2-day trip: Bahariya Oasis and the White Desert from Cairo

Bahariya Oasis lies about 370 km from Cairo in the Western Desert, a green depression of date palms and hot springs. From there, a 4×4 takes you through the Black Desert, with its volcanic hills, to the chalk formations of the White Desert National Park.

You watch the sunset and spend the night at a desert camp, with dinner and Bedouin music under the stars. On the second day you visit the Mummies Museum and the tomb of Bannentiu in Bahariya, then relax in a hot spring before driving back to Cairo.

This is a private trip: only your group travels with the guide and driver.

What to expect on a White Desert 2-day trip

This trip suits travelers who want a break from temples and cities and a real night in the desert. Only your group travels with the guide and driver, from Cairo to Bahariya Oasis, about 370 km away, and on by 4×4 to the chalk formations of the White Desert National Park.

The landscape changes by the hour: volcanic hills in the Black Desert, white rock shapes at sunset, a sky full of stars over camp. On day two you visit the Mummies Museum and the tomb of Bannentiu. Egypt’s official monuments site lists many of the oasis sites.

Desert nights can be cold, so pack a warm layer and socks for sleeping, plus a torch, sunscreen and sunglasses. Swimwear is useful for the hot spring. Tent, sleeping bag and camping gear are provided.