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Desert · Bawiti, Giza
Black Desert
A sandy plain south of the oasis, with cones of basalt and dark iron that give the landscape an almost black color. It is the first stop on the way to the White Desert.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Black Desert
The Black Desert begins a few kilometers after leaving the oasis, on the road to Farafra. It is a plain of golden sand dotted with cone-shaped hills covered by dark basalt and iron stones, which from a distance give the impression of black dust scattered over the sand.
Tours stop at one of the hills for a short climb, from which you can see the plain and the road. The landscape contrasts with the White Desert to the south.
The Black Desert is crossed on the same day as the trip to the White Desert on the 4x4 tours that depart from Bawiti.
The dark stones heat up a lot in the sun: on hot days, the stop is usually short. The color contrast, with light sand between the black cones, shows up best in photos taken from above.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About an hour, including the climb to one of the hills.
Best time
In the morning or late afternoon, when the sun is lower and the light highlights the contrast of the stones.
How to get there
By the paved road that continues to Farafra, in a 4x4 vehicle hired in Bawiti.
Tip
Wear sturdy shoes for climbing the hills, which are covered with loose stones.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Black Desert
What is the Black Desert?
It’s an area of dark basalt and iron cones rising from the sand on the route between Bahariya and the White Desert.
Where is the Black Desert?
Just south of the Bahariya Oasis, about 30 km from Bawiti, on the road to Farafra.
Can you see the Black Desert and the White Desert in the same day?
Yes. 4x4 tours cross the Black Desert and reach the White Desert late in the afternoon for an overnight camp.