Overview

Experience Egypt's distinct desert landscapes firsthand, each offering unique textures and formations that define these iconic Egyptian deserts. Explore the sandy expanses of El Fayoum, renowned for its intricate dunes and golden hues. Venture into the black and white deserts, where contrasting sands create striking patterns against the horizon, providing an unforgettable journey through the heart of Egypt's natural wonders.

 

3 Nights 4 Days 30 Apr, 01 May, 02 May, and more Fayoum, Black Desert, White Desert
Highlights
  • Tunis Village
  • Black Desert
  • Old White Desert 
  • New White Desert
  • Pottery
  • Desert Safari in 4x4 Car
  • Wadi El-Heitan 
  • Magic Lake
  • Sandboarding
  • Salt Lake
  • Magic Spring
  • Flower Stone
  • Crystal Mountain
  • Agabat Area
  • Wadi El Kebir
  • Djara Cave
  • Mushroom
  • Chicken
  • Rabbit
  • Camping in the New White Desert
Itinerary

Day 1

Fayoum

Your journey begins with a drive into Egypt's desert, heading towards Fayoum. Upon arrival, you will enjoy breakfast at Tunis Village. Roam through its narrow streets, soak in the local ambiance, and encounter an array of unique local crafts. You may even choose to indulge in the art of pottery yourself, guided by skilled artisans to mold clay into beautiful forms (optional activity). Afterwards, gear up for a thrilling Egypt safari. Visit the Magic Lake, located in the heart of Egypt's desert, with its waters shimmering under the sun. Near the Magic Lake, you'll have the opportunity to sandboard. Then, enjoy light lunch in Egypt's desert and head to Samuel Dunes for an adrenaline-fueled 4x4 adventure. Then, head to the camp, where dinner will be served and enjoy a serene stargazing night.

  • Tunis Village
  • Pottery (optional activity)
  • Magic Lake
  • 4x4 Safari
  • Samuel Dunes
  • Stargazing
Overnight in Tents at Samuel Dunes Camp (breakfast, lunch, dinner)

 


Day 2

Black Desert of Egypt

Your day begins with breakfast at the camp followed by a visit to Wadi El-Hitan, also known as the Valley of the Whales. This UNESCO World Heritage site serves as an open-air museum in the heart of Egypt's desert, showcasing prehistoric evidence dating back millions of years. Continue your Egypt safari journey as you step into the vehicle headed towards the Black Desert. Upon arriving at the lodge, take a moment to freshen up, have lunch, and re-energize. Your adventure continues to the Salt Lake and then into the Black Desert. A special surprise awaits: a magic spring inviting you for a swim amidst this unique landscape. After your swim, hike a black mountain and enjoy the sunset in the Black Desert before making your way back to the lodge. Experience the traditional Bedouin way of cooking chicken, known as manddi, where it is buried into the ground for dinner. After dinner, your evening comes alive with the melodic strains of Bedouin music.

  • Wadi El-Hitan
  • Black Desert
  • Salt Lake
  • Dip in the Magic Spring
  • Bedouin Night
Overnight at the Lodge (breakfast, lunch, dinner)

 


Day 3

White Desert of Egypt

After breakfast, your journey will take you through the landscapes of the Old White Desert and the New White Desert, adorned with rock formations that evoke a deep sense of wonder. These rock formations, sculpted by the forces of wind and sand over millennia, primarily made of chalk and limestone, give Egypt's desert its distinctive white color. Along the way, you will visit the Agabat area, Crystal Mountain and Wadi El Keber. Tucked away in the heart of the desert, you will discover the Magic Spring, a rare oasis that adds its own unique charm to Egypt’s desert. In Egypt's deserts, you will experience the sands presenting a palette of colors, from traditional yellow and stark white to a vivid red/orange. In the afternoon, you will reach your campsite in the New White Desert, a perfect spot to witness the transformation of your surroundings as the sun slowly dips below the horizon, painting the sky with breathtaking colors. As the sky turns dark and is filled with stars, lose yourself in the beauty of stargazing.

  • Old White Desert
  • New White Desert
  • Agabat Area
  • Crystal Mountain
  • Wadi El Keber
  • Magic Spring
Overnight camping at the New White Desert (breakfast, lunch, dinner)

 


Day 4

New White Desert of Egypt

After breakfast, you leave the camp to head back to the lodge. As you journey through Egypt's desert on this final leg of your Egypt safari, you will come across unique rock formations that resemble a chicken, mushroom, and a rabbit. Natural masterpieces sculpted by the wind. Once you reach the lodge, you'll have time to freshen up and have lunch before you head back to Cairo. 

