Tel el-Amarna & Beni Hassan Day Trip From Cairo
Overview
Uncover ancient Egypt's hidden gems on a private day trip to Tel el-Amarna and Beni Hassan from Cairo.
This day trip from Cairo goes to two sites that sit off the standard sightseeing route: Tel el-Amarna, the city Akhenaten built for the sun god Aten, and the rock-cut tombs at Beni Hassan, which date to the Middle Kingdom. A private, air-conditioned vehicle covers the roughly four-hour drive south into the governorate of Minya, with a certified Egyptologist guide accompanying the group throughout.
At Tel el-Amarna, the guide walks through the remains of Akhenaten's short-lived capital, built for a religious shift that lasted barely a generation before being reversed. Beni Hassan's tombs, cut directly into the cliffs above the Nile, offer a different kind of art from the more familiar royal tombs of Luxor, focused instead on the daily lives and beliefs of Middle Kingdom nobles.
Private hotel pickup and drop-off in Cairo, the guide's services for the full day, a lunch at a local restaurant, complimentary bottled water in the vehicle, and entrance fees to both sites are included, along with applicable taxes and service charges.
Gratuities for the guide and driver, along with any optional activities outside the plan, are not covered. For travelers who have already seen Luxor's major tombs and temples and want a day focused on less-visited periods of ancient Egyptian history, this trip covers ground that most standard Cairo itineraries skip entirely.
Trip at a Glance
Duration
1 Day
Price
From $105
Availability
Every day
Tour Type
Private
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Itinerary
Your adventure begins with an early morning hotel pickup in Cairo. We'll journey south in a private, air-conditioned vehicle—a comfortable approximately four-hour drive—to the governorate of Minya, a region brimming with archaeological significance. Once there, you'll step back into the dramatic era of Akhenaten at Tel el-Amarna, his revolutionary capital. It was here, in 1363 BC, that this enigmatic pharaoh established a city dedicated to his monotheistic vision, moving the heart of ancient Egypt from Thebes to this sun-drenched new cult center. Following this immersive historical exploration, we'll shift our focus to the remarkable necropolis of Beni Hassan. This site, dating back to the Middle Kingdom, features a series of elaborately decorated rock-cut tombs. These sacred resting places belonged to various provincial governors of the Minya region, offering a unique window into their daily lives, beliefs, and artistic traditions, admired by countless visitors from around the world. A delicious lunch awaits at a charming local restaurant in Minya, providing a moment of rest and authentic flavor before our comfortable return drive to your hotel in Cairo.
- Tel el-Amarna — Explore the archaeological remains of Akhenaten's short-lived, revolutionary capital city, dedicated to the sun god Aten.
- Beni Hassan Tombs — Discover the intricate rock-cut tombs of Middle Kingdom nomarchs, adorned with vibrant scenes of daily life, warfare, and ritual.
Highlights
Ancient Wonders Explored
- Uncover Akhenaten's visionary city of Tel el-Amarna, dedicated to the sun god Aten
- Journey through the stunning rock-cut tombs of Beni Hassan, revealing Middle Kingdom life and beliefs
- Immerse yourself in history far from the typical tourist trails
Seamless Travel & Expertise
- Enjoy door-to-door comfort in a deluxe air-conditioned vehicle from Cairo
- Gain profound insights from your private, expert Egyptologist guide
- Savor a delightful local lunch, offering an authentic taste of Egyptian hospitality
Included
- Private hotel pick-up and drop-off in Cairo
- Expert services of a certified Egyptologist guide throughout your tour
- Comfortable, deluxe private air-conditioned vehicle for all transfers
- All entrance fees to the historical sites mentioned in the itinerary
- A delicious lunch at a local restaurant
- Complimentary bottled water provided in the vehicle
- All applicable taxes and service charges
Excluded
- Gratuities for your guide and driver
- Any personal expenses or optional activities not 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
- Sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses for sun protection
- Lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for exploration
- A refillable water bottle to stay hydrated
- Your camera to capture unforgettable moments
- Any personal medications you may need
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.
1What is the driving time from Cairo to Tel el-Amarna/Beni Hassan?
2Are Tel el-Amarna and Beni Hassan suitable for all fitness levels?
3What makes Tel el-Amarna historically significant?
4What can I expect to see at the Beni Hassan tombs?
5Is lunch included, and what kind of food can I expect?
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.