Passports & Visas

A passport is required for all AmaWaterways river cruises, and it must be valid for at least six months after you return home. It is your responsibility to ensure your passport is valid and contains all required visas and number of blank Visa labeled pages. Please check your itinerary carefully and consult with the appropriate consulates to determine if any visas are needed. Vacations can be disrupted or altered if the correct documents cannot be presented at airports or border crossings. We recommend photocopying the first page of your passport, airline tickets, driver's license and/or birth certificate to expedite the process when replacing any documents lost while traveling. Keep the originals separate from the copies and pack some extra passport photos as well. Another option is to scan your passport, airline tickets and credit card numbers and email them to yourself as attachments. Please be sure to fill out the “Emergency Next of Kin” section in your passport (in pencil) as well.

PASSPORT VALIDITY AND ACCURACY OF PASSPORT NAMES MUST BE CONFIRMED AT TIME OF PAYMENT

All bookings must have the correct name(s) exactly as it appears on the passport. This will ensure Intra-Egypt Air and flights from Jordan and to Dubai are ticketed and issued correctly. It will also avoid any airline-imposed change fees that will be the guest’s responsibility should the name on the air tickets not match your FULL name shown on your passport. In addition, passports MUST have at least TWO empty Visa labeled pages for each country visited on this trip. For example, if your trip includes the Jordan pre-Egypt land package, Egypt/Nile, as well as the Dubai post-Egypt land package, you will need 6 empty Visa labeled pages.

Egypt: An Egypt Visa on Arrival pass can be purchased through AmaWaterways for US$50/C$65 per person (2026) and US$55/C$$75 per person (2027). For this fee you will be met on arrival by an AmaWaterways Representative on arrival, given your Visa and escorted through Immigration. This service is available to guests arriving on Day 1 in Cairo or for guests that have purchased extra nights through AmaWaterways and can be purchased at least 35 days prior to departure. Guests who have made independent arrangements in Cairo before the start of the program can apply for a single entry visa online prior to travel. Apply at www.visa2egypt.gov.eg. Passport validation at least six (6) months after the scheduled return date to your home country and 2 empty Visa labeled pages are required.

Jordan: AmaWaterways will obtain your single-entry visa and is complimentary. You will receive your visa on arrival by your uniformed AmaWaterways Representative who you will meet prior to Immigration once you deplane. Passport Validation at least six (6) months after the scheduled return date to your home country. 2 empty Visa labeled pages required.

Please Note: The complimentary Jordan single-entry visa is only available for guests arriving on Day 1 of the Jordan extension and/or for guests who have reserved additional nights in Jordan through AmaWaterways. Guests with independent plans arriving prior to their scheduled AmaWaterways extension will need to apply for their own Jordanian visa. Visit https://eservices.moi.gov.jo for more information.

Dubai: Visa not required. Passport Validation at least six (6) months after the scheduled return date to your home country. 2 empty Visa labeled pages required.

Online Check-In

AmaWaterways’ online Cruise Check-In process is intended for the convenience of our valued guests. We require that each step of your Cruise Check-In is completed to board our ships. To complete, visit our website at Cruise Check-in. In addition to providing the information required for embarkation, the Cruise Check-In process: 

• Ensures your personal information, as it appears on your passport, is correct
• Provides us with an emergency contact in the unlikely event of an emergency
• Excursions on our Egypt and Africa itineraries are expertly curated to provide a seamless, immersive journey. No selections are required during online check-in.

Your Essential Egypt River Cruise Packing Guide

Comfort and convenience are key when you pack for your Egypt and Nile River cruise. As Egypt, Jordan and UAE are primarily Muslim countries, we kindly ask that you adhere to local customs and traditions appropriately. Rest assured you can prepare with ease – our unveiled secrets to pack for this worthwhile experience are listed below. Your main suitcase should not exceed 23kg/50lbs., otherwise excess weight charges will apply and are payable directly to the airline at check-in.

