Palms, Pyramids and Pharaohs – Cairo, Luxor & Red Sea

7 Nights: From GBP £2599

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The Best of Egypt – Captivating Cairo, Luxor and Makadi Bay

A trail ride to Egypt just wouldn’t be complete without seeing the Great Pyramids of Giza on horseback! We took our most popular trip to Luxor and Makadi Bay and added a trip to Cairo. If you desire an authentic riding holiday filled with temples, tombs, pharaohs and phenomenon, this is the trip for you.

Start your adventure in the bustling megacity of Cairo. Find yourself immersed in the depth of the fascinating layered history, the wealth of culture all atop a beautiful, fiery Arabian horse. Spend a day in Cairo, packing in all the must-see sights, visiting the Pyramids of Giza and the Cairo Museum with your own personal Egyptologist and guide. Enjoy Egyptian hospitality during your stay in a hotel just a stone’s throw away from the magnificent Pyramids. A truly incredible way to experience a unique city!

From bustling Cairo fly to Luxor. Often called the world’s greatest open-air museum, it’s hard to describe the magic of this extraordinary place. Nothing in the world compares to the scale and grandeur of the monuments that have survived from ancient Thebes and seeing them from horseback is something out of a dream. Riding through the land of the Pharos, see the Valley of the Kings through the ears of your purebred Arabian before taking some incredible photos in front of the Colossi of Memnon.

End your Egyptian adventure at the Red Sea, where the desert sands meet the crystal blue waters of the Red Sea. Gallop across the open desert and along seemingly endless beaches. Enjoy a boat trip out to swim with wild dolphins and end your adventure riding your steed into the warm waters for a horseback swim. Egypt is meant to be discovered on horseback!

QUICK FACTS
Cairo, Luxor & Makadi Bay, Egypt
Arrive Cairo Airport, Depart Hurghada Airport
October to May
8 Days, 7 Nights
Group Size: 12
Intermediate and Above
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
  • Ride further afield beyond the tourist hot spots to temples and pyramids deep in the heart of the Egyptian desert
  • Visit the 7th Wonder of the World on horseback and take epic “between the ears” photos
  • Get to know the real Egypt with a private guide showing you all the best sights of the city and beyond.
  • See the Valley of the Kings from horseback
  • Swim on horseback in the crystal clear waters at Makadi Bay
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THE DESTINATION
Cairo

The place Egyptians call Umm Ad Dunya – the “Mother of the World” Cairo is chaotic but beautiful. Staying on the ourskirts of this bustling city, you get to have breakfast overlooking the Great pyramids of Giza. Explore the local souks before diving into history and exploring the museums and tombs that make Egypt so unique.

Luxor

Luxor is known as the “open-air museum” because of the vast number of historical artefacts, its iconic homes and the ruins of the temple complexes that stand within the modern city today. The east bank of Luxor is home to the Luxor temple & Karnak Temple, and the west bank is home to the Valley of the Kings and the Valley of the Queens – and the best way to get there is by horseback.

Makadi Bay and the Red Sea

The Red Sea Riviera is a real miracle of nature. Sandy beaches, hot African sun, and turquoise sea joining the desert. Egypt is a land of the living and the dead and many secrets, where the past meets the present, the history of the pharaohs is still shrouded in the desert ubiquitous sand. Explore the desert and ocean on this horseback adventure.

DATES & RATES

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

2023 / 2024 Season Dates:
30 September – 07 October 2023 / 07 – 14 October 2023 / 28 October – 04 November 2023 / 11 – 18 November 2023 / 03 – 10 December 2023 / 21 – 28 December 2023 / 06 – 13 January 2024 / 03 -10 February 2024 / 22 – 29 March 2024 / 30 March – 06 April 2024 

2023 / 2024 Season Rates:
Valid 01 September 2023 to 31 May 2024
7 nights: GBP £2599 per person sharing 

Additional GBP £550 single supplement if not willing to share

Optional Extention to include an additional day swimming with dolphins – GBP £250 per person sharing / GBP £300 single

INCLUDES:

  • Accommodation on a sharing basis
  • Delicious local meals
  • Water with all rides and meals
  • All riding activities
  • Non-riding activities listed in the itinerary
  • All guiding (riding and non-riding)
  • All entry fees to sites and museums
  • Shared Airport Transfers

EXCLUDES:

  • International flights to Cairo and from Hurghada
  • Flights from Cairo to Luxor (Approximately GBP60 – 120)
  • Comprehensive Travel & Medical Insurance
  • All alcoholic and soft drinks
  • Mandatory Tip Kitty (USD150 per person)
YOUR 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: Day of Arrival in Egypt

On arrival, you will be met at the airport by your driver and transported through the bustling streets of Cairo to your accommodation. Your hosts choose boutique hotels located on the back streets of Giza, just a few hundred meters from the great Pyramids. The rooftop terraces offer stunning views over the Pyramids and Sphinx, and you might even be able to glimpse these wonders from the comfort of your white cotton sheets. Enjoy your first dinner with your fellow adventurers around 8PM.

