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C R U I S E C O M PA N I O N
Splendors of Egypt & the Nile
uniworld.com / 1
W E L C O M E
Our World Begins with YouThank you for selecting Uniworld Boutique River Cruise
Collection. We want to do everything we can to ensure
you have the most enjoyable and worry-free vacation.
With that in mind, we have prepared this booklet for
you, so you can plan your trip with the greatest of ease.
Consider it a guideline to help you get ready for your
upcoming trip. It contains valuable tips and advice
on what to pack, your flight and transfer experience,
onboard information, day-to-day details and much more.
We highly look forward to hosting you onboard our
beautifully appointed ships and making your vacation
the most memorable and enjoyable experience possible.
Sincerely,
The Uniworld Team
Cover: Temple of Luxor, Egypt ▲ Temple of Horus, Edfu, Egypt
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Icon/Letter Code Legend
The symbols below will help guide you through the
descriptions of the daily itineraries. They will give you
an idea of the length and pace of the excursions, and
they will note which meals are provided.
Uniworld Signature Icons
u UNESCO Site b Motorcoach
d Flight S Boat
a Additional Cost e Embark/Disembark
Note: Prices of Optional Excursions will be available onboard. The cost of the purchased excursion will be added to your onboard account.
Dining Letter Codes
CB Continental Breakfast BB Buffet Breakfast
L Lunch D Dinner
WD Welcome Gala Dinner FD Farewell Gala Dinner
Tour Duration Icons
5 1/4 Day 7 1/2 Day
9 3/4 Day 8 Full Day
Shore Excursion IconsAll tours involve walking unless strictly noted as a
panoramic tour. In many cases, the walking takes place
over uneven ground, cobblestones or flagstone walkways,
and several tours involve stairs or short uphill climbs.
Please wear comfortable, non-skid walking shoes while
on all tours. These symbols give an idea of what to
expect on each program.
1 Easy walking
Includes walking of 15 minutes or less from multiple
motorcoach stops to and around historical sites. Possibly
some steps, or gentle uphill and downhill walks.
2 Intermediate walking
Includes walks of up to two hours on uneven terrain.
Limited seating at sites. Multiple stairs and/or uphill/
downhill walking.
3 Strenuous walking
Involves walking at all sites. Many stairs and uphill/
downhill passages. Those with physical limitations and
those who may need private arrangements should
contact the Cruise/Tour Manager when onboard.
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C R U I S E / T O U R C O M PA N I O N
Helpful Hints Before You Go
4 Travel Documents Passports
Visa Requirement
Passenger Information Form
Travel Protection Plan
5 cruise/Tour Documentation Final Documentation Includes
6 baggage Limitations
7 Vaccinations
7 Travel Essentials
7 Health and Mobility Physical Limitations
Medical
Special Diets
8 General Money Matters
Getting There
9 airport Security and check-In
9 Transfers Airport Arrival Transfers
Airport Departure Transfers
Late Flight Arrivals and Missed Flights
Baggage Delays
12 Pre-/Post-cruise Land Stays
12 Hotel check-In and Hotel check-out
About Your Uniworld Cruise/Tour Package and Onboard and Onshore Services
13 crew-only areas
13 Dining
13 Electrical current
13 Elevators
14 Emergency Procedures
14 Excursions
14 fitness centers
14 Gift Shop
15 Going ashore
15 Gratuities
16 Handicapped facilities
16 Insect Precautions
16 Internet access
16 Intra-Egypt air Tickets
17 Land Tours and Shore Excursions
17 Laundry
17 Massage
17 Mooring and Docking facilities
17 Moving about the Ship
17 Responsibility and Waiver
18 Safety Deposit box
18 Security
18 Shopping
19 Smoking
19 Suite amenities
19 Swimming Pool
19 Visitors
19 Vox
19 Water
20 Weather
21 What to Wear
21 omissions
22 frequently asked Questions
R I V E R C R U I S E / T O U R P R O G R A M
Splendors of Egypt & the Nile
25 cairo to cairo / 12 Days
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Uniworld will not be responsible for any delays, damages
and/or losses, including missed portions of your tour,
that are related to improper travel documentation.
All guests are strongly advised to obtain necessary
visas well in advance to avoid unnecessary expedited
processing charges. Whenever using a visa service, it is
highly recommended that the service be provided with
a copy of your entire travel itinerary. There are times
when multiple entry visas may be required, or there
may be restrictions upon entering one country from
another, depending on your nationality. If the service
does not have your full itinerary, this may result in
improperly issued documentation.
Passenger Information form: By now, you should
have completed the Uniworld Passenger Information
Form. The information on this form is used to comply
with certain foreign government and airline security
restrictions in advance of your arrival. If you have
completed this form, we thank you for your prompt
attention. If you have not completed this form, please
visit our website at uniworld.com and complete the
online Passenger Information Form in the “Already
Booked” section. Each guest must complete the form.
Please note that the name on your airline tickets must
match your name exactly as it is shown in your passport.
This applies to both international flights as well as the
intra-Egypt flight we will book for you, so please be sure
we have your name correct on your booking.
Travel Protection Plan: Uniworld strongly recommends
that all guests purchase a Travel Protection Plan and
carry all policy information with them during the course
of their trip.
During the cruise/tour, it is advisable to have copies of
important documents (i.e., first page of your passport,
photo, credit card numbers, and bank/credit card
company phone numbers) in a separate packet, in case
the originals are lost or stolen.
Cruise/Tour DocumentationUniworld sends all final cruise and air documents
between 21 and 30 days prior to your trip departure,
provided that Uniworld has received a completed and
signed Passenger Information Form and your booking
is paid in full. All documents are sent via a priority mail
delivery service, such as UPS or FedEx.
Helpful Hints Before You Go
Travel DocumentsPassports: All Uniworld river cruise/tours require
a passport. In most cases, passports must be valid for
six (6) months after the scheduled return date from
the trip. Travel to Egypt will require a visa. Each guest
is fully responsible for obtaining and carrying the travel
documents necessary for his or her travel itinerary.
Uniworld will not be responsible for any delays, damages
and/or losses, including missed portions of your trip,
related to improper travel documents.
Visa Requirements: A visa and passport are required
for travel to Egypt. Visa requirements for US and
Canadian citizens can be found on the Uniworld website,
uniworld.com, in the “Already Booked” section. As a
courtesy only, Uniworld’s website provides information
on obtaining the required visa.
Non-US or non-Canadian citizens must contact the
appropriate consular office for Egyptian entry
requirements. Obtaining and carrying the proper travel
documents is solely the responsibility of the guest.
C R U I S E / T O U R C O M PA N I O N
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final Documentation Includes:
▶Cruise/Tour Ticket
▶ Passenger Ticket Contract (which is legally binding
between Uniworld and each guest)
▶ Airline Tickets or E-ticket Confirmation (if international
air ticket was purchased from Uniworld)
▶ Cruise/Tour Companion
▶ Baggage Tags
▶ Leave-Behind Communication Card
▶ Travel Protection Plan Pamphlet (if Uniworld travel
protection was purchased)
Baggage LimitationsAirline baggage restrictions change frequently, and
each guest needs to check with his or her specific air
carrier for limitations concerning baggage weight,
baggage size, carry-on regulations, and excess or
overweight baggage charges. This information can
be found on the carrier’s website or on Uniworld’s
website at uniworld.com/baggage.
