Exploring the Mystical White Desert of Egypt with Family

Echoes of the Past, Rhythms of the Present

Today was a day of incredible contrasts, a journey through time and ecosystems that left me breathless. From the ancient whale fossils of Wadi Hitan to the vibrant coral reefs of Ras Mohamed, and finally, the modern sounds of Cairo's jazz scene, Egypt continues to surprise and enchant me. It’s days like these that remind me why I love to travel, to learn, and to share these experiences with you all.

Our day began early, with a hearty breakfast at our campsite in the White Desert. Sipping strong, sweet Egyptian coffee as the sun painted the chalk formations in hues of orange and pink, I felt a sense of anticipation for the adventures that lay ahead. Hans-Peter, ever the pragmatist, checked our supplies, while Sophia chattered excitedly about seeing real whale skeletons. After breakfast, we packed up our gear and set off towards Wadi Hitan National Park.

The drive to Wadi Hitan, also known as the Valley of the Whales, was an adventure in itself. The landscape transformed from the stark white of the desert to the golden sands of the Fayoum region. As we approached the park, the air grew still and the silence became profound. It was as if the desert itself was holding its breath, waiting to reveal its ancient secrets.

Wadi Hitan is a UNESCO World Heritage site, a place where the desert floor is littered with the fossilized remains of whales that lived over 40 million years ago when this area was part of the Tethys Sea. Walking among these ancient skeletons, I felt an overwhelming sense of awe. It’s hard to fathom the sheer scale of geological time, but here, surrounded by the bones of creatures that swam in a prehistoric ocean, the immensity of Earth’s history became palpable.

Sophia was particularly fascinated by the fossils. She peppered our guide with questions about the whales, their size, and how they lived. I was impressed by her curiosity and eagerness to learn. Hans-Peter, meanwhile, was busy photographing the landscape, capturing the stark beauty of the desert and the haunting presence of the whale fossils.

We spent several hours exploring Wadi Hitan, marveling at the well-preserved skeletons and learning about the evolution of whales from land-dwelling mammals to marine creatures. The park also has a fantastic Fossil Museum, which showcases some of the most significant finds and provides a wealth of information about the area's geological history and climate change.

To walk through Wadi Hitan is to walk through a 40-million-year-old ocean floor, a testament to the enduring power of nature and the relentless march of evolution.

Leaving Wadi Hitan, we made our way back to Cairo, our minds still reeling from the ancient wonders we had witnessed. After a quick lunch, we prepared for the next leg of our journey: a flight to Sharm el-Sheikh, a resort town on the Red Sea, to visit Ras Mohamed National Park.

Arriving in Sharm el-Sheikh, we were immediately struck by the contrast between the desert landscape we had just left and the vibrant, bustling atmosphere of the town. After checking into a simple hotel, we headed straight for Ras Mohamed National Park, eager to explore its underwater treasures.

Ras Mohamed is located at the southernmost tip of the Sinai Peninsula, where the Gulf of Suez meets the Gulf of Aqaba. This unique location has created a marine ecosystem of unparalleled diversity, with stunning coral reefs, crystal-clear waters, and an abundance of marine life.

We joined a guided snorkeling tour, and within minutes of entering the water, we were surrounded by a kaleidoscope of colors. Schools of fish darted around us, their scales shimmering in the sunlight. The coral reefs were breathtaking, intricate formations of every shape and size, teeming with life. I spotted clownfish, parrotfish, and even a sea turtle gliding gracefully through the water.

Sophia was in her element, squealing with delight every time she spotted a new fish. Hans-Peter, armed with his underwater camera, captured the beauty of the reef in stunning detail. I felt grateful for the opportunity to share this experience with my family, to witness their joy and wonder at the natural world.

As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the Red Sea, we reluctantly left the water, our bodies tired but our spirits soaring. We returned to our hotel, showered, and changed, ready for our final adventure of the day: a visit to Cairo Jazz Club 610.

Cairo Jazz Club 610, located in Sheikh Zayed, is one of Cairo’s most popular nightlife spots, known for its live music, delicious cocktails, and vibrant atmosphere. I had heard about it from a fellow librarian who had visited Egypt last year, and I was eager to experience it for myself. We took a taxi from the airport to the club, and as we approached, we could already hear the music pulsing through the air.

Inside, the club was buzzing with energy. The décor was modern and stylish, with dim lighting and comfortable seating. We ordered drinks – a classic Old Fashioned Whiskey Sour for me, a beer for Hans-Peter, and a juice for Sophia – and settled in to enjoy the music. The band was fantastic, playing a mix of jazz standards and contemporary tunes. The crowd was diverse, a mix of locals and tourists, all united by their love of music.

Sophia, surprisingly, was captivated by the music. She tapped her feet and swayed to the rhythm, her eyes wide with wonder. Hans-Peter and I took turns dancing with her, laughing and enjoying the moment. It was a perfect end to a perfect day, a reminder that travel is not just about seeing new places, but also about experiencing new cultures and connecting with people from all walks of life.

As the night drew to a close, we reluctantly left Cairo Jazz Club 610 and headed back to our hotel. Tomorrow, we plan to explore more of the White Desert, with visits to the White Canyon and the Khaled Mady Dunes. We might also do a little shopping at the Nomad Gallery. But as I drifted off to sleep, my mind was filled with the memories of today: the ancient whale fossils of Wadi Hitan, the vibrant coral reefs of Ras Mohamed, and the modern sounds of Cairo’s jazz scene. Egypt, you have truly captured my heart.

I also learned that the Cairo International Film Festival is ongoing, which adds another layer of cultural richness to the city. Perhaps we can squeeze in a screening before we leave!

It’s amazing to think that just a few hours away from the ancient tranquility of the White Desert, Cairo pulsates with modern energy. From the sounds of jazz to film festivals, there’s so much to experience here.


Explore the ancient Valley of the Whales in Egypt's Western Desert, a UNESCO site with unique whale fossils and stunning landscapes.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Ras Mohamed Nature Reserve, a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers in Egypt's Sinai Peninsula.


Explore the surreal beauty of White Desert National Park in Egypt – a natural wonder featuring unique chalk formations and breathtaking landscapes.


Experience vibrant nightlife at Cairo Jazz Club 610, where live music and a lively atmosphere come together for an unforgettable evening in Giza.