Day 2: Giza Pyramids Ride & Cairo

On your day in Cairo, you’ll have the opportunity to tick off some of Egypt’s bucket-list sights! You’ll meet for breakfast around 8AM to talk through the day’s itinerary.

After breakfast, you’ll head to the stables where you’ll meet the herd of beautiful Arabian horses. Before you begin there will be a safety briefing and your guides will explain the history of the horses and their role in the unique Egyptian culture. Then it’s time to mount up as you set off on your first ride to the world-famous Pyramids of Giza! Riding across the plains towards this unique skyline is a thrill that not many people get to experience!

Once you arrive at one of the 7 Wonders of the World, you will have the opportunity to dismount and explore the tombs and chambers on foot. Walk a short distance to the Sphinx with your Egyptologist guide who will tell you all about it’s fascinating history. Known in Arabic as Abu Al Hol (Father of Terror), this sculpture of a man with the haunches of a lion was dubbed the Sphinx by the ancient Greeks.

After an awe-inspiring morning, lunch will be served at one of the local restaurants in town. Then you’ll head out in the afternoon for a non-riding tour of Cairo Museum. The museum contains over 120,000 Egyptian artifacts and the world’s largest collection of Pharaonic antiques. 

Next, it’s time to head to Luxor! All guests will need to purchase an internal flight between Cairo and Luxor which will be specified upon booking. The late afternoon flights are inexpensive and less than an hour, giving you plenty of time to enjoy a relaxing dinner and well-earned rest. Luxor is quite peaceful after the hustle and bustle of the city. The hotels are close to the stables and the river Nile for a truly authentic stay!

Day 3: Valley of the Kings & Sunset Nile Ride

This non-riding morning will be an excellent introduction to the Land of the Pharaohs. Stroll through the “Valley of the Kings”, also know as “The Valley of the Dead”, where some of the most important pharaohs in Egyptian history built their crypts. Your guide is an Egyptologist who will give you a tour of these incredible catacombs and explain the meaning of the intricate hieroglyphs.

After lunch, you will travel by tuk-tuk to the stables where you will meet the horses who will take you on your first ride in Luxor. The Bedouin-style yard, crafted by locals, is located on the West Bank of the Nile with a stunning, mountainous backdrop. The herd of Arabian horses will be grazing in the lush green plantation fields, accompanied by the farm’s resident camels and donkeys.

Enjoy a casual and relaxing ride through the colorful and often chaotic villages while getting to know the wonderful horses. Continue along under the gently swaying palm trees of the River Nile where you might see the powerful water buffalo grazing along the banks. This is a great spot for photos with the River Nile in the background! After the lovely late-afternoon ride, a local Egyptian feast will be served for dinner. Grab a plush cushion and a seat on the floor, and don’t be afraid to eat with your hands! A tradition when in Luxor!

Day 4: The Ultimate Ride Through the Land of the Pharoahs

Get a good breakfast in before a long day in the saddle and prepare to fall in love with both Arabian and Baladi (local breed) horses! These wonderful breeds are famous for their beauty, endurance, intelligence and kind-nature. 

Saddle up and venture far past the farmers working their fields just as their ancestors did, and deep into the desert. Horses are revered in Egypt so they always bring a smile to people’s faces as you ride pass through the Bedouin villages. The local children love the spectacle of the decorated horses prancing proudly through the streets. On horseback, you get the full experience of authentic Egypt, complete with all the colourful chaos of this beautiful country. It’s like stepping back in time. You’ll see a very different side of Africa, with city streets lined with colourful markets and lots of motorbikes, cars and trucks zipping along the roads. As you get to know your horse’s personality you will be amazed at how kind-hearted and generous they are despite their hot-blooded natures. Sensitive and inquisitive they are also incredibly brave and 100% bomb-proof!

You’ll stop for lunch at a Villa where the horses are untacked to have a doze in the shade. Guests can unwind by the swimming pool during the heat of the day, before an hour-long ride back to the stables.

You’ll have some time at the hotel to relax before meeting up at around 5PM for a sundowner cruise down the River Nile. To complete this epic day you will be joined by a professional belly dancer after dinner who will teach you all about her art as well as give you some moves to take home. This is often the highlight of the trip and a very fun experience!

Day 5: Karnak Temple & Afternoon Mountain Trail Ride

A morning of sightseeing awaits you today. After breakfast, you’ll cross the river to the East Bank in one of the local water taxis. Then make your way to the world-famous Karnak Temple.  Forget all you have come to expect in regard to scale and space and be astonished by the Temples of Amun-Ra. Your guides and Egyptologist will be on hand to show you through the labyrinth and explain the purpose, meaning and history of the amazing ruins of Karnak and the open-air museum.