Overweight or excess baggage charges vary, and guests
who exceed an airline’s recommended limits may be
asked to pay fees ranging from $25 to $80 US dollars
(USD), or possibly more, per infraction.
For flights within Egypt, passengers are allowed one
checked bag weighing no more than 50 pounds
(23 kilograms) and one carry-on bag weighing no more
than 17 pounds (8 kilograms). Remember to check for
both international (over the water) and domestic regula-
tions, since limitations differ depending on flight routings.
There are no restrictions concerning the number of bags
each person can bring with him or her onboard the ship.
However, baggage storage space onboard is limited.
Guests are encouraged to limit their baggage to one (1)
piece per person for their own comfort and convenience.
Keep an eye on your baggage and all personal belong-
ings—they are solely your responsibility throughout
the trip. Uniworld is not responsible for loss, theft, or
damaged baggage and personal belongings. A Travel
Protection Plan covering lost, stolen or damaged
baggage is highly recommended.
VaccinationsAll guests should direct questions about vaccinations
to their personal physician.
As an additional resource, guests may consult the
current recommendations of the Centers for Disease
Control (CDC). The CDC website is cdc.gov and the
phone number is 1-800-232-4636.
You may also contact the Egyptian consulate to
determine vaccination requirements.
Travel EssentialsThe following items are essential for any destination:
comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen,
a hat, an umbrella, and a lightweight raincoat or
outerwear garment appropriate for the seasonal weather
conditions. It is recommended that you bring duplicates
of prescription eyewear, copies of prescriptions for any
medications, copies of credit card information, and
copies of your passport information pages and visa.
Make sure that your baggage has identification tags
inside and outside, with your contact information and
address clearly marked. Do not pack valuables or
important medications in your baggage unless required
to do so by the airline; these should be carried with you
in your carry-on baggage. Please contact your air carrier
for any additional regulations.
Health and MobilityPhysical Limitations: Uniworld trips are exciting,
relatively active vacations. While there will be plenty
of time to relax, there will also be much to see and do.
Your included excursions generally require an extensive
amount of walking, as well as the navigation of numerous
steps and uneven terrain. During shore excursions,
guests with physical limitations will find access to sites
generally restricted. For your safety and enjoyment, we
recommend that all guests be in good physical condition.
In addition, river ships, while spacious and elegant, are
not in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities
Act and do not have elevators. Uniworld, at its sole
discretion, reserves the right to refuse passage or to
require a current passenger to end his or her trip if the
passenger’s state of health or physical condition may
affect his or her own health, safety and enjoyment, or
that of other passengers. The use of mobility devices
such as wheelchairs, walkers, scooters, etc. is not
recommended for travel in Egypt, and such devices
cannot be readily obtained in the region.
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Medical: The hotel in Egypt is near a clinic staffed by
a doctor, but Uniworld does not employ staff nurses
or doctors onboard its ships. Medical expenses are the
guest’s own responsibility. Guests should bring their
medications with them. Uniworld is not responsible for
any costs incurred as a result of medical service or for
the quality of medical care received. A Travel Protection
Plan covering medical expenses is highly recommended.
Special Diets: Please advise us of any special dietary
restrictions in advance of your departure. This information
will be provided to the proper personnel. To the extent
possible, and in consideration of local conditions, every
effort will be made to accommodate your needs. It is the
guest’s responsibility to provide us with as much detail
as necessary concerning any medically related dietary
concerns. Not all dietary requests can be accommodated,
and we appreciate your understanding in this matter.
Dietary restrictions should be reiterated to the service
staff at the time of placing orders in restaurants.
General Money MattersEgyptian currency is known as the Egyptian pound
(EGP). It is divided into piastres (also spelled piaster).
One pound (LE) is equal to 100 piastres. Banknote
denominations are 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 and 200, and
coins come in denominations of 25 and 50 piastres.
Uniworld features a “cashless” environment onboard, and
all charges are billed directly to each guest’s onboard
account. Currency accepted onboard for settlement of
final bills is US dollars, euros and Egyptian pounds with
an exchange rate based on the international rate of the
day. The major credit cards accepted are Visa, MasterCard
and American Express, and these will incur extra bank
charges for transactions, which will be your responsibility.
Please contact your bank and/or credit card companies
to let them know that you will be leaving the country to
avoid any problems using your credit card(s) overseas. It
is not advisable to bring Travelers Checks.
The ship does not have ATMs onboard, but ATMs linked
to major bank networks can be found throughout
Egypt. Most debit and major credit cards can be used
for cash withdrawals ashore. Your bank can tell you
which network your ATM card can access and whether
a debit or credit card must be used. Make sure you have
the correct PIN for the card you plan to use before
leaving home, as the PIN is required for all money
withdrawals. It is also recommended that you bring an
overseas contact number for your bank or credit card
company in case you require assistance while traveling.
Limited currency exchange is available onboard for the
exchange of cash only. Credit cards cannot be accepted
for money exchange. Most hotels and major tourist sites
have exchange facilities. Please note currency exchange
transactions and ATM cash withdrawals always involve
transaction fees. It is always best to inquire as to the fee
before exchanging any money. ATMs will typically ask
you if you accept the fee before enabling the transaction.
Most major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American
Express) are accepted worldwide. There may be some
stores or locations where cash is preferred or where a
particular credit card cannot be used for purchases. We
recommend bringing at least one major credit card, as
well as an ATM card that is both a debit and credit card.
Getting There
Airport Security and Check-inIt is advisable to contact the airline in advance of your
departure to verify that there have been no changes
to the flight number or schedule found on your travel
documents. After your travel documents are issued and
sent to you, Uniworld is not responsible for notifying
guests of any changes in flight schedules.
Please make sure you arrive at the airport at least two
and a half (2.5) hours prior to your scheduled departure
to complete check-in and security procedures. For peak
travel times, you may even want to arrive three (3) hours
prior to your scheduled departure time.
Transfersairport arrival Transfers: If your cruise/tour package
includes a group arrival transfer (and your flights
coincide with our transfer guidelines and have been
communicated to Uniworld), you will be greeted by a
Uniworld representative and transferred to the hotel.
You will be met inside the secure customs area before
entering the passport control area. If you cannot find the
representative, please remain outside the customs area
until the representative comes to you.
Please claim all of your baggage before exiting the
baggage claim area. From the airport, you’ll be transferred
to the hotel. Please note that transfers are nonrefundable.
There may be a waiting period of up to two (2) hours
for scheduled airport transfers, depending on groupings
of flight arrivals. Uniworld will not be responsible for
late arrivals or missed transfers due to delayed, changed,
canceled or missed flights; for missed cruise/tour days;
or for extra costs resulting from delayed, changed,
canceled or missed flights.
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Flight information and pre-trip arrangements for all guests
making their own flight arrangements must be given to
Uniworld no later than 45 days prior to departure in
order for transfers to be properly arranged. Your flight
arrangements must also be made in accordance with
Uniworld’s recommended transfer guidelines. For complete
details, please see the “Terms and Conditions” section of
our current brochure or our website, uniworld.com.
