El Minya Tour from Cairo
Overview
Discover ancient El Minya on a 2-day private tour from Cairo. Explore Tuna El Gabal, Beni Hassan tombs, and Akhenaten's Tel El Amarna with an…
This 2-day private tour explores El Minya, a region of Egypt with far fewer visitors than Luxor or Aswan, focusing on Middle Kingdom and Amarna-period sites led by a private Egyptologist guide from Cairo. The itinerary covers Tuna El Gabal, an ancient necropolis that includes the tomb of Petosiris, and the rock-cut tombs of Beni Hassan, resting places of Middle Kingdom governors, before an overnight stay at a 5-star hotel in El Minya.
The second part of the tour visits Tel El Amarna, the short-lived capital founded by Pharaoh Akhenaten during his religious upheaval, before the drive back to Cairo. Private, air-conditioned transport is used throughout, with two lunches at local restaurants included along the way.
- An expert Egyptologist guide throughout the two-day tour
- Private, air-conditioned vehicle for all transfers
- One night's accommodation at a 5-star El Minya hotel with breakfast
- Two lunches at local restaurants
Gratuities for the guide, driver, and hotel staff, along with optional activities and drinks beyond specified meals, are not included. Because it focuses on sites well off the standard tourist route, this tour suits travelers who have already covered Cairo's main attractions and want to explore Egypt's lesser-known Middle Kingdom and Amarna history in more depth.
Trip at a Glance
Duration
2 Days
Price
From $175
Availability
Every day
Tour Type
Private
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Itinerary
Your adventure begins with a comfortable morning departure from your Cairo accommodation. Your dedicated Egyptologist guide will meet you, and together you'll embark on a private, air-conditioned transfer south to El Minya, a scenic drive of approximately four hours. Upon arrival, we'll head to the significant plain where Pharaoh Akhenaten was said to have received his 'divine mandate' to establish his revolutionary city. Following this, we'll pause for a delightful lunch at a carefully selected local restaurant. The afternoon is dedicated to exploring Tuna El Gabal, the expansive necropolis for the ancient city of Hermopolis. This site was a central hub for the worship of Thoth, the god of wisdom, and we'll specifically visit the well-preserved tomb of Petosiris, a high priest of Thoth. As the day concludes, you'll check into your comfortable five-star hotel in El Minya for a relaxing evening.
- Akhenaten's Inspiration Plain — Visit the evocative plain believed to be where Akhenaten received his divine vision for founding Tell El Amarna.
- Tuna El Gabal Necropolis — Explore this ancient burial ground, home to the tomb of Petosiris, a prominent priest of the god Thoth, guardian of wisdom.
After a hearty breakfast at your hotel, your guide will once again meet you for a day of captivating discovery. Our first stop today is the magnificent site of Beni Hassan. These extraordinary rock-cut tombs, dating back to the Middle Kingdom, served as the final resting places for the governors of El Minya during the 11th and 12th Dynasties. Uniquely situated on the Nile's eastern bank, these tombs offer a different perspective and include vibrant murals depicting daily life. We'll enjoy another delicious lunch at a local eatery before journeying to Tel El Amarna, truly one of the Nile Valley's concealed treasures. This was the audacious new capital city established by Pharaoh Akhenaten in 1363 BC, where he famously introduced a monotheistic worship system centered on Aten, the sun disk. Witness the remnants of this visionary, yet short-lived, religious revolution. Finally, your comfortable private vehicle will transport you back to your hotel in Cairo, concluding an unforgettable journey through Egypt's less-traveled historical paths.
- Beni Hassan Tombs — Discover a collection of Middle Kingdom rock-cut tombs, renowned for their intricate details and East Bank location.
- Tel El Amarna — Uncover the ruins of Akhenaten's revolutionary capital, a testament to his bold religious reforms.
Highlights
Ancient Necropolises & Tombs
- Explore Tuna El Gabal, the ancient burial ground featuring the tomb of Petosiris
- Wander through the impressive tombs of Beni Hassan, resting places of Middle Kingdom governors
Akhenaten's Legacy
- Visit Tel El Amarna, the visionary capital founded by Pharaoh Akhenaten
- Discover the plain where Akhenaten received his divine inspiration
Premium Travel Experience
- Comfortable private transport from Cairo with an expert Egyptologist guide
- Enjoy delicious lunches at local restaurants during your exploration
Included
- Expert Egyptologist guide throughout your two-day tour
- Private, air-conditioned vehicle for all transfers and sightseeing
- One-night accommodation in a five-star hotel in El Minya, including breakfast
- All entrance fees to the historical sites mentioned in the itinerary
- Two delightful lunches at quality local restaurants
- Complimentary bottled water provided in the vehicle
- All applicable taxes and service charges
Excluded
- Gratuities for your guide, driver, and hotel staff
- Any optional activities or excursions not explicitly listed in the itinerary
- Drinks during meals unless specified
Pricing & Packages
Choose your preferred accommodation level and season. Prices are quoted in USD per person.
Standard Accommodations
Pricing Information
Rates are quoted in US Dollars (USD) per person. Holiday surcharges apply during peak seasons, including Christmas, New Year, and Easter.
Children's Policy
- Under 6 YearsComplimentary
- Ages 6 to 11 Years50% of the Adult Rate
- 12+ YearsFull Adult Rate
What to Pack
- Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring ancient sites
- Lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for warm weather
- Sun protection, including a hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen
- A small daypack for personal items, water, and snacks
- Camera to capture the unique landscapes and historical wonders
- Any personal medications you may require
Why Choose Us
Expert Local Guides
Professional, English-speaking Egyptologists.
Private Transport
Modern air-conditioned vehicles.
No Hidden Fees
Transparent pricing and clear inclusions.
24/7 Support
We are always available via WhatsApp.
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Plan Your Journey
Everything you need to know about this experience in Egypt.
Egyptologist Insights: Making the Most of Your Journey
Expert Tip: Navigating the Archeological Wonders
Every trip to Egypt is a journey through history. To get the most out of your holiday, check our comprehensive Egypt travel guide for packing lists, visa updates, and local customs. If you are looking for single-day activities, browse our list of recommended Egypt day tours or contact us to customize a private trip.