4-Day Steigenberger Omar El Khayam Lake Cruise – Nubian Treasures of Lake Nasser

After breakfast, the cruise sails north to Kasr Ibrim, the only ancient site still standing in its original location above Lake Nasser’s waters. Though landing is restricted, the guide provides an in-depth explanation from the sun deck about its layered history as a fortress used by Nubians, Romans, and early Christians. Guests observe the ruins and gain insight into its strategic importance. Continue sailing to Amada, one of the oldest temples on Lake Nasser, built by Thutmose III and dedicated to Amun-Re and Ra-Horakhty. Inside, visitors admire colorful reliefs depicting scenes of devotion and conquest that remain vivid after millennia. The day continues with a visit to the Temple of Derr and the Tomb of Penout, revealing daily life in ancient Nubia. In the afternoon, the cruise proceeds to Wadi El Seboua, known as the Valley of the Lions, where rows of sphinxes once guarded the temple causeways. The evening offers relaxation on deck or cultural entertainment onboard. Overnight in Wadi El Seboua. Included Activities: • View Kasr Ibrim Citadel from the deck • Visit Amada Temple and Tomb of Penout • Explore Wadi El Seboua Temple complex Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Enjoy breakfast as you prepare for another day of archaeological discovery. Begin with a deeper exploration of Wadi El Seboua’s temple precincts, originally built by Ramses II and later relocated to protect them from the rising waters of Lake Nasser. The guide narrates stories of religious symbolism, Nubian artistry, and the fusion of Egyptian and local cultures visible in the carvings. Continue to the Temple of Dakka, dedicated to Thoth, the god of wisdom. Here, visitors admire the symmetrical pylons and hieroglyphic inscriptions that reveal its Greco-Roman influences. The atmosphere is serene, surrounded by shifting golden sands and lake breezes. The cruise proceeds toward Kalabsha, where guests can relax on deck or attend an onboard lecture on the temple relocation project. By afternoon, the ship docks near Kalabsha, offering views of its grand columns silhouetted against the sunset. Dinner is served with Nubian flavors as the cruise lights shimmer on the water. Overnight in Kalabsha. Included Activities: • Guided tour of Wadi El Seboua Temples • Visit Dakka Temple and learn about Thoth worship • Attend cultural lecture onboard Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Following breakfast, guests disembark for a guided tour of Kalabsha Temple, a marvel of Nubian sandstone architecture dedicated to the god Mandulis. The temple’s colossal gateway and intricate reliefs date back to the Roman period, offering a fascinating glimpse into Egypt’s later dynasties. Visitors explore its courtyards and sanctuaries while learning how it was meticulously relocated block by block from its original island site. The guide shares stories of Nubian craftsmanship and the temple’s artistic blend of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman motifs. Adjacent to Kalabsha are the small but evocative Kiosk of Kertassi and the Temple of Beit El Wali, both highlighting Ramses II’s devotion to Nubian deities. After the tour, return to the cruise for check-out and transfer to Aswan, where the journey concludes. Guests leave with a deeper appreciation for Egypt’s southern heritage and the serene beauty of Lake Nasser. Overnight in Aswan. Included Activities: • Visit Kalabsha Temple • Explore Kiosk of Kertassi and Beit El Wali • Disembarkation and transfer to Aswan Meals Included: Breakfast