Guests who have purchased extra hotel nights with
Uniworld will be provided transfers as part of the extra
nights purchase.
If your cruise/tour package does not include arrival
transfers (i.e., for flights outside of Uniworld’s
recommended transfer time guidelines or if flight details
have not been communicated to Uniworld in time),
please make your own way to the hotel as per your trip
itinerary; transportation will be at your own expense.
airport Departure Transfers: If your cruise/tour package
includes a group departure transfer (and your flights
coincide with our transfer guidelines and have been
communicated to Uniworld) or if you have purchased
a private departure transfer, you will be transferred to
the airport for your flight home.
In accordance with Uniworld’s recommended transfer
time guidelines, all guests making their own flight
arrangements are required to provide Uniworld with their
flight information and post-trip arrangements no later
than 45 days prior to departure in order to receive
transfers. For complete details, please see the “Terms
and Conditions” section of our current brochure or our
website, uniworld.com.
Guests who have purchased extra nights with hotel
stays will be provided private transfers as part of the
extra nights purchase.
If your cruise/tour package does not include transfers
(i.e., for flights outside of Uniworld’s recommended
transfer time guidelines or if flight details have not been
communicated to Uniworld in time), then please make
your way from the hotel as per your trip itinerary at your
own expense.
Late flight arrivals and Missed flights: If your package
includes a Uniworld arrival transfer and you experience a
flight or travel delay of any kind, please adhere to the
following instructions. Advise an airline representative at
the airport that you are a cruise passenger bound for a
specific location at a specific date and time to meet your
group. Please look for the Uniworld representative upon
entering the terminal. The representative will be on hand
to assist you through customs, passport control, and
luggage collection and will then escort you to your hotel.
Depending on the nature of the delay, Uniworld’s ground
staff can, at times, track flight changes. If your flight
arrangements were drastically altered, it is unlikely that
the ground staff will be notified of your specific flight
changes in time, but Uniworld’s representative will follow
up on your flight’s arrival in order to meet you. Due to
security protocols enacted after September 11, 2001,
airlines very rarely provide updated flight information to
third parties in such cases.
If you cannot find the Uniworld representative, please
contact the Transfer Provider. Their contact information is
shown in the transfer section of your cruise/tour ticket. If
unable to match you up with a scheduled group transfer,
the Transfer Provider will ask you to make your own way
to the ship or hotel at your own expense. Costs incurred
due to missed transfers are the responsibility of the guest;
in most cases, compensation can be obtained from your
Travel Protection Plan provider or airline carrier.
If your delay is serious enough that you miss the starting
point of your cruise/tour, please contact our Local
Representative, using the number on your Cruise/Tour
Ticket, to determine the exact location of your tour
group on your revised date of arrival. The office
personnel will advise you on the best course of action.
Uniworld is not responsible for missed transfers or
additional costs incurred in getting to the next
destination due to missed or delayed flights.
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baggage Delays: Baggage delays do unfortunately occur
from time to time, especially during peak travel periods.
First and foremost, do not leave the baggage area
without completing a Lost Baggage Report with your
air carrier. This report is essential to the tracking of your
claim. If traveling with a companion, we recommend that
one (1) person exit the baggage claim area and locate
the transfer representative to inform him or her of the
situation. This will allow the representative to ensure
transfers are properly provided. If the representative is
not found at the customs area then our guest should
leave the baggage claim area and locate the transfer
representative. Give the air carrier a copy of your travel
itinerary and the hotel and ship’s contact information.
Report your lost baggage to the Uniworld representative
and provide your Uniworld Cruise/Tour Manager/
Egyptologist with a copy of your Lost Baggage Report.
This will assist our staff in helping to locate your baggage
as quickly as possible. Uniworld is not responsible for
lost, stolen or damaged baggage and/or personal
belongings. A protection plan covering lost, stolen or
damaged baggage is available through the Uniworld
Travel Protection Plan.
Pre-/Post-Cruise Land StaysAll Uniworld land programs are fully hosted and include
daily breakfast, transfers and porterage. Most feature at
least one (1) special sightseeing program. Your Cruise/
Tour Manager/Egyptologist will host a welcome briefing
the day after your arrival to familiarize you with the
scheduled program and to provide additional
information about optional excursions, dining
recommendations and shopping tips. Details about your
pre-/post-cruise land stay are included in this booklet
and with your final documents.
Hotel Check-In and Hotel Check-OutPlease note that every effort is made to ensure that your
hotel room is available and ready for occupancy upon
your arrival at the hotel. This is not always possible due
to differences in hotel check-in times and scheduled
airport-to-hotel transfers. A short wait for your room to
become available may be unavoidable.
Most hotels do not allow check-in earlier than 2:00 pm. If
you arrive at the hotel before 2:00 pm, you may need to
wait until the room becomes available. Hotel check-out
must be no later than 12:00 pm. If your arrival or departure
schedule does not coincide with these times, you may
ask the hotel to store your baggage while you explore
independently. Upon check-out at the end of your trip,
you will be transferred from your hotel to the airport.
About Your Uniworld Cruise/Tour Package and Onboard and Onshore Services
Crew-Only AreasSome areas are clearly indicated as “Crew Only.” We ask
you to respect these areas, as the crew may be working
there and your safety cannot be guaranteed. These areas
include the Main Deck bow area, the galley, engine
rooms, crew accommodation and the gangways aft of
the Sun Deck. Crew members have been instructed to
escort any unauthorized persons from these areas and
make a report to the Captain.
DiningAll breakfasts on land and onboard are American-style
buffets. The River Tosca’s onboard restaurant accommo-
dates all guests in a relaxed open seating environment
and offers international and local cuisine. Breakfast and
lunch are sumptuous buffets, while evenings feature
specialties of the house. All meal times are scheduled
around excursion departures, and breakfast can take
place very early in the morning.
Please notify Uniworld immediately if you have any
special dietary concerns or considerations that need to
be taken into account while traveling with us. We will do
our best to ensure your request is accommodated, but
we cannot guarantee that this will happen in all cases.
Electrical CurrentVoltage is 220V/50Hz in all hotels and onboard the ship.
To use any electrical product from the United States, you
need a 3-pin plug adapter and a voltage converter.
ElevatorsThere are no elevators onboard the River Tosca. The hotel
has elevators.
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Emergency ProceduresThe ship is outfitted with modern smoke detectors,
fire alarms, sprinkler systems, extinguishers and hoses.
Alarms are situated at regular intervals along the
Promenade Deck. Fire extinguishers are located at
regular intervals around the Promenade Deck and
outside all public rooms. The Cruise/Tour Manager/
Egyptologist will give passengers a safety briefing upon
arrival, which will include a test of the emergency alarm
and a demonstration of life jacket location and use. Each
suite on the ship is equipped with an emergency map
and life jackets, and extra life jackets and life rings are
available on the Sun Deck. Note that the River Tosca has
two (2) lifeboats on the Sun Deck as well as one (1)
motorboat in case of urgent evacuation, however it is
usually much quicker to beach the vessel on the nearest
sand bar or river bank and evacuate by foot. The ship
also has a muster station on the Sun Deck.