• Lightweight clothes. Packing light for your Nile River cruise will be no problem as a majority of what you pack into your suitcase will be lightweight clothing items. The average local temperature in Egypt ranges between 90°F and 107°F (32-41°C) from late April-June and Sept-mid Oct. Breathable clothes will be your answer to most of your outfits. We suggest cotton or linen tee shirts as well as short and long sleeves.
• A lightweight jacket or sweater for those cooler times at the end of the day. Temperatures during the nighttime vary dramatically and can reach as low as 35-45° F (2-7°C) during the winter months of December, January and February. 
• Scarf or shawl. You should plan to dress modestly to respect the local traditions of the mosques and temples you will be visiting. A lightweight pashmina scarf or shawl is an ideal accessory for women and men can opt for short sleeved shirts and lightweight pants. 
• Breathable trousers or pants. In Egypt, men typically wear trousers or pants despite the hot weather. Pack a pair of lightweight trousers or convertible pants that can transform into shorts. Please be mindful of certain ancient sites where you may want to avoid wearing shorts.
• Sturdy and versatile sandals or walking shoes are ideal to withstand any terrain when visiting temples. Sandals can provide extra comfort as well as breathing room for your toes.
• For the Jordan extension, water shoes are recommended if you plan to swim in the Dead Sea to protect your feet from sharp salt crystals and an uneven seabed.
• The ultimate daypack or fanny pack can hold all your daily essentials throughout your excursions including your water, pocket-sized bug spray, tissues/wet wipes, sunscreen, a hat, and any medications you may need to travel with.
• SPF products. Strong sunscreen (40 SPF or higher). Try to include SPF into as many items that you use in your daily routine for skin care. It is usually sunny, so protect your skin with lip balm, moisturizer, or other beauty products with sun protection.  
• Polarized sunglasses or a hat with wide brim for further sun protection as you enjoy your thrilling excursions. 
• Cooling scarves and bandanas can be helpful as extra protection for your neck or head from the sun.
• A lightweight jacket or sweater for those cooler times at the end of the day. Temperatures during the nighttime vary dramatically and can reach as low as 35-45° F (2-7°C) during the winter
• On board your river cruise, women are more than welcome to bring their casual dresses, shorter skirts, shorts, and swimsuits to enjoy the pool on the Sun Deck. We typically follow a “casually elegant” dress code on board.
• Binoculars. Binoculars are not allowed in Jordan or Egypt for security reasons. They will be confiscated on arrival.

Here are a few pro tips when visiting a temple or religious monument…

• Try to be as respectful as possible of the local traditions, especially during religious holidays such as Ramadan (e., refrain from eating snacks in public if avoidable and save them for the motorcoach ride).
• When visiting religious sites, women and men should refrain from wearing clothing that bares their legs and upper arms.
• Be prepared to take your shoes off when visiting a mosque. 

Other items to consider:

• Do not bring binoculars. Having binoculars will result in extended searches by airport security, which will result in multi-hour delays and/or confiscation
• Swimsuit, cover-up, and flip flops
• Small flashlight
• Camera equipment and extra batteries, memory cards, chargers/accessories
• Converter and electrical adapter 
• Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, comb or hairbrush, razor, insect repellent, feminine products, and cosmetics
• Prescription medications in original containers (to be packed in carry-on bag, not checked luggage)
• Face masks
• Hand sanitizer, tissues, and anti-bacterial/disinfectant wipes
• Small first aid kit with aspirin, antibacterial cream, etc.
• Money belt or other secure place to keep passport and cash
• Proof of vaccination or negative Covid-19 test, if required

Mobile Phones

Please contact your service provider for information on overseas usage and any additional fees prior to leaving on your trip.

Important: Pack a sufficient supply (including two weeks beyond your planned return) of any medications you are taking, copies of the prescriptions and the telephone/fax numbers of your doctor. Some countries require prescription drugs be carried in their original container with the label clearly visible. 

