Temples, Tombs and Beaches

Day 1

Riding: No riding.

Arrive in Cairo and transfer to your hotel for dinner and overnight

Day 2

Riding: 2 - 3 hours

We will meet for breakfast at 8.15 to catch up on the plan for today! Departure from the hotel at approximately 9am. A short journey brings us to the horses who wait patiently, eager to take you on your first adventure, an exciting ride across the desert to the pyramids at Giza.

Before we start there is a safety briefing and we explain the history of horses in the area. These proud horses are in their element out in the sand dunes. Here you will witness first-hand the incredible energy, bravery and stamina of the Egyptian horse.

Lunch will be at a local restaurant in town followed by a visit to the Cairo Museum, home to the largest collection of Egyptian antiquities in the world. A short, evening flight will take us down to Luxor, our base for the next four days.

Day 3

Riding: 2 - 3 hours

Today we visit the legendary Valley of the Kings, home to 63 magnificent tombs, along with an Egyptologist whose knowledge will transport you back to the land of the Pharaohs. Here you will marvel at the tombs’ intricate hieroglyphs and the sheer size of these well-preserved catacombs.

The landscape is dramatic; great cavernous cliffs of limestone and sedimentary rock with the imposing Al-Qurn, the peak of the valley, resembling a pyramid, a nod to the Old Kingdom. This site has fascinated archaeologists since the 1900s yet the area is so vast a new tomb chamber was discovered as recently as 2005.

The afternoon sees the beginning of our first horse adventures together. You will travel by tuk-tuk to the stables where we will introduce you to our home and our horses. Our Bedouin-style yard, crafted by local Egyptians, is based on the West Bank of the Nile boasting several boxes as well as lush plantation fields where we grow our horses’ food. Here you will find our carefree Egyptian horses grazing happily in the glossy green fields, almost sparkling in the sunshine against the backdrop of the mountains. Our facility is home to horses, donkeys and camels and very much holds a ‘farm atmosphere’.

You will be given a tour of the stable and horses, we will show you how we grow our own food and use plants and herbs for medical problems. We will enjoy an introductory ride through the bustling streets and river tributaries that make up Luxor’s West Bank finishing up at the Nile. Watch as the feluccas sail calmly by in the late afternoon light. This is also a lovely spot for some photos with your new four-legged friend since the Nile provides such an iconic setting.

Day 4

Riding: 4 - 5 hours

A full day in the saddle today and a great opportunity to really bond with your horse as you canter happily along long, dusty farm tracks surrounded by verdant farmland. See the farmers in the fields, working the earth as their ancestors did. Horses are revered in Egypt so they always bring a smile to people’s faces as we pass through the Bedouin villages and the local children love the spectacle of our bejewelled steeds prancing proudly through the streets.

As you get to know your horse’s personality you will be amazed at how kind-hearted and generous they are despite their hot-blooded natures. Sensitive and inquisitive they are also incredibly brave; nothing phases them in these bustling environments and this stems from their strong sense of self. We will stop for lunch at a villa while the horses dose in the shade. In the heat of the day we can enjoy the pool and unwind before heading home to the stables, a ride of approximately 1 hour bringing us back to our hotel for mid afternoon.

Around 5pm we will reconvene for sundowners cruising down the Nile watching the sun set on the calm waters. To complete this epic day we will be joined by a professional belly dancer after dinner who will teach us all about her art as well as give us some moves to take home with us!

Day 5

Riding: 2 - 3 hours

A morning of sight-seeing awaits us today. We cross the river to the East Bank, along with our guide, first making our way to the world-famous Karnak Temple. Dedicated to the gods Amun, Mut and Khosu, Karnak is said to be the largest religious monument ever built and it took over 2000 years to complete. Our Egyptologist guide will talk us through key elements of its history and structure bringing it to life before our eyes.

From here we will walk to the Mummification Museum, a small but well-curated museum dedicated to the art of mummification, which aims to provide an understanding of the ancient Egyptian belief system as well as the process itself.

