Frank Pimentel
909-702-4919

Journey Through Oasis: Cairo - Abu Simbel

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Duration

8 nights / person

Start

Cairo

End

Luxor

Group size

30 - 35 persons

Overview

Discover the diverse beauty of Egypt on this unforgettable journey from the Western Desert oases to the legendary monuments of the Nile Valley. Explore the lush Bahariya Oasis, the dramatic Black Desert, the surreal landscapes of the White Desert, and the historic oases of Dakhla and Kharga before continuing to Luxor.

Experience the wonders of ancient Egypt with visits to Karnak Temple, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Philae Temple, and the magnificent Abu Simbel Temples. Combining breathtaking desert scenery, rich history, and iconic archaeological sites, this itinerary offers a unique and immersive Egyptian adventure.

 

Please note that higher seasonal rates apply during the following travel periods:
• 24 December – 29 January
• 25 March – 9 April

Short itinerary

Quick route overview
  • 1
    Day 1

    Thurs: Cairo – Bahariya Oasis

    Leave the vibrant city of Cairo behind and journey west into the vast landscapes of Egypt’s Western Desert. Arrive at the beautiful Bahariya Oasis, a fertile haven surrounded by palm groves and natural springs. Explore the dramatic scenery of the Black Desert, where volcanic hills rise from the golden sands, creating one of Egypt’s most unique desert landscapes.

    Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the oasis before settling in for the night.

  • 2
    Day 2

    Fri : Bahariya Oasis – Farafra Oasis & White Desert

    Continue south to the tranquil Farafra Oasis and discover one of Egypt’s most extraordinary natural wonders, the White Desert National Park.

    Marvel at the surreal chalk formations sculpted by wind and sand over thousands of years into shapes resembling mushrooms, animals, and other fantastical figures. As evening approaches, experience the magic of the desert beneath a spectacular canopy of stars in one of the most remote and peaceful regions of Egypt.

    Overnight: Farafra Oasis

  • 3
    Day 3

    Sat: Farafra Oasis – Dakhla Oasis

    Travel deeper into the Western Desert to reach the historic Dakhla Oasis. Here, explore the fascinating old town of Al Qasr, one of Egypt’s best-preserved medieval settlements.

    Wander through its narrow mudbrick alleyways, admire centuries-old wooden doorways adorned with Arabic inscriptions, and discover a settlement that once served as an important stop along the ancient caravan routes crossing the Sahara.

    Overnight: Dakhla Oasis

  • 4
    Day 4

    Sun: Dakhla Oasis – Kharga Oasis

    Continue to Kharga Oasis, the largest of Egypt’s southern oases and a remarkable crossroads of civilizations.

    Visit the impressive Temple of Hibis, the best-preserved Persian-era temple in Egypt, dedicated to Amun and the Theban Triad. Later, explore the fascinating El Bagawat Necropolis, one of the oldest Christian cemeteries in the world, featuring mudbrick chapels decorated with early Christian frescoes.

    Enjoy your final evening immersed in the unique atmosphere of the desert oases.

    Overnight: Kharga Oasis

  • 5
    Day 5

    Mon: Kharga Oasis – Luxor

    After breakfast, bid farewell to Egypt’s Western Desert and journey east across the desert landscapes toward Luxor.

    Continue to legendary Luxor. Guests choosing the optional 4-night extension to Abu Simbel will begin their extended journey here.

    Alternatively, guests may choose to fly to Sharm El Sheikh to begin the optional Sinai & Jordan extension. This unique journey includes visits to Saint Catherine's Monastery and the sacred landscapes of Sinai before continuing to Amman for further exploration of Jordan's cultural and historical treasures.

    Continue to legendary Luxor, where the adventure concludes with an unforgettable evening visit to Luxor Temple. Beautifully illuminated after sunset, the temple reveals layers of history spanning thousands of years, from the pharaohs and Romans to early Christian and Islamic periods.

    Overnight in Susana Hotel Luxor or similar.

  • 6
    Day 6

    Tues: Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut & Karnak

    Today is dedicated to the wonders of ancient Thebes. Cross to Luxor's West Bank and enter the world-famous Valley of the Kings, final resting place of Egypt's greatest pharaohs. Descend into richly decorated royal tombs and uncover stories of power, ambition, and eternity.