Tips for Long Flights 

• Wear loose-fitting clothing and comfortable shoes.
• Based on current airline regulations in place, you may be required to wear a medical grade mask (or N95/KN95) so you may want to have several with you in order to change during the flight.
• Avoid caffeine, alcohol and carbonated drinks and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
• Alleviate ear pressure by chewing gum, yawning, swallowing or gently blowing your nose.
• Periodically walk up and down the aisle to stretch your legs and get blood circulating. You can also do a few isometric exercises while seated.
• Try to sleep during your overnight flight – an eye mask, noise cancelling headphones and a light sweater or scarf may help you to be more comfortable and sleep so you can acclimate to the local time more quickly.
• Avoid wearing contact lenses during your flight, as recirculated cabin air tends to dry them out.

Airport Security and Check-in

It is recommended you be at the airport at least three hours before international flights and two hours before domestic flights. This allows enough time to check your baggage, present your passport and other forms required, confirm seat assignments and boarding passes, and clear security procedures before proceeding to the boarding area. Most airlines offer online check-in 24 hours prior to departure, which can help you avoid long lines once at the airport. If permitted, this is also a chance to request seating assignments or buy an upgrade if available. Airport security regulations require that sharp objects of any kind be stored inside your checked luggage, not in your carry-on bag. You may be asked to put your shoes and/or coat through an X-ray scanner, so be prepared to remove them.

Late or Missed Flights 

If you miss a flight, immediately advise an airline representative that you are a cruise passenger bound for a specific location/date/time to meet your ship. If your flight is cancelled, await instructions from the airline regarding alternate travel arrangements.

Travel Protection Insurance 

We strongly recommend you purchase travel protection insurance that includes coverage related to Covid-19. If you purchased travel protection insurance, please make sure to write down important information such as the insurance company’s telephone number and your policy number. 

Baggage 

Airlines have become very strict about the size and weight of baggage and carry-on luggage. Please check your airline’s website to confirm specific allowances prior to your departure. Most airlines allow one piece of checked baggage and one carry-on per person. General guidelines: 

• International (trans-Atlantic) flights: In general, if traveling in Economy class, each checked bag should not exceed overall dimensions of 62 inches/158 cm and weigh more than 50 lbs. (23 kg). If traveling Business class, check with the airline you are flying as policies vary.
• Cruise and full land package passengers: Checked bag(s) on Intra-Egypt flights cannot exceed a total of 50 lbs. (23 kg).
• All passengers: Your carry-on bag should not exceed overall dimensions of 42 inches/118 cm and must weigh less than 17 (8 kg).

Jordan Luggage Restrictions (Flights between Amman and Cairo)

• Checked baggage must not exceed 23kg/50 lb in weight and overall dimensions of 62in/158 cm. Carry-on must be no heavier than 17 lbs. (8 kg).

*Extra fees will apply for overweight and/or each additional piece of checked in luggage and payable directly to the airline in cash. Maximum weight of checked luggage is 70 lbs. (32 kgs).   

Note: Please check airline websites for specific baggage weight, baggage size, carry-on regulations, and excess or overweight baggage charges all your flights (both international and intra-Europe).

Delayed Baggage 

Baggage can sometimes be delayed during air transport. Pack a change of clothing in your carry-on bag or your traveling companion’s bag just in case. Place a copy of the hotel and ship contact info inside each piece of checked luggage, as this will help the airline locate you should your bags be delayed. Please note that it is the responsibility of the airline to deliver any delayed bags to you. Claims for reimbursement for delayed luggage should be submitted directly to the airline. Fill out a claim form at the appropriate airline desk before leaving the airport. 

Important: AmaWaterways is not responsible for any additional fees imposed by air-carriers. In addition, during your cruise and when traveling by motorcoach, storage space may be limited and porters may decline to carry extra heavy suitcases for health and safety reasons. We recommend bringing only one suitcase and one carry-on bag per guest. Luggage tags and travel wallets will be delivered to your stateroom on board. We also suggest putting your contact information, such as your name, cell phone number and email as well as the hotel and/or ship contact information inside your bags, just in case they are delayed. 