Finally we visit Luxor Temple, a breath-taking structure steeped in history, the entrance alone is over 200ft wide! Unlike many temples constructed to honour the gods, Luxor Temple was built in dedication to the rejuvenation of kingship. It is one of the many projects commissioned by Rameses II during his long, successful reign.

Sailing back across the Nile we will enjoy an alfresco lunch back at the hotel before setting off for a late afternoon ride into the desert. We will ride up the escarpment to mount Thebes, looking down over the city, to take in the glorious colours of sunset shimmering over the surrounding sands. Dinner and overnight at hotel.

Day 6

Riding: 3 hours

A very special morning. We rise before dawn, making the short journey to the stables in darkness.

We mount our horses and ride out into the deserted streets with the sun a mere glow on the horizon. We make our way out into farmland, trotting along rural tracks, until there before us is the Valley of the Kings. Bathed in the light of the morning sun, scores of hot air balloons rise gracefully into the sky like lanterns. The overall sight is breath-taking, but it is truly unique when enjoyed from the back of a beautiful Egyptian horse. We stop for breakfast overlooking Habu Temple and have time for a fascinating tour of the site before the return ride.

From here we will be collected for a tour of the Temple of Hatshepsut, considered one of the most impressive mortuary temples in all of Egypt. It represents not only her devotion to her god, Horus, but is also a reflection of her peaceful and prosperous reign. Set against the backdrop of a striking red cliff face it is a dramatic sight to behold. After lunch and showering we will journey north-east to Hurghada on the Red Sea, endeavouring to arrive in time for a spectacular sunset. Dinner and overnight at hotel.

Day 7

Riding: 2 - 3 hours

A variety of options are open to us this morning. A relaxing lie-in, late breakfast and some downtime by the pool is a popular one! But if you prefer to tag on something unique and memorable to your trip we offer amazing professional photoshoots complete with hair, make-up and flowing dresses; choose from a beach or a desert setting and strike a pose with your horse! Please enquire for prices.

Alternatively, for the restless adrenaline junkies, we offer an exhilarating quad bike safari across the dunes.

Lunch will be at the hotel before we don our riding clothes once again for an exciting ride across the Eastern desert. Known as ‘yalla country’, the desert’s vast open plains allow us to really let our horses go and revel in their speed and endurance, could there be anything more joyful? As the sun sets on another glorious day we ride home together, content, reflective and grateful as ever for the gift in life that is the horse.

After a freshen up we will head down to the marina at Hurghada. Once a typical fishing village it has become famous for its extensive fish market. Our final evening will be spent sampling a feast from the sea, dining on fresh produce straight out of the morning’s catch. Overnight at hotel.

Day 8

Riding: 2 - 3 hours

A highlight of our riding holidays is swimming with the horses in the crystal-clear Red Sea. The horses love the cool, refreshing waters and glide effortlessly across the bay, their tails streaming out like banners behind them. This is also one of the many fantastic photo opportunities on this riding holiday. After final cuddles with your horses it is time to thank them and to say farewell.

Check out 11am. Optional extensions include an additional day swimming with dolphins, please enquire for more information.

Day 1

Riding: No riding.

Arrival and check in to your guesthouse accommodation close to the River Nile. This lovely guesthouse offers fabulous home cooked local dishes and an excellent service. Dinner this night is at your own cost.

Day 2 - Introductory Day

Riding: 2 - 3 hours

You will start your day with an introducing to the land of the Pharaohs. This morning tour will give an insight as to why the Valley of the Kings is so important - the Pyramids of Giza and the Nile Delta were the tombs of choice for pharaohs of Egypt's Old Kingdom but those of the New Kingdom wanted to be closer to the source of their dynastic roots in the south. Consequently, these later pharaohs built their crypts in the hills of the barren tract of land which lies west of Luxor, now known as the ‘Valley of the Kings’ or the ‘Valley of the Dead’. You will visit four amazing tombs, including the Tomb of Tutankhamun which was discovered in November 1922 by Howard Carter. His tomb is now considered to be the best-preserved and most intact pharaonic tomb ever found in the Valley of the Kings.

