Description
Introduction
Embark on a breathtaking 12-day journey through Egypt’s majestic deserts, remote oases, and ancient treasures. From the bustling heart of Cairo to the serene beauty of Bahariya, Farafra, Dakhla, and Kharga, this immersive tour takes you deep into Egypt’s Western Desert — far beyond the typical tourist path. Discover the haunting landscapes of the White and Black Deserts, sleep under the stars in Bedouin-style camps, and uncover millennia-old temples, tombs, and villages hidden in the sands. Along the way, you’ll explore ancient capitals like Tell el-Amarna, marvel at the Pyramids of Giza, and experience authentic local culture in both oasis towns and Nile-side cities. With expert guides, comfortable accommodations, and a perfect blend of adventure and heritage, this is Egypt as you’ve never seen it before.
Upon your arrival, you’ll be greeted and transferred to your hotel for check-in. Take some time to relax after your journey and settle into your surroundings. In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner at the hotel, setting the tone for the unforgettable adventure ahead.
After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Bahariya Oasis, a tranquil desert haven nestled within Egypt’s Western Desert. Upon arrival, visit the Museum of the Golden Mummies, where elaborately preserved mummies and Greco-Roman artifacts tell stories of ancient lives. After lunch, check in at your local hotel and enjoy a brief rest. In the late afternoon, venture out to explore Jabal al-Ingleez (English Mountain) and the nearby sand dunes, where golden light casts dramatic shadows over the landscape. Capture unforgettable sunset photos before returning to your hotel for the night.
Begin your desert expedition with an early breakfast before setting off into the extraordinary landscapes of the Black and White Deserts. Your journey includes a stop at a serene Bedouin village nestled by a natural water source—offering insight into the local lifestyle. Continue exploring the surreal beauty of Crystal Mountain, the striking rock formations of Aqabat, and scenic valleys scattered with desert flora. Visit Ein Khadra, a remote desert spring surrounded by palm trees, then explore El-Santa, the ancient desert, and the newer formations shaped by wind and time. As the sun sets, check in at a Bedouin-style eco-lodge in Farafra, where you’ll enjoy a peaceful overnight stay under the stars.
This morning, travel from Farafra to Dakhla Oasis, a region rich in history and cultural layers. Your day begins with a visit to Deir al-Hagar, a well-preserved Roman temple rising from the golden sands. Next, explore the Tombs of Al-Muzawwaqa, adorned with colorful depictions of ancient beliefs and daily life. After a day of discovery, check in at your hotel in Al-Tarfa and unwind amid the peaceful desert surroundings.
After breakfast, depart Dakhla and make your way to Kharga Oasis, once a major stop on the ancient trade route through the desert. Begin with a tour of Hibis Temple, a remarkable structure from the Persian era adorned with well-preserved carvings. Continue on to Al-Nassoura and the Al-Bagawat Necropolis, one of the world’s oldest Christian cemeteries, featuring mud-brick chapels with Coptic artwork. At the end of the day, check in at the Al-Dawwar Hotel to relax and prepare for the journey ahead
Today, the expedition shifts from oasis to river valley as you journey from Kharga to Asyut. Along the way, visit the ancient tombs of Meir, cut into limestone cliffs and filled with scenes of noble life in the Old and Middle Kingdoms. Continue on to Qusair Al-Amarna and Al-Hammamiya, both featuring important yet lesser-known tombs rich in artistic and archaeological value. After a day immersed in antiquity, check in at the Agyad Hotel in Asyut for a restful overnight stay.
Your journey continues north toward Minya, a region steeped in ancient Egyptian history. Start your day exploring Tell el-Amarna, the once-glorious capital built by the revolutionary Pharaoh Akhenaten. Wander through the royal tombs and remains of palaces that once challenged Egypt’s religious order. Afterwards, visit Tuna el-Gebel, a Greco-Roman necropolis famed for its animal mummies and temple ruins, followed by the cliffside tombs of Beni Hassan, featuring vivid scenes of everyday life. Spend the night at the Nefertiti Hotel, resting after a deeply historical day.
After breakfast, travel from Minya to Dahshur, where the ancient Red and Bent Pyramids stand in contrast to Giza’s more famous monuments. Then return to Cairo, where you’ll check in to your luxurious hotel. Enjoy your evening with free time to relax, indulge in your surroundings, or explore the city at your own pace before resting overnight.
Delve into the heart of Cairo’s cultural heritage with a morning visit to the world-renowned Egyptian Museum, home to treasures including the golden mask of Tutankhamun and thousands of ancient artifacts. After lunch, continue your exploration with a visit to the Citadel of Saladin, a hilltop fortress offering panoramic views of the city. End your day with a stroll through the vibrant Khan El Khalili Bazaar, where you can shop for spices, perfumes, and handcrafted souvenirs before returning to your hotel for the night.
No trip to Egypt is complete without standing in awe before the Pyramids of Giza. Spend the morning visiting the Great Pyramid, the Sphinx, and the surrounding monuments. For lunch, enjoy a meal at Nine Lounge, offering views of the pyramids while you dine. In the afternoon, head south to Saqqara, home of the Step Pyramid—the oldest pyramid in Egypt—and explore its vast necropolis. Return to your hotel in Cairo for a final overnight stay
This day is yours to personalize. Choose between visiting the brand-new Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), set to become the world’s largest archaeological museum, or delve into Cairo’s spiritual past with a visit to Coptic Cairo, featuring ancient churches and the Hanging Church. Return to your hotel for your final night in the capital.
After breakfast, check out from the hotel and transfer to the airport for your international departure. As your Egyptian journey ends, carry home unforgettable memories of timeless landscapes, ancient wonders, and warm desert hospitality.
What's Included?
Accommodation
Cairo: Mövenpick Hotel Cairo - Media City, JAZ Pyramids Resort, or Pyramids Park Resort Cairo
Bahariya Oasis: International Hot Spring Hotel
Farafra: Badawiya Farafra Hotel
Dakhla Oasis: Al Tarfa Desert Sanctuary – Lodge & Spa
Kharga Oasis: Sol Y Mar Pioneers Hotel
Asyut: Agyad Hotel
Minya: MG Nefertiti Hotel
Guide
Throughout the tour, you'll be accompanied by a professional, English-speaking local guide. Friendly, knowledgeable, and experienced, they’ll ensure a smooth journey, share fascinating insights, and assist you every step of the way.
Meals
Throughout the tour, meals are thoughtfully arranged to provide both comfort and convenience. While staying in Cairo, you’ll be on a half-board basis, enjoying daily breakfast and dinner at the hotel. Lunch is typically taken at local restaurants during sightseeing. During the desert portion of the journey, you’ll be on a full-board basis, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner included each day. Meals are freshly prepared, often featuring local Egyptian and Bedouin cuisine, and served in hotels, eco-lodges, or scenic outdoor desert settings. Drinking water is available throughout the trip, while any additional beverages or personal snacks can be purchased separately.
Insurance
Travel insurance is included in this tour, offering you peace of mind throughout your journey. The insurance provides coverage for unforeseen circumstances, ensuring you are protected during your exploration of Egypt's incredible sites. From potential medical needs to trip interruptions, the insurance is designed to safeguard your experience so you can fully enjoy your adventure stress-free. For more specific coverage details, you can inquire with the tour provider.