11-Day Northern Africa Cross-Country Rail Journey: Egypt & Morocco in July
Embarking on a cross-country rail journey through Northern Africa offers a unique perspective on the continent's diverse landscapes, from the fertile banks of the Nile to the rugged Atlantic coastline. This 11-day adventure is designed for families who crave the romance of classic travel routes but require the comfort and efficiency of modern infrastructure.
By utilizing Egypt's historic sleeper trains and Morocco's cutting-edge high-speed Al Boraq, you will cover vast distances while keeping the kids entertained by the changing scenery. In the peak heat of July, our itinerary focuses on early-morning explorations and air-conditioned transit, ensuring a balanced and enjoyable experience for all ages.
The Itinerary
Day 1: Cairo, Egypt - Arrival & Nile Sunset
Arrival at Cairo International
Touch down in the historic capital of Egypt. After clearing customs, take a private transfer to your hotel overlooking the Nile.
Lunch at Al-Azhar Park
Enjoy a family lunch with panoramic views of the Citadel and the city skyline in this lush, green oasis.
Felucca Ride on the Nile
Board a traditional wooden sailboat for a relaxing breeze-filled hour on the water as the sun sets.
Dinner in Garden City
Explore the quiet, leafy streets of this historic district for a gentle introduction to Egyptian cuisine.
Day 2: Cairo, Egypt - Ancient Wonders
Giza Pyramid Complex
Beat the July heat by visiting the Great Pyramids and the Sphinx early. Kids will love the camel rides around the plateau.
Grand Egyptian Museum
Explore the world's largest archaeological museum, featuring the complete Tutankhamun collection in climate-controlled comfort.
Khan el-Khalili Bazaar
A sensory experience for the family. Shop for lanterns and spices while sipping hibiscus tea at El Fishawy.
Street Food Tour
Sample authentic Koshary and Falafel from vetted local vendors in Downtown Cairo.
Day 3: Cairo to Luxor, Egypt - The Sleeper Train
Egyptian Museum (Tahrir Square)
Visit the iconic pink building to see the royal mummies before your evening departure.
Coptic Cairo Exploration
Visit the Hanging Church and the Cavern Church in the cool, narrow alleys of Old Cairo.
Board the Nile Sleeper Train
Head to Giza Station to board the overnight train. Private cabins provide a cozy 'hotel on wheels' experience for the family.
Dinner in Cabin
Enjoy a tray-style meal while watching the Egyptian countryside roll by under the moonlight.
Day 4: Luxor, Egypt - The World's Greatest Open-Air Museum
Arrival in Luxor
Disembark the train and head straight to the West Bank to beat the peak noon temperatures.
Valley of the Kings
Explore the brilliantly painted tombs of the Pharaohs. The Tomb of Tutankhamun is a must for young explorers.
Lunch by the Nile
Refuel with a traditional meal of grilled meats and fresh pita overlooking the river.
Luxor Temple at Night
Visit the temple when it is beautifully illuminated and much cooler than during the day.
Day 5: Luxor to Aswan, Egypt - Scenic Rail Journey
Karnak Temple Complex
Marvel at the Great Hypostyle Hall, a forest of 134 giant sandstone columns.
Regional Train to Aswan
Board a first-class AC carriage for the 3-hour journey south, following the lush greenery of the Nile valley.
Nubian Village Visit
Take a motorboat to a brightly colored Nubian village to learn about the local culture and enjoy a home-cooked meal.
Aswan Promenade Walk
Stroll the 'Corniche' and enjoy the cooler evening breeze off the Nile.
Day 6: Aswan to Casablanca, Morocco - Crossing the Continent
Flight to Cairo (Connection)
Begin your transit from Egypt to Morocco. Early morning flights provide the best connection times.
Flight to Casablanca
Board your international flight to the economic heart of Morocco.
Arrival in Casablanca
Transfer to your hotel and enjoy a refreshing mint tea upon arrival.
Dinner at Rick's Café
A fun, themed dinner for the parents in a beautiful colonial-style mansion.
