Egypt’s Tombs, Dunes & Kingdoms by horseback

7 nights: USD $GBP £2999EUR €ZAR RAUD $ pp sharing

JOURNEY DEEP INTO THE HEART OF THE EGYPTIAN DESERT BY HORSEBACK

Designed for trail riders and with longer hours in the saddle, this horse riding holiday combines Cairo, Fayoum Desert and Luxor. Plus, by popular demand, we’ve added Aswan and Abu Simbel. 

Yalla! This horse riding holiday will take you deep into the heart of the desert, where you can gallop past ancient ruins and rarely-visited temples and tombs. Your horseback adventure begins in Cairo, a city bursting with character and history and home to over 20 million of Egypt’s people! The streets are lined with vibrant souks and bustling bazaars. Away from the city, you’ll see the Great Pyramids of Giza from horseback and enjoy thrilling desert riding!

After the hustle and bustle of Cairo, there is no better place to unwind than in the coveted desert oasis of Fayuom. One of Egypt’s oldest cities, this stunning location is brimming with pristine natural wonders, rich archaeological history, and world-renowned pottery studios. After an exciting day in the saddle, cool off in Wadi El Rayan’s infamous, colour-changing Magic Lake.

Luxor offers a tranquil approach to life in Egypt and is best explored by horseback. Your stay in Luxor will be laden with home-cooked meals, incredible horse riding, and unforgettable sightseeing in some of the Valley of the King’s forgotten tombs. Ride out at dawn to catch that perfect picture of the hot air balloons floating into the golden light – the perfect “between the horse’s ears” photo!

And for those with a couple of extra days, visit the enchanting Aswan and the incredible Abu Simbel Temples. This non-riding extension offers the chance to see the colourful Nubian villages and two impressive temples built by Rameses II.

Combining some of Egypt’s most unique and renowned sites with some hidden treasures, the riding hours can sometimes be long and intense. This riding holiday is only suitable for accomplished riders who are confident at all paces.

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 many flexible start dates. Please enquire for availability as space is limited. The riding season is from October to April each year and we can often create new dates for 2 or more riders.

2024 RATES

2024/2025 SEASON DATES & RATES

20 – 27 October 2024

09 – 16 November 2024

20 - 27 December 2024

23 February - 02 March 2025

Other dates on request for 2 or more riders


7 nights Tombs Dunes & Kingdoms Trail

USD $GBP £2999EUR €ZAR RAUD $ per person sharing + Extras


9 nights with Aswan & Abu Simbel Extension:

USD $GBP £4499EUR €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 and Luxor. Domestic flights are rarely released very far in advance in Egypt, so we will contact you around 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

7 nights Tombs Dunes & Kingdoms Trail: USD $GBP £700EUR €ZAR RAUD $

9 nights with Aswan & Abu Simbel Extension: USD $GBP £1000EUR €ZAR RAUD $


FESTIVE SUPPLEMENT (December & January)

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

INCLUDES & EXCLUDES

Includes

  • Accommodation on a sharing basis
  • Delicious local meals
  • Water with all rides and meals
  • All riding activities on well-trained and responsive horses
  • Non-riding activities listed in the itinerary
  • Expert Guides (riding and non-riding)
  • Shared local transfers (excluding airport transfers)

Excludes

  • International flights to Luxor and from Luxor
  • Visas
  • Comprehensive Travel & Medical Insurance
  • All alcoholic and soft drinks
  • Mandatory Tip Kitty
  • Flights between Cairo & Luxor
  • Shared Airport Transfers
  • Entries to temples and historic sites – paid locally
  • Extra excursions and activities
  • Festive Season Supplement
  • Single Supplement if not willing to share
CHECK AVAILABILITYARRANGE A CALL

QUICK FACTS

Location: Cairo, Fayoum & Luxor + Awan & Abu Simbel, Egypt
Airport: Arrive Cairo Airport, Depart Luxor Airport
Month: October – May
Duration: 7 – 9 Nights
Group Size: Max. 10
Skill Level: Intermediate Plus & Above
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?
7 nights: USD $GBP £2999EUR €ZAR RAUD $ pp sharing

CURRENCY CONVERTER

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

USDGBPEURZARAUD

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

  • Designed for trail riders looking to get off-the-beaten-track on incredible Arab horses
  • Ride beyond the tourist hot spots to temples, pyramids, and oases deep in the heart of the deserts
  • Gallop in front of the 7th Wonder of the World, the Giza Pyramids
  • Enjoy home-cooked Egyptian meals & cookery lessons, experience authentic homestays and cultured boutique
  • Extend your stay by visiting the astounding historical sights at Aswan and Abu Simbel

TOUR REVIEWS

t’s not from every holiday you come back with a tattoo! This trip has been magical and one of the best trips of my life - I loved every second of it! Emma and her team were amazing and they took so much care of us! The horses and the stable looks like a paradise. And you can see how much they love and care for their horses. We had the best rides and the best guides with us. The accommodations were great as well and I loved the Egyptian food!! Really got in to history and culture of Egypt with our great guides who could tell us everything about it. Learned so much! Can’t thank everybody enough for this, it was amazing!

