Minya is the gateway to a remarkable cluster of ancient sites that most Nile-cruise itineraries skip. The painted Middle Kingdom tombs at Beni Hassan, the deserted Amarna plain of Akhenaten's failed capital, and the Graeco-Roman necropolis at Tuna el-Gebel are all within a half-day's drive. Security situation permitting, this is one of the most rewarding regions of Upper Egypt to explore.