Introduction to Bahariya Oasis

Located just over 200 miles south west of Cairo lies Bahariya Oasis. Also known as the ‘Northern Oasis’, it is located in a depression covering an area 60 miles by 25 miles and it is the lowest point in Egypt. It is surrounded by black hills which offer panoramic views over the area with villages, large dunes, cultivated land with crops of dates, palms, olives, apricots, rice and corn.

Bahariya is thought to have been the first settlement in Egypt and in the 1990s, a necropolis dating back to Greco-Roman times was discovered.

It is also home to the International Hot Spring Hotel where guests can relax and unwind after spending the day exploring the oasis or on an excursion into the Western Desert.

International Hot Spring Hotel

Located in the Bahariya Oasis, the International Hot Spring Hotel offers visitors an excellent base from where they can explore the Black and White Deserts. It is a small hotel with less than 40 rooms and in the hotel reception area, you will find a hot spring which is reputed to help with joint and skin conditions. Facilities at this family run hotel include a gym, sauna and massages. Meals are generally simple oriental dishes prepared with fresh ingredients taken from the local market.

After a day exploring, the International Hot Spring Hotel is an ideal place to relax at the end of the day.

White Desert

The White Desert takes its name from the large white chalk rock formations and the white/cream coloured panorama. Dramatic rock formations are found throughout the desert which is best viewed at sunrise, sunset or the light of a full moon. The ambient light gives the desert the feel as if you have been transported to another world. There are no settlements or amenities of any description in the White Desert.

Black Desert

The Black Desert can be found 30 miles north of Bahariya and like the White Desert, there are no inhabitants or amenities in the area. The mountains of the Black Desert resemble volcanoes with an abundance of black coloured stones covering the orange/brown ground. The views from the top of these peaks are spectacular and offer wonderful photo opportunities.

To discuss your holiday to Bahariya Oasis and the Western Desert, please call on 0208 816 8789 or email us using the 'Contact Us' page and we'll get right back to you.