Oases & Deserts
Egypt’s Oases are the ultimate escape from the demanding and nerve – wrecking city life, where visitors can relax and rejuvenate. They provide a flawless sanctuary from the modern life to experience a fraction of the primitive civilizations that existed or still exist in the unrivalled settings of Egypt’s deserts. With a unique combination of sand and sky, Egypt’s deserts and oases bestow a sense of eternity, something rare to find in the twenty- first century. The enchanting scenery, tranquillity of the local lifestyle, and the colourful orchards and gardens, complemented by a camel or jeep safari, pave the way for an extraordinary adventure in exploring the majestic deserts.
Siwa Oasis
Siwa is a natural oasis situated in the heart of the desert, 300 km south Mersa Matruh and is famous for its fascinating scenery and clear water springs. Visit the mud-brick town of Shali overlooking the oasis, the remains of Amun’s ancient temple with many interesting tombs from the Greek-Roman period. This temple has an outstanding view of the whole area and Jabal Al Mawta (mountain of the dead), where you can camp overnight. The more adventurous can try skiing on sand in the desert around Siwa Oasis.
Drive to the fantastic springs of Bir Wahed, where you can dip into its soothing water springs. It is a mini oasis and a hot spring that is located 12 km south of Siwa.
The White Desert
It is a unique landscape of surreal wind-eroded rock formations, which is particularly magical at sunrise and sunset. A trip to the White Desert is something worth doing. Sit around a driftwood fire and enjoy the sky lit by shooting stars. Travco arranges camel and 4x4 car trips that include a hot meal made in the Bedouin-style. Also places like Bahariya and Farafra in the nearby and on your way to the charming White Desert are worth the visit as well. In Bahariya, travelers cross the Black Desert passing by the tiny El-Hayiz oasis. Some Roman ruins including a Coptic church can be found there.