White Desert for a first safari

White Desert works for a first safari with some planning.

Suitability: ★★★★★

The White Desert is a protected area in Egypt's Western Desert north of Farafra Oasis, declared in 2002. It is known for white chalk pillars and mushroom shapes carved by wind and is usually visited on short camping trips.

Why White Desert for a first safari?

• 2–3 days are enough for a good experience.

What awaits you in White Desert

• White chalk formations shaped by wind
• Overnight desert camping
• Clear skies for stargazing
• Route via the Black Desert and Crystal Mountain
• Marine fossils in the limestone

Wildlife you may encounter: foxes.

Suggested time on the ground: 2 to 3 days. Most trips drive from Cairo to Bahariya Oasis and continue by 4x4 via the Black Desert to the White Desert, or start from Farafra Oasis about 45 km to the south.

When to go

The best period overall is January to March.

Best months for camping: mild days and cold nights that can drop to a few degrees in winter.

Other destinations for a first safari

• Masai Mara Kenya
• Merzouga Morocco
• Ngorongoro Tanzania
• Pilanesberg South Africa
• Victoria Falls Zimbabwe
• Kruger South Africa

Full White Desert guideBest safaris for a first safari

No trips are listed for this destination yet. Send a request and we will check with providers.

Sources: Egyptian Tourism Authority - The White Desert · EEAA - White Desert Protected Area Management Plan · Wikipedia - Farafra (NOAA 1961-1990 climate normals) · Japan Meteorological Agency - Farafra climate normals
Figures are approximate averages and vary from year to year.