  • Mushroom
  • Chicken
  • Rabbit
(breakfast, lunch)

 


FAQs

What is the best time of year to visit the Black and White Deserts of Egypt? While these destinations can be visited year-round, the cooler months from October to April are often the most comfortable for outdoor activities and exploration of Egypt’s deserts.

How can I reach Fayoum and the Black and White Deserts from Cairo, Egypt? Fayoum is about a two-hour drive from Cairo. From Fayoum, the Black and White Deserts can be accessed by a longer drive, usually in a 4x4 vehicle. It's recommended to travel with a knowledgeable guide due to the remote and rugged nature of Egypt’s desert terrain.

What kind of activities are popular in Fayoum trips and the Black and White Deserts of Egypt? In Fayoum, tourists can explore Tunis Village, delve into the art of pottery-making, and experience the thrill of a Fayoum desert safari and sandboarding. A highlight of the region is the chance to explore Magic Lake and the renowned Wadi El-Hitan, also known as Whale Valley. Wadi El-Hitan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a glimpse into the past with its remarkable collection of fossilized sea creatures. The Black Desert is characterized by its distinctive landscape formed by volcanic rock. In this fascinating setting, visitors can discover the Salt Lake, refresh in a natural desert spring, where swimming is an inviting option, and participate in sandboarding adventures. The White Desert is known for its breathtaking chalk-rock formations, sculpted by the forces of wind and sand over millennia. Here, tourists can discover Djara Cave, visit the natural Magic Spring, observe the Flower Stone and Crystal Mountain formations, and experience the unforgettable opportunity of camping in the New White Desert.

Is camping in the desert on Egypt trips safe? Yes, camping in Egypt’s desert is safe, especially when accompanied by individuals experienced with the desert terrain and conditions.

Do Fayoum and the Black and White Deserts have cellphone network and internet connection? In the populated areas of Fayoum Trips and at the lodge in the Black Desert, you can typically rely on steady network connectivity. However, as you traverse Egypt's desert landscapes, including those of Fayoum, the Black Desert, and the White Desert, expect some inconsistencies in network connection. Certain remote parts within these deserts may have limited or even no network coverage at all. Thus, when planning your adventures in Egypt's desert, it's wise to anticipate periods where you might be disconnected. Despite this, efforts are usually made to choose campsites where some network coverage is accessible.

Should I be concerned about sandstorms in the desert? While sandstorms may occur, particularly in the spring, local guides are well-equipped and experienced to handle such situations, ensuring your safety throughout the Egypt trips.

Are trips to Egypt's desert landscapes suitable for families? Is it suitable for children? Yes, the Egypt desert trip is family-friendly and appropriate for children. However, be aware that some activities, such as sandboarding or the desert safari, might be challenging for younger kids.


Add-Ons

Pottery Experience

Delve into the world of pottery, where each spin of the wheel and touch of the hand transforms simple clay into art. Under the guidance of an instructor, immerse yourself in this meditative craft, discovering not only the art of pottery but also the joy of creation.

Djara Cave Extension

Complement your Egypt safari experience by journeingy into the heart of Djara Cave in Egypt's Western Desert, where nature has intricately carved unique rock formations over thousands of years. By opting for one additional night, you will have the chance to explore this natural wonder.

Inclusions/Exclusions

What is included in the tour

  • Accommodation as mentioned in the itinerary
  • All meals mentioned on the itinerary
  • All sightseeing tours and entrance fees as mentioned in the itinerary
  • All transfers in a private air-conditioned vehicle 
  • Private local English speaking tour guide
  • All service charges and taxes

What is NOT included in the tour

  • International flights
  • Meals other than mentioned in above itinerary
  • Drinks and beverages
  • Optional activities
  • Personal spending
  • Tipping
  • Insurance
Important Notes

Packing List

Comfortable Clothing

Comfortable Shoes

Bathing Suit

Towel

Jacket

Sun Protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses)

Insect Repellent

Sleeping Bag

Camera (if available)

Fresh Buzz (if available)

Flashlight (if available)

Power Bank (if available)

Speakers (if available)

Snacks (nuts, energy bars)

Electrolytes (if available)


Electricity

In Egypt, the power supply is nominally Type C and F, with a standard voltage of 220V and a frequency of 50Hz.


Tipping

Tipping is an expected, though not compulsory, component of your tour program. While it's not mandatory, it's customary to tip around $5 per day per person for drivers. For other service providers, the amount is at your discretion, but an average of $5 USD is typical.

Remember, tipping directly benefits the local community. Although it may not be customary for you, it is an important source of income for those in the tourism industry. Giving a tip should be a seen as a formal 'thank you', and the action should in no way be awkward.