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National park · Farafra, New Valley
White Desert (Sahara el Beyda)
Plain of white limestone formations carved by wind, north of Farafra, with mushroom-shaped rocks among golden sand dunes. It’s the place for camping nights under the starry sky.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About White Desert (Sahara el Beyda)
The White Desert National Park covers about 300 km² on the northern edge of the Farafra depression. It was declared a protected area in 2002. Wind and sand carved the white limestone, deposited on the floor of an ancient sea, into isolated formations that resemble mushrooms, animals and towers.
Daylight changes the color of the rocks: white at noon, pink and orange in late afternoon, almost bluish at night. Between the formations lie golden sand dunes, part of the Great Sand Sea, and cliffs on the edge of the depression.
Most visitors arrive in the afternoon in 4x4 vehicles to watch the sunset and spend the night at a camp set up by operators, with dinner around the fire and the desert’s starry sky. Desert foxes often circle camps at night.
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
One late afternoon and one night, with sunrise the next morning.
Best time
At late afternoon and at sunrise, when the light changes the color of the rocks. The season runs from October to April.
How to get there
On 4x4 tours with a driver and guide, departing from Bawiti to the north, or from Farafra to the south.
Tip
Bring warm clothing and a sleeping bag: nights are cold from October to April. Do not climb on the limestone formations, which break easily.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about White Desert (Sahara el Beyda)
How to get to the White Desert?
With operators from Bawiti, about 140 km away, or from Farafra, about 45 km, always by 4x4.
Can you sleep in the White Desert?
Yes. Operators set up camps with tents and blankets among the formations, with dinner around the fire.
How were the White Desert rocks formed?
Wind and sand sculpted the white limestone, deposited on the floor of an ancient sea, into isolated formations resembling mushrooms and other shapes.