ExcursionsGroup shore excursions are organized by the Cruise/
Tour Manager/Egyptologist, who will accompany you
on excursions, including shopping trips to the bazaars.
Details about group shore excursions and our next sailing
time are posted on the Daily Schedule and passengers are
requested to note this before disembarkation.
When disembarking, passengers will be given a ship
card, which includes the ship’s docking address and
contact numbers. This card will be collected by the ship’s
staff upon each passenger’s return to the ship; if any
card is missing, staff will attempt to locate the passenger
before embarking.
Fitness CentersThere are fitness centers in all hotels. On the River Tosca,
the Fitness Center is located on the Pyramid Deck.
Hours of operation may be adjusted based on each day’s
program. Use of the fitness equipment is at your own risk.
Gift ShopThere is a gift shop onboard the River Tosca with a
limited selection of toiletries, souvenirs and other
sundries. The hours of operation are adjusted to each
day’s program. Purchases at the gift shop can be paid
for in cash or with a major credit card at the time of
purchase. Additional bank charges (3.5-5%) may apply
when paying by credit card.
Going AshoreWhen the ship is docked, you are welcome to move
freely between ship and land as much as you like.
Because of the varying nature of the riverbank, methods
of getting ashore may differ from time to time and, on
occasion, access may be difficult. We will ensure that the
gangways are safe and that crew members are on hand
to assist you.
GratuitiesGratuities are customary expressions of appreciation
for a job well done, and it is our goal to ensure that
the service you receive is as wonderful as the sites you
visit. The amount of the gratuity you choose to give
is entirely subject to your satisfaction with your travel
experience. To assist you in determining the amount
of your gratuities, we recommend the following as a
guideline:
▶ Cruise/Tour Manager/Egyptologist: $8 to $10 USD per
guest, per day (given on the last day of the cruise/tour
before departure)
▶ Drivers: $3 USD per guest, per day
▶ Airport Rep: $2 USD per guest, per day
▶ Ship and Crew: $8 to $10 USD per guest, per day
(given on the last day of the cruise before
disembarking the ship)
Gratuities cannot be billed to onboard accounts, so please
ensure that you have cash on hand for this expense.
Travelers Checks cannot be used to pay gratuities.
The practice of baksheesh (tip) is very much a part
of Egyptian culture. This means that it is customary
to tip anyone who provides a service to you, including
doormen at hotels. Please be aware that you will be
approached by a number of seemingly helpful individuals
while on tour. Unless the individual is introduced to you
by your guide, please disregard any unsolicited
advances or requests for baksheesh.
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Handicapped FacilitiesEmbarkation/disembarkation facilities may be impossible
to navigate with wheelchairs, scooters, walkers or any
other mechanical devices. The ship was not designed
to accommodate physically challenged travelers; it
does not have elevators and is not handicapped or
wheelchair accessible.
Additionally, most shore excursions involve walking over
uneven ground. Some excursions are walking tours only,
and for your safety and enjoyment, we recommend that
all guests be in good physical condition.
Uniworld, at its sole discretion, reserves the right to
refuse passage or to require a current passenger to
end his or her trip if the passenger’s state of health or
physical condition may affect his or her own health,
safety and enjoyment, or that of other passengers.
Insect PrecautionsExternal doors and gauze windows should be kept
closed at all times. At night, if on deck or going ashore,
make sure to apply repellent to ankles and other
exposed skin. While you can expect to encounter
insects, these insects are relatively harmless. Make sure
to switch off lights when leaving your suite so as not to
lure them in. On the fast-flowing river, mosquitoes are
rarely to be seen while sailing.
Internet AccessOn the River Tosca, Corner Laptop computers allow
you to send and receive emails. In addition, you may
use your own laptop computer to access our wireless
Internet (Wi-Fi). Internet Corner and Wi-Fi services
are complimentary. The Internet connection might not
be available in remote areas or when transiting locks.
Expect the connectivity speed to be slower than your
home connection. Complimentary Internet is also
available at the hotel.
Intra-Egypt Air TicketsYour intra-Egypt domestic air tickets will be issued on
tour, and your boarding passes will be given to you by
your Cruise/Tour Manager/Egyptologist at the airport.
Land Tours and Shore ExcursionsEach cruise/tour program includes comprehensive shore
excursions led by your English speaking Cruise/Tour
Manager/Egyptologist; these excursions have
been designed to provide you with the best possible
experience ashore. On motorcoach tours, we ask that
passengers rotate to allow everyone to sit near the front.
A complete day-by-day shore excursion itinerary is
provided in this booklet. Details of your particular
itinerary can also be found at uniworld.com.
LaundryThe River Tosca provides washing, drying and ironing
services for a fee. Please note that there is no self-service
launderette and there are no dry cleaning facilities
onboard. Your hotel, however, will offer full-service
laundry and dry cleaning options at an additional cost.
MassageMassage services are available onboard the River Tosca.
These services are available for a fee and can be paid for
in cash or with a credit card at the time of purchase or at
the time you settle any of your onboard charges prior to
disembarkation from the ship.
Mooring and Docking FacilitiesThe local river authorities allocate docking space around
ship arrivals and departures in port. There are times
when port conditions require ships to tie up alongside
each other, and guests may be required to walk through
another ship to access their own ship. This is part of the
river cruise experience and is perfectly normal. Guests
may experience obstructed views from suites when the
ship is docked.
Moving about the ShipBecause the ship will often be in motion and the decks
will sometimes be slippery, you will need to take care
when moving about the decks. Please be extra cautious
when using the stairs onboard, as they may be steeper
than you are used to. It’s best to always use the handrails.
Responsibility and WaiverThe guest accepts the terms and conditions of the
Passenger Ticket Contract when participating in any
organized shore excursion/tour that is provided by
Uniworld. Participation in some shore excursions or tours
may also be subject to an independent operator’s own
Terms and Conditions.
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Safety Deposit BoxThere is a safe in your suite. We urge you to leave
valuables at home. We are not responsible for any
valuables left in the suites. Any charge to return “lost
and found” property will be at the owner’s expense.
Please beware of pickpockets when ashore.
SecurityIn the countries in which we operate, tourists are rarely
targets for theft, but caution is encouraged nonetheless.
A 24-hour watch is kept on the gangplank in order to
control access to the ship, but please keep your deck
door locked when it is not in use and at night. All suites
have a combination-type safe; please use a number you
can remember, like the last four digits of your phone
number or your date of birth. The company cannot be
held liable for loss of money, jewelry or other valuable
items from the ship, from a hotel or while on an excursion
ashore during a voyage. In the “Conditions of Carriage,”
you are required to have taken out personal travel
insurance to cover these possibilities.
Ensuring the safety and security of Uniworld guests is our
top priority. All tourist sites visited on this itinerary are
patrolled around the clock by highly trained policemen,
as are all docking facilities along the Nile. In addition,
whenever traveling by motorcoach on Uniworld shore
excursions or transfers, an armed civilian police officer
will be onboard to provide extra security and peace of
mind for our guests.
