White Desert Tours introduce travelers to one of Sahara Desert’s most notable areas. Once covered by the ocean, then a savanna region teaming with fauna and flora, and now a barren landscape characterized by stunning desert landscapes occupied by an almost infinite number of alien-like rock formations and sweeping dunes.

Many guided tours of the White Desert conveniently start in Cairo, Egypt’s bustling capital, offering the perfect launch point for overnight camping adventures. Just a few hours away by car, Cairo offers rich historical landmarks, vibrant culture, and modern amenities, making it an ideal starting point for overnight desert camping trips or further explorations to Luxor.

Mashroom rock formations of the White desert, Egypt

white desert landscape in Egypt

Design Your Custom Tour

Why Choose White Desert Tours in Egypt?

While some remarkable, man-made sites seem to rise from the sands of Egypt, such as the Sphinx, the many pyramids, temples and structures of the ancient Egyptians, and the marvel that is the Karnak Temple constructed over three thousand years ago, there is one area that is completely natural and utterly breathtaking, reminiscent of the vast desert landscapes of Antarctica. The White Desert is a naturally occurring collection of chalk and limestone boulders that have been worn away by eons of desert winds and geological activity.

White Desert tours are on most “to do” lists for those visiting the western Sahara Desert region of Egypt. Near to the Farafra Oasis, which is actually the smallest of the five major oases in Egypt, the White Desert is a popular destination for native Egyptians who take school and camping trips in the unique location.

The desert is also close to many other popular natural attractions of this area, including the Black Desert and Crystal Mountain, and many visitors to the oases will make a day trip to include all of them.

Experience the Perfect Blend of Nature, History, and Adventure in Bahariya Oasis

For those seeking a blend of natural wonders, historical intrigue, and a hint of safari adventure, guided tours of the Bahariya Oasis provide an excellent balance, with its serene oases and surrounding dunes. This verdant sanctuary has long been an agricultural hub, offering travelers a serene environment coupled with fascinating historical sites like the Valley of the Golden Mummies, making it perfect for a desert safari. It is an ideal complement to the surreal landscapes of the White Desert, giving visitors a full spectrum of what Egypt’s Western Desert has to offer.

Visit at Sunrise or Sunset

Many guides encourage their clients to visit the White Desert at either sunrise or sunset, or by the light of a full moon if possible. This is for several reasons, the first being that though the desert has an almost arctic appearance, reminiscent of Antarctica, it is nonetheless the Western Desert, or “Saharan Desert”, a location that is extremely hot for a majority of the year. Secondly, the brilliant white and cream colors of the stones are best seen in the less direct, and warmer, light of the early or late day hours.

Experience the surreal beauty of Egypt’s White Desert – where nature’s sculptures meet stunning sunsets.

Finally, most visitors on White Desert tours come to take photographs, and the morning and dusk hours are universally considered times of “sweet light” where the most successful images are captured.

Just as with all Egypt tours, White Desert tours are best enjoyed in the company of knowledgeable and experienced local guides who are amply supplied for the needs of a desert journey.