RomyTombs, Dunes & Kingdoms, Egypt
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, and 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. Other non-riding activities, such as quad biking, camel rides, and local markets, can be booked when you arrive. You’ll have a personal guide to show you the secrets of this amazing country!

DAY 1: DAY OF ARRIVAL IN CAIRO

On arrival, your driver will meet you at the airport and transport you to your hotel. The hotel is located on the back streets of Giza, just a few hundred meters from the Great Pyramids. The roof terrace offers stunning views of the Sphinx and Pyramids and is perfect for your first night in Cairo. We recommend that you arrive in the afternoon to have dinner with your hosts and meet your fellow travellers.

DAY 2: GIZA RIDE & FAYOUM INTRODUCTION

After a traditional breakfast, head to the site to meet the horses and your guides, who will take you on an awe-inspiring ride to the 7th Wonder of the World – The Giza Pyramids. Your horses may be adorned with traditional protective necklaces to set the theme for your authentic Egyptian adventure.

The open desert allows fantastic riding at all paces, including exhilarating gallops! This bucket list trail ride will take you past Giza’s four most famous sights: the Great Pyramid of Khufu, the Pyramid of Khafre, the Pyramid of Menkaure, and the Sphinx. The entire area has an indescribable feeling. The horses are tuned into the excitement, too, as they race across the golden sand surrounding these ancient monuments.

Upon arrival at the Sphinx, you will dismount and explore this incredible area on foot. Carved from one solid piece of stone, this mysterious statue is one of the oldest sculptures from the Old Kingdom. Lunch today will be served at a local restaurant, an array of flatbreads, dips, koftas and salads. After lunch, the drivers will take you on your hour-and-a-half transfer to Fayoum. You’ll aim to arrive just in time to hop into the saddle for a sunset ride. Enjoy a tasty dinner and a good night’s rest at this desert oasis accommodations.

DAY 3: RIDE TO MAGIC LAKE

Begin your day with a leisurely morning to soak in the beauty of the Fayoum Oasis. Following an early lunch, saddle up for an afternoon of horse riding to the accurately-named Magic Lake in Wadi El Hitan (riding time around 5 hours) This remote lake got its name thanks to its mesmerizing waters, whose colours shift and change several times each day depending on how much sunlight it receives. It also houses many healing minerals and a dip is highly recommended! Take in the stunning Egyptian landscapes with a thrilling gallop through the vast desert or a more serene walk along the lake shores. Be sure to soak in the wonders of Fayoum’s renowned waterfall! Famous for its sunsets, you can watch the sun fall below the horizon from between your horse’s ears. The evening ends with a delicious dinner under the starlit desert sky.

DAY 4: NON-RIDING DAY WITH 4X4 SAFARI, WADI EL HITAN & POTTERY CLASS

Today you will get the opportunity to test out our second favourite mode of transportation; 4 x 4s! Play on the epic sand dunes and cruise to Whale Valley. This is one of the world’s most fascinating zooarchaeological 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 significant stories of evolution.

After this fascinating tour, you’ll head to the Fayoum Pottery School. Founded in the 70s by Swiss artists, it has become a thriving school and helps to keep the local pottery-making traditions alive. With the help of village artisans, they built their kiln, studio, and house using traditional materials and methods. A guide will take you on a tour of the school and charming mudbrick compound.

After a day of cultural sightseeing, return to Cairo Airport for your flight to Luxor. Enjoy dinner at the hotel before turning in for the night.

Note that your domestic flight is not included in the package and is approximately GBP £65 – GBP £150. The team will let you know which flight to book about 30 days before you travel.

DAY 5: LUXOR - VARIOUS OPTIONS

Welcome to Luxor and home of Ride Egypt! Today you have the option of a full day in the saddle or a combination of sight-seeing and riding. The team has created two different options—those for returning guests who do not wish to sightsee again but would instead dedicate their time to riding and those who are new to Luxor and wish to combine riding and sightseeing into their stay. Of course, there is also an option for a relaxing morning by the pool and an afternoon ride.

OPTION 1: Non-riding tour of the Valley of the Kings

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 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. After a day of discovery, head out for a 2-hour desert ride in the afternoon.