    Next, visit the spectacular Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, one of Egypt's most remarkable rulers and a true pioneer of the ancient world.

    The day concludes at the awe-inspiring Karnak Temple Complex, the largest religious complex ever built. Wander through colossal halls, towering obelisks, and monumental gateways while your Egyptologist guide brings over 2,000 years of history to life.

    Overnight in Luxor.

  • 7
    Day 7

    Wed: Temples Along the Nile: Esna & Kom Ombo

    Travel south through Upper Egypt, following the path of the ancient Nile civilizations.

    Begin at Edfu Temple, a hidden gem tucked below the level of the modern town, where beautifully preserved inscriptions reveal stories of gods and kings. 

    Later, arrive at the unique Temple of Kom Ombo, dramatically positioned on the Nile's edge. This rare double temple was dedicated to both Horus and Sobek, the crocodile god, reflecting the rich spiritual traditions of ancient Egypt.

    Overnight in Philae Hotel Aswan or similar.

  • 8
    Day 8

    Thurs: Abu Simbel: A Monument to Greatness

    An unforgettable day awaits as we depart early for the legendary Abu Simbel Temples. Carved into the mountainside by Ramses II, these colossal monuments stand among the greatest achievements of ancient Egypt. Marvel at the giant statues guarding the entrance and discover the remarkable story of how the temples were carefully relocated to save them from the rising waters of Lake Nasser in one of the world's most ambitious archaeological rescue projects.

    After exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site, return to Aswan and enjoy the evening at leisure.

    Overnight in Aswan.

  • 9
    Day 9

    Fri: Discovering Aswan & Philae Temple

    Today, explore the beauty and charm of Aswan, Egypt's southern jewel. Visit the enchanting Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis and beautifully situated on an island surrounded by the tranquil waters of the Nile. Its elegant architecture and peaceful setting make it one of Egypt's most captivating temples.

    As your journey comes to an end, take with you more than photographs, you'll leave with unforgettable memories, fascinating stories, and a deeper appreciation of Egypt's rich history and timeless wonders.

    For travelers wishing to extend their Egyptian adventure, an unforgettable optional 3-night felucca journey is available. Step aboard a traditional Nile sailing boat and experience Egypt at a slower pace, drifting past palm-fringed riverbanks, rural villages, and timeless landscapes largely unchanged for centuries.

    Spend three peaceful nights under the stars, enjoying authentic local hospitality and breathtaking Nile scenery before arriving in Luxor. This unique extension offers a rare opportunity to experience the Nile as travelers have done for generations.

    Optional Extension: 3 Nights / 4 Days Felucca Sailing from Aswan to Luxor.

Your Experience Map

Map

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1

Meals: Lunch Hotels

Thurs: Cairo – Bahariya Oasis

Leave the vibrant city of Cairo behind and journey west into the vast landscapes of Egypt’s Western Desert. Arrive at the beautiful Bahariya Oasis, a fertile haven surrounded by palm groves and natural springs. Explore the dramatic scenery of the Black Desert, where volcanic hills rise from the golden sands, creating one of Egypt’s most unique desert landscapes.

Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the oasis before settling in for the night.

Day 2

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Hotels

Fri : Bahariya Oasis – Farafra Oasis & White Desert

Continue south to the tranquil Farafra Oasis and discover one of Egypt’s most extraordinary natural wonders, the White Desert National Park.

Marvel at the surreal chalk formations sculpted by wind and sand over thousands of years into shapes resembling mushrooms, animals, and other fantastical figures. As evening approaches, experience the magic of the desert beneath a spectacular canopy of stars in one of the most remote and peaceful regions of Egypt.

Overnight: Farafra Oasis

Day 3

Meals: Breakfast , Lunch Hotels

Sat: Farafra Oasis – Dakhla Oasis

Travel deeper into the Western Desert to reach the historic Dakhla Oasis. Here, explore the fascinating old town of Al Qasr, one of Egypt’s best-preserved medieval settlements.

Wander through its narrow mudbrick alleyways, admire centuries-old wooden doorways adorned with Arabic inscriptions, and discover a settlement that once served as an important stop along the ancient caravan routes crossing the Sahara.

Overnight: Dakhla Oasis

Day 4

Meals: Breakfast , Lunch Hotels

Sun: Dakhla Oasis – Kharga Oasis

Continue to Kharga Oasis, the largest of Egypt’s southern oases and a remarkable crossroads of civilizations.

