Off-Road From Farafra to Dakhla
Off-Road From Farafra To Dakhla
For those with a zest for adventure and time on their hands, the off-road journey from Farafra to Dakhla offers a spectacular two-to-three-day expedition. This route meanders through an ever-changing tapestry of landscapes, offering a glimpse into the heart of Egypt’s diverse terrain.
Setting Out: From Bahariya's Gateway
Safaris often commence from Bahariya, traversing the enchanting White Desert. Alternatively, a more straightforward approach, popular among outfits based in Farafra, involves a 62km road journey to Bir Qarawein. This ancient well, now bolstered by modern boreholes, has transformed the area into a fertile ground for watermelon cultivation, nestled amidst dunes that are a sandboarder’s paradise.
A Colorful Past: Bir Qarawein's Unexpected Crop
The late 1990s boreholes at Bir Qarawein catalyzed an unexpected agricultural venture. Locals, seizing the opportunity, briefly turned to cultivating marijuana, a venture that flourished until it was inadvertently discovered by an army helicopter. This colorful episode in the region’s history adds an intriguing layer to the journey.
Into the Heart of the Dunes
From Qarawein, the journey retraces its steps before diverging onto a track towards the Sweetwater spring of Bir Dikkur. This oasis, distinguishable by two palms and a camel’s skeleton, serves as a gateway into the dune lanes that stretch southeastward. Here, the landscape reveals its dynamic nature, with dunes so vast they have engulfed entire palm groves in their relentless march towards Dakhla Oasis.
A Terrain of Contrasts
As the safari progresses over the next 100 kilometers, it ventures through the Black Valley, a stark landscape strewn with iron pyrites, and the Marble Labyrinth, a challenging terrain known for its tyre-damaging sharp stones. This part of the journey is a testament to the desert’s ability to oscillate between beauty and harshness.
The Grand Finale: Descending to Dakhla
The journey culminates in a dramatic descent from the plateau down to Al-Qasr in Dakhla Oasis. This final leg of the trip offers a breathtaking transition from the rugged highlands to the verdant oasis, marking an epic conclusion to an unforgettable expedition.
Created On March 25, 2020
Updated On January 28, 2024
