Arrival in Cairo & the White Desert

Cairo - The journey begins at 6:00 am with a timely and comfortable pick-up from Cairo Airport or your hotel in Giza or Cairo.

Bahariya Oasis - Relax in our modern, air-conditioned vehicle as we head towards the stunning Bahariya Oasis, located about 350 kilometers east of Cairo.

Upon reaching Bahariya Oasis around 10:00 am, you will be warmly welcomed by your knowledgeable safari guide. Here, we switch to a robust 4x4 Jeep, our reliable companion for exploring the captivating desert landscape. Our adventure truly kicks off as we head towards the mysterious Black Desert.

Black Desert - The Black Desert gets its intriguing name from the unique layer of black volcanic powder that covers its mountains, plateaus, and sands. This dark covering contrasts dramatically with the more common golden tones of the Egyptian desert, creating a unique and somewhat surreal landscape. The black powder, a remnant of ancient volcanic activity, adorns the peaks of many of the desert’s prominent formations.

Valley of Agabat - We will arrive at the peaceful El Haize Oasis, situated 37 kilometers from Bawiti. Some consider El Haize a separate oasis, and its history is rich, especially during Roman times when the area thrived. Many of the current families trace their roots back to Libya, highlighting the historical connections across this region. Before enjoying a well-deserved lunch, you will have the chance to immerse yourself in the therapeutic waters of a natural hot spring.

El Haize also hosts the fascinating “Water Museum,” an insightful exhibition dedicated to showcasing the vital importance of underground water resources for desert communities. The museum also displays the ingenious tools historically used by Egyptians to draw water for essential irrigation purposes.

After our refreshing break at El Haize, we will continue our 4x4 journey around 1:00 pm, heading towards the breathtaking Valley of Agabat.

White Desert - As the afternoon progresses, around 4:30 pm, we will delve deeper into the White Desert National Park, undoubtedly Egypt’s most celebrated desert destination. This protected area is a gallery of natural artistry, where wind and time have carved hundreds of striking formations. Let your imagination wander as you identify shapes reminiscent of animals – a majestic chicken, a stoic sphinx, graceful camels, Bedouin tents, and whimsical mushrooms, including the iconic chicken-shaped rock.

As the golden hour approaches, our dedicated Bedouin team will expertly set up our comfortable tents, preparing for our overnight desert camp.

Join us for a simple yet delicious meal of grilled chicken, fragrant rice, and fresh vegetables – a culinary experience enhanced by the unparalleled ambiance of the desert night. (Please note that vegetarian options are readily available upon request.)

White Desert & Bahariya Oasis

Bahariya Oasis - Enjoy a delightful breakfast amidst the tranquility of the desert before we begin our drive back towards the Bahariya Oasis.

Around 9:00 am, en route to the oasis, we will make a captivating stop at Crystal Mountain, known locally as Gebel al-Izzaz, meaning “Mountain of Glass.” This geological marvel is more accurately described as a crystal hill, shimmering brilliantly under the sun’s rays. Often referred to as the “Jewel of the Desert,” Crystal Mountain is composed of dazzling quartzite crystals.

By 11:00 am, we will arrive back at Bahariya Oasis, where you will have the opportunity to soak in the therapeutic heat of Bir Sigam, a renowned hot spring located 7 kilometers east of Bahariya on the Cairo road. This spring is particularly favored for its ideal temperature, offering a truly relaxing experience. (During the summer months, we may opt for a refreshing stop at Bir Madi, a cool spring, instead.)

Cairo - Then we will commence our drive back to Cairo.

Luxor’s West Bank and Karnak Temple

Luxor - Early in the morning, you will be transferred to Cairo Airport for a short flight to Luxor.

Upon arrival at Luxor Airport, you will be warmly welcomed and begin your exploration of this ancient city.

Valley of the Kings - Accompanied by your knowledgeable private tour guide, embark on a journey through Luxor’s most iconic historical sites.

Cross the majestic Nile River to the West Bank, home to some of Luxor’s most spectacular highlights. Here, with your private guide, delve into the famed Valley of the Kings, the final resting place of Egypt’s pharaohs from the 18th to the 20th dynasties. You will have the opportunity to visit three remarkable royal tombs, including potentially those of the great Ramses II and the boy-king Tutankhamun. These tombs were lavishly provisioned with everything a ruler might require in the afterlife, and many of their intricate decorations remain remarkably well-preserved. (Please note that a separate ticket is required to enter the Tomb of Tutankhamun.)

