Exploring the Mystical White Desert of Egypt with Family

Adieu, White Desert!

As the sun began its ascent, painting the chalk formations in hues of soft pink and gold, I found myself reflecting on our incredible journey through Egypt's White Desert. It’s hard to believe this adventure, which has felt like a dream, is coming to an end. The stark beauty of this place has seeped into our souls, leaving an indelible mark on each of us.

Our final day began with a simple yet satisfying breakfast amidst the otherworldly landscape. There's something truly special about sipping hot tea as the desert awakens, the silence broken only by the gentle whisper of the wind. Hans-Peter, ever the pragmatist, was already packing up our gear, while Sophia, with her boundless energy, was chasing after a desert fox, giggling with delight. I savored these moments, knowing they would soon become cherished memories.

Our main objective for the day was to visit Gabal Gana al-Janubi. The drive there was an experience in itself, navigating through the undulating dunes and marveling at the bizarre rock formations that seemed to morph with every passing hour. It's astonishing to think that this entire area was once under the sea. I tried to imagine herds of elephants, giraffes and gazelles roaming freely in a savannah with green areas and lakes full of fish, but it was hard to picture such a different landscape.

Reaching Gabal Gana al-Janubi, we were greeted by a panorama of breathtaking beauty. The view from the top was simply stunning – a seemingly endless expanse of white stretching towards the horizon. Sophia was fascinated by the quartz crystals scattered across the ground, each one sparkling like a tiny diamond. As a librarian specializing in ancient Greek history, I couldn't help but feel a connection to this land, a sense of timelessness that transcended millennia.


Explore the stunning landscapes and rich history of Jabal Jinn, a breathtaking mountain in the New Valley Governorate, Egypt.

The desert gives me power, I feel it’s good life here, clear air, peace, freedom.

We spent a good part of the morning exploring the area, taking photos and simply soaking in the atmosphere. Hans-Peter, despite his initial reservations about camping, admitted that he had never felt so at peace. Even Sophia, usually glued to her tablet, was fully present, her eyes wide with wonder.

For lunch, we enjoyed another meal prepared by our guide, a simple yet delicious spread of local delicacies. As we ate, we shared our favorite moments from the trip – Sophia's encounter with the fox, Hans-Peter's newfound appreciation for stargazing, and my own sense of awe at the sheer scale and beauty of the desert. It's amazing how a place like this can bring a family closer together, creating bonds that will last a lifetime.

After lunch, we made our way back towards the entrance/exit of the White Desert National Park. Before leaving the park, we stopped quickly at a small shop near the exit. I wanted to purchase a small memento of our trip, something to remind us of this magical place. I settled on a small piece of crystal, its facets catching the light in a mesmerizing way. It will sit on my desk back in Leipzig, a constant reminder of our adventure.

As we drove away, I couldn't help but feel a pang of sadness. Our time in the White Desert had come to an end. I glanced back at the receding landscape, the white formations gradually fading into the distance. It felt like saying goodbye to an old friend.

Back at the park entry/exit, we said goodbye to our guide, expressing our gratitude for his expertise and hospitality. He had shared his knowledge of the desert, its history, and its secrets, enriching our experience in countless ways. It’s thanks to him that we could fully appreciate the White Desert and its uniqueness.

The journey back to Cairo was long, but the memories of the White Desert kept us company. Sophia dozed off in the back seat, her face flushed with sun and exhaustion. Hans-Peter and I exchanged glances, a silent understanding passing between us. We had experienced something truly special, something that would stay with us forever.

I found myself thinking about the lessons the desert had taught us. It had shown us the beauty of simplicity, the importance of connection, and the power of nature to inspire and heal. It had reminded us that even in the most barren of landscapes, life can thrive, and that even in the darkest of nights, the stars can shine brightly.

As we approached Cairo, the city lights began to twinkle on the horizon. The contrast between the bustling metropolis and the serene desert was stark, but I knew that a part of us would forever remain in the White Desert, wandering among the chalk formations and gazing up at the star-studded sky.

Our adventure in the White Desert National Park may have come to an end, but the memories we created will last a lifetime. This trip was more than just a vacation; it was an experience that enriched our lives and brought us closer together as a family. I am so grateful to have shared it with Hans-Peter and Sophia, and I know that we will carry the spirit of the White Desert with us wherever we go. I will keep this experience in my heart, next to the memories of my homeland, Greece.

Perhaps one day we will return, to once again wander among the white rocks and sleep under the stars. Until then, the White Desert will live on in our memories, a testament to the beauty and wonder of the natural world.

As this is the last day of our planned trip, I would like to thank you, my readers, for following along! I hope I have inspired you to explore this unique corner of the world. Safe travels!

I will never forget the feeling of freedom and peace I experienced in the desert. This trip reminded me of the importance of disconnecting from our daily routines and connecting with nature. The vastness of the desert made me feel small, yet also connected to something much larger than myself. It was a humbling and awe-inspiring experience that I will cherish forever.