Exploring the Mystical White Desert of Egypt with Family

A Day Amongst Giants & Whispering Sands

Today was a day of profound contrasts, a dance between the ancient echoes of humanity and the quiet, timeless whispers of the desert. We journeyed from the ethereal landscapes of the White Desert, a transition that felt like stepping between worlds. The day concluded under a canopy of stars, an experience that reminded us of our place within the vast tapestry of the universe.


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

Our morning began as the sun painted the chalk formations of the White Desert in soft hues of pink and gold. After a simple breakfast prepared by our guide, we savored the tranquility of our surroundings. The weather in November is proving ideal; the daytime temperatures are mild, making exploration comfortable, and the nights are cool enough for cozy campfires. I made sure Sophia layered up, as the desert chill can be quite sharp once the sun dips below the horizon. Hans-Peter, ever the pragmatist, checked our supplies, ensuring we had enough water and that our portable solar charger was making the most of the morning sun – a lesson learned from our forgotten extra batteries.

We spent the early hours simply wandering, letting Sophia's imagination run wild amongst the surreal sculptures carved by wind and time. She saw everything from giant mushrooms to mythical beasts in the formations, her laughter echoing through the silent expanse. I was reminded of the stories my grandmother used to tell me about the Greek gods, their dramas played out against the backdrop of the ancient world. It felt as though we were walking through a forgotten pantheon, the desert holding its breath in anticipation.

Around midday, we packed up our camp and began our journey towards Abu Simbel. The drive itself was an experience, the landscape transforming from the stark white of the desert to the rugged terrain leading to Lake Nasser. I couldn't help but feel a thrill as we approached our destination, a sense of anticipation building with each passing kilometer.


Discover the grandeur of Abu Simbel, where colossal statues and ancient temples tell the story of Ramses II and ancient Egyptian power.

The Abu Simbel temples emerged from the horizon like a mirage, their colossal statues of Ramses II standing guard over the ancient secrets within. The scale of the site is simply breathtaking, a testament to the ambition and artistry of the ancient Egyptians. We joined a guided tour, eager to learn about the history and significance of these magnificent structures.

Our guide, a knowledgeable Egyptologist, shared fascinating stories about Ramses II and his beloved wife Nefertari, for whom one of the temples was dedicated. He explained how the temples were moved in the 1960s to save them from the rising waters of Lake Nasser, a feat of engineering that I found both impressive and humbling. Standing in the shadow of those immense statues, I felt a profound connection to the past, a sense of awe at the enduring power of human creativity and ingenuity. Sophia was captivated by the hieroglyphs, tracing their outlines with her fingers and asking endless questions about their meanings. It was a moment of shared discovery, a reminder of why I love sharing these experiences with my family.

The desert and the monuments, disparate as they seem, spoke of the enduring human spirit, our capacity for both creation and reverence.

After exploring the temples, we spent some time at a local shop called White Desert Home, browsing the handicrafts and souvenirs. I picked up a small alabaster carving of Bastet, the cat goddess, a symbol of protection and fertility. It will serve as a reminder of this incredible journey, a tangible connection to the magic of Egypt. Hans-Peter found a beautiful papyrus painting for his office, and Sophia chose a colorful bracelet adorned with scarabs, promising to wear it every day.


Explore the stunning desert landscapes and rich cultural experiences at White Desert Home, the ultimate sightseeing tour agency in Egypt.

As the sun began to set, we returned to the White Desert, the sky ablaze with vibrant colors. Our guides prepared a traditional Egyptian dinner, the aroma of grilled meats and spices filling the air. We sat around the campfire, sharing stories and laughter under a blanket of stars. The desert night is an experience in itself, the silence broken only by the crackling of the fire and the occasional howl of a desert fox. The stars seemed brighter here, unpolluted by city lights, their brilliance a reminder of the vastness of the universe and our small place within it.

I thought of my work as a librarian, surrounded by the stories of the past, and how this journey was bringing those stories to life in a way I never could have imagined. Sharing this with Hans-Peter and Sophia made it all the more meaningful. It’s these moments, these shared experiences, that weave the fabric of our family history, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we are planning to visit Ras Mohamed Nature Reserve and Wadi Hitan National Park. Ras Mohamed promises vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life, while Wadi Hitan, or Whale Valley, offers a glimpse into prehistoric times with its fascinating whale fossils. I am particularly excited about Wadi Hitan, as it aligns with my interest in ancient history and paleontology. I am eager to share this experience with Sophia, hoping to spark her curiosity about the world's natural history. Hans-Peter is looking forward to the Cairo Jazz Club 610.

As I sit here now, writing by the light of the campfire, I feel a sense of gratitude for this incredible day. The White Desert has cast its spell on us, its beauty and tranquility seeping into our souls. Tomorrow, we venture forth to explore more of Egypt's wonders, but I know that a part of me will always remain here, under these starlit skies, listening to the whispers of the desert. Perhaps, I'll even find inspiration for a new folk song to learn when I return to Leipzig. For now, though, I'll simply savor the moment, cherishing the magic of this extraordinary journey.

I am also reminded of the filming of Wicked For Good taking place in the White Desert National Park. It is fascinating to think that this otherworldly landscape has captured the imagination of filmmakers, just as it has captured ours. Perhaps, one day, Sophia will watch the film and remember our time here, connecting her own memories to the magic on the screen.