Embark on an epic 7-day journey that seamlessly blends ancient history with breathtaking desert wilderness.
First, you will immerse yourself in the vibrant history of Cairo. Spend three full days exploring the monumental Pyramids of Giza and the mysterious Sphinx. Next, discover millennia-old artifacts at the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), and then navigate the bustling alleys of the Khan el-Khalili Bazaar.
Subsequently, transition from the city’s pulse to the serene silence of the Western Desert. Crucially, a thrilling 4×4 safari takes you through the surreal Black Desert before you reach the iconic White Desert National Park. Here, camp beneath a canopy of stars, marveling at the colossal, naturally carved chalk formations. Finally, refresh yourself at a natural hot spring in the Bahariya Oasis before you return to Cairo, concluding your unforgettable adventure. Therefore, this itinerary offers the perfect balance of culture, excitement, and natural wonder.
Day 1- Arrival day in Cairo
Upon landing at Cairo International Airport, your unforgettable Egyptian adventure begins immediately.
First, a friendly representative from Rosamy Africa Safaris will personally greet and assist you right outside the gate. Subsequently, you will enjoy a comfortable, private transfer in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle directly to your hotel. Finally, settle in and relax, ensuring you get a good night’s sleep before your exciting itinerary kicks off the next morning.
Day 2-The Pyramids of Giza and Cairo Museum
Get ready for a profound journey into Egypt’s ancient past, combining monumental architecture with unparalleled archaeological treasures.
First, your dedicated tour guide will pick you up from your Cairo hotel, commencing your spectacular day. Immediately following this, you will embark on an essential excursion to the Pyramids of Giza, where you actively explore the colossal structures of Cheops, Chephren, and Mykerinus. Subsequently, you will stand before the iconic Great Sphinx, a legendary monument that dates back to the time of the Pharaohs, and explore the adjacent Valley Temple.
Next, the adventure shifts to the heart of Cairo for a deep dive into history at the renowned Egyptian Museum (or the Grand Egyptian Museum, depending on the opening). Here, you will discover a rare and magnificent collection of over 250,000 genuine artifacts, spanning an incredible 5,000 years of history. Most notably, dedicate time to the exclusive Tutankhamen exhibit—a breathtaking showcase of the treasures, gold, and jewelry that lay undisturbed in his tomb for over 3,500 years until their discovery in 1920.
Day 3- Cairo to the white desert
Trade the city skyline for the stunning landscapes of Egypt’s Western Desert as you transition into a thrilling off-road adventure.
Promptly at 7:00 AM, your professional driver will pick you up from your Cairo or Giza hotel to begin the scenic transfer to the Bahariya Oasis, a drive of approximately 350 km. Naturally, we schedule comfortable breaks along the way for coffee and rest stops.
Upon arrival, you will transition immediately into a rugged 4×4 Jeep and launch your safari into the remarkable Black Desert. Following this, your Bedouin staff will prepare and serve a hearty lunch amidst the tranquil surroundings of the El Haize Oasis.
Later that afternoon, the journey continues deep into the White Desert National Park, Egypt’s most celebrated desert destination. Next, your 4×4 explores the mesmerizing Valley of Agabat—a truly otherworldly basin carved over millennia when the area rested beneath the sea. Here, you will witness unique, massive chalk and limestone formations that define this incredible valley.
As the sun begins its dramatic descent, painting the sky in fiery oranges and soft pinks, an profound silence settles. Finally, your expert Bedouin staff will arrange your desert camp. Gather around a small fire and savor a simple yet delicious dinner of chicken, rice, and vegetables—a meal that will taste incomparable under the stars. Therefore, you will enjoy an authentic night of desert camping, fully immersed in the wilderness.
Day 4-white desert to Bahariya oasis
Wake up to a mesmerizing desert sunrise, then spend the day exploring geological marvels and soaking in the natural tranquility of the Bahariya Oasis.
First, savor a delicious desert breakfast as the morning light illuminates the unique landscape. Immediately afterward, you will embark on a drive back toward the Bahariya Oasis, making a crucial stop at Crystal Mountain (Gebel al-Izzaz). Here, marvel at this accidental discovery—a hill formed entirely of sparkling quartzite crystals—which truly earns its nickname, the ‘Jewel of the Desert,’ as it brilliantly reflects the sun’s rays.
Next, continue your journey to the oasis to find total relaxation at the famous Bir Sigam hot spring. Crucially, this spring boasts the best hot temperature in the region, offering a therapeutic soak that will completely rejuvenate you after the night of camping.
Subsequently, enjoy a local lunch at a restaurant in Bahariya. Following your meal, actively explore the lush heart of the Bahariya Oasis, touring the extensive palm and olive fields. You will also visit Gebel Maghrafa, near the site where the colossal Stromer’s Tidal Giant dinosaur was discovered in 1914. Then, take in the vastness of Lake al-Marun, the largest salt lake in the area. Finally, ascend the summit of English Mountain (Gebel Al Ingleez) to capture a breathtaking sunset panorama over the entire northern oasis before checking into your hotel’s hot spring facility for the night.
Day 5- Bahariya oasis- Cairo
Conclude your desert exploration by discovering hidden tombs and ancient temples before beginning the journey back to the vibrant capital.
After enjoying breakfast at your hotel, your day of historical discovery commences. First, you will visit the spectacular 26th Dynasty tombs at Qasr Selim, actively exploring the burial sites of Bannentiu and Djed-Ankh-Amun-Iuf (Zed-Amun), famously rediscovered by Ahmed Fakhry in 1938.
Next, delve into the capital of the region, Bawiti, the bustling center of the Bahariya Oasis. Subsequently, you will visit two key historical sites: the fascinating Museum of the Golden Mummies and the nearby ruins of the Temple of Ain El Muftella.
Finally, having maximized your time exploring the cultural and archaeological gems of the Bahariya Oasis, you will embark on the comfortable drive back to Cairo. Therefore, you will arrive in the city in the late afternoon or evening, ready for your final day.
Day 6- Old Cairo tour from Cairo
Dive deep into the medieval and religious heritage of Cairo on a comprehensive 8-hour excursion exploring historic landmarks and legendary marketplaces.
Sharp at 8:00 AM, your professional Egyptologist tour guide will collect you from your hotel in Cairo or Giza, launching your fantastic orientation tour.
First, you will drive up the Moqattam Hills to the formidable Saladin Citadel. Constructed in 1183 AD by Salah al-Din to defend against Crusader armies, this historic site now offers sweeping city views and houses significant mosques and museums. Immediately following this, step inside the stunning Mosque of Muhammad Ali Pasha. This magnificent structure, designed by the Turkish architect Yousif Boushnaq, features brilliant alabaster contrasting beautifully with the surrounding sandstone city.
Subsequently, lunch will be served at an authentic local restaurant in Old Cairo.
Then, you will immerse yourself in the rich religious tapestry of Old Cairo. Here, actively explore major ancient attractions, including the historic Hanging Church, the venerable Ben Ezra Synagogue, the Church of St. Barbara, and the Church of Abu Serga—one of the city’s oldest Coptic churches.
Finally, conclude your tour at the iconic Khan el-Khalili Bazaar. Discover this fascinating maze of alleys, which has served as the dynamic heart of Cairo’s trading activities since the 14th century, offering a perfect opportunity for souvenir hunting and people-watching.
Day 7: departure
Check out – transfer to Cairo airport for final departure.