From Karnak, stroll through the colourful village to get to the Mummification Museum, a small but well-curated museum dedicated to the art of mummification. It is a fascinating insight into the ancient Egyptian belief system as well as the process itself.

Finally, visit Luxor Temple, largely built by the New Kingdom pharaohs Amenhotep III and Ramses II. This temple is a strikingly graceful monument in the heart of the modern town. Also known as the Southern Sanctuary, its main function was during the annual Opet celebrations when the statues of Amun, Mut and Khonsu were brought from Karnak, along the Avenue of Sphinxes, and reunited here during the inundation..

Sailing back across the Nile we will enjoy an alfresco lunch back at the hotel before setting off for a late afternoon ride into the desert. This horse ride will take you up the escarpment to mount Thebes. Pause to take in the breathtaking, panoramic views of Luxor from horseback. Then ride back to Luxor in the glorious colours of sunset shimmering over the desert sands. Dinner and overnight at Villa Nile House.

Day 6: Unforgettable Sunrise Trail Ride

This morning you’ll get up before dawn, making your way to the stables in the dark. The sunrise trail ride to Valley of the Kings, just as the sun begins to peak out beyond the desert plains, has become one of the most famous rides in Luxor! Watch the sun lift over the valley, throwing gorgeous colors over the vast landscape whilst vibrant hot air balloons light up the horizon like lanterns. 

You will ride past Ramesseum Temple, the Cossal of Memnon and the giant statues of Tutankhamuns grandfather. A bucket-list desert breakfast will be served out with the horses overlooking Habu Temple. 

After the spectacular morning ride, you will be collected for a tour of the Temple of Hatshepsut, considered one of the most impressive mortuary temples in all of Egypt. It represents not only her devotion to her god, Horus but is also a reflection of her peaceful and prosperous reign. Set against the backdrop of a striking red cliff face it is a dramatic sight to behold. You will return to the hotel for lunch and prepare for the drive to the Red Sea and Hurghada. Aiming to arrive for sunset, you will have the opportunity to enjoy sundowners overlooking the beach; the perfect end to a fun-filled day!

Day 7: Spectacular Sunsets by Horseback

Today you will have the morning off. Relax by the Red Sea, go for a swim in the hotel pool or simply enjoy a lazy morning at the resort!  But if you prefer to tag on something unique and memorable to your trip we can book an amazing professional photoshoot complete with hair, make-up and flowing dresses. Choose from a beach or a desert setting and strike a pose with your horse! Alternatively, for the restless adrenaline junkies, we can offer an exhilarating quad bike safari across the dunes (these activities are an extra cost)

After an early lunch, head out to explore the magnificent Eastern Desert by horseback. You will have 4 hours to romp and play in the open desert. Known as ‘yalla country’, the desert’s vast open plains allow you to really let the horses go and revel in their speed and endurance! Catch a famous Egyptian sunset, an impressive show of color as the last of the light dances across the desert sands and glistens on the gentle waves of the Red Sea.

After freshening up at the hotel, you will head down to Hurghada’s Marina. Once a typical fishing village, it has become famous for its extensive fish market. Your final evening will be spent sampling a feast from the sea, dining on fresh produce straight out of the morning’s catch. Overnight at hotel.

Day 8: Swimming with Horses and Departure

No trip would be complete without swimming with horses; the grand finale to an adventure holiday for the books! Enjoy an unforgettable morning with our horses on the shores of the Red Sea. This is also one of the many fantastic photo opportunities on this riding holiday. After final cuddles with your horses, it is time to thank them and say farewell.

Hotel check-out is at 11AM. For those wishing to stay for later departure, an extra charge is payable locally.

For those who aren’t quite ready for the adventure to end, there is an option to stay for an additional night and embark on our full-day boat trip to Dolphin House. Here, you will have the opportunity to snorkel in the Red Sea and swim with wild dolphins. This add-on is an extra £250 per person (includes all meals and an extra night with check out on day 9 at 11AM. Please inquire about airport transfers.)

THE ACCOMMODATION

A horse riding holiday in Egypt is extremely customizable, with these 2 & 3-star bed and breakfasts chosen to give you the opportunity to experience authentic Egyptian hospitality. Here are a few favourites, but other 3&4-star hotels are available based on your preferences. Please enquire about other upgraded accommodation options (at an extra cost) if you’re seeking a more luxurious adventure.

ACCOMMODATION IN CAIRO – ONE OF THE BELOW

Hotels might be finalized a few weeks before your trip, but if you have any preferences or want to upgrade to a pyramid view room or more upmarket hotel, please let us know in advance.

