Day Trip to El Minya from Cairo
Overview
On an impressive historical journey from Cairo to the province of Minya, you will enjoy a unique experience with us, as this special day will reveal lesser-known pharaonic treasures that are rich in secrets, beauty, and tradition.
The journey begins in the morning with a comfortable transfer to the heart of Egypt, where our first stop is the area of Tel el-Amarna, capital of King Akhenaten and birthplace of his call to worship the god Aten. There, we will explore the remains of the ancient city, the temples, the royal tombs, and the engravings that narrate one of the most exciting periods in the history of ancient Egypt. The city of Akhetaton (now Tel Amarna) was the capital of Egypt during the time of the Modern Pharaonic Empire.
Akhenaten surrounded the city of Akhetaten with fourteen boundary stones, including one carved into the rock and, next to it, two statues of Akhenaten and Nefertiti, on which he inscribed that he would not leave the city either alive or dead. Akhenaten gave artists complete freedom to express themselves and capture their surroundings, thus creating the first school of realistic art known worldwide as Amarna art.
We will also enjoy visiting Tuna el-Gebel, the area that served as the cemetery of the city of Hermopolis in the Greek and Roman eras, which includes amazing landmarks such as the tomb of Petosiris, the burial crypt of the ibis birds, and the statue of Isis, in a rare combination of ancient Egyptian and Greek art. Then we will visit the Beni Hassan area, located on the east bank of the Nile, where we will visit a wonderful collection of rock-cut tombs dating back to the Middle Kingdom, featuring wall paintings depicting daily life, sports, hunting, and funeral processions in vivid detail and colours that are still preserved despite the passage of thousands of years.
On an impressive historical journey from Cairo to the province of Minya, you will enjoy a unique experience with us, as this special day will reveal lesser-known pharaonic treasures that are rich in secrets, beauty, and tradition.
The journey begins in the morning with a comfortable transfer to the heart of Egypt, where our first stop is the area of Tel el-Amarna, capital of King Akhenaten and birthplace of his call to worship the god Aten. There, we will explore the remains of the ancient city, the temples, the royal tombs, and the engravings that narrate one of the most exciting periods in the history of ancient Egypt. The city of Akhetaton (now Tel Amarna) was the capital of Egypt during the time of the Modern Pharaonic Empire.
Akhenaten surrounded the city of Akhetaten with fourteen boundary stones, including one carved into the rock and, next to it, two statues of Akhenaten and Nefertiti, on which he inscribed that he would not leave the city either alive or dead. Akhenaten gave artists complete freedom to express themselves and capture their surroundings, thus creating the first school of realistic art known worldwide as Amarna art.
We will also enjoy visiting Tuna el-Gebel, the area that served as the cemetery of the city of Hermopolis in the Greek and Roman eras, which includes amazing landmarks such as the tomb of Petosiris, the burial crypt of the ibis birds, and the statue of Isis, in a rare combination of ancient Egyptian and Greek art. Then we will visit the Beni Hassan area, located on the east bank of the Nile, where we will visit a wonderful collection of rock-cut tombs dating back to the Middle Kingdom, featuring wall paintings depicting daily life, sports, hunting, and funeral processions in vivid detail and colours that are still preserved despite the passage of thousands of years.
Inclusion
- Round-trip transportation from your hotel, provided that the hotel is located in Cairo or Giza.
- Tickets and entrance fees to the sites mentioned in Beni Hassan and Tel El Amarna.
- Transfers to El Minya and back will be in a modern, air-conditioned private vehicle.
- An English-speaking Egyptologist guide during your excursion to El Minya from Cairo.
- Lunch in a good restaurant.
- Free bottles of mineral water during your day trip from Cairo to El Minya.
- All taxes and service charges from Egypt Day Tours are included.
Exclusion
- Optional extras in El Minya are not specified in our Cairo day trip program.
- Gratuities are not included in the price of the Tell El Amarna trip in Egypt.
- Beverages during meals.
- Rates are valid during the peak season for Christmas trips to Egypt or Easter trips to Egypt.
Itinerary
To begin your journey, our guide will collect you from your lodging in Cairo or Giza after breakfast and take you to El Minya in a modern private vehicle.
During today's adventure, we will have the opportunity to explore the highlights of El Minya:
Tel el-Amarna: This is the area chosen by Akhenaten and his wife, Nefertiti, to establish the capital of his kingdom, called Akhetaten, in order to worship the one god, Aten, symbolised by the sun disc, from which rays emanate, ending in human hands to give life to the universe. The most distinctive feature of this area is that King Akhenaten built the Great and Small Temples of Aten to worship the god Aten. The temples of Aten were distinguished from other temples of other gods in that they had no roof so that the sun's rays could penetrate them. There are still traces of the Small Temple of Aten, which was the second largest temple in Akhetaten and was called the Palace of Aten at the time. We still don't know why this temple was built. The temple was decorated with scenes of the worship of Aten.
