Fairytales of Fayoum on Horseback

8 nights: From USD $GBP £3800EUR €ZAR RAUD $ pp sharing

DISCOVER EGYPT’S SECRETS FOLLOWING THE PHAROAH’S TRAIL

Discover the magic of Egypt as you gallop across the desert to find fossilised oceans, watch the hot air balloons rise at dawn, and swim in the Red Sea.

This bespoke horse riding holiday focuses on the beautiful and unspoiled desert around Fayoum with a little more flexibility than our other Egyptian rides. Enjoy a couple of days in captivating Cairo and end in Luxor, the city that has always been the soul of our Egyptian horse-riding adventures.

Start your holiday with a visit to Egypt’s capital city of Cairo. Embrace the hustle and bustle; explore the city streets lined with spirited souks and busy bazaars or sit back and enjoy the views of the Pyramids from your luxurious accommodations. Let the Baladi and Arab horses guide you on an unforgettable journey through the Sahara Desert. See the Great Pyramids of Giza while galloping across the golden sands and stroll through the ancient temples and museums with your personal guides.

Spend the next three days discovering the history and wonders of Egypt’s best-kept secret, Fayoum. One of the country’s oldest cities, this coveted desert oasis is a horse lover’s paradise, with open desert as far as the eye can see. Yalla! Enjoy days of riding and racing across the shimmering sands on brave and bold Arabian horses. Dive deep into the wondrous tombs of ancient pharaohs, world-renowned archaeological sites, and pristine natural wonders, including a magic colour-changing lake. Head off on a 4×4 safari, like a rollercoaster through the dunes, taking you even further into the desert to see the unique rock formations. Finish off your days by strolling through Tunis’s colourful and charming village, indulging in classic Egyptian cuisines, or relaxing at the luxurious, villa-style boutique hotel. You’ll be treated to a special Bedouin-style dinner under the stars in the evening.

Luxor, home to The Valley of Kings, where the highest-regarded pharaohs built their elaborate, elegant, final resting places, has royalty and riches deep within its golden sands. Explore the gorgeous desert landscapes and awe-inspiring monuments on horseback. Embark on private tours through world-famous tombs and museums with an Egyptologist who will teach you their ancient secrets. Between adventures, sit back and relax in the Nile-front hotel. End your stay with an unforgettable ride at dawn to catch the picturesque hot air balloons floating in the golden morning light.

CURRENCY CONVERTER

At the current exchange rate. Please note final quote might vary slightly

USDGBPEURZARAUD

DATES AND RATES

Some set-departures dates are available and there are many flexible start dates. The riding season is from October to May – Please enquire for exact dates and availability.

2024 RATES

2024/2025 SEASON DATES & RATES

Flexible start dates throughout 2024

Season is generally from October 2023 to April 2024, but we can arrange other rides throughout the year

23 November – 01 December 2024

11 - 19 April 2025

8 Nights: USD $GBP £3800EUR €ZAR RAUD $ per person sharing + Extras

EXTRAS – SUBJECT TO CHANGE

TRANSFERS

Shared Airport Transfers: USD $GBP £70EUR €ZAR RAUD $ per person


ENTRANCE FEE TO TEMPLES & TOMBS

These are paid locally and the price may vary depending on your nationality

Needs to be paid with Debit/Credit Card

Approximately USD $GBP £100EUR €ZAR RAUD $ per person


INTERNAL FLIGHTS BETWEEN CAIRO & LUXOR

Approx. USD $GBP £65EUR €ZAR RAUD $ - USD $GBP £150EUR €ZAR RAUD $

We will help you book your flight between Cairo & Luxor. Domestic flights are rarely released very far in advance in Egypt, so we will be in touch 30 days before your ride to assist you.


TIP KITTY

There is a mandatory tip kitty of USD $250GBP £EUR €ZAR RAUD $ per person, which is given to the guide on your first day. Egypt is a country where tips are a way of life and absolutely essential. This covers; hotels, porters, guides, horseman guides, grooms, drivers, camel guides and boat guides and avoids the complications of everyone contributing individually each time. If you want to give a bit extra to your riding guides, it is always appreciated!


SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

If you are not keen to share with another solo traveller of the same sex

USD $GBP £1250EUR €ZAR RAUD $


FESTIVE SUPPLEMENT (December & January)

USD $GBP £200EUR €ZAR RAUD $ per person

INCLUDES & EXCLUDES

Includes

  • Accommodation on a sharing basis
  • All meals
  • Water and soft drinks with meals
  • All riding activities on well-trained and responsive horses
  • Non-riding activities listed in the itinerary
  • Expert guides (riding and non-riding)
  • Hot Air Balloon Flight (subject to weather)
  • All local transfers excluding airport transfers

Excludes

  • International flights to Cairo and from Luxor
  • Visas
  • Comprehensive Travel & Medical Insurance
  • All alcoholic and soft drinks
  • Mandatory Tip Kitty (USD $200GBP £EUR €ZAR RAUD $ per person)
  • Flights between Cairo & Luxor (Approx. USD $GBP £60EUR €ZAR RAUD $USD $GBP £120EUR €ZAR RAUD $)
  • Shared Airport Transfers (USD $GBP £70EUR €ZAR RAUD $ per person)
  • Entries to temples and historic sites – paid locally
  • Extra excursions and activities
  • Festive Season Supplement (USD $GBP £200EUR €ZAR RAUD $ per person)
  • Single Supplement if not willing to share
CHECK AVAILABILITYARRANGE A CALL

QUICK FACTS

Location: Cario, Fayoum & Luxor, Egypt
Airport: Arrive Cairo International Airport, Depart Luxor International Airport
Month: October – May
Duration: 8 Nights
Group Size: Max 10
Skill Level: Intermediate Plus & Advanced
Weight Limit: 90kg / 200lbs
Accommodation: Guesthouse / Hotel
Solo Traveller Friendly: Yes. No single supplement if happy to share
VIEW GALLERY

SUITABLE RIDING LEVELS

  • Beginner
  • Novice
  • Intermediate
  • Intermediate Plus
  • Advanced
WHAT RIDING LEVEL AM I?
8 nights: From USD $GBP £3800EUR €ZAR RAUD $ pp sharing

CURRENCY CONVERTER

At the current exchange rate. Please note final quote might vary slightly

USDGBPEURZARAUD

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

  • Ride further afield beyond the tourist hot spots to temples, pyramids and oases deep in the heart of the Egyptian desert
  • Visit the 7th wonder of the world, the Giza Pyramids, on horseback
  • Get to know authentic Egypt with a private guide showing you all the best sights of the cities and beyond
  • See the coveted Valley of the Kings through the ears of a fiery Arab stallion
  • This is an all-inclusive trip, with premium accommodations and unique flexibility

TOUR REVIEWS

Fairytale Fayoum was my first riding holiday and Wow what an experience. We were met at the airport by Ride Egypt staff and were thoroughly looked after from that moment by Emma and her team.
We were a group of eight which was a good sized group and we were well matched with our horses which were gorgeous, well trained and well looked after at all the stables we visited. I had only briefly sat on an Arabian horse prior to this holiday and really enjoyed riding all the horses selected for me. It was great fun with plenty of fast paced Yalla’s across open desert.
The Hotels were all excellent with friendly helpful staff, the food was amazing and so much of it ! I really enjoyed the Egyptian cuisine (especially dining in the desert with chicken slow cooked buried in the sand, delicious). The whole holiday was a great mix of riding across the desert, around the pyramids and farm tracks next to the Nile while exploring the culture and history of Egypt, the Pyramids, Temples, The valley of the Kings and museums. The tours were well planned and the guides were very knowledgeable and interesting. I felt safe and well looked after throughout the action packed holiday, making unforgettable memories.

JulieFairytales of Fyoum
READ MORE REVIEWS

SAMPLE ITINERARY

This is a sample itinerary of the riding and experiences you may have on your trip. Life in Egypt runs on a different type of clock, so expect some changes along the way. The itinerary is fluid any changes will always be made with your best interests at heart – perhaps ticking off extra bucket list moments, finding unique dining locations and discovering places off the beaten track. Itineraries can be adapted to any special interests you might have, so let us know. There are other non-riding activities that can be booked when you arrive, such as quad biking, camel rides and local markets. You’ll have a personal guide to show you the secrets of this amazing country!

