Beni Hasan Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Beni Hasan, Egypt. Plan your trip with our comprehensive travel guide.


Beni Hasan, located in Middle Egypt, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by adventurous travelers. This historic destination is filled with ancient tombs, scenic landscapes, and cultural attractions that will transport you back in time. In this travel guide, we will provide you with all the information you need to plan an unforgettable trip to Beni Hasan.

Introduction to Beni Hasan

Beni Hasan is a small village located on the east bank of the Nile River in the Minya Governorate of Middle Egypt. The village is famous for its rock-cut tombs, which were built during the Middle Kingdom period of Ancient Egypt. These tombs provide a glimpse into the lives of the wealthy nomarchs (administrators) who lived in the area during this time. The tombs are decorated with beautiful murals that depict scenes of daily life, including hunting, fishing, and farming.

List of Places to Visit in Beni Hasan

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Tombs of Beni Hasan: The main attraction in the village, these tombs are well preserved and provide a unique insight into the lives of the nomarchs who once lived in the area.
  • The Beni Hasan Museum: This small museum is located on the site of the tombs and houses artifacts and information related to the tombs and the people who lived in the area.
  • Tell El-Amarna: Located approximately 30 kilometers south of Beni Hasan, this ancient city was built by the Pharaoh Akhenaten and was the center of his religious revolution.

Natural Attractions of Beni Hasan: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Nile River: Take a boat trip along the Nile River for stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  • The Gebel el-Silsila Quarries: This impressive quarry site was used to extract sandstone for building purposes during the New Kingdom period of Ancient Egypt.
  • The Gebel Abu Dukhan: This mountain range is located approximately 10 kilometers south of Beni Hasan and is a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Beni Hasan

  • The Gebel Abu Dukhan Hiking Trail: This challenging hiking trail offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and river.
  • The Nile River Bike Trail: This scenic bike trail follows the Nile River and offers the opportunity to explore the surrounding villages and countryside.

Best Things to Do in Beni Hasan: Activities and Tours

  • Take a Guided Tour of the Tombs: A local guide can provide insight into the history and culture of the area.
  • Attend a Belly Dancing Show: These popular shows are a great way to experience local culture and traditions.
  • Visit a Local Farm: Take a tour of a nearby farm to learn about the agricultural practices of the area.

Week-Long Itinerary for Beni Hasan

Day Activity
1 Arrival in Beni Hasan, visit the Beni Hasan Museum
2 Explore the Tombs of Beni Hasan
3 Visit Tell El-Amarna
4 Hike the Gebel Abu Dukhan
5 Take a boat trip along the Nile River
6 Attend a belly dancing show
7 Visit a local farm and try some Egyptian cuisine

Food and Drink Scene of Beni Hasan

Must-Try Dishes

  • Koshari: A beloved Egyptian street food, made with rice, lentils, chickpeas, macaroni, and a spicy tomato sauce.
  • Ful Medames: A staple of the Egyptian breakfast, made with mashed fava beans, olive oil, and spices.
  • Ta’meya (Falafel): Fried balls made from crushed fava beans or chickpeas, often served with pita bread.

Local Beverages

  • Hibiscus Tea (Karkade): A refreshing non-alcoholic drink made from dried hibiscus flowers.
  • Lemonade with Mint (Limonana): A popular juice made with freshly squeezed lemon juice and fresh mint leaves.
  • Egyptian Beer: Local beer brands such as Stella or Luxor are a popular choice among beer drinkers.

Where to Stay in Beni Hasan: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Nile Valley Hotel: This hotel is located in the heart of Beni Hasan and offers stunning views of the Nile River.
  • Beni Hasan Rest House: This affordable guesthouse is located near the tombs and is a great option for budget travelers.
  • Al-Rasha Hotel: This comfortable hotel is located on the outskirts of Beni Hasan and offers spacious rooms and a pool.

What to Buy in Beni Hasan: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Alabaster Crafts: This translucent stone is a popular material for making decorative items such as vases, bowls, and lamps.
  • Papyrus Art: Papyrus is an ancient writing material made from the stems of the papyrus plant. Local artisans create beautiful paintings and prints on papyrus.
  • Spices and Herbs: Egypt is known for its rich culinary traditions and aromatic spices such as cardamom, saffron, and cumin.

Local Culture and Customs of Beni Hasan

Arabic is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Islam is the dominant religion, and visitors should dress conservatively when visiting mosques or other religious sites. It is customary to remove your shoes before entering someone’s home, and it is considered impolite to eat or drink in public during Ramadan.

Best Time to Visit Beni Hasan

The best time to visit Beni Hasan is during the cooler months, from November to March. The summer months can be very hot and humid, making outdoor activities uncomfortable.

Do’s and Don’ts of Beni Hasan

Do:

  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
  • Ask permission before taking photos of locals.
  • Try local street food and drink.

Don’t:

  • Drink alcohol in public places.
  • Engage in public displays of affection.
  • Disrespect local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Beni Hasan

Beni Hasan is a safe destination for travelers, but visitors should exercise caution when traveling alone at night or in unfamiliar areas.

Health in Beni Hasan

Visitors should drink only bottled or purified water, and avoid eating street food if they have a sensitive stomach.

Getting to Beni Hasan: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Beni Hasan

The nearest airport is Cairo International Airport, which is approximately 215 kilometers from Beni Hasan. From Cairo, visitors can take a taxi or private transfer to Beni Hasan.

Bus Stations Near Beni Hasan

The nearest bus station is located in the nearby city of Minya, approximately 40 kilometers from Beni Hasan. Regular buses run between Cairo and Minya.

Other Options

Visitors can also hire a private driver or join a guided tour to get to and from Beni Hasan.

How to Get Around in Beni Hasan

The best way to get around in Beni Hasan is by taxi or rental car. Taxis are widely available and are relatively inexpensive, but it is best to negotiate the fare before starting the journey.

Where to Go Next from Beni Hasan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Luxor: Known for its ancient temples and tombs, Luxor is a popular destination for tourists and is located approximately 200 kilometers south of Beni Hasan.
  • Asyut: This bustling city is located approximately 150 kilometers south of Beni Hasan and is a hub for business and commerce.
  • Fayoum Oasis: This tranquil oasis is located approximately 100 kilometers northwest of Beni Hasan and is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts.

Conclusion

Beni Hasan is a fascinating destination with a rich history and culture waiting to be explored. From the ancient tombs to the scenic landscapes, there is something for everyone in this hidden gem of Middle Egypt. Use this comprehensive guide to plan your visit to Beni Hasan, and experience the magic of this historic village for yourself.