If there’s one adventure you absolutely must experience in Egypt, it’s heading off the beaten path into the Western Desert—especially the breathtaking White Desert.

I joined a trip with Badry Sahara Camp, and it was truly one of the highlights of my time in Egypt. The journey felt completely safe yet thrillingly adventurous, like stepping into another world.

At times, I genuinely had to stop and ask myself—am I still on Earth? The surreal landscape, shaped by wind and time, looked like something straight out of a sci-fi movie. The endless golden plains, scattered white rock formations, and eerie silence made it feel like wandering across another planet.

For me, traveling into the desert is the ultimate reset—a way to escape, recharge, and find peace for both body and mind. Out of everything I did in Egypt, my days in the Western Desert with Badry Sahara Camp were my favorite. I had only planned to stay one night but loved it so much that I extended to two.

Here’s everything you need to know about visiting the White Desert in Egypt, and why you should do it with Badry Sahara Camp.

Are White Desert Tours Safe?

Yes, they’re very safe!

The road from Cairo to Bahariya Oasis has several security checkpoints, and the routes near the Libyan border are currently closed, so travelers are well-protected. Once you reach the desert, you’ll likely see very few people—maybe one or two other jeeps the entire time.

The Badry Sahara Camp team is professional, friendly, and trustworthy. They handle everything from transportation to meals, ensuring your trip is both safe and enjoyable.

Is the White Desert Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Absolutely—100%!

I traveled solo through the White Desert and felt completely comfortable and respected the entire time. I was picked up in a private, air-conditioned car from my hotel in Cairo and taken directly to Bahariya Oasis, where the desert journey began.

My guides were kind, attentive, and always made sure I felt safe. At night, even while camping outdoors, I had no worries at all. The experience was peaceful and empowering.

What to Pack for the White Desert in Egypt

The White Desert can be harsh but magical—here are my top packing tips to make your trip smooth and comfortable:

  • Warm clothes: Evenings can be surprisingly cold, especially in winter (November–March). Bring a jacket, warm socks, and layers.
  • Protection from sandstorms: Pack a scarf, hat, and sunglasses—sand can pick up fast!
  • Bug spray: Despite what you may hear, there are mosquitoes. Bring strong repellent.
  • Protect your electronics: Use ziplock bags or cases—sand gets everywhere.
  • Portable charger: There’s no electricity in the desert, so bring a power bank (your Jeep may have one charging port).
  • Baby wipes & hand sanitizer: There’s no running water, so these are essential.
  • Sunscreen & hydration: The desert sun is intense—drink lots of bottled water (your guides will provide it).
  • Toilet reality check: Facilities are “as nature intended.” You’ll go behind dunes, and if needed, a shovel is provided for burying waste. Used toilet paper is burned to leave no trace.

How to Get to the White Desert

When you book with Badry Sahara Camp, everything is arranged for you.

You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Cairo in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle for the four-hour drive to Bahariya Oasis. There’s a stop halfway for coffee, snacks, and a restroom break.

After lunch at the camp’s “safe house,” you’ll set off in a 4×4 Jeep for the adventure of a lifetime—passing through the Black Desert first before reaching the surreal landscapes of the White Desert.

It’s not recommended to drive yourself. There are multiple security checkpoints, and without the proper permits or guides, you won’t be allowed to continue. Always go with an authorized tour operator like Badry Sahara Camp.

Why the White Desert Is So Special

The White Desert is famous for its chalky rock formations, shaped by millions of years of wind erosion into incredible natural sculptures—some resembling mushrooms, animals, and giant icebergs scattered across golden sands.

At sunset, the desert glows in shades of orange and pink. At night, the stars shine brighter than anywhere else on Earth. Sleeping under this sky, surrounded by silence, is an unforgettable experience.

It’s no wonder travelers describe it as one of the most magical places in Egypt—and once you’ve been there, you’ll understand why many people, like me, can’t resist staying just a little longer.

Final Thoughts

A trip to Egypt isn’t complete without exploring the White Desert. Whether you go for a night or a few days, it’s a journey that reconnects you with nature and yourself.

With Badry Sahara Camp, you’ll experience adventure, comfort, and genuine hospitality in one of the most otherworldly landscapes on the planet.

So, pack your scarf, your camera, and your sense of wonder—the White Desert of Egypt is waiting to take your breath away.