Your desert adventure begins with a 7:00 AM pick-up from your hotel in Cairo or Giza. As you embark on your journey to Bahariya Oasis, approximately 350 km (220 miles) east of Cairo, you’ll be treated to stunning views of Egypt’s rugged landscape. The drive takes about 4 hours, with two scenic stops for coffee and restroom breaks along the way. As you leave the bustling city behind, the road gradually transitions into vast, tranquil desert scenery, with plateaus, sand dunes, and rocky outcrops marking your path.
Upon arrival in Bahariya, you’ll meet your desert guide and board a 4×4 Jeep for an exciting safari. Your first stop is the Black Desert, named for the volcanic black powder that coats the mountains. This striking landscape, with its dark peaks towering over golden sands, offers an otherworldly feel. It’s the perfect location for photos and exploration, as the contrast between the black mountains and the pale dunes creates a mystical atmosphere.
After leaving the Black Desert, you’ll make your way to El Haize Oasis, where you’ll enjoy a relaxing lunch surrounded by the desert’s beauty. This oasis is known for its healing hot springs, which you’ll have the chance to enjoy after your meal. The warm, soothing waters are famed for their therapeutic properties, helping to restore and rejuvenate you for the next part of your journey.
Refreshed and ready for more adventure, you’ll continue to the White Desert National Park. This surreal landscape is known for its unusual rock formations, shaped by millions of years of wind and sand erosion. As you explore, you’ll encounter limestone and chalk formations that resemble animals, mushrooms, and even human faces. It’s like stepping into another world entirely. You’ll then drive deeper into the White Desert to reach the Valley of Agabat, where the formations continue to surprise and captivate with their otherworldly beauty.
As the sun begins to set, the desert sky will come alive with vibrant colors. The sun’s descent over the White Desert creates an ethereal scene, with pink, orange, and purple hues lighting up the landscape. After sunset, you’ll gather around a campfire for a traditional Bedouin-style dinner, featuring grilled chicken, rice, and vegetables. The simple yet satisfying meal, served under the desert sky, is a perfect way to end the day. After dinner, you’ll settle into your desert camp, where tents, sleeping bags, and mattresses will ensure a comfortable night under the stars.