OPTION 2: Full-day ride

This is a full day of riding from 9 AM to 3 PM. If you haven’t already, prepare to fall in love with Arabian and Baladi (local breed) horses famed for their beauty and endurance. These longer trails allow you to experience the horses and country life here deeply. You will see the farmers working the fields on horseback like their ancestors did. Mid-morning, prepare to be amazed as these sure-footed horses take you behind the Valley of the Kings and to the top of Mount Thebes so that you can see panoramic views of Luxor. Lunch will be served at a local restaurant before your trail home takes you past the Colossi of Memnon, two massive Pharaoh Amenhotep III stone statues. This is a brilliant opportunity to take photos with the horses! After an inspiring day of riding, it’s time to freshen up at the hotel before dinner.

DAY 6: SUNRISE BALOON RIDE & MUSEUMS/FULL DAY RIDE

Rise with the morning call to prayer today as you head out for truly a magical experience – a sunrise balloon tour by horseback (approx. 3 hours). The sight as they all take flight is simply breathtaking. Glide through the Valley of the Kings and the farms of the West Bank watching the shadows fall away as the sun fills the sky with colour and light. This is a must-do activity when visiting Luxor. You will next head to the Temple of Habu for breakfast and a tour of the site. Amun, the god of air, was one of the primordial Egyptian deities famously twinned with Ra the sun god in later times. This memorial temple, built by Rameses III, is said to be the place where Amun first appeared according to ancient belief. It is an imposing structure and boasts some beautifully preserved murals and hieroglyphs. You visit early morning before the crowds descend so it feels like a well-kept secret! Return to your hotel for a leisurely lunch and an opportunity to unwind by the pool, soaking in the warmth of the Egyptian sun.

For those who want to spend more time in the saddle, the option of a full saddle day is available.

DAY 7: MORNNG TRAIL RIDE & SUNSET CRUISE ON THE NILE

Today is all about authentic Egypt. You can choose to have just a scenic 3 hour ride, or a full day in the saddle. These longer trails allow you to experience the horses and country life here in more depth. From horseback, you will see the farmers working the fields just as their ancestors did. Mid-morning, prepare to be amazed as these sure-footed horses take you behind the Valley of the Kings and to the top of Mount Thebes so that you can see panoramic views of Luxor.

Lunch will be served at a local restaurant before your trail home takes you past the Colossi of Memnon, two massive stone statues of the Pharaoh Amenhotep III. This is a brilliant opportunity for photos with the horses!

After an inspiring day of riding, it’s time to freshen up at the hotel before a boat cruise on the River Nile. Take in the delights of historic Karnak at night with its light and sound show, followed by dinner on the boat.

DAY 8: SUNRISE BALLOON RIDE & DEPARTURE/ ASWAN

A trip to Luxor would not be complete without watching the hot air balloons take off at sunrise! Wake before dawn to the sound of the prayer call and saddle up to watch the sun and balloons rise, casting spectacular rainbow shadows over this exquisite piece of history. Booking a hot air balloon flight is also possible – let us know if this is on your bucket list. Return to the hotel for breakfast and some time to relax at the pool.

For those leaving today, you’ll have a farewell lunch and then head off to the airport.

For those doing the optional Aswan & Abu Simbel extension, you’ll hop into your transfer car to Aswan after lunch. Along the way, you’ll have time to visit the Horus Temple in Edfu and the Temple of Sobek Kim Ombo. These temples are dedicated to the Crocodile-headed god Sobek and the Falcon-headed god Horus the Elder. On reaching Aswan, take in the colourful Nubian architecture and views of the Nile flowing past.

DAY 9: EXPLORE ASWAN (EXTENSION)

Wake up to a beautiful day in Aswan, with the River Nile on your doorstep. This city is known for its exquisite scenery, archaeological sights, artistic architecture, and peaceful aura. With warm weather all year round, it’s the perfect winter retreat. Explore the colourful Nubian Villages, the Unfinished Obelisk, and the Nubian Museum. Then, board a felucca (Egyptian sailboat) for an idyllic sail along the Nile and visit the Temple of Philae and Elephantine Island, taking in the incredible views of the Nile Valley from the water. Enjoy cocktails at Hotel Sofitel Legend Old Cataract (where Agatha Christie wrote Death on the Nile) before returning to your guesthouse for the evening.

DAY 10: ABU SIMBLE & DEPARTURE (EXTENSION)

It’s an early morning start on your last day as you head to the UNESCO Abu Simbel World Heritage Site. It’s about a 3-hour drive from Aswan but a bucket list experience for anyone interested in Egyptian and Nubian history.