You will the continue to the Temple of Hatshepsut, the most famous female ruler in Egyptian history. Hatshepsut was pharaoh of Egypt from roughly 1479 to 1458 BCE. She not only had the longest reign of any Egyptian woman but is also regarded as one of the most successful rulers in Egyptian history. Under Hatshepsut, Egypt explored, built, and grew. The trip also will take you to the Valley of the Queens (Arabic: وادي الملكات Wādī al Malekāt) where wives of pharaohs were buried in ancient times. In those days it was known as Ta-Set-Neferu, meaning “the place of beauty”.

To complete the history circle your final stop is at Carters House - this is rarely visited in standard tourist packages and yet is one of the most interesting buildings in Luxor. Although lacking the glamour of the Queens temples, the house, where Howard Carter lived during his search for Tutankhamun’s Tomb and his excavation of the Valley of the Kings, offers some amazing insights. It’s a simple but mesmerising piece of history, a step back in time. You can see the photo lab Howard Carter used, along with his cameras and other photography equipment. His original desk is still in the house, as is the library he kept and items relating to the excavation of King Tutankhamun’s Tomb which are on display. It’s a very special feature in the Luxor itinerary.

In the afternoon , you will take your first horse adventure together. Travelling by tuk-tuk to the stables, you will be introduced to your host's home and horses. The Bedouin style yard, crafted by local Egyptians, is based on the West Bank of the Nile and houses several loose boxes as well as dedicated turn out for the horses. Here you will find the beautiful Arabian horses grazing happily in the Nile-water fed green fields, against the backdrop of the mountains. The yard is home to horses, donkeys and camels and very much holds a “farm atmosphere”.

Your first ride out will be fairly relaxed and will give you a chance to get to know your hosts, guides and horses in preparation for a full day trail ride the following day. You will ride through the villages on horseback, under the palm trees and along to the Nile river. The Nile is incredibly peaceful and you will see the buffalo grazing along the banks. On return to the stables, you will be transferred back to your hotel in time for dinner at around 8pm. This will be a local Egyptian feast, typically eaten with your hands whilst sitting on the floor on plush cushions - a must when in Luxor!

Day 3 - The ULTIMATE trail ride through the land of the Pharaohs

Riding: 6 hours

Your first full day on the trail - be prepared to fall in love with both the Arabian and Baladi (local breed) horses, famed for their beauty and endurance. These wonderful native breeds have been chosen for their ability to form a cooperative relationship with humans, their good-nature, quick learning and willingness to please. The longer trail will offer you the experience to truly appreciate these little horses and Egyptian country life. You will see farmers working their fields just as their ancestors did. By mid-morning prepare to be amazed as your sure-footed horses carry you across the challenging terrain behind the Valley of the Kings and to the top of Mount Thebes. From this fantastic vantage point, you will see amazing panoramic views of Luxor. Lunch will be served at a local restaurant before you begin the afternoon trail ride home again. The route will take you past The Colossi of Memnon (Arabic: el-Colossat or es-Salamat); two massive stone statues of the Pharaoh Amenhotep III, who reigned in Egypt during the Dynasty XVIII. They have stood in the Theban Necropolis for the past 3,400 years (since 1350 BC)! This is a wonderful opportunity for photos together with the horses.

Day 4 - Habu Temple and Karnak Temple:

Riding: 4 - 5 hours

Today will begin early with a 7 am departure - it's time for another tick off the bucket list for many visitors to Luxor and a visit to Madinet Habu Temple! Mounted up, you will leave the stables at around 7.30am and take a 2 hours ride up to the Habu Temple. On arrival, you can dismount and tether the horses outside in the shade before heading inside this magnificent complex to explore and learn more about its history. Built as a mortuary temple for Ramses III (1186-1155 BC), one of the great pharaohs of ancient Egypt, Habu Temple stands on land that was considered to have magical powers by local farmers. Ramses often lived in the adjacent palace but other deities resided at Medinet Habu permanently. During the Libyan invasions of the late Twentieth Dynasty, Medinet Habu sheltered the entire population of Thebes.