Remaining from the 11th and 12th dynasties of the Middle Kingdom, the magnificent Beni Hassan Tombs were built in 1800 BC. This means that these tombs are around 4,000 years old. There are 39 tombs in total, the most important of which are the tomb of Kheti, the tomb of Pakht III, the tomb of Khnumhotep II, and the tomb of Amenemhat. These tombs are completely intact and open to visitors. The owners of these tombs were the rulers of the region of Al-Waal, or “the gazelle,” and not kings. The rulers of the regions were influential, as they married into the royal family. These tombs reflect the grandeur and magnificence of their lifestyle, as they carved their tombs into the mountain.
Tuna al-Jabal: This city was known in Pharaonic times as “Tauns” and then as ‘Tahent’ during the Roman period. Both names mean “blessing.” One of the most important archaeological sites in the city is the tomb of Petosiris, which dates back to 300 BC. Petosiris was the high priest of the god Thoth, and the tomb resembles the exterior appearance of Egyptian places of worship built during the Ptolemaic period.
After a delicious meal, your guide will finally take you back to your Cairo hotel.
Price
| Number of Persons | Prices |
|---|---|
| 1 Person | $170 Per Person |
| 2 - 3 Persons | $105 Per Person |
| 4 - 6 Persons | $90 Per Person |
| 7 - 10 Persons | $85 Per Person |
Start from : €99
Check Availability
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Egypt is a significant nation with numerous must-see attractions. It is best to join a guided day tour if you want to see all of the highlights, including the El Minya. By doing this, you can be sure that you won't miss any of this fascinating nation's top attractions.
El Minya is a city in Upper Egypt known for its historical and archaeological significance. While it may not be as widely visited as some of Egypt's more famous destinations, it offers several interesting tourist attractions, including:
Beni Hassan Tombs: The Beni Hassan Tombs are a collection of rock-cut tombs dating back to the Middle Kingdom of Egypt. These tombs are famous for their well-preserved wall paintings that depict scenes of daily life, religious rituals, and ancient Egyptian beliefs. They offer a unique glimpse into the culture of that period.
Tuna El-Gebel: Tuna El-Gebel is an archaeological site known for its catacombs and ancient ruins. The catacombs at Tuna El-Gebel were used as burial chambers for animals and humans during the Greco-Roman period. The site also contains the remains of temples and other structures.
Hermopolis Magna: The ancient city of Hermopolis Magna is located near Tuna El-Gebel. It was once a thriving city in ancient Egypt and is known for its archaeological remains, including temples, statues, and inscriptions.
Tell El-Amarna: Tell El-Amarna, also known as Amarna, was the short-lived capital of Egypt during the reign of Pharaoh Akhenaten in the 18th dynasty. The site contains the remains of the city, including the Great Aten Temple and residential structures.
Akhmim: Akhmim, known in ancient times as Ipu, is a city in El Minya known for its historical and cultural significance. Visitors can explore the local market and shop for handicrafts and textiles.
Zawiya Al-Mahjub: Zawiya Al-Mahjub is a Sufi shrine dedicated to the Islamic saint Al-Mahjub. It is an important religious and cultural site in El Minya.
El Minya Botanical Garden: Located along the Nile River, the El Minya Botanical Garden is a peaceful oasis that features a variety of plant species. It's a pleasant place for a leisurely stroll.
Local Markets: El Minya has bustling local markets where you can immerse yourself in the daily life of the city, interact with locals, and shop for souvenirs and traditional Egyptian products.
The specific attractions covered in Minya day tours can vary depending on the tour provider and the itinerary you choose. However, Minya, located in Upper Egypt, is known for its historical and archaeological significance. Here are some of the top attractions that are commonly included in Minya day tours:
Tuna el-Gebel: This archaeological site in Minya is famous for its catacombs, tombs, and ruins. It was a significant center for worship of the god Thoth and is known for its rich history and archaeological discoveries.
Hermopolis Magna (Ashmunein): This ancient city was once a religious and cultural center and is home to various historical ruins, including temples, statues, and other archaeological remains.
Beni Hasan: The Beni Hasan Tombs are a series of rock-cut tombs dating back to the Middle Kingdom of Egypt. They are known for their well-preserved wall paintings depicting scenes of daily life.
Tell el-Amarna: This archaeological site was once the capital of Akhenaten during the Amarna Period. It includes the ruins of the ancient city and the Great Temple of Athens.
The Hermopolis Archaeological Museum: Located in Minya, this museum houses a collection of artifacts and relics from the surrounding archaeological sites, providing visitors with insights into the history of the region.
