We’ve just returned from what can only be described as one of our most enchanting travel experiences to date! Uniworld’s "Splendors of Egypt and the Nile" tour is an absolute essential for any avid traveller’s wish list.
Our journey commenced in Cairo, where we indulged in luxury at the Four Seasons Cairo at Nile Plaza - an exquisite retreat offering stunning views of the Nile. Our pre-cruise excursions introduced us to the rich tapestry of Egypt’s history. We began with a visit to the Grand Citadel, a formidable fortress that once served as the seat of power during the Islamic period. Then we explored the breathtaking Grand Egyptian Museum, home to more than 5,000 artefacts from Tutankhamun’s tomb. Walking through this museum, which houses the treasures of the boy king who ascended to the throne at just nine years old, was nothing short of magical. Opened to the public on November 1st, we had the unique privilege of being among the first to witness the incredible display showcasing the beautiful gold mask and other artefacts unearthed by Howard Carter in 1922. The tomb's discovery was a monumental moment in Egyptology and has since captivated the imaginations of countless visitors.
Next, we flew south to join the SS Sphinx, where the organisation was impeccable. As travel agents, we are accustomed to orchestrating our own escapes, but on this trip, being guided effortlessly through all the details was a true luxury. The SS Sphinx truly impressed us, with our accommodations in the Royal Suite feeling fit for royalty. We had the opportunity to explore other cabin types that were also delightfully decorated and extremely comfortable. Be sure to check out our video showcasing the various categories available on our channel.
Dining on board was a real experience, offering an array of dishes inspired by Egyptian flavours, whilst also providing western alternatives like steak and chicken, ensuring everyone’s tastes were satisfied. The chefs surpassed our expectations, attentively catering to guests’ dietary preferences, which epitomised the first-class service we enjoyed throughout the voyage. The crew were amicable and attentive, creating a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.
Now let’s delve into the itinerary - which was simply outstanding! From the beautifully preserved Temple of Dendera to the illuminated Luxor Temple, exclusive only to Uniworld guests at night, every stop offered a glimpse into the ancient world. Standing in the Valley of the Kings while entering Tutankhamun's tomb was one of the trip's highlights. Here, we found ourselves within the very space where Howard Carter excavated the treasures of the young pharaoh - an incredible experience and a thrilling moment.
One of our most cherished moments was taking a hot air balloon ride over Queen Hatshepsut's temple, providing breathtaking views over the Valley of the Kings and the majestic River Nile. Floating in the sky as the sun appeared over the horizon, alongside around 50 other balloons, was a sight we will carry in our hearts forever.
Another memorable highlight was afternoon tea at the iconic Old Cataract Hotel in Aswan. This historic hotel, once a favourite of Agatha Christie, served as the inspiration for her famous novel "Death on the Nile." Sitting on the terrace with breathtaking views of the Nile as the sun dipped below the horizon, we reminisced about the hotel’s storied past and the literary genius who had once walked its halls. The passing felucca boats added to the magical ambiance, creating a truly unforgettable experience.
As our journey continued along the Nile, we visited Philae Temple, marvelling at the Aswan High Dam and transiting Esna Lock, each moment etching itself into our memories.
Our adventure culminated with a return to Cairo and another delightful stay at the Four Seasons. This time, we visited the Pyramids of Saqqara, where we entered a tomb, leading us to the final grand spectacle of the Pyramids of Giza and the impressive Sphinx. The experience of stepping into one of these colossal structures was both exhilarating and humbling, leaving us in awe of the incredible feats accomplished by ancient engineers. Imagining the blood, sweat, and tears involved in such monumental undertakings is overwhelming.
This journey has ranked among the most remarkable experiences we've ever had. Uniworld excelled with outstanding service, superb organisation, a luxurious ship, and, perhaps most importantly, our knowledgeable Egyptologist, Mohamed, who was pivotal in enriching our experience with his insights.
Moreover, we made wonderful friendships with our fellow guests on board, sharing a camaraderie that made the cruise even more special. Assigned to bus number two, we found ourselves among equally enthusiastic travellers, all appreciating the incredible adventure together. We are pleased to now call these fellow adventurers friends for life.
We want to reassure anyone considering this trip that we felt completely safe and secure throughout the entire journey. Hygiene was paramount, with hotels and the ship utilising mineral water for washing and ice production. None of our group experienced any illnesses or health issues throughout the trip, which was truly fantastic.
We cannot wait to return to Egypt; this adventure was a treasure trove of memories we will hold dear for years to come.
Don’t miss our full video recounting this memorable cruise. We’re also thrilled to announce a hosted departure for 2027, where we will once again visit this extraordinary itinerary alongside some of our subscribers!
If you’re interested in joining The Posh Travel Blog on this phenomenal journey, contact our luxury cruise concierge and ask about The Posh Travel Blog’s hosted Egypt cruise, or connect with them via our social media channels on Instagram, Facebook, or YouTube.
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