How to Plan Your 6-Day Desert Tour from Cairo to Luxor

Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure through the Egyptian desert? This 6-day tour from Cairo to Luxor takes you on a journey through some of the most breathtaking natural landscapes in the world. So, buckle up and get ready to experience a unique perspective on Egypt’s rich history and culture.

Experience

Disconnect from the modern world and escape the hustle and bustle of Cairo for a few days. On this tour, you can expect to marvel at sprawling sandy landscapes that stretch across the horizon, explore lush oases, and enjoy some of the most stunning sunsets and starry skies you’ll ever see. With a knowledgeable guide and 4×4 transportation, you’ll feel safe and comfortable while experiencing the natural beauty of Egypt.

Highlights

• Magical views of Fayoum oasis and its surroundings
• Visit the awe-inspiring Wadi Rayan natural depression, the stunning Lower Waterfall, and Fayoum desert lake
• Explore the beautiful Bahariya Oasis with your guide
• Discover the famous Valley of the Whales in Wadi Hitan, a UNESCO World Heritage site
• Marvel at the breathtaking views of the desert landscape at Sunset
• And more…

Itinerary

Day 1: Cairo – Fayoum

Early morning pick up from your hotel with 4×4 transportation. Drive to Fayoum oasis and make a stop by the magic lake, then drive to Lake Qarun. Afterward, drive to Wadi Rayan – a beautiful natural depression located in the Western Desert, 42 meters below sea level. Visit the stunning waterfalls, including the Lower Waterfall, and enjoy a dip in the crystal clear water. Continue to Mudawara Mountain – a magnificent spot overlooking the beautiful landscape below where deep blue waters meet the golden yellow sand. Finally, explore Wadi Hitan – also known as the Valley of the Whales. The national park is placed on the UNESCO’s World Heritage List and is considered an open museum that dates back to 40 million years.

Day 2-3: Bahariya Oasis

After breakfast, drive to Bahariya Oasis, a lush area that has long been an important agricultural center. Explore the oasis with your guide, including the ancient tombs of the valley of the Golden Mummies, the hot springs, and the local salt museum. You also have the opportunity to experience a Bedouin style dinner and enjoy stargazing at night. The following day, enjoy an adventure in the Black and White Desert, a stunning area with unique landscapes formed by volcanic activity and weather erosion. Enjoy lunch against the backdrop of the desert landscape and camp overnight in the heart of the desert.

Day 4: Dakhla Oasis

Today you will head to Dakhla Oasis, where you can explore the old town of Al Qasr, which preserves much of its medieval charm, and visit the local museum that displays the traditional life of the oasis people. Next, visit the El-Deir Monastery, one of the most important Coptic monasteries in Egypt, and the hot spring of Bir Setah.

Day 5: Kharga Oasis

After breakfast, continue your journey to Kharga Oasis, the biggest of the Western Desert’s oases, and explore the temple of Hibis, once one of Egypt’s most important religious centers. Then, visit the necropolis of Al Bagawat, considered one of the oldest Christian cemeteries in the world.

Day 6: Luxor – Cairo

On the final day of your tour, head to Luxor and visit the highlights of this ancient city on the Nile. Visit the Karnak Temple, the largest ancient religious site in the world, and the Luxor Temple, which was once the center of the city of Thebes. Then, transfer to Luxor airport for a flight back to Cairo.

Book the Tour Here

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience the incredible natural beauty and rich history of Egypt’s Western Desert. Book your 6-day desert tour from Cairo to Luxor with GetYourGuide. Visit getyourguide.com to book the tour and get more information about this unforgettable adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cairo

Cairo is one of the world’s most vibrant and historically rich cities. It is known for its beautiful architecture, ancient pyramids, museums, mosques, and vibrant culture. As with any travel destination, Cairo has its intricacies and quirks, and we have compiled this list of frequently asked questions to help you navigate your trip to this fascinating city.

1. What is the best time to visit Cairo?

The best time to visit Cairo is between October and April when the temperatures and humidity are pleasant. During this time, the average temperature hovers around 20 to 25 degrees Celsius. However, if you want to avoid crowds, travel during the offseason, which runs from May to September. During these months, the heat is intense, sometimes reaching up to 40 degrees Celsius. However, prices for accommodations, and airfare are generally cheaper during the offseason.

2. Is Cairo safe for tourists?

Cairo is safe for tourists, but like any other city, there are areas you should avoid. In general, stick to well-lit areas and avoid walking alone at night. Some popular tourist destinations like the pyramids and the Egyptian Museum are heavily policed, making them relatively safe. However, it is good practice to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.

3. What are the must-visit attractions in Cairo?

Cairo has an abundance of must-visit attractions, including:

i. Pyramids of Giza

The Pyramids of Giza are the most popular attraction in Cairo and one of the seven wonders of the world. These ancient pyramids have stood for over 4,500 years and are a testament to the engineering skills of the ancient Egyptians.

ii. Egyptian Museum

The Egyptian Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in the ancient history of Egypt. It houses over 120,000 artifacts, including mummies, sarcophagi, and ancient Egyptian art.

iii. Khan El Khalili

Khan El Khalili is a historic market in Cairo that dates back to the 14th century. It is the perfect place to shop for souvenirs, spices, and handmade crafts.

iv. Citadel of Salah El Din

The Citadel of Salah El Din is a medieval Islamic fortification located on a hill in Cairo. It was built in the 12th century and offers stunning views of Cairo.

v. Al-Azhar Mosque

Al-Azhar Mosque is a historic mosque in Cairo that dates back to the 10th century. It is one of the oldest universities in the world and is still in operation today.

