Palms, Pyramids & Pharaohs on Horseback

7 nights: USD $GBP £2649EUR €ZAR RAUD $ pp sharing

Explore The Land Of The Pharaohs On Horseback

If you desire an authentic horse riding holiday in Egypt filled with temples, tombs, pharaohs and phenomena, 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. This is the chance of a lifetime to capture the pyramids between your horse’s ears, and your guide will be happy to snap some photos of you cantering in front of these incredible monuments. 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

Location: Cairo, Luxor & Makadi Bay, Egypt
Airport: Arrive Cairo International Airport, Depart Hurghada International Airport
Month: October – May
Duration: 7 Nights
Group size: Max 10
Skill Level: Intermediate & Above
Weight Limit: 90kg / 200lbs
Accommodation: Guesthouse / Hotel

SAMPLE ITINERARY / WHAT TO EXPECT

***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: ARRIVAL IN CAIRO

Arrive in Cairo and settle into your hotel with spectacular views of the Pyramids of Giza. Spend the afternoon unwinding after your journey before joining your hosts and fellow riders for a welcome dinner. As the sun sets over the desert and the pyramids are illuminated against the night sky, enjoy your first taste of the magic and mystery that make Egypt such an unforgettable destination.

DAY 2: RIDING AT THE PYRAMIDS & THE GRAND EGYPTIAN MUSEUM

Begin your Egyptian adventure with an unforgettable ride beneath the Great Pyramids and alongside the iconic Sphinx. Experiencing these ancient wonders from horseback offers a unique perspective and incredible photographic opportunities. After lunch overlooking the pyramids, enjoy a privately guided visit to the spectacular Grand Egyptian Museum, home to some of the country’s most important archaeological treasures. This evening, fly south to Luxor, the heart of ancient Egypt.

DAY 3: VALLEY OF THE KINGS & FIRST RIDE IN LUXOR

This morning, delve into Egypt’s remarkable history with visits to the legendary Valley of the Kings and the magnificent Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut. After time to relax and enjoy lunch, head to the stables to meet your horses and learn more about life with horses in Luxor. Your first ride takes you through traditional villages, fertile farmland and along the Nile, offering an authentic glimpse into rural Egyptian life away from the busy tourist sites.

DAY 4: RIDING THROUGH LUXOR & KARNAK BY NIGHT

Spend the morning exploring Luxor’s beautiful countryside from the saddle. Ride through lush fields, sugarcane plantations and desert tracks, enjoying plenty of opportunities for long canters across open ground. After returning to the hotel for lunch and a relaxing afternoon, head out in the evening to experience the famous Sound and Light Show at Karnak Temple, where the stories of pharaohs, gods and ancient kingdoms are brought vividly to life beneath the stars.

DAY 5: SUNRISE RIDE & JOURNEY TO THE RED SEA

Rise before dawn for one of the most memorable experiences of the trip. Ride through the West Bank as dozens of colourful hot air balloons drift silently overhead, creating a magical atmosphere unlike anywhere else in the world. Enjoy breakfast overlooking the ancient Habu Temple before returning to the hotel to relax. Later, transfer through the desert landscapes of Egypt to Hurghada and the sparkling waters of the Red Sea.

Optional Balloon Flight: For early risers, there’s the option of a sunrise hot air balloon over the Valley of the Kings (additional cost).

DAY 6: DOLPHINS, SNORKELLING & RED SEA RELAXATION

Enjoy a slower start to the day with time to relax on the beach, soak up the sunshine or browse local shops for souvenirs and handicrafts. In the afternoon, board a private boat and head out onto the Red Sea in search of dolphins. Swim and snorkel in crystal-clear waters, discover colourful coral reefs and enjoy the spectacular marine life that thrives along this beautiful coastline.

DAY 7: SWIMMING WITH HORSES & DESERT ADVENTURES

Today brings one of the highlights of the journey as you ride along the shores of the Red Sea before swimming with your horse in the warm, turquoise waters. After lunch, choose how you’d like to spend your final afternoon, whether joining a sunset desert ride or venturing into the surrounding desert on a quad bike and camel safari. This evening, gather with your fellow travellers for a farewell dinner overlooking the marina, sharing stories from an extraordinary week in Egypt.

DAY 8: DEPARTURE

Enjoy a final breakfast and ride by the Red Sea before checking out and beginning your journey home. Leave with unforgettable memories of ancient monuments, magnificent horses, desert adventures and the timeless landscapes that make Egypt one of the world’s most captivating destinations.

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.

7 nights: USD $GBP £2649EUR €ZAR RAUD $ pp sharing
USDGBPEURZARAUD

2025 / 2026 SEASON RATES

2025/2026 SEASON

05 - 12 April 2026

12 - 19 April 2026

21 - 28 April 2026

Other dates on request for 2 or more riders

7 Nights: USD $GBP £2399EUR €ZAR RAUD $ per person sharing + Extras


OPTIONAL RED SEA BOAT TRIP

Red Sea Boat Full Day Excursion + 1 Night Accom & Meals – USD $GBP £250EUR €ZAR RAUD $ per person sharing (or USD $GBP £350EUR €ZAR RAUD $ for a single room)

2026 / 2027 SEASON RATES

2026/2027 SEASON

16 - 23 October 2026

29 October - 05 November 2026

18 - 25 November 2026

05 - 12 December 2026

23 - 30 January 2027

27 February - 06 March 2027

23 - 30 March 2027

10 - 17 April 2027

22 - 29 May 2027

Other dates on request for 2 or more riders

7 Nights: USD $GBP £2649EUR €ZAR RAUD $ per person sharing + Extras

EXTRAS - SUBJECT TO CHANGE

TRANSFERS

Shared Airport Transfers: USD $GBP £70EUR €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 and Luxor. Domestic flights are rarely released very far in advance in Egypt, so we will contact you 30 days before your ride to assist you.