DAY 1: ARRIVE IN CAIRO

Welcome to Cairo! A driver will meet you in the airport and transfer you to your hotel, overlooking the Great Pyramids of Giza. Enjoy some time to settle in, relax, have a spa treatment, and enjoy the breathtaking views from the verandah. In the evening you’ll meet your guide and fellow travellers. Your host is Emma, originally from the UK but has been living in Egypt for over seven years. Her team will take you off the beaten path, away from the hustle and bustle of the tourist sights, and give you a unique, local perspective on life in Egypt. This is a truly authentic experience and the best way to experience this incredible country!

DAY 2: PYRAMIDS RIDE & TRAVEL TO FAYOUM

Start your holiday off with a relaxed morning. You will be picked up from your hotel and head to the great Giza Pyramids for your first ride of the trip; a bucket-list moment! Feel the rush as you gallop across the golden sands of the Sahara desert atop a stunning and powerful Arabian horse. This ride is exhilarating and offers once-in-a-lifetime photo opportunities of you riding in front of the pyramids.  Ride time is approximately 2 hours. After your epic horse ride, you’ll have the opportunity to join an Egyptologist and explore the history, culture and magic of these wondrous monuments on foot.

After the tour, you will visit a local restaurant for an authentic Egyptian lunch before heading back to the hotel for a quick refresh. A driver will pick you up for the 1.5 hour transfer to Fayoum. Enjoy dinner at your Fayoumi-style villa accommodation overlooking the serene Qaroun Lake.

DAY 3: HALF DAY RIDE AND RELAX

Today you have a free morning to take a walk to the pottery school, dip in the pool or just relax. After an easy morning and a lovely breakfast at your hotel, set out for a ride to Magic Lake. Located in the beautiful World Heritage site of Wadi El Hitan, this remote lake got its name from its mesmerizing waters. Watch closely, and you’ll notice the colors change several times each day depending on the sunlight it receives. Around the lake, you’ll have access to miles of gorgeous, open desert to ride. Magic Lake is also known to have a number of healing minerals, so we encourage you to take your horse for a swim!

After your time in the desert, return to your accommodations for a delicious Egyptian dinner and a good night’s rest.

DAY 4: FULL DAY TRAIL RIDE & DESERT DINNER

Start your day with a hearty breakfast to prepare for a full day of riding. After breakfast, you will be picked up by a driver and head out to the heart of Wadi El Rayan, one of Egypt’s most famous and beautiful nature reserves. This area has gorgeous views, cascading waterfalls, and towering rock formations. It is also home to some of Egypt’s most exclusive wildlife, including white gazelle, foxes, and rare eagles. Upon arrival at the reserve, you will saddle up and ride out with your guide. Wadi El Rayan is one of the best places for a day of epic horse riding. Enjoy full gallops across the endless desert and long canter stretches through picturesque scenery.

Tonight you are in for a special treat. Dine under the vast desert skies, littered with stars. You can choose to sleep in tents right in the center of Wadi El Rayan or head back to your hotel.

DAY 5: 4X4 SAFARI AT WADI EL HITAN

Today you have the opportunity to test out our second favourite mode of transpiration, the 4×4! Head far off the beaten path where you can play on the epic sand dunes. Cruise across the desert to Whale Valley, one of the world’s most fascinating and important archaeological sites. Here you can find the ancient, fossilized remains of now-extinct whales. These fossils date back as far as 37 million years and outline one of the world’s major stories of evolution.

After a tasty local lunch, a driver will pick you up and head back to Cairo for a lovely cocktail, dinner, and overnight at Mena House.

DAY 6: DESERT RIDE OR MUSEUM VISIT

Enjoy an authentic Egyptian breakfast overlooking the Pyramids from your hotel. Before your flight to Luxor in the afternoon, choose between a good desert gallop, a guided tour of Cairo’s newest museum, or indulge in a morning by the hotel pool. If a desert gallop is your pick, you can take another epic spin around the pyramids. If history and culture are more your speed today, join a guided tour of Cairo’s new Grand Egyptian Museum, where you’ll get up close to royal mummies, ancient artefacts, and stunning architecture. For those wanting a bit of indulgence, this might be the perfect time for that spa treatment (at your own cost)

After the morning activities, you will catch a short flight to Luxor, then check into your hotel for the evening.