You will have a light brunch after your visit to the temple, at around 11am, before riding back to the stables in time to change for our afternoon adventures. You will head on a non-riding tour to the East Bank of Luxor, starting with the incredible Karnak Temple. Karnak is the largest religious complex on the planet. Forget all you have come to expect in regard to scale and space and be astonished by the Temples of Amun-Ra, his divine wife, Mut, and their son, Khonsu. Your hosts will be on hand to show you through the labyrinth and to explain the purpose, meaning and history of the amazing ruins at Karnak. Many visitors walk right past one of the treasures of this site – its wonderful Open Air Museum filled with many architectural wonders which have been re-erected in all their glory.

After Karnak, you will visit Luxor Temple, largely built by the New Kingdom pharaohs Amenhotep III (1390–1352 BC) and Ramses II (1279–1213 BC). This temple is a strikingly graceful monument in the heart of the modern town and is also known as the Southern Sanctuary. Its main function was during the annual Opet celebrations when the statues of Amun, Mut and Khonsu were brought from Karnak, along the Avenue of Sphinxes, and reunited here during the inundation. Your tour will culminate at the Luxor Museum - this wonderful museum has a well-chosen, brilliantly displayed and explained collection of antiquities dating from the end of the Old Kingdom right through to the Mamluk period, mostly gathered from the Theban temples and necropolis. This is one of the most rewarding sights in Luxor and one of the best museums in Egypt.

Tonight will be your last evening in this region and you will finish your Luxor adventures with a belly dancing show and an Egyptian BBQ dinner with music.

OPTIONAL EXTRAS ON REQUEST:

Guided tour and shopping at the souk markets (no charge)

Sunrise Balloon tour $150

Private Boat Dinner on the Nile (price on request)

Day 5 - Travel to Hurghada

Riding: No riding.

Following breakfast this morning, you will depart from Luxor and head to Hurghada for the second half of your adventure. You will arrive at the Red Sea for early afternoon. Check in at your hotel and time to relax after the long journey.

Day 6 - Makadi Bay

Riding: 5 - 6 hours

This morning will see you take your first horseback ride in Hurghada. A full day trail with these little “desert Arabians” which have been chosen for their forward-going nature and their willingness to gallop seemingly endlessly in the deserts. Today's trail is a superb day of riding which includes a little of the beach, sea and deserts of Makadi. Lunch will be a picnic served out and about on your ride. For less experienced or riders wanting a slightly easier day, there is an option to divide the day, riding two hours in the morning and then riding again in the afternoon with lunch at your hotel in between.

Day 7 - Swimming with wild dolphins

Riding: No riding.

Today will takes you away from the land and into the crystal blue waters of the Red Sea where you will spend the day lapping up the sunshine and relaxing. However, this isn’t any old boat trip as today you will have the opportunity to meet some fabulous underwater friends at Dolphin House. This is a location where you have the opportunity to swim with pods of truly wild dolphins, stopping off at two stunning snorkelling spots. Here you will find a huge array of underwater beauties around the reefs of Hurghada and this is truly a once in a lifetime experience. Onboard you will also be treated to an exquisite lunch by the wonderful crew.

Day 8 - Swimming with horses

Riding: 4 hours

No trip would be complete without the opportunity to swim with your horses in the Red Sea. This is a full morning ride with lots of exhilarating canters along the desert before arriving at the coast. On arrival you will dismount and remove the saddles before heading into the water with your horse. The horses really do enjoy the chance to cool off in the water too ,so it’s a wonderful trip for both. After your swim you’ll have some time to dry off in the warm sunshine before riding home.

Check out from your hotel will be by 12:00 (late check outs on request at the hotel) and then it’s time to head home or continue with your travels in Egypt.

Day 1

Riding: No riding.

Arrive Cairo and transfer to hotel in time for dinner overlooking the pyramids.