Visit the impressive Temple of Hibis, the best-preserved Persian-era temple in Egypt, dedicated to Amun and the Theban Triad. Later, explore the fascinating El Bagawat Necropolis, one of the oldest Christian cemeteries in the world, featuring mudbrick chapels decorated with early Christian frescoes.

Enjoy your final evening immersed in the unique atmosphere of the desert oases.

Overnight: Kharga Oasis

Day 5

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Mon: Kharga Oasis – Luxor

After breakfast, bid farewell to Egypt’s Western Desert and journey east across the desert landscapes toward Luxor.

Continue to legendary Luxor. Guests choosing the optional 4-night extension to Abu Simbel will begin their extended journey here.

Alternatively, guests may choose to fly to Sharm El Sheikh to begin the optional Sinai & Jordan extension. This unique journey includes visits to Saint Catherine's Monastery and the sacred landscapes of Sinai before continuing to Amman for further exploration of Jordan's cultural and historical treasures.

Continue to legendary Luxor, where the adventure concludes with an unforgettable evening visit to Luxor Temple. Beautifully illuminated after sunset, the temple reveals layers of history spanning thousands of years, from the pharaohs and Romans to early Christian and Islamic periods.

Overnight in Susana Hotel Luxor or similar.

Day 6

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Tues: Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut & Karnak

Today is dedicated to the wonders of ancient Thebes. Cross to Luxor's West Bank and enter the world-famous Valley of the Kings, final resting place of Egypt's greatest pharaohs. Descend into richly decorated royal tombs and uncover stories of power, ambition, and eternity.

Next, visit the spectacular Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, one of Egypt's most remarkable rulers and a true pioneer of the ancient world.

The day concludes at the awe-inspiring Karnak Temple Complex, the largest religious complex ever built. Wander through colossal halls, towering obelisks, and monumental gateways while your Egyptologist guide brings over 2,000 years of history to life.

Overnight in Luxor.

Day 7

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Wed: Temples Along the Nile: Esna & Kom Ombo

Travel south through Upper Egypt, following the path of the ancient Nile civilizations.

Begin at Edfu Temple, a hidden gem tucked below the level of the modern town, where beautifully preserved inscriptions reveal stories of gods and kings. 

Later, arrive at the unique Temple of Kom Ombo, dramatically positioned on the Nile's edge. This rare double temple was dedicated to both Horus and Sobek, the crocodile god, reflecting the rich spiritual traditions of ancient Egypt.

Overnight in Philae Hotel Aswan or similar.

Day 8

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Thurs: Abu Simbel: A Monument to Greatness

An unforgettable day awaits as we depart early for the legendary Abu Simbel Temples. Carved into the mountainside by Ramses II, these colossal monuments stand among the greatest achievements of ancient Egypt. Marvel at the giant statues guarding the entrance and discover the remarkable story of how the temples were carefully relocated to save them from the rising waters of Lake Nasser in one of the world's most ambitious archaeological rescue projects.

After exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site, return to Aswan and enjoy the evening at leisure.

Overnight in Aswan.

Day 9

Meals: Breakfast

Fri: Discovering Aswan & Philae Temple

Today, explore the beauty and charm of Aswan, Egypt's southern jewel. Visit the enchanting Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis and beautifully situated on an island surrounded by the tranquil waters of the Nile. Its elegant architecture and peaceful setting make it one of Egypt's most captivating temples.

As your journey comes to an end, take with you more than photographs, you'll leave with unforgettable memories, fascinating stories, and a deeper appreciation of Egypt's rich history and timeless wonders.

For travelers wishing to extend their Egyptian adventure, an unforgettable optional 3-night felucca journey is available. Step aboard a traditional Nile sailing boat and experience Egypt at a slower pace, drifting past palm-fringed riverbanks, rural villages, and timeless landscapes largely unchanged for centuries.

Spend three peaceful nights under the stars, enjoying authentic local hospitality and breathtaking Nile scenery before arriving in Luxor. This unique extension offers a rare opportunity to experience the Nile as travelers have done for generations.

Optional Extension: 3 Nights / 4 Days Felucca Sailing from Aswan to Luxor.

Inclusions

Transportation & Onboard Facilities

Travel in comfort aboard our modern, air-conditioned coach, designed for long-distance touring across Egypt.

