can make a big difference in a pinch… snapping a few key photos before you leave home.
These quick snapshots take less than two minutes to capture but can save hours of stress if luggage gets lost, travel apps glitch, or important documents go missing.
Passport and Visas
A clear photo of the main passport page can make it faster to get a replacement at an embassy or consulate if your passport is lost. It’s best to keep this image in a secure, password-protected file or cloud app. Take a picture of your Egyptian visa as well as soon as you get that in your passport, just in case.
Prescription Medications & Labels
OUTbounders who take medication should take a picture of both your pills and the prescription labels. If your medications get lost or you run out, having the generic drug name on hand can make it much easier to refill while traveling.
Boarding Pass & Travel Documents
Travel apps sometimes glitch, and wifi isn’t always reliable at the airport. A screenshot of your boarding pass ensures it’s available offline when needed. The same goes for any hotel confirmations, train tickets, or tour reservations booked outside of your OUTbound trip.
Luggage Contents
Snapping a photo of everything packed in your suitcase before zipping it shut can be invaluable if your bags are delayed or lost. Airlines and insurance companies often ask for detailed lists of contents when processing a claim. A quick image can serve as proof of what was inside your bags and speed up any claims you might need to make.
As we all know, travel can be unpredictable, but your smartphone camera (something that’s already in your pocket and doesn’t require any extra cost) offers one of the easiest safeguards. Taking a few extra photos before you depart is a small habit that can prevent big headaches… and help you stay calm when plans don’t go exactly as expected.
The best time to visit Egypt is typically during the winter months, from October to April. This period offers pleasant, comfortable temperatures, making sightseeing and outdoor activities more enjoyable. Keep in mind that evenings can get cool, so pack accordingly.
What To Pack
- The weather in Egypt and along the Nile is most suited for comfortable and lightweight clothing, particularly natural fabrics such as cotton.
- A light waterproof jacket for occasional rainy weather or cooler evenings.
- Good walking shoes or sandals. Keep in mind that you will be visiting lots of tombs and temples with uneven surfaces.
- A hat, sunscreen, sunglasses and insect repellent.
Onboard Services
Laundry
Laundry services are available for an extra fee. The prices and instructions will be found in your cabin. Generally, laundry deposited in the morning will be returned to you that evening. Dry-cleaning services are not available.
Massage Services
Our ship has a treatment room with an onboard massage therapist who provides different types of massages for an extra fee.
All treatments can be booked once you are onboard, depending on availability.
Drinking Water
On board our ship, bottled water is provided in your staterooms, at the bar and at the reception desk. Bottled water is used for making all the ice cubes onboard, and our chefs use bottled water when preparing our meals.
Tipping Our Hosts
Tipping is the ONLY thing not included with your OUTbound vacation. We never want to dictate anyone’s generosity or decide how much you think YOUR experience with a crew member, waitstaff or tour guide was worth. How much to tip depends on the type of service you receive and your personal experience.
For the ship’s staff, you’ll have the opportunity to use a credit card at the end of our cruise for your gratuities. Visa, MasterCard, Discover and AmEx are all accepted. You’ll be able to add tips for the staff, and any extra gratuities for individuals onboard, at the same time as you close out your bill for any onboard services or purchases you’ve made during the cruise portion of our trip.
During our trip together, you’ll come into contact with many different servers and hosts. At the end of each day’s guided tour, you’ll have the chance to tip our guide and driver whatever you feel your experience was worth. Feel free at any point during your cruise to tip whoever you’d like, be it a bartender who goes the extra mile, your stateroom attendants who not only clean your room but provide nightly turn down service, or a tour guide who’s insight and knowledge makes your visit even more memorable than expected.
If you feel that any individual in particular has gone above and beyond in making your experience something extra special, then we encourage you to reach out to them directly and let them know how much you appreciated their service during our time together.
What Money Should You Bring?
In general, the US Dollar is the most widely accepted currency in Egypt. It is preferable if the dollar bills are in good condition as many businesses and vendors may refuse to accept worn out banknotes.
You’ll find that even local vendors will barter in US Dollars instead of Egyptian Pounds, but they won’t make change, so be sure to bring plenty of smaller bills… $1s and $5s so that you can pay the exact amount without the worry of trying to make change.
Acquiring US Dollars in Egypt can be tricky, so it’s best to bring adequate cash from home before you leave.
Egypt
The official currency in Egypt is the Egyptian Pound, symbolized by £ or EGP. Upon arriving in Egypt, you may want to have some cash in the local currency. There is an ATM located within our host hotel, the St Regis Cairo, on the fourth floor. ATMs are a common sight in Egypt, and you should have no trouble locating one in most destinations. International cards such as Visa are accepted at more than 20,000 ATMs nationwide.
American Express is not widely accepted in Egypt.
One thing to remember… It’s a good idea to carry cash, especially if you want to buy crafts or textiles directly from the local artisans we will visit. We’ll be traveling to some of the more remote destinations in Egypt, so credit cards won’t always be accepted.
What Power Converters Will I Need?
Our ship, the Ama Lilia, has European Union 220v Type C standard outlets in each stateroom.
Feel free to bring a USB adapter with multiple outlets so that you can charge several of your devices at once.
Travel Insurance
If we’ve learned anything over these last couple of years, it’s that the world can be an uncertain place at times. While you’re never required to buy travel insurance, it’s a good idea and we recommend all OUTbounders consider protecting your hard-earned vacation money. The price of your coverage will depend on a few factors, including the cost of the trip, what state you live in, how long before the trip departs, and if you have any pre-existing or underlying health conditions, to name a few.
Some reasons why you might buy travel insurance include:
- Cancel for Any Reason
- Unexpected Work Requirements
- Personal or Family Illness
OUTbound does not provide travel insurance. However, we always recommend using a third-party insurance carrier to provide your coverage.
optional post cruise package