Bahariya Oasis
Travelers in Egypt have the chance to explore one of the most remarkable areas globally, the Black Desert, on their way to the White Desert. This distinctive landscape was formed by volcanic activity in the region over thousands of years. Currently, the Black Desert is known for its black stones, remnants of solidified lava. In some parts, visitors can see stunning hills covered with these black stones, while other areas feature vast plains with colors ranging from orange to brown.
The mountains in the Black Desert are completely covered in a layer of dust and black rocks, which is how the area got its name. Adventurous tourists can climb one of the tallest peaks to enjoy a panoramic view of the Black Desert and the Bahariya Oasis, taking in the extraordinary sights of its unique terrain and examining the iron content of the black stones.
Accessing the Black Desert is usually done through private four-wheel drive vehicles, as public transportation does not have specific stops in this region. Staying overnight in the Black Desert is also an option for those who want to fully experience its beauty.
If you are interested in tours in Egypt, our various options from Cairo make it easy for you to admire the magnificence of the Black Desert with Cairo Top Tours.
Normally, the White Desert tour includes a stop at the Black Desert, located north of the Farafra Oasis in the Western Sahara. This name comes from the layer of black dust covering its mountains, plateaus, and sands, a result of rock erosion over time. The Black Desert is closer to the Bahariya Oasis than to Farafra, approximately 50 kilometers south of Bawiti. Before leaving the Black Desert to head south, travelers will come across black volcanic hills that once spewed dark volcanic material called dolerite, which forms the black rocks. Climbing English Mountain, the highest point in the Black Desert, offers visitors stunning views of the surreal landscape.