Unveiling the Wonders of Egypt’s Western Desert
For those seeking an escape from the bustling energy of Cairo and a glimpse into a surreal and otherworldly landscape, a 3-day adventure to the White Desert and Bahariya Oasis is an unforgettable experience. This itinerary offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural encounters, and a touch of adventure, all within a manageable timeframe from the Egyptian capital. Prepare to be mesmerized by geological formations that defy imagination and to connect with the rich history and traditions of the desert communities.
Day 1: Embracing the Oasis Life in Bahariya
Your journey begins with an early morning departure from Cairo, leaving the city behind as you venture west towards the Bahariya Oasis. The comfortable drive, typically around four to five hours, allows you to witness the gradual transition from urban sprawl to vast, open desert landscapes. Upon arrival in Bahariya, you’ll be welcomed by the verdant date palms and the relaxed pace of oasis life.
After checking into your accommodation, often a charming guesthouse that reflects the local architecture, you’ll embark on your first exploration. The Black Desert, with its volcanic dolerite hills, offers a dramatic contrast to the surrounding sand. A short hike up one of the “mountains” provides panoramic views of the oasis and the vast desert stretching out before you. Next, delve into the rich history of Bahariya by visiting the Golden Mummies Museum, housing remarkably preserved Roman-era mummies discovered in the Valley of the Golden Mummies. The Temple of Ain el Muftella, a well-preserved Roman temple dedicated to the god Bes, offers further insight into the region’s ancient past. As the sun begins to set, a visit to the English House, perched on a hill, provides a stunning vantage point to witness the golden hues paint the desert landscape.
Day 2: The Surreal Beauty of the White Desert
Today is the highlight of your adventure – the exploration of the breathtaking White Desert. After breakfast, you’ll transfer to a sturdy 4×4 vehicle, essential for navigating the sandy terrain. The drive to the White Desert is an experience in itself, as you pass through the Agabat Valley, a captivating area of sand dunes and intriguing rock formations.
Upon entering the White Desert National Park, you’ll be transported to a landscape that feels truly alien. Erosion has sculpted the chalk formations into whimsical shapes resembling mushrooms, animals, and abstract sculptures, creating a surreal and photographic paradise. Your experienced guide will navigate through this natural art gallery, stopping at key locations like the Mushroom Rock and the Chicken Rock. You’ll have ample time to wander amongst these formations, feeling the soft sand beneath your feet and marveling at the power of nature’s artistry.
As dusk approaches, prepare for an unforgettable night under the stars. Your guides will set up a traditional Bedouin camp, complete with comfortable sleeping arrangements and a delicious dinner cooked over an open fire. The absence of light pollution in the desert allows for an unparalleled view of the night sky, a dazzling display of constellations and shooting stars. Sleeping under the vast desert sky is an experience that will stay with you long after your trip ends.
Day 3: Farewell to the Desert and Return to Cairo
Wake up to the serene beauty of the desert sunrise, the soft light illuminating the white formations in a new way. After a hearty breakfast at the campsite, you’ll have some final moments to soak in the tranquility of the White Desert. The journey back to Bahariya involves traversing more of the captivating desert landscape, perhaps with a stop at a hot spring for a refreshing dip.
Upon reaching Bahariya, you’ll have time for a final lunch before beginning the drive back to Cairo. As you leave the desert behind, you’ll carry with you memories of stunning landscapes, starry nights, and the unique charm of the Bahariya Oasis. This 3-day journey offers a perfect escape from the ordinary and a chance to connect with the raw beauty of Egypt’s Western Desert.
Pick up from your hotel in Cairo and back
Accommodation in White Desert camping for 1 night on full board basis
Accommodation in Bahariya for 1 night in Hotel
Camping equipments like sleeping bags, camel blankets, tents
All sightseeing tours mentioned in the itinerary
All transfers from Cairo to Bahariya by an air-conditioned vehicle
All transfers inside Bahariya Oasis and White Desert by 4×4 car
Entrance fees to the mentioned sightseeing
Meals as mentioned in the itinerary
English speaking desert guide during your trip
Bottled water during the trips
All taxes & service charge
| Room Type | Price/Person |
|---|---|
| Single Room | 430 $ |
| Twin Room | 320 $ |
| Triple Room | 300 $ |
| Room Type | Price/Person |
|---|---|
| Single Room | 400 $ |
| Twin Room | 300 $ |
| Triple Room | 250 $ |
| Room Type | Price/Person |
|---|---|
| Single Room | 420 $ |
| Twin Room | 310 $ |
| Triple Room | 290 $ |
| Room Type | Price/Person |
|---|---|
| Single Room | 375 $ |
| Twin Room | 280 $ |
| Triple Room | 250 $ |
Price quotes are in USD per person per tour except for celebration. Please inquire for the prices of New Year, Christmas and Easter.
Tipping for a job well done is customary and highly expected in Egypt though it is not obligatory. Please feel welcomed but not obliged to offer a tip to your service provider
Notes:
Children policy is applied to children who share rooms with their parents (Maximum 1 OR 2 Child under 5 years old sharing parent’s room)
Children policy is not applied on all kinds of transportation (Flight, train or bus) full ticket payment is required
We are offering a considerable down payment of just 20% to secure your space on the tour including hotel room, cruise cabin, domestic flight ticket, and other travel-related services and 30% during Christmas, New Year and Easter Holidays. The remaining balance can be paid up to two days prior to your arrival date or in cash upon arrival at the destination. Therefore, your booking will be a risk-free investment.
In case you cancel your trip, the following charges will be applied:
At any time after your booking is confirmed, Ancient Egypt Tours holds a 20% non-refundable deposit
7 days or less before departure, we will retain the 50% payment you have paid in relation to your booking.
We advise all clients to purchase travel insurance in the event that travel is unexpectedly interrupted due to illness. To confirm the booking, the client must pay a deposit of 20% of the total tour price.
Should the reservation be canceled, customers will be charged a fee depending on how far beyond the departure date the cancellation is made. To cancel, the Customer must notify the Tour Organizer in writing.
Full payment forfeiture in case of no show
All Transportation tickets are nonrefundable and there’s also a 5% transaction fee on refunds.
Here, at Ancient Egypt Tours, we prioritize your well-being and safety above all else and for that reason, we have adapted our cancellation policy to reflect our values. We offer a very flexible cancellation policy in case the government or the airline issues a NOT TO TRAVEL warning to the designated destination. In the event of this happening, we will refund you the amount paid according to cancellation policy, unless you prefer to keep your payment available for future travel credit and travel voucher that can be used towards any of the destinations, we operate tours in. You have the flexibility to apply this amount towards new travel services booked. Reservations will be adjusted to reflect these travel credits automatically.
After your tour is confirmed, we will email final confirmation and voucher to print and bring with you. Details will include contact numbers of your tour operator and customer care and additional information for your convenience.
