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Birdwatching Journey – Egypt's Nile Valley and Aswan Natural Treasures
8 Days / 7 Nights | Cairo – Aswan – Cairo
Program Overview
Egypt’s unique position along the African-Eurasian migratory route makes it a paradise for birdwatchers. This 8-day journey takes you from the ancient splendors of Cairo to the lush natural reserves around Aswan, combining exceptional birdwatching experiences with visits to some of Egypt’s most iconic historical sites.
Day 1: Arrival in Cairo
- Upon arrival at Cairo International Airport, our representative will meet and assist you.
- Transfer to your hotel for check-in.
- Dinner and overnight stay in Cairo.
Day 2: Full Day Exploring Cairo
- After breakfast at the hotel, embark on a full-day tour:
- Visit the Pyramids of Giza: Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure. Entry into one pyramid and visit to the Solar Boat Museum included.
- Explore the Valley Temple and the Great Sphinx.
- Lunch at a local restaurant near Saqqara.
- Visit Memphis — first capital of ancient Egypt.
- Visit the colossal statue of Ramses II and Alabaster Sphinx.
- Continue to the Step Pyramid of King Djoser in Saqqara.
- Explore the Egyptian Museum, featuring Tutankhamun’s treasures.
- Time for shopping at Khan El Khalili Bazaar.
- Return to hotel. Dinner and overnight in Cairo.
Day 3: Cairo – Aswan | High Dam & Philae Temple
- Breakfast at hotel, then transfer to Cairo Airport for flight to Aswan.
- Upon arrival:
- Visit the High Dam.
- Visit the Unfinished Obelisk.
- Explore Philae Temple, dedicated to goddess Isis.
- Overnight at hotel in Aswan.
Days 4–5: Birdwatching at Saluga and Ghazal Islands (Aswan)
- Morning excursions by boat to Saluga and Ghazal Protected Area:
- African Spoonbill
- Squacco Heron
- Goliath Heron
- Little Egret
- Black Kite
- Discover over 60 bird species and 90 plant species.
- Return to hotel each evening. Overnight in Aswan.
Day 6: Abu Simbel Temples
- Early morning departure to Abu Simbel.
- Visit the Great Temple of Ramses II.
- Visit the Temple of Queen Nefertari, dedicated to Hathor.
- Return to Aswan. Overnight at hotel in Aswan.
Day 7: Aswan – Cairo
- After breakfast, transfer to Aswan Airport for flight to Cairo.
- Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel for check-in.
- Dinner and overnight in Cairo.
Day 8: Departure
- After breakfast, transfer to Cairo International Airport for outbound flight.
Package Inclusions
- Transportation:
- Private modern air-conditioned vehicles for all transfers and excursions.
- Boat rides for birdwatching tours at Saluga and Ghazal.
- Accommodation:
- 3 nights in Cairo at a 5-star hotel (half-board basis: breakfast and dinner)
- 4 nights in Aswan at a 5-star hotel (half-board basis: breakfast and dinner)
- Meals:
- Daily breakfast and dinner at the hotels.
- Lunches included from Day 3 to Day 6.
- One soft drink included per lunch from Day 3 to Day 6.
- Professional birdwatching guide at Saluga and Ghazal.
❌ Package Exclusions
- Personal expenses (laundry, calls, etc.)
- International and domestic flight tickets.
- Meals not specified in the program.
- Alcoholic beverages
- Tips for guides, drivers, and hotel staff.
Best Travel Season
- October to March is the ideal period for birdwatching and comfortable weather across Egypt.
Detailed Birdwatching Table for Aswan Region (Saluga and Ghazal & Nile Islands)
| Bird Species | Description | Habitat / Location | Best Season |
|---|---|---|---|
| African Spoonbill | Medium-large white bird with a distinctive spoon-shaped bill; feeds by sweeping bill side-to-side in shallow water. | Wetlands and lagoons (Saluga and Ghazal) | October–March |
| Squacco Heron | Small heron with buff-brown body and white wings; easily spotted when flying. | Reed beds and banks along Nile Islands | October–April |
| Goliath Heron | The largest heron species, with striking grey and chestnut plumage. | Shallow lakes and rivers (First Cataract) | October–March |
| Little Egret | Elegant small egret with all-white plumage and black beak and legs. | Nile banks and islands | October–April |
| Grey Heron | Large grey wading bird with long neck and dagger-like bill; slow, graceful movements. | Wetlands and riverbanks | October–March |
| Pied Kingfisher | Black-and-white bird that hovers before diving into water. | Lakeshores and fish farms (Wadi El Rayan) | All Year (Peak Oct-Apr) |
| Black Kite | Medium-sized raptor with forked tail; often seen soaring overhead or scavenging. | Open areas and riversides | October–March |
| White-winged Tern | Small tern with white wings and dark body during breeding; agile flier over water. | Nile river stretches and lagoons | March–May (Spring migration) |
| Purple Heron | Slender heron with purplish-brown feathers and stealthy movements through reeds. | Dense reed beds of Saluga area | October–April |
| Glossy Ibis | Medium-sized dark bird with iridescent green and purple sheen; curved bill. | Shallow wetlands and marshy zones | October–March |
| African Sacred Ibis | Large white bird with black head and neck; sacred symbol in ancient Egypt. | River islands and wetlands | October–March |
| Osprey | Large raptor specialized in catching fish; seen soaring over rivers. | Nile waters around Aswan | October–April |
| Yellow-billed Kite | Subspecies of Black Kite with distinct yellow bill; common around water bodies. | Riverbanks and agricultural fields | October–March |
| Collared Dove | Light grey dove with black neck collar; common around villages and fields. | Gardens and river edges | All year |