  • Complimentary Wi-Fi onboard
  • USB charging ports at every seat
  • Onboard restroom facilities
  • Professional driver and regular comfort stops
  • Modern coach fleet (2025–2027 model years, subject to availability)

Main Tour

  • 4 nights' accommodation in carefully selected 3★ hotels or similar:
    • 1 nights in Bahariya Oasis
    • 1 nights in Farafra Oasis
    • 1 night in Dakhla Oasis
    • 1 night in Kharga Oasis
  • Private air-conditioned transportation throughout the tour
  • Services of a professional English-speaking Egyptologist guide

Exclusions

❌ Entrance fees
❌ Egyptian visa (USD 30 per person)
❌ Tipping and personal expenses
❌ International flights
❌ Domestic flights
❌ Optional tours and activities
❌ Fast Track (VIP airport service) – USD 5 per person
❌ Travel insurance

FAQ

Egypt is very safe to visit and the police, tourist police, and army are in prominence wherever you go, giving you a feel of being in secure surroundings. Egypt prides itself on its high safety record for tourists and will do all it can to maintain this.

Egyptian Arabic is the official and most widely spoken language in Egypt. English is taught in schools and is considered a secondary language that is most commonly used for tourism purposes.

The official currency of Egypt is the Egyptian Pound. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels, restaurants and upscale shops. There are also ATMs available at hotels and outside major banks dispensing local currency.

The best time to visit Egypt would be during the winter months, from October to April. The temperatures are mild and pleasant, although evenings can become quite cool. December through January are the peak tourist months so expect large crowds if travelling at this time. The best time to enjoy the beaches, without having to endure the large crowds of summer tourists, would be from March to May. Temperatures at this time are warm and tourist sites are not too crowded.

Egypt, being a predominantly Muslim country, is naturally conservative (not like the Gulf States or Saudi Arabia) but the average people are careful in what they wear. The dress code in Egypt for women is considered conservative by western standards and it is respectful to obey this code. For men it is not really an issue -- normal trousers and shirt or T-shirt are fine -- but in Cairo it would not be acceptable to wear short shorts or a tank tops/sleeveless tops. In the resorts like Sharm El Sheik, Hurghada, Sinai, etc. -- shorts are fine and it is very open and flexible. This also applies to ladies for the beach areas, but going into the market area in Hurghada, for example you may be more comfortable in trousers. Generally for men in Cairo or any city that is not on the sea side, remain with trousers (at tourist sites long loose shorts) or jeans and T-shirt , as even in Cairo, local people do not feel comfortable seeing a man in shorts. In Sea Side areas it's ok to walk in shorts, but once you enter a local restaurant or market, it's better to be more covered.

For the vast majority of travelers to Egypt, a valid passport and a travel visa is required. A visa can easily be purchased at the airport when you arrive. The cost for a single-entry, 30-day tourist visa is $25 (or equivalent in Euro), must be paid in cash (no credit or debit cards accepted), and your passport must be valid for at least six months. Citizens of all European countries, Australia, Canada, Georgia, Japan, South Korea, Macedonia, New Zealand, Norway, Russia, Serbia, Ukraine and United States can obtain a visa upon arrival. (Egypt does allow visa-free access for certain countries such as Bahrain, Hong Kong, Kuwait, Lebanon, Macao, Oman, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, and Malaysia.) Visas can also be purchased beforehand through Egypt’s Visa e-Portal: https://visa2egypt.gov.eg. Forty-one different nationalities are eligible to purchase the e-visa, however, it’s far easier to simply buy the visa at the airport.

As with most European and North American countries, tipping is graciously accepted in Egypt. A 10% tip at restaurants and to guides and drivers is standard. Unfortunately, at major tourist sites like the Pyramids of Giza or the tombs of the Valley of the Kings, touts aggressively hustle for tips by allowing you to take photos in areas where it’s clearly posted as prohibited (such as inside the tombs). Please refrain from perpetuating this problem by not paying to take pictures.

Egypt has a voltage supply of 220V and the plugs are the 2-round pin type that are common throughout Europe.

As noted previously, Egypt is a Muslim country, therefore alcohol is not readily available outside of tourist areas and western-style hotels/resorts. Beer and wine is available for purchase on all Dragonfly Kite Safaris.