Day 2

Riding: 3 - 5 hours

Wake to the frenetic sounds of a thriving city. The pyramids at Giza are a must-see for most visiting Cairo, but today we elevate this experience by riding onto the plateau on our beautiful Egyptian horses.

After a traditional breakfast and a briefing from our guides we will make the short journey to the horses who wait for us within the site. Pure of heart and renowned for their stamina, these horses are the pride of Egypt and a symbol of its strength and fortitude. The open desert allows for fantastic riding at all paces including exhilarating gallops.

After exploring the desert on horseback it is then time for a tour of the Sphinx on foot. Carved from one solid piece of stone this mysterious statue is one of the oldest sculptures from the Old Kingdom and was built during the reign of Khafre.

Our lunch stop is at a local restaurant in town; flatbread, kofte, fragrant rice as well as various delicious salads and dips make up a typical lunch.

Satisfied, we now pack our bags for the transfer to Fayoum, a road trip of approximately 1.5hrs, aiming to arrive late afternoon to enjoy a leisurely sunset ride through the surrounding villages. We finish this glorious first day with dinner in the desert.

Day 3

Riding: 6 hours

A full day ride to explore the extraordinary hidden gem that is the Fayoum Oasis, considered by many as a time capsule harking back to Egypt’s eminent past. We drive for 20 minutes along with our horses to the centre of the National Park, one of the most magical, off-the-beaten-track places you will visit.

The oasis itself is one of the first areas in Egypt where agriculture took hold. Here we are surrounded by vast open desert, perfect for fast gallops across the dunes! There will also be time to take in the awe-inspiring rock formations and unspoilt scenery. Dinner is overnight at our guesthouse.

Day 4

Riding: 2 - 3 hours

Today we have a free morning, to soak up the sun, relax by the pool and generally reflect on the adventure so far! After lunch we will ride to Magic Lake located in Wadi El Hitan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its abundance of fossils including some of the earliest whales. Riding through the sands it will seem like a mirage!

The lake’s name derives from the variety of colours it becomes throughout the course of the day depending on the sunlight it gains and the time of year. It is also said to contain healing minerals for ailments such as rheumatism. The desert is the horses’ playground, vast and open, inviting fast canters and gallops, but here we also have the contrasting peace and serenity that’s this mystical lake emanates. Famous for its sunsets, you will have the chance to watch the sun fall below the horizon from between your horse’s ears.

Could there be anything more enchanting?

Day 5

Riding: No riding.

A non-riding day today starting with a tour of Wadi El Hitan, also known as Whale Valley. This extraordinary lowland plain contains the fossilised remains of the Archaeoceti, the precursor to today’s whales, at the stage in their evolution where they took to the oceans having previously been land-based mammals. Whale Valley remains the most significant and important example of this stage of whale evolution in the world.

Following this fascinating tour we make our way to the Fayoum Pottery School. Founded in the 1970s by Swiss artists it has become a successful business as well as educating people in the local pottery-making traditions. With the help of village craftsmen and local materials they built their kiln, studio and house. The school lies within a striking mudbrick compound and we will have a tour of the studio with a local guide.

After a day of cultural sight-seeing it is back to Cairo Airport for our flight to Luxor. Dinner and overnight in hotel.

Day 6

Riding: 3 hours

Today we give you the option of a full day in the saddle or a combination of sight-seeing and riding; a non-riding tour of the Valley of the Kings followed by an afternoon ride.

Accompanied by an Egyptologist you will have the opportunity to visit three very different tombs all representing the values of the pharaohs to which they belong. The choice is yours whether you’re a saddle-junkie or culture-vulture Luxor has it all! Of course, if you prefer a relaxing morning by the pool combined with an afternoon ride this is also an option, especially for returning guests who have already visited the sites.

Today allows everybody to enjoy what makes them happy, followed by a delicious dinner of typical Egyptian fare cooked by our wonderful hosts.

Day 7

Riding: 6 hours

A full day ride today gives you the chance to really get to know your Egyptian steed. Our horses are spirited and forward-going but they are also polite, sensitive and willing to please.