Abu Simbel is a historic site comprising two massive temples carved directly into the mountainside. They are situated about 3 hours South of Aswan along Lake Nasser’s shore and are considered the most famous temples in Egypt after the Giza Pyramids. Built Ramesses II, these monolithic rock-cut temples marked the southern boundary between the Egyptian Empire and Nubia at the peak of its power. The four statues guarding the doorway of the larger temple are the biggest sculptures from the ancient Pharaonic era. Another rock-cut temple to the north, known as the Small Temple, is dedicated to the goddess Hathor and Ramesses II’s Wife, Queen Nefertari. It might be hard to imagine, but the two temples were moved from their original location in 1968 after the Aswan High Dam was built.

After an awe-inspiring morning, you’ll have lunch at one of the local seafood restaurants along the river. Then, you’ll drive back to Aswan for your flight to Cairo and your onward journey home.

THE ACCOMMODATION

This horse riding holiday in Egypt offers several local, 3-star hotels and traditional guesthouses. We have hand-selected some of our favourites to allow you to experience the most 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 and tend to be slightly more touristy. Hotels might only be finalized a few weeks before your trip, but if you have any preferences or want to upgrade to a pyramid view room, please let us know in advance. In Luxor, we have an intimate guest house nestled along the Nile River and in Fayoum, a luxurious desert oasis.

ACCOMMODATION IN CAIRO – ONE OF THE BELOW

PYRAMID EDGE HOTEL (OR SIMILAR)

Located just a 5-minute walk from the Stable, the hotel offers stunning panoramic views of the pyramids from its rooftop restaurant. Situated in Giza, the hotel boasts a garden, shared lounge, terrace, and bar. Each room is equipped with air conditioning, a seating area, flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a safety deposit box, and a private bathroom.

ACCOMMODATION IN FAYOUM

LOCAL GUESTHOUSE (IMAGES MIGHT DIFFER)

Tunis Village, in Fayoum, combines arts, adventure, relaxation, and agriculture in one charming place. Overlooking the serene Lake Qarun, this Egyptian village is home to one of the most famous pottery factories in the world. The accommodation here will be one of the charming guesthouses next to the stables. Relax in the cosy rooms with traditional decorations, or go for a refreshing dip in the pool. The on-site restaurant offers fabulous local dishes.

ACCOMMODATION IN LUXOR

EL GEZIRA GARDEN HOTEL (OR SIMILAR)

Nestled on Luxor’s serene West Bank, El Gezira Garden Hotel is the perfect place to find tranquillity surrounded by 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 unit and free Wi-Fi. Conveniently located just a 10-minute drive from the Valley of the Kings and the Temple of Hatshepsut, here you can experience life in a traditional Egyptian village and you are not far from the thriving historic and commercial centre of Luxor.

ACCOMMODATION IN ASWAN

TRADITIONAL NUBIAN GUESTHOUSES

The team chooses from a few favourite traditional Nubian Guesthouses. These charming and authentic accommodations feature traditional Nubian design and architecture built with local and natural materials. They are wonderfully artistic, with bright colours and traditional artwork. Most of them are in a Nubian Village, so you can wander through the lively markets, colourful architecture and see the local way of life.

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.

Fayoum

Fayoum, founded around 4000 BC, is one of Egypt’s oldest cities and best-hidden treasures. Here you’ll discover a desert oasis flooded with life through waterways fed by the great Nile River. Fayoum hosts a number of rich archaeological sites and historic monuments, including the distinctive Pyramid of Hawara. Located just south of the city, is Wadi El Rayan, a unique nature protectorate, home to the most spectacular waterfall in all of Egypt.

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.

Aswan

Flowing through the desert, the Nile forms the lifeline of the city of Aswan and its unique archipelago. In Ancient Egypt, Aswan was a commercial centre for convoys going to and from Nubia and known as where Egpyt began. Aswan is steeped in history and culture and is one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world. Located in the southern part of Egypt, on the east bank of the Nile River, it is more idyllic than most other cities. Here you can explore the stunning monuments, epic history, local craftsmanship and peaceful scenery from land or felucca (Egyptian sailboat).

Abu Simbel

The Great Temple of Abu Simbel, in Nubia near Egypt’s southern border, is among the most awe-inspiring monuments of Egypt. It was carved into the rock by King Ramesses II around 1264 BC. Another rock-cut temple to the north, known as the Small Temple, is dedicated to the goddess Hathor and Queen Nefertari. The two temples were moved in 1968 when the Aswan High Dam was built, but are now protected by UNESCO.

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.

HOW TO SIGN UP FOR A HORSE SAFARI

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