Malawi: This town in Minya is known for its vibrant local culture and marketplaces. It's a great place to explore and experience daily life in Upper Egypt.
Deir Abu Hinnis: This archaeological site contains rock-cut tombs with reliefs and inscriptions dating to the Middle Kingdom and later periods.
Tombs of the Nobles: These ancient tombs, also known as the Nobles Tombs of Amarna, contain painted scenes that offer glimpses into the lives of the elite during the reign of Akhenaten.
Tell el-Dab'a (Avaris): This archaeological site is associated with the ancient city of Avaris, which played a significant role in the Second Intermediate Period and the Hyksos occupation of Egypt.
Akhenaten's Northern Palace: This palace is believed to have been the residence of Pharaoh Akhenaten during his rule from Tell el-Amarna.
A day tour to El Minya from Cairo or other nearby cities is typically a full-day excursion that can last around 12 to 14 hours, including travel time to and from El Minya. The actual duration of the tour may vary depending on the specific itinerary, but here is a general outline of what you can expect during a day tour to El Minya:
Departure: The tour usually begins early in the morning, often around 6:00 AM or 7:00 AM, with pickup from your hotel or a designated meeting point.
Travel to El Minya: The journey to El Minya from Cairo can take approximately 4-5 hours each way, depending on traffic and road conditions. During the drive, you'll have the opportunity to enjoy the Egyptian countryside.
El Minya Sightseeing: Once you arrive in El Minya, your tour guide will lead you to various historical and archaeological sites in the area. Some of the notable attractions in El Minya may include the Tell Al-Amarna archaeological site, Beni Hassan Tombs, and Tuna El-Gebel.
Lunch: A break for lunch is typically included in the tour. Lunch may be provided at a local restaurant or as part of the tour package.
Exploration: You'll have the chance to explore the ancient tombs, temples, and historical sites in El Minya, guided by an Egyptologist or knowledgeable tour guide.
Return Journey: After your tour of El Minya, you'll begin the journey back to your starting point, which can take another 4-5 hours.
Return to Cairo: The tour usually concludes in the evening when you return to your hotel or the meeting point in Cairo.
King Akhenaten, also known as Amenhotep IV, was an ancient Egyptian pharaoh who reigned during the 18th Dynasty (c. 1353–1336 BCE). Akhenaten is particularly significant in Egyptian history for his radical religious reforms and the establishment of a new religious system focused on the sun god Aten. Here are key aspects of his reign and significance:
- Religious Reforms.
- construction of Akhetaten.
- Artistic and cultural changes
- changes in religious iconography.
- Religious Tolerance.
- Successor and Legacy
The best time to visit El Minya, a city in Upper Egypt known for its archaeological sites and historical significance, is during the cooler months, typically from October to April.
Weather Conditions:
October to April: These months offer milder temperatures, making outdoor exploration and sightseeing more comfortable. Daytime temperatures range from pleasantly warm to moderately hot, ideal for visiting archaeological sites without extreme heat.
Considerations for Visiting El Minya:
Avoiding Extreme Heat: Summers in El Minya, especially from May to September, can be scorching hot, with temperatures soaring well above 40°C (104°F). Visiting during this time can be challenging for outdoor activities due to the intense heat.
Crowds and Accommodation: The cooler months might attract more tourists, particularly around major historical sites, so booking accommodations and tours in advance can be beneficial.
Festivals and Events: Check for local festivals or cultural events happening during your visit, which might add to the experience but could also affect accommodation availability.
Ideal Months for Sightseeing:
October, November, February, March, and April are typically considered the best months for sightseeing in El Minya. The weather during these months allows for comfortable exploration of archaeological sites, such as Beni Hassan, Tuna El-Gebel, and Hermopolis.
On a day tour to Minya, you can visit several prominent archaeological landmarks, including:
Beni Hassan Tombs.
Temple of Ptah X.
Landscape area and valleys.
Minya National Museum.
Thebes archaeological area.
Yes, usually, tours in Minya include a visit to historical sites such as Pharaonic temples and monuments, where you can explore and learn about Pharaonic history and culture better during these visits.
El Minya is famous for its archaeological sites, including the Beni Hassan Tombs, which date back to the Middle Kingdom of Egypt.
El Minya is a governorate (province) in Upper Egypt, located south of Cairo. It is also the name of the capital city within the governorate. El Minya is known for its rich history, archaeological sites, and agricultural significance. The city is situated on the eastern bank of the Nile River and serves as a hub for trade and transportation in the region.
El Minya, known as "the Bride of Upper Egypt," is a significant city in Upper Egypt because of its advanced agricultural practices and diverse industrial base. It is a productive city with flour mills, a sugar refinery, a cotton gins industry, and a rug-weaving industry.
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