You will notice how they listen to you, receptive to voice and tone. Highly intelligent with expressive eyes and ears it is easy to bond with them and understand their ways. All possess endless enthusiasm for the journey and you will feel this as they carry you effortlessly for hours in the sometimes unforgiving heat. We will head out into the fields where you will see farmers working the land as their forefathers did. Lunch will be served at a local restaurant while the horses dose in the shade.

You’ll return to the stables via the Colossi of Memnon, two imposing statues of the Pharaoh Amenhotep III, offering fantastic photo opportunities.

After an inspiring day of riding it’s time to freshen up and head by boat to the East Bank for cocktails at the Winter Palace Hotel, made famous by Agatha Christie’s ‘Death on the Nile’. Built in the 1900s it was designed to accommodate nobility and much of its opulent nature is retained today. Famous guests include Howard Carter and his team, who discovered the tomb of Tutankhamun. Post drinks we sail our way back in time for an alfresco dinner in the courtyard of our hotel and a spot of belly-dancing! Lessons and accessories included.

Day 8

Riding: 3 hours

Rise with the morning call to prayer today and head out for truly a magical experience – to witness the sunrise balloon tour from horseback. The sight as they all take flight is simply breathtaking. Marvel as they glide above you and drift through the Valley of the Kings and the farms of the West Bank. Cantering along the dusty rural tracks the shadows fall away as the sun fills the sky with colour and light.

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. A visit in the early morning will see you there before the crowds descend, so it feels like a well-kept secret!

The final site of the day is the Temple of Hatshepsut, thought to be a masterpiece of the Pharaonic era. It represents not only Hatsheputs's devotion to her god Horus, the falcon-headed god, but is also a reflection of her peaceful and prosperous reign. It would later become her mortuary temple as the afterlife beckoned her forth. This is a magnificent example of the wealth and master craftsmanship of the time – the paintings are exquisite and the scale of the monument, truly astonishing – a spectacular finale to your journey through Egypt.

After a farewell lunch, it is time to say goodbye to your hosts and fellow guests and transfer to Luxor airport.

For those who wish to stay longer, we can offer an option Aswan extension from the afternoon of Day 8.

During this extra tour. you will visit many more amazing sites (perfect for those interested in ancient Egyptian history). Horus temple in Edfu and the temple of Sobek Kim ombo; are dedicated to the Crocodile headed God Sobek and the Falcon headed God Horus the Elder.

Aswan is known for its beautiful Nile Valley scenery, significant archaeological sites and peaceful aura. Its weather is warm all year round, which makes it a perfect winter destination. The city provides splendid views and attractions - just imagine yourself sailing quietly along the Nile with a felucca (Egyptian sailboat) watching the world go by.

Other Aswan sightseeing could include:

Abu Simbel
Temple of Philae
Unfinished Obelisk. 890. Historic Sites • Ancient Ruins
Aswan High Dam.
Nubian Museum (evening opening times)
Nubian Village
Elephantine Island
Cocktails at the Hotel Sofitel Legend Old Cataract (where Agatha Christie wrote Death on the Nile)

* please ask us for more information about this special extra programme!

Day 1

Riding: No riding.

Travel day. Arrive in Cairo and transfer to your guest house in Giza overlooking the Pyramids. Dinner this night is at your own cost.

Day 2

Riding: 5 - 6 hours

Start your ride with a trail to the majestic Great Pyramids of Giza with your own guide to lead the way on horseback. You’ll enjoy personalised attention on your private tour of these famous symbols of Egypt’s ancient civilisation. The Great Pyramids and the Sphinx date back over 3,000 years. While there are actually over 100 pyramids in Egypt, the Pyramids of Giza are by far the most famous and are the last of the original Seven Wonders of the World. Your guide will provide a fascinating introduction to each of the three pyramids: Cheops, Khafre and Menakaure. You will have free time to enter one of the smaller pyramids while
 the grooms tend to your horses outside.