TIP KITTY

There is a mandatory tip kitty of USD $150GBP £EUR €ZAR RAUD $ per person, which is given to the guide on your first day. Egypt is a country where tips are an essential way of life. 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 £500EUR €ZAR RAUD $


FESTIVE SUPPLEMENT (December & January)

USD $GBP £250EUR €ZAR RAUD $ per person

Includes / Excludes

Price Includes:

  • Accommodation on a sharing basis
  • Delicious local meals
  • Water with all rides and meals
  • All riding activities on well-trained and responsive horses
  • Entries to temples and historic sites
  • Non-riding activities listed in the itinerary
  • All guiding (riding and non-riding)
  • Local transfers (excluding airport transfers)

Price Excludes:

  • International flights to Cario and from Hurghada
  • Visas
  • Comprehensive Travel & Medical Insurance
  • All alcoholic and soft drinks
  • Mandatory Tip Kitty
  • Shared Airport Transfers
  • Extra excursions and activities
  • Festive Season Supplement
  • Single Supplement if not willing to share
7 nights: USD $GBP £2649EUR €ZAR RAUD $ pp sharing
USDGBPEURZARAUD

Includes / Excludes

Price Includes:

  • Accommodation on a sharing basis
  • Delicious local meals
  • Water with all rides and meals
  • All riding activities on well-trained and responsive horses
  • Entries to temples and historic sites
  • Non-riding activities listed in the itinerary
  • All guiding (riding and non-riding)
  • Local transfers (excluding airport transfers)

Price Excludes:

  • International flights to Cario and from Hurghada
  • Visas
  • Comprehensive Travel & Medical Insurance
  • All alcoholic and soft drinks
  • Mandatory Tip Kitty
  • Shared Airport Transfers
  • Extra excursions and activities
  • Festive Season Supplement
  • Single Supplement if not willing to share

THE ACCOMMODATION

A horse riding holiday in Egypt is extremely customizable, with these 3-star bed and breakfasts or hotels chosen to give you the opportunity to experience authentic Egyptian hospitality. Please enquire about other upgraded accommodation options and pyramid view rooms (at an extra cost) if you’re seeking a more luxurious adventure. Or try our Fairytales of Fayoum riding holiday which includes more deluxe accommodation.

ACCOMMODATION IN CAIRO

YOUR HOTEL IN CAIRO

In Cairo, Emma has chosen a few of her favourite hotels, subject to availability. Generally, you’ll be at the Pyramid Edge Hotel or Pyramid Spiritual Gate, but it’s possible that another great option will be chosen instead. Standard rooms are included in our packages, but you can request to upgrade your room at an extra cost (subject to availability)

Most Cairo hotels will be just a short 5-minute stroll from the stables. Some of the hotels in Giza will have a rooftop bar with spectacular panoramic views of the pyramids. The hotels will have a garden, shared lounge, terrace, and bar. Each room will have a double or twin beds, air conditioning, a TV with satellite channels, a secure safe, and a private bathroom equipped with a bidet and complimentary toiletries. Standard rooms are allocated, and balcony rooms on request (extra cost).

ACCOMMODATION IN LUXOR

EL GEZIRA GARDEN HOTEL (OR SIMILAR)

Nestled on Luxor’s West Bank, El Gezira Garden Hotel is the perfect place to find tranquillity with trees and fragrant citrus fruits- ideal for unwinding after a day of riding and sightseeing. This small friendly hotel consists of 11 air-conditioned double rooms with ensuite bathrooms, a restaurant, a large front terrace, a roof garden with a fabulous view of the Nile and Luxor. The rooms are equipped with TV, refrigerator, air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi. Conveniently located just a 10-minute drive from the Valley of the Kings and the Temple of Hatshepsut, you can experience life in a traditional Egyptian village and you are not far from the thriving historic and commercial centre of Luxor.

ACCOMMODATION ON THE RED SEA

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!

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.

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. There are also a number of rescued dogs, cats and donkeys at the stables giving a wonderful farm feel
  • The horses are groomed and fed twice or three times a day to ensure they are happy and healthy
  • The horses get the majority of the hot summer months off, just doing shorter trails or day rides
  • Genearlly, the riding hours are in the cooler morning and afternoons, giving the horses and guests a rest during the hotest times of the day. The horses get lunch, water and a long rest in the shade
  • 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
  • The horses have a varied routine and have plenty of rest days

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

Palms, Pyramids & Pharaohs on Horseback

Enquire about this Tour

Don't worry if you are not quite sure - This is just an estimate. We are here to help guide you on the best time of year to travel or the best destination for your dates.
African Horse Safaris can organise further travel beyond your horse safari experience. Such as add-on trips to Victoria Falls, Cape Town or vehicle safari.