Pyramids View Inn
Pyramids View Inn bed and breakfast is a great hotel in Cairo and located not far from the Sphinx and Great Pyramid of Giza. All rooms have air-con, private bathrooms, a balcony, free wifi and a kitchenette. The rooftop terrace has incredible views and is a great social space.

Nine Pyramids View Hotel
Set 400 metres away from the Great Sphinx & 1.4km from Giza Pyramids offers a brilliant location. All guest rooms at the inn are equipped with an aircon, a comfortable bed, a seating area and a private bathroom with complimentary free toiletries. The rooms all offer terraces with incredible views of the city.

ACCOMMODATION IN LUXOR

Villa Nile House 

Villa Nile House is a quirky and charming guest house with outstanding service. Built in an oriental style with traditional architecture, it has two terraces on the roof with views towards the Nile. Relax in the picturesque garden complete with a swimming pool, and even a hammam for massages. Each of the bedrooms celebrates Luxor, find yourself staying in Hathor, Nefertiti, Kheops, Cleopatra, Nefertari, Akhenaton or Touthankamon to name a few! The rooms are basic but comfortable and provide everything that you need.

ACCOMMODATION ON THE RED SEA – ONE OF THE BELOW

A favourite for this location – one of the incredible beach resorts that this area is famous for!

Sweet Home Boutique Hotel

It is a quiet hotel in a green area with a private sandy beach facing the Red Sea. Located next to the beach Sweet Home is ideally situated to toss off the flip-flops, bury your toes in the sand, and forget about life for a while. All rooms have sea views and their own terrace where you can enjoy breath-taking views of the Red Sea, and the sound of the waves is the perfect ending to a day of adventure!

 

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Sultan Bey Resort

Tucked away on the coast of the lively downtown, this luxurious resort overlooks the beautiful, nearby beaches and lagoons. Take a relaxing stroll through the Nubian architecture and open-air alley ways that lead to traditional Egyptian-style rooms. Enjoy the private beach or the scenic pool bar with a wooden deck stretched out over the crystal clear waters and drift away into the warm Arabian nights.

QUICK FACTS
Cairo, Luxor & Makadi Bay, Egypt
Arrive Cairo Airport, Depart Hurghada Airport 
October to May
8 Days, 7 Nights
Group Size: 12
Intermediate and Above
View Gallery
7 Nights: From GBP £2599 pp sharing

See Detailed Rates

SUITABLE RIDING LEVELS
Beginner
Novice
Intermediate
Intermediate Plus
Advanced
WHAT RIDING LEVEL AM I?
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
  • Ride further afield beyond the tourist hot spots to temples and pyramids deep in the heart of the Egyptian desert
  • Visit the 7th Wonder of the World on horseback and take epic “between the ears” photos
  • Get to know the real Egypt with a private guide showing you all the best sights of the city and beyond.
  • See the Valley of the Kings from horseback
  • Swim on horseback in the crystal clear waters at Makadi Bay
DATES & RATES

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

2023 / 2024 Season Dates:
30 September – 07 October 2023 / 07 – 14 October 2023 / 28 October – 04 November 2023 / 11 – 18 November 2023 / 03 – 10 December 2023 / 21 – 28 December 2023 / 06 – 13 January 2024 / 03 -10 February 2024 / 22 – 29 March 2024 / 30 March – 06 April 2024 

2023 / 2024 Season Rates:
Valid 01 September 2023 to 31 May 2024
7 nights: GBP £2599 per person sharing 

Additional GBP £550 single supplement if not willing to share

Optional Extention to include an additional day swimming with dolphins – GBP £250 per person sharing / GBP £300 single

INCLUDES:

  • Accommodation on a sharing basis
  • Delicious local meals
  • Water with all rides and meals
  • All riding activities
  • Non-riding activities listed in the itinerary
  • All guiding (riding and non-riding)
  • All entry fees to sites and museums
  • Shared Airport Transfers

EXCLUDES:

  • International flights to Cairo and from Hurghada
  • Flights from Cairo to Luxor (Approximately GBP60 – 120)
  • Comprehensive Travel & Medical Insurance
  • All alcoholic and soft drinks
  • Mandatory Tip Kitty (USD150 per person)
WHAT THEY’RE SAYING

My ride in Egypt was absolutely fabulous! I cannot describe in one word. Emma is so cool, we were to awesome places, we did super activities. Emma’s horses are lovely and wonderful, and the team is so kindly. I would definitely recommend going to Egypt! 10 days were too short, I wanted to stay there forever! I would like to thank you for your help, Isabel and Margot It’s my second time with you and not my last!

Elodie FolzenlogelEgypt
READ MORE REVIEWS

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. Our 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 around this.

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