After visiting the pyramids, you’ll then continue across the plateau for a photo opportunity of the three pyramids rising from the sands, with the Cairo skyline in the background. A short ride later finds you standing at the feet of the Sphinx, for thousands of years the enigmatic symbol of Egypt. The Sphinx has the body of a lion and the head of a king, and is surrounded in mystery.

After a jam packed morning you will take lunch at a local restaurant overlooking the pyramids. After lunch you will transfer by car to the fabulous stables right next to Abu Sir. Surrounded by sand dunes, the pyramids of Abu Sir form the necropolis of the 5th dynasty (2494–2345 BC). The location is incredible, a bliss to enjoy a moment of peace at the humble ruins, and revel in the serene desolation of the surrounding desert also offering riders a real opportunity to stretch out and fly with the horses.

From Abu Sir you will ride onto Sakkara Pyramids where in the Old Kingdom pharaohs were buried within Sakkara’s 11 major pyramids, while their subjects were buried in the hundreds of smaller tombs. Most of Sakkara, except for the Step Pyramid, was buried in sand until the mid-19th century, when the great French Egyptologist Auguste Mariette uncovered the Serapeum. Covering a 7km stretch of the Western Desert, Sakkara, the huge cemetery of ancient Memphis, was an active burial ground for more than 3500 years and is Egypt’s largest archaeological site.

* Short internal evening flight to Luxor (not included – approx. extra cost £50).

Day 3

Riding: 3 - 4 hours

Wake to the beautiful sound of the prayer call with stunning views of the River Nile from a local guesthouse in Luxor on the West Bank. Your morning starts with a non-riding tour and an introduction to the land of the Pharaohs. You’ll visit Valley of the Kings, Tutankhamun and the temple of Hatshepsut. After a fabulous morning site seeing you’ll return to your guest house for lunch and an hour or so to relax before you are off again on your second tour of the day - but this time on horseback! Your trail ride will show you the real Egypt as you ride through the local villages and sugar cane fields arriving at the famed Habu Temple. Here you will dismount and your local guide will take you inside to explore one of the most stunningly preserved temples in Egypt. After your temple tour you will take the route via the banana plantations where the horses can open up in the sunset on your ride back to the stable. Dinner is served at a local restaurant.

Day 4

Riding: 4 - 5 hours

Rise and shine! It’s a new day and what better way to start it with sunrise views across the Valley of the Kings! Today will be a 4 hour trail ride with breakfast included. A chance to see mother nature’s beauty at her best! You will return at around 11am and have a couple of hours to relax and eat lunch before you are off again. This time, a non-riding tour of the East Bank to the Karnak temple, the Avenue of the Sphinx and Luxor Museum. Transfer to Hurghada in the evening by car (included).

Day 5

Riding: 3 - 4 hours

Swimming with horses has to be this stables' number one requested trip when visiting the Red Sea. You will take a morning trip through the desert to the beach where you will remove the saddles and swim through the tranquil, crystal clear water bareback with your horse before riding back in time for lunch.

After this you will head off to explore the Eastern deserts on quad bikes! The trip starts around 2pm and you’ll zoom through the deserts, meet your hosts' favourite snake man and have tea with the Bedouins. You’ll enjoy a fast pace drive back in time for sunset and maybe even have time to ride a camel!

This is a fun packed afternoon and a great way to experience many of the multiple adventures of Egypt in just a few short hours. Riding time approx 3-4 hours on horseback & 3 hours for the quad bikes. You will finish the day with dinner in the desert and a belly dancing show.

Day 6

Riding: No riding.

Breakfast and departure.

Day 1 - Arrival in Cairo

Riding: No riding.

On arrival at Cairo airport you'll be met by your "meet and greet" host who will help you with your bags and introduce you to your private driver who will transfer you to your accommodation.

Day 2 - Cairo - Giza Pyramids - Fayoum

Riding: 2 hours

Throw open your curtains and take in the view! The iconic Pyramids of Giza are right outside your window to welcome you to Egypt. Have a relaxing buffet breakfast and depart at c. 10am for your first ride to the Giza pyramids.