ShoppingTime for shopping is usually, but not always, allowed for
within the framework of the sightseeing programs. The
actual amount of time available for shopping may be
limited due to tour constraints. Shopping recommendations
will be made by your Cruise/Tour Manager/Egyptologist,
who is an expert in all things Egyptian and can even
provide a lesson or two on the art of bartering. Larger
stores accept most major credit cards, while market
vendors and small stores usually only accept local currency.
It is a good idea to take a small amount of cash to use as
baksheesh (tip) or to purchase souvenirs or sundries.
SmokingThe ship enjoys a non-smoking environment in all public
areas and in the suites. Smoking is allowed only on the
aft section of the upper Sun Deck. Hotels do not permit
smoking except in specific areas; all guest rooms reserved
are non-smoking. Hotels offer smoking rooms; smoking
rooms must be requested at the time of booking and are
very limited. For the comfort of all passengers, smoking
is not permitted on sightseeing or transfer vehicles.
Suite AmenitiesEach beautifully appointed suite onboard the River Tosca
offers custom-made beds draped in fine linens, generous
built-in closets, a vanity and make-up mirror, hair dryer,
safe, individual thermostat for air-conditioning, direct-
dial telephone, LCD television with a selection of viewing
choices, an iPod docking station, a bathroom with plush
robes and soothing bath amenities, slippers and a bottle
of water per day per person.
Swimming PoolThere is a swimming pool located on the Sun Deck of the
River Tosca for your enjoyment.
VisitorsVisitors are generally not permitted onboard the ship
and are not allowed to join any shore excursions.
VoxUniworld is proud to use the Vox portable audio headset
system on shore tours, so that you will always be able to
hear your Cruise/Tour Manager/Egyptologist’s and/or
local expert’s commentary with ease and comfort.
WaterPlease do not drink or brush your teeth with the tap
water while onboard or onshore. The ship’s water supply
comes from the river after passing through a sterilization
plant. This water is suitable for washing but should not
be consumed. Complimentary bottled water for drinking
and brushing teeth is provided onboard, and additional
bottled water is readily available for purchase onshore
and at your hotel. To save water and reduce detergent
use, we will only change towels daily if they are placed
on the floor.
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WeatherMost people think Egypt is hot and dry year-round due
to the desert climate, and that’s basically true. One can
certainly expect sunshine all day—up to 14 hours during
the peak of the summer. However, the temperatures in this
region and along the Nile tend to vary widely between
day and night. While the days of spring and fall can be
very warm, with highs in the 80s and 90s, the desert
evenings can be delightfully cool, with temperatures
dropping into the low 60s. Summer highs are steadily
in the 90s, yet not uncomfortably so. Most sightseeing
excursions in the summer are scheduled for early-
morning departures to avoid the strong midday sun.
Winter temperatures are perhaps the most pleasant of
all, with temperatures typically in the 70s during the
day, dropping into the 50s or below in the evenings.
Uniworld’s favorite resource for up-to-the-minute
international weather is weather.com. Weather.com
features a very informative vacation-planner tool that
you may find useful.
average Temperatures (fahrenheit):
average Low/High (f)
oct nov Dec
Luxor 63/91 52/82 45/73
aswan 69/96 59/84 51/76
cairo 64/82 57/73 50/66
average Temperatures (celsius):
average Low/High (c)
oct nov Dec
Luxor 17/34 11/28 7/23
aswan 21/36 15/29 11/25
cairo 18/28 14/23 10/19
What to WearPrepare for a variety of weather conditions depending
on your travel season. Layering clothing is smart because
it allows each person to adjust to most temperatures,
including artificially maintained temperatures, by
removing or adding items throughout the day.
Comfortable, sporty, smart-casual daywear is
appropriate both onshore and onboard. For warmer
temperatures, we suggest lightweight clothing that can
be layered, such as a mix of sweaters, lightweight knit
shirts, everyday khakis, slacks, skirts/dresses and walking
shorts. Mix-and-match solid color schemes work best to
help keep baggage light. This program is very different
from European river programs; attire is more casual due
to the region’s warmer temperatures. During the cruise
portion of your program, comfortable, lightweight
clothing in lighter colors is strongly recommended.
Shorts, cotton shirts, good walking shoes and sun hats
during the day are recommended. However, to enter the
temples and other holy sites, guests should ensure that
their shoulders and knees are covered. For evenings, we
recommend casual and cool attire; however, we require
footwear to be worn at all times in the dining room.
You will engage in a significant amount of walking over
uneven terrain during your time ashore. We recommend
comfortable walking shoes with good ankle support.
Sport jackets and cocktail dresses are not needed at any
time during this program. You may wish to pack a
lightweight jacket for chilly evenings, and at least one
“smart casual” outfit for the onboard Gala Reception.
OmissionsUniworld is not responsible for omissions or printing
and/or presentation errors in brochures, on Internet
sites or in any other media where such information may
be presented; we reserve the right to make corrections
as required.
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What time will excursions depart?
All shore excursions are carefully coordinated to the
ship’s daily schedule. During the daily port talk, your
Cruise/Tour Manager/Egyptologist will brief all guests
about what activities will take place the next day. This
briefing includes information about departure times,
specifics about the shore excursions/tours not covered in
this booklet, shopping and restaurant recommendations,
and other important information about the port of
call. In addition to the briefing, a daily program will be
distributed to each guest’s suite every evening. This
program provides a written overview of all events taking
place the next day—whether onboard or ashore.
How do I book the optional excursion to abu Simbel
on Day 8?
You may book this optional excursion, and any other
optional excursions, with our staff any time after you
arrive in Cairo. Credit card or cash payments will be
accepted. Please note this optional excursion requires a
minimum number of participants to operate. No refunds
will be granted to guests who cancel their booking
within 24 hours of the excursion’s start time.
Does each motorcoach or walking group have its own
tour guide?
Yes. Each motorcoach or walking group has its own
Cruise/Tour Manager/Egyptologist. Uniworld tries
very hard to ensure that our Cruise/Tour Manager/
Egyptologists are of the highest quality and well versed
in their subjects, making sure that you have the best
possible time ashore.
What is the transportation like on excursions?
Uniworld works with some of the world’s best tour
companies, all of which are chosen with our exacting
standards in mind. To ensure your maximum enjoyment
of each excursion, all motorcoaches seat 40 to 45 people
and are air-conditioned whenever possible. There are
a few destinations where the equipment may not be of
a similar standard and, in such cases, the best possible
transportation will be arranged. Rest stops will be
provided throughout the course of the excursions, as
not all of the motorcoaches used for excursions have
onboard toilets.
Is smoking allowed on shore excursions/tours?
Smoking is not allowed while on the motorcoach, and
many historical venues now request that visitors not
smoke anywhere on-site. We ask all our guests who
smoke not to do so while on excursions/tours.
Frequently Asked QuestionsI have concerns about my physical ability. What do I do?
Guests with mobility concerns should discuss their
concerns with Uniworld staff in advance of their
departure. Guests requiring the use of a mobility device,
such as a wheelchair, motorized scooter or walker, may
not be able to participate in many shore excursions or
use such devices onboard the ship. Also, guests who
are limited in their ability to walk long distances may
also have difficulties as there is often uneven terrain
on many shore excursions.