DAY 7: EXPLORE THE VALLEY OF THE KINGS

Today you have the opportunity to choose your adventure. We have created two experiences for returning guests who do not wish to sightsee again but would rather dedicate their time with us to being in the saddle and those new to Luxor and wish to combine both riding and sightseeing into their stay. Option one is a non-riding tour of The Valley of the Kings, an Egyptian-styled lunch, and an introductory Luxor ride. Option two is a full-day trail ride in The Valley of the Kings with an Egyptian-styled lunch.

The Valley of the Kings, located on the remote west banks of the Nile, is where some of the most important pharaohs in Egyptian history built their crypts. Some of those pharaohs include Tutankhamun, or “The Boy King”, and Hatshepsut, one of the most successful and well-known women pharaohs in Egyptian history. The valley contains hundreds of beautifully painted and carefully sculpted limestone tombs with chambers filled with treasures for pharaohs to take to the afterlife. Discovered in 1922 by Howard Carter, this incredible site has been named a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Explore these sites with a private, local Egyptologist, or see them through the ears of your trusty steed.

After a day of discovery or a thrilling desert ride, enjoy a delicious dinner and an evening belly dancing lesson on the Nile.

DAY 8: EXPLORE LUXOR

Today you will have the option of non-riding tours plus a sunset ride or a full day of riding. On the non-riding tour option, you will have the opportunity to discover the Karnak Temple and the Luxor Museum followed by lunch, then a gorgeous sunset ride to the Colossi of Memnon and Mount Thebes. On the full-day riding tour option, experience the nobility and sure-footedness of the Arabian and Balady (a local breed) horses in a stunning desert ride, finished off with a sunset excursion.

The Karnak Temple is one of the largest and most important religious complexes in ancient Egyptian history. The temple has been ever-changing for hundreds of years as pharaohs added their own tombs and constructions. The various architectural, artistic, and cultural details make it an invaluable piece of Egyptian history and evolution.

The Luxor Museum houses a brilliant display of antiques, artistic masterpieces, and ancient artefacts mostly gathered from Theban temples. The museum’s collection includes pieces dating back to the Old Kingdom and all the way through the Mamluk period.

As the sun begins to set, experience the mighty, towering statues of the Pharaoh Amenhotep III, or the “colossi” from horseback. The 18m (60ft) sandstone statues once stood guardian to Amenhotep’s mortuary complex before it was claimed by Egypt’s floods and earthquakes. Continue on to the top of Mount Thebes as the sun settles and casts beautiful shadows over the sacred sands of the valley.

After a full day of activities, return to town for an authentic Egyptian dinner.

DAY 9: SUNRISE BALLOON TRAIL AND CHECK OUT

The sunrise balloon trail ride is one of Luxor’s most iconic experiences. Rise before the sun, saddle up, and head out into the quiet desert. Witness a breathtaking kaleidoscope of colours as the sun peaks over the horizon and catches the colourful balloons, gently rising above the dark sands like floating lanterns. (Note: this is weather dependent)

After a picturesque morning, you will return to the hotel for a delicious breakfast. Enjoy a few hours of relaxation at the hotel before checking out at 11.30. Late check-outs are available upon request, for an extra fee.

THE ACCOMMODATION

This horse riding holiday in Egypt offers a number of beautiful hotels as well as authentic guest houses. We have hand-selected some of our favorites to give you the opportunity to experience the highest level of authentic Egyptian hospitality and culture. Hotels are also selected based on location, to allow access to the horses and attractions, plus an opportunity to dine out or shop in the evening. In Cairo, the hotels give you the best views of the Pyramids. In Luxor, we have intimate accommodations nestled along the Nile River, and in Fayoum, a luxurious desert oasis.

ACCOMMODATION IN CAIRO

STEIGENBERGER HOTEL (OR SIMILAR)

Bringing glamorous ancient history to your doorstep! Indulge in an experience that brings together both authenticity and modernity. Perfectly located a few minutes away from the Great Pyramids of Giza, the hotel offers incredible views and excellent bar, dining, and pool facilities.