Temple of Hatshepsut at Deir el Bahari - Next, visit the awe-inspiring Temple of Hatshepsut, one of the most beautiful and best-preserved temples in all of Ancient Egypt. Built on three levels with impressive ramps connecting them, the temple rises dramatically from the desert plain, seamlessly merging with the sheer limestone cliffs of the Theban Mountain – a testament to the architectural genius of the ancient Egyptians.

Colossi of Memnon - Our West Bank exploration concludes with a visit to the Colossi of Memnon, two colossal stone statues of King Amenhotep III. These imposing figures are the sole remnants of his once vast mortuary temple, the largest on the West Bank. Carved from quartzite sandstone transported from Cairo, these 18-meter-high statues have stood sentinel for millennia.

Karnak Open Air Museum - Around noon, enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant in Luxor before turning attention to the East Bank and the magnificent Temple of Karnak.

Karnak Temple stands as the largest ancient religious site ever constructed by humankind. No other site in Egypt can rival its sheer scale and grandeur. This sprawling complex represents the accumulated achievements of generations of ancient Egyptian builders and pharaohs. In reality, Karnak comprises three main temples situated on an expansive 247 acres of land, a testament to the enduring power and devotion of the ancient civilization.

Aswan - Following our comprehensive exploration of Karnak Temple, you will be comfortably transferred in a private, air-conditioned vehicle to your hotel in Aswan for an overnight stay.

Abu Simbel Temples & Aswan Sightseeing

Abu Simbel Temple Complex - Our final day begins early with a journey south to the magnificent temples of Abu Simbel.

Carved out of the mountainside on the west bank of the Nile between 1274 and 1244 BC, the two temples of Ramses II and Queen Nefertari are a testament to the power and artistry of the New Kingdom. The Great Temple is dedicated to Ramses II and the principal state gods of the time, featuring four colossal statues of the pharaoh guarding its entrance. The smaller temple is dedicated to Queen Nefertari and the goddess Hathor. In a remarkable feat of engineering and international cooperation, both temples were painstakingly dismantled and reconstructed on higher ground in the 1960s to save them from the rising waters of Lake Nasser – an achievement widely regarded as one of UNESCO’s greatest preservation projects.

Temple of Philae - Upon returning to Aswan, embark on a tour of the city’s key attractions, including the majestic Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis and the last temple built in the classical Egyptian style.

Aswan - Finally, no visit to Aswan is complete without an unforgettable felucca ride on the Nile. Relax and soak in the picturesque scenery as you sail around Elephantine Island, enjoying the tranquil beauty of the river.

Aswan - After exploring Aswan, you will be transferred to Aswan Airport for your flight back home.

• 1 night accommodation in 4 to 5 stars hotel in Cairo
• Entrance fees to all mentioned sites
• All transfers to / from Airports
• Flight ticket from Cairo to Luxor
• 1 night accommodation in 4 to 5 stars hotel in Aswan
• Lunch
• Dinner
• Qualified Egyptologist tour Guide
• Breakfast
• All service charges & taxes
• 1 night Camping in the desert
• All transfers by a private air-conditioned vehicle
• Meet and assist service upon arrival and departure

• Gratuities

Embark on an Egyptian adventure that beautifully combines natural wonders with ancient marvels. Start in Cairo and venture to the surreal White Desert, where you can explore its distinctive rock formations and enjoy an overnight desert camp. Experience stunning sunsets and sunrises, and uncover the beauty of Crystal Mountain. The journey continues to Luxor, where you can explore the Valley of the Kings, the magnificent Temple of Hatshepsut, and the towering Colossi of Memnon on the West Bank. On the East Bank, be awed by the splendor of Karnak Temple. Finally, travel to Aswan to visit the iconic Abu Simbel temples and the Philae Temple, concluding with a peaceful felucca ride on the Nile before returning to Cairo. This carefully designed itinerary provides an immersive experience into the heart of Egypt’s enchanting history and breathtaking landscapes.

If you cancel at least 3 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel within 3 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.