This is an exhilarating ride due to the scenery, forward going horses and varied paces you can enjoy across the open desert. Don't forget to capture some once-in-a-lifetime photos too.

After your ride, stop off to visit the Sphinx with a guide before enjoying lunch at a local restaurant.

After lunch, return to your hotel to freshen up and change before transferring by road to Fayoum - the drive takes c. 1.5 hours. Check into your luxury accommodation to overnight.

Day 3 - Magic Lake

Riding: 3 - 4 hours

This morning you are free to take a walk to the pottery school, take a dip in the pool or simply relax.

In the afternoon you'll take a half day ride to Magic Lake which got its name because it changes colours several times each day depending on the time of day and amount of sunlight it receives. It is a brilliantly beautiful place surrounded by desert where you can enjoy riding and racing through the open landscapes before watching the sun set.

Return to your hotel to rest and overnight.

Day 4 - Wadi El Rayan

Riding: 6 hours

Wadi El Rayan is one of Egypt's most famous nature reserves and the perfect place to ride whilst exploring the stunning desert and its rock formations. The scenery is picturesque and goes on as far as the eye can see - it's an amazing place for plenty of fun canters and gallops. Lunch is taken during the day.

After an epic day in the saddle you dine under the stars and sleep in luxury tents or igloos at your glamping site (or can return to the hotel if you prefer).

Day 5 - 4x4 safari in Wadi El Rayan

Riding: No riding.

Discover four wheels rather than four hooves on this 4x4 safari into the sand dunes to visit Whale Valley which is home to invaluable fossil remains of the earliest, and now extinct whales, Archaeoceti. These fossils represent one of the major stories of evolution - the emergence of the whale as an ocean-going mammal from a previous life as a land-based mammal about 37 million years ago. This UNESCO site is one of the most important in the world.

You will also visit Wadi El Rayan Waterfalls - a natural phenomenon and considered to be the largest waterfalls in Egypt. Wadi El Rayan is distinguished by its springs in the middle of the desert and small cascades. Stop for lunch along the way before ending your day by sand-boarding as the sun sets.

As your adventure ends, you are driven by car back to Cairo for dinner and to overnight at your hotel.

Day 6 - Free Day

Riding: No riding.

After a relaxing breakfast you have a few options to fill your morning before your afternoon flight to Luxor. Speed junkies can take another pacy ride from Abu Sir; history lovers can take a guided tour of Cairos new museum "The New Museum of Civilisation" with the chance to see mummies up close and personal; or you can simply relax and enjoy the pool.

Afternoon flight to Luxor (included).

Day 7 - Luxor

Riding: 3 - 6 hours

Today has two itinerary options - one for returning guests who have already visited Luxor and would prefer a full day in the saddle, and another for first-time visitors which combines riding and sightseeing.

New visitors will have a non-riding tour of the Valley of the Kings in the morning, followed by lunch and an introductory ride. Repeat guests can join a full day trail ride.

In the evening all guests enjoy dinner and belly dancing lessons at a local restaurant.

Day 8 - Luxor

Riding: 3 - 6 hours

Another day of options.

New visitors will enjoy a non-riding tour of Karnak Temple and Luxor Museum, followed by lunch and a sunset ride to the Colossi of Memnon and the desert of Mount Thebes.
Return guests will be offered a full day of trail riding.

After your fun-packed day, you'll transfer to Al Moudria, a palace in the desert which is now a hotel and is the grand finale for your tour.

Day 9 - Sunrise Balloon Ride and Departure

Riding: 2 hours

An early start this morning so you can be up whilst its still dark to sail high over the famous monuments of Luxor on a sunrise hot air balloon ride. You'll get unmatched aerial views and photo opportunities as your private guide provides insightful narrative.

Return to the hotel for breakfast around 9am and have a couple of hours to relax and enjoy the facilities, before checking out at midday and heading to the airport. Late check-outs may be possible for an additional charge