How accurate are the shore excursion/tour
descriptions?
Uniworld does everything possible to ensure that shore
excursions are performed as promoted and as outlined
in the subsequent pages. In certain circumstances, or for
reasons beyond the control of Uniworld, it may not be
possible or practical for the excursion to be performed
exactly as written. The decision not to operate, to alter
the operation, to change content, and/or to otherwise
adjust or modify any element of the excursion as
advertised, is at the sole discretion of Uniworld, always
taking into account the safety and best interests of the
guests and the overall product delivery. Any such
modifications to excursions will not result in eligibility
for a refund.
can the itinerary change? What happens if it
does change?
You can count on Uniworld’s vast experience and regional
knowledge to make sure you enjoy your cruise/tour even
when conditions beyond our control occur. The very
nature of a river, with its sources and networks of bridges
and locks, means that there will be times when weather
or other conditions in a region require Uniworld to make
adjustments and modifications to the operation of an
itinerary. Itineraries may need to be altered specifically
because of water levels. Although every effort is made to
keep itineraries as advertised, Uniworld reserves the right
to make changes and substitutions as necessary to ensure
the safety of our guests and the vessels. Time permitting,
every possible effort will be made to alert guests in
advance of boarding of any known changes. Otherwise,
all guests will be informed onboard of changes and
amendments. Any changes to itineraries, including the
addition of extensive motorcoach touring to effect delivery
of the intended itinerary operation, will not result in
eligibility for a refund.
CRUISE FLIGHT UNESCONIGHTS ONSHORERiverStart/End
uniworld.com / 25
Splendors of Egypt & the Nile
CAIrO TO CAIrO / 12 DAYS
Imagine sailing along the nile in a style once reserved
for pharaohs and queens
For eight splendor-filled days, Uniworld takes you to
the most fascinating sites along the Nile onboard the
luxurious, all-suite River Tosca. Travel through time as
you cruise the length of this legendary river, seeing
marvels built more than 3,000 years ago. Explore the
breathtaking Karnak Temple—the world’s largest ancient
temple complex—and visit the Greco-Roman Temple of
Hathor, one of the country’s best-preserved monuments.
Marvel at the Temple of Hatshepsut, set against dramatic
limestone cliffs, and see the Valley of the Kings, where
Tutankhamen and other New Kingdom pharaohs were
entombed. You’ll also experience Nubian culture during
a visit to a private home near Aswan.
This itinerary also includes captivating Cairo, where you’ll
admire extraordinary pharaonic treasures at the city’s
world-famous Egyptian Museum, including artifacts
recovered from the tomb of King Tutankhamen. Journey
to Giza to pay homage to the mighty Pyramids and gaze
upon the most iconic face in all of Egypt—the mysterious
Great Sphinx.
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number of objects—more than 120,000—including
priceless artifacts recovered from the tomb of King
Tutankhamen by renowned archaeologist Howard Carter.
Ancient Egyptian history began with the founding of
the Old Kingdom around 3100 BC and lasted 3,000
years, until Alexander the Great conquered the country
in 332 BC and ended the rule of the pharaohs. The
museum’s galleries are laid out in roughly chronological
order as you move clockwise along the ground floor.
Note: Photography of any kind is forbidden inside the museum, including digital cameras, cell phones and camcorders.
Note: Dressing modestly is recommended as a show of respect for the culture and customs of the Egyptian people. In particular, women should ensure that shoulders are covered and legs are concealed at least to the knee on all shore excursions throughout this itinerary.
Day 3Cairo, fly to Luxor, cruising the Nile River, Dendera
u b d e BB L GR D
Featured Excursion:Temple of Karnak 7 2 bAfter a short flight to Luxor on the east bank of the Nile,
you can stroll through the grand avenues of sphinxes
and halls of gigantic columns of the magnificent Temple
of Karnak. This vast complex, situated about 2 miles
(3.5 kilometers) from the Temple of Luxor, was originally
established during the Middle Kingdom (1991-1633 BC), and
various dynasties over the next 1,300 years continued to
expand it. Karnak is a massive and simply astounding site,
reflecting the combined achievements of many generations
of ancient builders—as many as 80,000 laborers took part
in its creation during the 19th Dynasty alone.
Buried under sand for a thousand years, the UNESCO-
designated Karnak complex is composed of three main
temples, smaller enclosed temples and several outer
temples. The largest of these is dedicated to Amun, a
great pharaonic god. Enter the main compound, the
Precinct of Amun, through the Great Court, and continue
on to the dazzling Great Hypostyle Hall—sometimes called
the Hall of Columns—an imposing forest of 134 enormous
sandstone columns in the form of papyrus stalks.
Later, you’ll board the elegant River Tosca and set sail
for beautiful Dendera. Enjoy a Gala Reception and
dinner onboard this evening.
Day 1 Cairo
b
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 at Nile Plaza.
Day 2 Cairo
BB
Featured Excursions:citadel of Salah al-Din, alabaster Mosque and
Egyptian Museum 8 2 bYour tour of this historic city includes a visit to the Citadel of Salah al-Din, a massive compound containing mosques and museums and offering breathtaking views of Cairo. Founded in the seventh century by Arab conquerors, the Fatimid dynasty rulers made Cairo their capital and named it al-Qahira (“the Victorious”). The great sultan Salah al-Din built his citadel in the 12th century as a government center and bulwark against invading armies of Crusaders. Located high above the eastern end of Cairo on El-Moqattam Hill, the citadel was the home of Egypt’s rulers for more than 700 years and is one of the oldest attractions in the city.
After the Ottoman ruler Muhammad Ali seized power in the 1800s, he restored the walls of the citadel and built numerous palaces, schools and government buildings inside. His masterpiece was the great Alabaster Mosque, also known as the Mosque of Muhammad Ali, which you’ll have an opportunity to visit. Its two slender minarets were Muhammad Ali’s declaration of independence from Istanbul, as Ottoman law decreed that only a sultan could build a mosque with two minarets. The mosque’s expansive Turkish-style interior is lit by a beautiful array of lamps suspended from the intricately decorated ceiling.
Did You Know? The ornate clock in the citadel’s courtyard was presented to Muhammad Ali by King Louis Philippe of France in the 1830s, in exchange for the obelisk that now stands in the Place de la Concorde in Paris, France. Oddly enough, the clock is purely ornamental and has never been operated.
You’ll also visit the Egyptian Museum, established in 1900
and by far the most impressive collection of Egyptian
antiquities and pharaonic treasures in the world. Located
in the heart of Cairo, the museum displays an astonishing
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Day 4 Dendera, cruising the Nile River, Luxor
u BB L D
Featured Excursion:Temple of Hathor 5 2 bThe impressive Temple of Hathor at Dendera was
dedicated to the goddess of love and beauty. The
temple dates to Egypt’s Ptolemaic era, when the heirs
of Alexander the Great ruled over Egypt and adopted
Egyptian culture and religion as their own. Built between
125 BC and AD 65, it is one of the best-preserved temples
in all of Egypt and features a rare bas-relief of Cleopatra
with Caesarion, the son she bore to Julius Caesar.