4. What is the currency used in Cairo?

The currency used in Cairo is the Egyptian pound (EGP). One US dollar is equivalent to approximately 15.6 EGP. It is advisable to carry small denominations of the currency for easy transactions while shopping.

5. What is the dress code in Cairo?

Cairo is an Islamic city, and it is advisable to dress conservatively. Women should cover their shoulders and knees when visiting a mosque or other religious sites. Men should avoid wearing shorts to mosques.

6. What is the food like in Cairo?

Cairo has a rich and diverse culinary scene. The local cuisine is a mix of Arabic, Middle Eastern, and African influences. Some must-try foods include falafel, koshari, shawarma, ful medames, and hawawshi.

7. How to get around in Cairo?

Getting around in Cairo can be challenging due to the heavy traffic and lack of reliable public transportation. Taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber and Careem are popular options. However, make sure to agree on a fare before getting into a taxi. It is also advisable to download offline maps or carry a physical copy to navigate through the city.

8. Can I buy alcohol in Cairo?

Yes, alcohol is available in Cairo, but it is only sold in licensed stores and hotels. Non-Muslims are allowed to purchase alcohol, but they should carry their passport as proof of identity.

9. Is bargaining common in Cairo?

Yes, bargaining is common in Cairo, especially in markets and street vendors. It is advisable to negotiate the price before making a purchase to avoid being ripped off.

10. What language is spoken in Cairo?

Arabic is the official language of Cairo. However, English is widely spoken in tourist destinations like hotels, restaurants, and museums.

Book Your Tour Now

Cairo is a city that never fails to fascinate and amaze visitors. It has stunning architecture, a vibrant culture, and an ancient and rich history. We hope this FAQ about Cairo has answered some of your questions about the city and helps in planning your trip. Remember to stay safe, be respectful of local customs, and have fun exploring all that Cairo has to offer.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Cairo

Cairo, the capital city of Egypt, is a buzzing metropolitan area that sits on the banks of the river Nile. Known as the City of a Thousand Minarets, Cairo is a city steeped in history, culture, and traditions. If you’re planning a trip to Cairo, there’s plenty to keep you busy. In this guide, we’ll help you plan your stay and make the most of your time in the city.

1. Visit the Pyramids at Giza

A trip to Cairo wouldn’t be complete without a visit to one of the Seven Wonders of the World – the Pyramids at Giza. These ancient structures date back to around 2560 BC and were built as tombs for pharaohs. You can explore the three pyramids at Giza and even opt for a camel ride around the area. In the evening, attend the Sound and Light Show which showcases the history of the pyramids and the pharaohs who built them.

2. Explore the Egyptian Museum

The Egyptian Museum in Cairo is home to over 120,000 ancient artifacts, including mummies, sarcophagi, and treasures from King Tutankhamun’s tomb. You’ll need a full day to explore the museum, so plan accordingly. A must-see exhibit is the Royal Mummies Room, which contains the mummies of 11 pharaohs and queens.

3. Wander Around Old Cairo

Old Cairo, also known as Islamic Cairo, is where you’ll find some of the city’s most historic landmarks. The area is filled with narrow alleyways and old buildings, which transport you back in time. Some must-visit places in Old Cairo include the Al-Azhar Mosque, the Bab Zuweila gate, and the Khan El-Khalili bazaar.

4. Take a Nile River Cruise

The river Nile is the lifeblood of Cairo and a Nile River cruise is a great way to see the city from a different angle. There are plenty of options for Nile River cruises, ranging from a few hours to several days. Some cruises even include dinner and live entertainment onboard.

5. Visit the Salah El-Din Citadel

The Salah El-Din Citadel is a medieval Islamic fortress that dates back to the 12th century. The fortress sits on a hill overlooking the city and provides panoramic views of Cairo. While you’re there, don’t miss the chance to see the Mohamed Ali Mosque, which is located within the citadel.

6. Discover Coptic Cairo

Coptic Cairo is the Christian quarter of the city and has ancient churches, monasteries, and museums. The Hanging Church is a must-visit site in Coptic Cairo, as it’s believed to be built on the site where the Holy Family stayed during their flight to Egypt.

7. Try Egyptian Cuisine

Egyptian cuisine is a blend of Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and African flavors. Some popular dishes to try include koshari, a mix of rice, lentils, and macaroni topped with a spicy tomato sauce; ful medames, a dish made from fava beans; and ta’meya, which is similar to falafel. Don’t forget to try the traditional Egyptian breakfast dish of fava beans called “foul.”

8. Watch a Whirling Dervish Show

A Whirling Dervish Show is a traditional Sufi dance that involves spinning around in circles for long periods. The performance is mesmerizing and a must-see experience while in Cairo. One of the best places to catch a Whirling Dervish Show is at the Al-Ghouri Complex in Islamic Cairo.

9. Visit the City of the Dead

The City of the Dead, also known as the Cairo Necropolis, is an Islamic cemetery where people live among the tombs. The cemetery covers a vast area and is home to over 5 million people. While it may seem unusual to visit a cemetery, it’s a unique and fascinating insight into the way of life for those who call the City of the Dead home.

10. Relax at a Traditional Hammam

A traditional hammam is a Middle Eastern spa that involves a full-body cleanse, scrub, and massage. A visit to a hammam is a great way to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing in Cairo. Some popular hammams in Cairo include the El Hussein and El Anwar Hammam.

Book Your Tour Now

These are just a few of the many things to see and do in Cairo. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or simply relaxing, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. Don’t forget to try the food and immerse yourself in the local customs and traditions. With so much to discover, Cairo is a destination that will leave you with unforgettable memories.