Best time to visit Egypt

Sahara Desert Trekking in Egypt

Explore the Sahara Desert—a “country” of orange, white, and black sand dunes and rock sculpted to perfection by the wind

Best time: October–May

Sahara Desert Trekking

The world's largest desert is like nothing else on earth. Most of it is off-limit for travellers, but there some western areas available for visitors. Some Egyptian agencies organize trips to the Sahara Desert to see empty desert villages in the north at Siwa (including the White Desert, the Black Desert, and the Crystal Mountain), the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Valley of the Whales to see 40 million-year-old fossils, the tomb of Alexander the Great, and the Valley of the Kings from Luxor.

In the South, you can find the oases of Al-Kharga, Dakhla, Farafra, and Bahariya by bus services from Cairo. Take a chance to visit the Gilf Kebir Plateau as it is the reputed home of the never-found Zerzura Oasis and the undisputed location of the Cave of Swimmers made famous on the silver screen by the “English Patient.”

Cross the sand on a camel or a donkey, as well as expeditions on 4-wheel drives are also popular.

Desert trekking is best between October and April or early May. This period is more suitable because the daytime temperatures are bearable. From June to early September are the hottest months. In winter, it can be even freezing in the Sahara Desert; sometimes sand storms occur from January to May.

Practical info

When is the best time to visit the Sahara Desert in Egypt?

The best time to visit the Sahara Desert in Egypt is from October to April or early May when temperatures are more tolerable. Between June to early September, the weather is incredibly hot. It may get freezing in this desert during the winter. There may be sandstorms from January to May. Show more

Where can I take a 4-wheel drive expedition in the Sahara Desert?

The Sahara Desert in Egypt is the ideal destination for 4-wheel drive expeditions. There are various sites to enjoy these adventures, including the Black and White Deserts, Crystal Mountain, and empty desert villages in the north at Siwa. Another exciting place to explore is the Gilf Kebir Plateau, said to be the location of the Cave of Swimmers and Zerzura Oasis. Show more

What unique attractions can I see in the western areas of the Sahara Desert in Egypt?

Egypt's Sahara Desert has several unique attractions in its western areas. These include the Valley of the Kings from Luxor, The Tomb of Alexander the Great, and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Valley of the Whales. Besides, visitors can explore the White Desert, Black Desert, and Crystal Mountain, all located in empty desert villages in the north at Siwa. Show more

When do sand storms usually occur in the Sahara Desert?

Sand storms are frequent in the Sahara Desert of Egypt from January to May, mainly during the winter. The storm can be blinding and dangerous. Visitors must exercise caution and avoid getting lost or caught in the wind during this period. But visitors should note that the storms are not so frequent and shouldn't be a considerable concern for tourists visiting the Sahara Desert. Show more

What transportation options are available to explore the oases in the southern part of the Sahara Desert?

To explore Egypt's southern part of the Sahara Desert where oases are located, visitors can use different transportation services such as bus services from Cairo. One can visit many oases such as Dakhla, Farafra, and Bahariya, among others. Another adventure option is traveling by donkey or camel. Also, specialized expeditions on 4-wheel drives are available for those seeking an even more memorable experience. Show more

Ask a question
Last updated: by Eleonora Provozin