Physical Requirements

Due to uneven terrain, cobblestones, stairs, temples, dirt roads and a lack of accessible facilities, our itineraries are not recommended for guests with limited mobility requiring the use of mobility aids like wheelchairs, scooters or any other mechanical devices. We kindly request guests requiring special assistance be accompanied by a companion who is physically able to provide such assistance, as AmaWaterways crew is unable to assist guests with personal tasks or hygiene needs.If there is uncertainty of a prospective guest’s fitness to travel or ability to independently care for their personal needs, please inform AmaWaterways as soon as possible. This will allow us to consider and discuss possible accommodations to ensure your safety and comfort during the cruise.

Throughout your river cruise it is likely the ship will be docked next to one or two other river ships. It is important to note that in these cases, disembarkation/embarkation may include walking up the stairs and through the adjacent ship(s) lobby or Sun Deck to reach the shore. You may also need to embark or disembark via a narrow gangway or occasionally cross an uneven surface to enter or exit the ship. These are typical situations that are beyond the control of AmaWaterways.

Accessible Facilities

Due to lack of space and facilities, shipboard accommodations and storage for mobility aids like wheelchairs, scooters or any other mechanical devices are unavailable and accessible facilities are extremely limited in most destinations. In addition, motorcoaches, boats and minibuses used for transfers and shore excursions are not equipped with the devices and tools necessary for full accessibility.

Mobility Devices

Guests may bring personal mobility devices (wheelchairs, electric scooters and walking frames) onboard our ships. However, devices must be stored in the guest’s stateroom and cannot be used in the dining room or lounge and must adhere to local standards and limitations. AmaWaterways Cruise Managers, crew and guides are unable to push wheelchairs on board or on shore.

Transfers and shore excursions adhere to a set schedule and cannot be adjusted for unexpected delays due to physical limitations. AmaWaterways and its affiliates are not responsible for any denial of services by airline carriers, cruise vessels, hotels, motorcoaches, local guides/operators or other independent suppliers.

Vaccines & Medications 

Please check with your doctor and local consulates for any applicable vaccination requirements or recommendations based upon your itinerary destinations and past medical and travel history. 

Medical Conditions

There is no doctor or nurse aboard your cruise. Please consult your physician prior to traveling if you have a medical condition that might pose limitations during your trip. Please advise us at time of the booking if you have any medical conditions requiring special attention during your trip.

Special Diets

Please let us know prior to your departure if you have any special dietary requirements (e.g. vegan, diabetic, gluten-free, etc.). We will make every effort to accommodate your requests, with the resources available to us.

Drinking Water

We advise using bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth when traveling through this part of the world. A supply will be readily available on board during your cruise. If you visit a restaurant on your own during your journey, always request bottled drinks opened at the table (to ensure purity) and refuse ice cubes. Drink often to avoid dehydration, too.

All water on board is purified and filtered with a Reverse Osmosis system (consists of Softener, Carbon Filter and UV lamp) as well as chlorinated and suitable for washing. Water quality is within the standard recommendations of the WHO (World Health Organization) and Egyptian code. However, we do not recommend drinking the tap water. Complimentary bottled water will be provided to you daily for drinking and brushing your teeth.

Street Food

Please be cautious when sampling any food purchased from street vendors, as hygiene standards may not be up to Western standards. It is best to avoid dairy products, salads, and any food that is uncooked or fruit that you have not peeled yourself. In general, it is advisable to avoid street food throughout your experience.

Intra Egypt flights (Cairo/Luxor/Cairo), flights between Amman and Cairo (Jordan extension)

Checked baggage must not exceed 23kg/50 lbs. in weight and overall dimensions of 62in/158 cm. Carry-on must be no heavier than 17 lbs. (8 kg).

*Extra fees will apply for overweight and/or each additional piece of checked in luggage and payable directly to the airline in cash. Maximum weight of checked luggage is 70 lbs. (32 kgs).

Important: AmaWaterways is not responsible for any additional fees imposed by air-carriers. In addition, during your cruise and when traveling by motorcoach, storage space may be limited, and porters may decline to carry extra heavy suitcases for health and safety reasons. We recommend bringing only one suitcase and one carry-on bag per guest. We also suggest putting your contact information, such as your name, cell phone number and email as well as the hotel and/or ship contact information inside your bags, just in case they are delayed.