Return to Luxor for some free time before visiting the
ancient Temple of Luxor.
Featured Excursion:Temple of Luxor 5 2 bEnter the temple through the great pylon—a ceremonial
gateway—where two enormous statues of Ramses II still
stand, along with a pink granite obelisk (its mate stands
in the Place de la Concorde in Paris, France). Continue
on to an enormous interior courtyard, where the Abu
Haggag Mosque once stood atop the ruins of the temple.
You can still see a ghostly remnant of the mosque on the
east side of the courtyard, high above the columns, its
arched doorway opening into thin air.
The temple’s chief architects were Amenhotep III
(Egypt’s “Sun King,” also known as Amenophis III) and
Ramses II, and it was constructed over hundreds of
years, beginning around 1400 BC. It was dedicated
to the “father of all life,” the god Amun, sometimes
referred to as Amon or Amon-Ra. Ancient Egyptians
came to the temple to pay tribute to this god during
the Opet Festival, celebrated during the annual flooding
of the Nile. Once a year, a great feast was held and the
statue of Amun was transported via a small sailboat
from the Temple of Karnak to the Temple of Luxor.
(Stages of the festival are depicted in friezes along the
Temple of Karnak’s grand processional colonnade, the
construction of which was started by Amenhotep III
and finished by his grandson, Tutankhamen.)
At the rear of the temple is the Sun Court of Amenhotep III,
as well as the Bark Shrine that was rebuilt by Alexander
the Great (who is depicted bare-chested on the walls).
The Luxor Temple complex is at its most stunning at
sunset, when it is illuminated with the golden glow of the
setting sun.
Day 5Luxor, cruising the Nile River, Kom Ombo
u BB BD
Featured Excursions:colossi of Memnon, Hatshepsut Temple and
Valley of the Kings 7 2 bGet an up-close view of two gigantic statues of Pharaoh
Amenhotep III, better known as the Colossi of Memnon.
Sixty feet (18 meters) tall and gazing eastward toward
the rising sun, the statues depict Amenhotep seated on
his throne. Carved next to his legs are his mother and his
wife, with side panels depicting the god of the Nile, Hapi.
The figures originally sat in front of the mortuary temple
of Amenhotep III and are believed to have surpassed
even Karnak in size. Unfortunately, the temple itself was
slowly dismantled over the centuries to provide building
materials for new temples; the twin Colossi continue to
stand guard nonetheless, just as they have done for the
past 3,400 years.
The Temple of Hatshepsut at Deir el-Bahri is another
highlight today. One of Egypt’s rare female pharaohs,
Hatshepsut is considered by historians to have been one
of the most successful rulers of ancient Egypt. Both the
setting and the construction of her temple make it unique
among the landmarks of Egypt; built into the face of
steep cliffs at the basin, the temple is made of limestone
instead of sandstone, unlike any other funerary temples
of the New Kingdom period. Hatshepsut’s successor,
Thutmose III, attempted to remove her name from the
temple, and many images of the queen were damaged
or destroyed during his reign.
You’ll also visit one of the most famous archeological
sites in the world—the remote and barren Valley of the
Kings, used for royal burials for nearly 500 years. Much
of our understanding of Egyptian mythology has been
garnered from these ancient chambers, located about
four miles (seven kilometers) inland on the west bank of
the Nile. It was here that the bodies of great pharaohs
such as Ramses II and Thutmose III were once laid to
rest and where the mummified remains of the boy king
Tutankhamen are still on display. The idea for establishing
this royal burial ground is thought to have originated
with Thutmose I, who opted to conceal his tomb far from
his mortuary temple in an effort to deter tomb robbers.
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Subsequent pharaohs did the same, changing a tradition
that had endured for close to 2,000 years.
Within the tombs and along the walls of the Valley of
the Kings, inscriptions from the Book of the Dead
provided instructions on how the pharaohs could safely
journey to the next world and avoid the dangers that
lay on the way. For the sake of preservation, only a
handful of the most interesting tombs are open to
visitors at any given time.
Return to the ship and set sail for Kom Ombo. Tonight,
don your galabeya (traditional Egyptian attire, samples
of which will be available for purchase onboard if you’d
like to participate but didn’t bring your own) for a festive
onboard party featuring traditional Egyptian music.
Did You Know? The fifth Earl of Carnarvon bankrolled Howard Carter’s excavations in the Valley of the Kings and accompanied him during the opening of Tutankhamen’s treasure-filled tomb in 1922. Of their first glimpse, Carter reported: “Details of the room within emerged slowly from the mist, strange animals, statues and gold—everywhere the glint of gold.”
Day 6Kom Ombo, cruising the Nile River, Aswan
BB L D
Featured Excursion:Kom ombo Temple 5 2 bThe Kom Ombo Temple, unlike most ancient Egyptian
temples, is dedicated to two gods—the crocodile god
Sobek and the falcon god Horus the Elder. Construction
began under the reign of Ptolemy VI Philometor
(180-145 BC) and continued under later rulers, most
notably Ptolemy XIII (47-44 BC), who built the inner
and outer hypostyle halls. Several of the 300 crocodile
mummies discovered in the vicinity are displayed inside
the temple.
Did You Know? The ancient Egyptians associated certain animals with specific gods, and these beasts were commonly mummified and sold to people as temple offerings. Modern-day x-rays reveal that some of these “mummies” were actually clever fakes, fashioned out of mud and covered with elaborate wrappings.
FeAtuReD exCuRsiONs:
bird watching boat ride and nubian village visit 5 2 bAfter a scenic cruise to Aswan, you’ll take a small boat
on a bird-watching excursion along the Nile. Keep an eye
out for different species of herons, kingfishers, vultures,
sunbirds and other wildlife that thrive in the marsh grass
along the riverbanks. Stop at a Nubian village, where you’ll
enjoy the hospitality of a friendly local family at their
home. The Nubian people are descendants of an ancient
tribe that has inhabited this region for many centuries.
Although their ancestral lands were flooded decades ago
by the creation of the Aswan High Dam and Lake Nasser,
the Nubians have retained their distinctive culture, and
many live in traditional-style dwellings.
Return to the River Tosca, where you’ll be treated to a
traditional Egyptian belly dance performance this evening.
Day 7 Aswan
u BB L D
Featured Excursions:aswan High Dam, Unfinished obelisk,
and Philae Temple 7 3 bThe Aswan High Dam, completed in the 1970s, is a
marvel of modern engineering that boasts some truly
epic dimensions—it is 11,800 feet (3,597 meters) long;
3,215 feet (980 meters) wide at its base; and 304 feet
(93 meters) high—with a reservoir capacity nearly
five times that of the Hoover Dam. You’ll also visit the
Unfinished Obelisk, commissioned by Queen Hatshepsut
yet never completed due to a flaw discovered in the
stone. If completed, it would have been the largest and
heaviest obelisk ever attempted, weighing more than
two million pounds (907,185 kilograms).
