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Crystal Mountain: A Desert Jewel

Discover Crystal Mountain: Egypt's shimmering desert gem. Explore dazzling crystal formations and breathtaking desert landscapes between Bahariya and Farafra Oasis.

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Crystal Mountain, a unique geological formation in Egypt's Western Desert, shimmers with quartz and calcite crystals. Located between the Bahariya and Farafra Oases, it's a dazzling spectacle and a highlight of any desert excursion, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into Egypt's geological history.

A brief summary to Crystal Mountain

  • Al Wahat Al Bahriya - Al Farafra Rd, Al Wadi Al Gadid Desert, The New Valley Governorate, EG

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain.
  • Bring plenty of water and sun protection, as the desert sun can be intense.
  • Respect the environment by not removing any crystals from the site.
  • Visit during the cooler months (October to April) for a more comfortable experience.
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Getting There

  • Tour

    The most convenient way to visit Crystal Mountain is by booking a tour from either Bahariya or Farafra Oasis. Most tours include transportation in a 4x4 vehicle, as well as stops at other nearby attractions like the Black Desert and White Desert. Prices range from 800-1500 EGP per person, depending on the package.

  • Taxi

    From Bahariya Oasis, you can hire a taxi to Crystal Mountain. Negotiate the fare beforehand. A round trip should cost approximately 500-700 EGP, depending on your bargaining skills and the distance. The journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours each way. Ensure the taxi driver knows the exact location, as it is not directly on the main road.

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Discover more about Crystal Mountain

Crystal Mountain, or Gebel el-Izaz, is a mesmerizing natural wonder nestled in the Western Desert of Egypt, approximately 25 kilometers off the main road connecting the Bahariya and Farafra Oases. Despite its name, it's more of a rock ridge than a towering mountain, but its beauty is undeniable. Formed millions of years ago, the mountain is composed of shimmering quartz and calcite crystals, creating a rare and striking feature in the desert landscape. When sunlight hits the crystals, they sparkle and shine like a crown adorned with thousands of gems. This dazzling effect has earned it the nickname 'Jewel of the Desert'. There are signs that the area was formed when a large meteorite hit the Earth and caused very high temperatures, which melted the rocks into pieces of valuable crystal. Another theory suggests that the mountain was once a cave filled with stalagmites and stalactites. Over time, erosion caused the cave's roof to collapse, leaving behind the crystal-covered ridge we see today. Visitors can explore the crystal formations, take photos, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding desert. It's important to respect the delicate environment by not breaking off or removing any crystals.

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