Nile Valley and Western Desert

12 days - from $1440

The Nile Valley occupies less than 10% of Egypt, so it's a great shame not to experience the amazing desert scenery while you are here.

On this trip we see the highlights in Cairo before heading south to Aswan for a relaxing Nile Cruise to Luxor. Here we explore the Valley of the Kings and spend an afternoon in the superb temple complex at Karnak.

We then set off in 4WD vehicles, first to Baris and Al Kharga and then on towards Dakhla. For many centuries Bedouin traders travelled through this region with their camel caravans, and our Bedouin companions were themselves traders until fairly recently, journeying regularly along the famous ‘Darb Al Arabeen’ – or 40 day camel road – that links Khartoum (Sudan), with southern Egypt.

We visit old mud-brick towns, swim in oasis pools, enjoy a camel safari and explore the golden sand dunes. We reach the magical White Desert where we spend a final night camping under the stars before making our way back to Cairo. This is a long trip, with several hard days of travel. Combined with a Nile Cruise it's a great experience and taken in the right spirit you’ll doubtless have a memorable journey.

Highlights

• Be dwarfed in Abu Simbel
• Cruise past Kom ombo and Edfu Temples
• Cruising the Nile
• Dancing in Cairo – try or see
• Egypt’s White Desert
• Face to face with Egypt’s mummies, Cairo
• Luxor
• Soak up Bahariya
• Valley of the Kings

Itinerary:

Day 1-2: Cairo - Pyramids - Sphinx3: Aswan - Abu Simbel4-6: Nile Cruise - Luxor7-9: Baris - Al Kharga - Dakhla10: Dakhla - White Desert11: White Desert - Cairo12: Cairo

What's It Like?

Gecko's adventures offer authentic experiences and a genuine alternative to backpacking. Our trips are designed for younger travelers on a budget but do include the entrance fees to the ‘must see’ sights while not wasting your money on unnecessary frills. Itineraries utilize public transport and basic twin share accommodations in small locally owned hotels, the occasional multi-share, or simply floor space in a jungle or village hut. Many trips involve some physical activity, the occasional long traveling day and you will need to carry your own bags. On camping trips, meals are freshly prepared by our camp cook, but expect to put up and take down your tent, and assist with camp chores. On all trips we only use local tour leaders who are passionate about their homeland. This is travel, grassroots style - basic but rewarding.

Included: An experienced English-speaking local leader, local guides at some sites, all transportation, accommodation, meals and sightseeing as indicated.
Not Included: International flights, arrival & departure transfers, visas, airport taxes, additional meals, drinks, optional sightseeing tours, insurance, tips and items of a personal nature.
Meals: 11 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 8 dinners
EquipmentIncluded: 02 Sep 10
Valid From: 10 Jan 08
Valid Until: 31 Dec 69
Starts/Ends: Cairo to Cairo
Trip Reference: GEND