Another highlight today is the beautiful Philae Temple
complex, originally situated on the island of Philae. It
was painstakingly transferred to the island of Agilika
after the construction of the Aswan High Dam to save
it from the rising waters of Lake Nasser, a daunting
UNESCO-funded endeavor that took 10 years to
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complete. The three principal monuments on the island
all date from the Ptolemaic and Roman periods—the Kiosk
of Trajan, the Temple of Hathor and the Temple of Isis.
Note: Guests are welcome to climb around the Unfinished Obelisk, but please note the climb is physically demanding.
Featured Excursions:boat ride in traditional nile River felucca and
afternoon tea at the old cataract Hotel aswan 7 2 BToday you will sail serenely down the Nile in a felucca—
a small traditional boat with large triangular sails—a
wonderful way to experience the river as Egyptians have
for a thousand years. Later, relax over afternoon tea at the
historic Old Cataract Hotel Aswan, a colonial-era gem that
counts Winston Churchill and Princess Diana among its
former guests. This famous hotel was depicted in Agatha
Christie’s acclaimed mystery novel Death on the Nile.
After dinner onboard this evening, you’ll be treated
to an enchanting Nubian show featuring traditionally
attired performers, live music and dancing.
Note: Feluccas are wind-powered and thus will operate only if weather conditions permit.
Day 8Aswan, cruising the Nile River, Kom Ombo, edfu
BB L BD
Spend the day at leisure or join us for an optional
excursion to see the magnificent temples of Abu Simbel.
Optional Excursion:Temples of abu Simbel a 5 2 d bThese astounding structures are carved into the sand-
stone cliffs along the Nile about 200 miles from Aswan.
The front of the main temple has four gargantuan statues
of Ramses II on his throne, each measuring nearly 70 feet
(21 meters) high, that were once half buried in sand.
Note that the colossi wear the double crown of Upper
and Lower Egypt, a symbol of dominance over the entire
kingdom. In an impressive feat of engineering, the temple
was built so that the sun penetrates its inner confines
only two days a year, briefly bathing the sculptures of
Egyptian gods inside in bronze light.
This UNESCO-designated site was the focus of a
daunting four-year rescue operation in the early 1960s,
a multimillion-dollar effort that saved the 3,500-year-
old temples from the rising waters of Lake Nasser.
Day 9 esna, cruising the Nile River, Luxor
u BB L D
Featured Excursion:Temple of Esna 5 2 bThe Late Roman Temple of Esna lies on the west bank
of the Nile about 34 miles (55 kilometers) south of
Luxor. Buried under debris for many centuries, the
temple is just a short walk from the ship through the
local market. It dates from the Ptolemaic and Roman
period (180 BC to AD 251) and is one of the last
Egyptian temples ever built. Visitors can see two large
inscriptions praising Khnum, the ram-headed god of
creation, who fashioned mankind on a potter’s wheel
from the clay mud of the Nile. There’s also a hypostyle
hall with 24 pillars and a ceiling depicting Egyptian
astronomical figures and Roman zodiac signs. On the
temple’s western wall, look for images of Horus, the
god of victory, and Khnum, dragging a net full of fish.
At the foot of this façade are the last known
hieroglyphic inscriptions ever recorded in Egypt.
Later, savor the Nile’s majestic scenery as the ship cruises
to Luxor.
Day 10 Luxor, fly to Cairo
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Disembark in Luxor and transfer to the airport for your
return flight to Cairo. Check in to the Four Seasons Hotel
at Nile Plaza and enjoy free time in the city before
attending a sensational Sound and Light Show at the
Pyramids of Giza.
Featured Excursion:Sound and Light Show at the Pyramids of Giza 5 1 bThis evening’s Sound and Light Show at the Pyramids is
a fantastically creative and colorful introduction to these
ancient wonders and the amazing people and culture
that built them. Travel back in time as you experience a
compelling historical overview, with fascinating insights
into ancient Egyptian secrets and legends.
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34 uniworld.com / 35
Day 11 Cairo
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Featured Excursions:ancient Memphis sites, including the Pyramids of
Giza and the Great Sphinx 8 2 bVenture forth to Ancient Memphis, the capital of
Egypt’s Old Kingdom and now a vast UNESCO World
Heritage Site encompassing a number of extraordinary
monuments. You’ll see the colossal statue of Ramses II
and the Alabaster Sphinx, as well as the Step Pyramid
of King Zoser (or Djoser) in nearby Sakkara, the oldest
pyramid in the world and the prototype for all subsequent
pyramids. The ancient architect and sage Imhotep
initially designed the pyramid as a single story, then
later added five more levels and covered the structure
with a shell of fine limestone. In front of the pyramid,
Imhotep built a stone structure containing a wooden
box with two peepholes; peer inside and you’ll see a
life-size painted statue of King Zoser. The peepholes
were created to allow the king’s ka (life spirit) to
communicate with the outside world.
At the Giza Necropolis, the face of ancient Egypt—the
Great Sphinx—awaits your visit. With the body of a
crouching lion and the head of a man, it is the largest
monolith statue in the world. Experts believe that the
Sphinx (known to the early Arabs as Abu al-Hol,
“Father of Terror”) was built in the 26th century BC
during Khafre’s reign, perhaps as a portrait of the
pharaoh himself. Unfortunately, much of this monument
has either eroded or been deliberately destroyed over
the years. Some of its facial features are no longer intact,
such as the beard and the nose—the latter of which was
not shot off by Napoleon’s soldiers, as widely believed,
but chiseled away many centuries earlier. A number of
excavations in modern times have removed the sand that
built up around the Sphinx over the centuries and kept
much of it buried. Despite its timeworn condition, the
Sphinx still kneels gracefully as it has for thousands of
years, looking toward the east with an enigmatic smile.
Today you’ll also visit the only surviving Wonder of the
Ancient World, the Pyramids of Giza. Beholding these
legendary structures up close lets you appreciate their
stone masonry and awe-inspiring architectural precision.
Until as recently as the 19th century, the oldest and
largest of the three pyramids—Khufu—was the tallest
building in the world; when it was completed around
the 26th century BC, it stood about 50 stories high.
Khafre is the second largest of the three pyramids and the
resting place of the Fourth Dynasty pharaoh Khafre. The
smallest is the Pyramid of Menkaure, which a 12th-century
sultan spent eight months attempting to destroy; he
succeeded only in damaging its north face. You’ll have
a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to delve inside either
Khafre or Menkaure, an experience you will never forget.
Without question, the three Pyramids of Giza are Egypt’s
most iconic “must-see” sight, the country’s top attraction
for over 3,000 years.
DaY
12Depart Cairo
b CB/BB
Check out of your hotel. If your cruise/tour package
includes a group departure transfer or if you have
purchased a private departure transfer, you will
be escorted to Cairo International Airport for your
flight home.
Note: Visit uniworld.com for visa information in the “Already Booked” section.
Note: The itineraries presented are subject to modification due to water levels, closures because of public holidays or other uncontrollable factors. Every effort will be made to operate programs as planned, but changes may still be necessary throughout the cruise/tour.
Note: All extras, such as optional excursions, telephone calls, laundry, drinks, gratuities and items of a personal nature, are not included in the cost of the trip.
36CST #2075415-20
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