Day 7: Casablanca, Morocco - Coastal Grandeur
Hassan II Mosque
Visit one of the few mosques open to non-Muslims, featuring a retractable roof and stunning tile work.
Corniche d'Aïn Diab
Enjoy a lunch at the seaside. The kids can run around on the beach or play at the beach clubs.
Habous Quarter
A quieter, modern medina with wide streets perfect for a relaxed family stroll and pastry shopping.
Parc de la Ligue Arabe
A newly renovated urban park perfect for the kids to blow off steam before dinner.
Day 8: Casablanca to Rabat, Morocco - The High-Speed Al Boraq
Board the Al Boraq
Experience Africa's first high-speed rail. The journey to Rabat takes only 50 minutes in silent, AC comfort.
Chellah Necropolis
Explore these ancient Roman and Islamic ruins, often filled with storks nesting on top of minarets.
Kasbah of the Udayas
Walk through the blue-and-white streets of this cliffside fortress overlooking the Atlantic.
Rabat Medina Dinner
Enjoy a traditional Tagine in the cleaner, calmer medina of the capital city.
Day 9: Rabat to Tangier, Morocco - Northern Coastal Run
Hassan Tower & Mausoleum
Visit the iconic unfinished minaret and the beautiful tomb of the Moroccan kings.
Al Boraq High-Speed to Tangier
Zip north to the gateway of Africa in just over an hour. The coastal views are spectacular.
Tangier Grand Socco
The heart of the city where the medina meets the modern town. Great for people-watching with an orange juice.
Caves of Hercules
A short drive from the city, these mythical caves offer a cool respite and a unique view of the sea.
Day 10: Tangier, Morocco - Where Continents Meet
Tangier Kasbah Museum
Located in the Sultan's former palace, this museum offers history and great views of the Strait of Gibraltar.
Seafood Lunch at the Port
Taste the fresh catch of the Mediterranean in one of the many specialized seafood restaurants.
Cape Spartel
Visit the lighthouse marking the point where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Mediterranean Sea.
Farewell Moroccan Feast
Celebrate the end of your rail journey with Couscous and traditional Moroccan music.
Day 11: Tangier, Morocco - Departure
Final Medina Stroll
Pick up last-minute souvenirs like leather goods or colorful ceramics.
Transfer to Tangier Ibn Battuta Airport
Enjoy a final scenic drive along the coast to the airport for your flight home.
Departure Flight
Board your flight, carrying memories of the Nile and the Atlantic.
Arrival at Hub
Connect through Casablanca or Madrid for your long-haul journey home.
Best Time to Visit Africa & Oceania
July is peak summer in Northern Africa, with temperatures in Egypt frequently exceeding 40°C (104°F). Morocco is slightly milder, especially on the coast, but inland cities like Marrakech can be very hot. To enjoy this season, it is essential to plan activities for early morning or late evening. In Oceania's northern regions, such as Northern Australia, July is actually the 'dry season,' offering mild, pleasant weather and clear skies, making it a popular time for festivals.
Visas & Border Crossings
For most Western travelers, Egypt offers a convenient e-Visa or visa-on-arrival for a small fee. Morocco is visa-free for many nationalities including the US, UK, and EU citizens. When traveling between the two, ensure you have your return flight details and hotel bookings ready for inspection. Border crossings within North Africa are currently best handled by air, as land borders between countries like Morocco and Algeria remain closed. Always check the latest travel advisories before your trip.
Getting Around Africa & Oceania
The most efficient way to travel cross-country in Northern Africa is a combination of rail and regional flights. Morocco’s 'Al Boraq' is Africa’s first high-speed train, linking Casablanca to Tangier in just over two hours. In Egypt, the sleeper train between Cairo and Aswan is a classic, budget-friendly experience. For the long distance between Egypt and Morocco, a 5-hour flight is the only logical choice. In Northern Oceania, air travel is the primary means of moving between islands or across the vast Australian outback, though scenic trains like the 'Spirit of Queensland' are excellent for family travel.