MARRIOTT MENA HOUSE (OR SIMILAR)

Frequented by dignitaries and celebrities, this luxurious accommodation is a peaceful oasis right in the heart of Cairo. The up-scale hotel offers rooms with gorgeous views of the 40 acres of green gardens, the pristine swimming pool and of course, the Pyramids of Giza. Relax into the indulgent bedding, experience the top-of-the-line spa, visit the 24-hour gym or indulge at one of their high-class restaurants.

ACCOMMODATION IN FAYOUM

TZILA LODGE (OR SIMILIAR)

Tzila Lodge is the second oldest building in Tunis Village, now beautifully renovated. Its architectural structure is designed to follow the ancestral Fayoum method of dome construction whilst meeting the requirements of modern-day life, thus adding a spice of culture to your stay.

TZALIA CAMP (OPTIONAL)

The tents offer a cosy camping ambience for those seeking a comfortable desert experience. Each tent provides you with a spacious feel, you’ll have your seating lounge within your sleeping quarters. Designed with maximum flexibility and comfort, each tent is furnished simply to provide you “homey” Egyptian feeling.

ACCOMMODATION IN LUXOR

DJOFF PALACE (OR SIMILAR)

Set next to Banana Island on the West Bank of Luxor, this 5-star luxury Nubian-style hotel offers stunning rooms with Nile views, a swimming pool, and an onsite restaurant serving amazing Mediterranean cuisine.

AL MOUDIRA HOTEL (OR SIMILAR)

The only palace on the west banks of the Nile, the Al Moudira Hotel sits bold and beautiful at the gateway of Luxor. The patios, ornate with arabesques and the luxurious rooms, carefully fitted with Egyptian antiques, will inspire dreams of Arabian nights. Between the exciting days and quiet evenings, relax in your en-suite lounge or visit one of the luxurious installations or facilities.

THE DESTINATION

Cairo

Cairo, the capital of Egypt, is one of the largest cities on the African continent. Rich with history, this bustling city has stood for more than 1,000 years on the banks of the River Nile. The famous Tahrir Square and Egyptian Museum are located in the city’s heart. Here, discover a treasure trove of ancient relics, including royal mummies and unique gilded artefacts. A short distance from the buzz of the city is Giza, the site of the iconic pyramids and the Great Sphinx, dating back to the 26th century BC.

Fayoum

Located just a few hours from bustling Cairo, Fayoum is undoubtedly one of the country’s best-hidden treasures. Founded around 4000 BC, it is one of Egypt’s oldest cities. Here you’ll discover a desert oasis flooded with life through waterways fed by the great Nile River. This city also boasts a number of historic monuments, including the distinctive Pyramid of Hawara and Medinet Madi. Just outside the city, Wadi El Rayan is one of Egypt’s most famous nature reserves, named after King El Rayan Ibn El Walid. The reserve consists of some of the most important archaeological sites in the world, a magic lake, unique rock formations and distinct mountain ranges.

Luxor

Luxor, filled with some of the most famous tombs, temples, monuments and memorials, is often called the “world’s greatest open-air museum”. This great city was once the great capital of Thebes, a glorious city dedicated to Egypt’s primary god. The east bank of Luxor is home to the Luxor Temple & Karnak Temple, and the west bank, the Valley of the Kings and the Valley of the Queens. The morning skies are dotted with vibrant hot air balloons, and the dark night skies with bright stars.

HOW WE CARE FOR OUR HORSES

Our horseback adventures are hand-picked for their quality and care of their horses. Here’s how the horses in Egypt are kept in tip-top shape for your safaris. The horses are on top of the hierarchy and receive very special care:

  • Based in Luxor, they are able to grow most of their own horse food, being quinoa, barley and corn. Quinoa gives is a pure protein so it works the same way as when body-builders have a high protein diet whilst training, great for power and muscle. Corn, known as “fatty power” meaning it’s good for maintaining a healthy weight. Barley locally called Sheerie” is a great all-rounder. All of these local grains are grown and dried on the farm
  • The stables were purposely built with the horses in mind. They have low walls between each of the horses so they can socialize with each other and large sandy paddocks for grazing and frolicking
  • All tack is purposely bought for each horse, and cleaned and checked daily
  • All horses are purposely chosen to suit each rider’s preference and riding ability

Please let us know if you have any more questions about this.

HOW TO SIGN UP FOR A HORSE SAFARI

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