Experience the Volcanic Splendor of the Black Desert Egypt

What Gives the Black Desert Egypt its Distinct Black Color?

Millions of years ago, the Black Desert of Egypt was actually full of golden sand dunes that looked just like the Sahara or your typical desert landscape. It took the turn to this dramatic black color due to the eruptions of the volcanoes in the region and the particles and sot that ended up giving this powdered black look.

The majestic mountains eroded over thousands of years to completely cover the desert landscape with a thick coat of black power and metallic-looking rocks. If you go to the very edge of the Black Desert, you will find a lot of black volcanic hills that erupted thousands if not millions of years ago. When they erupted, they released a dark volcanic material known as dolerite. This material is what the rocks littered about are made out of. 

When you touch down at the Black Desert, Egypt, it will feel like you entered some kind of extraterrestrial plant. It definitely feels otherworldly. From the powder-stained hills to the obscure wind-swept dunes, the Black Desert in Egypt has a topography unlike anywhere else. 

Best Views Around

Trekking up one of the numerous charcoal mountains will offer you splendid views of the breathtaking natural surroundings. Once upon a time, this area had water and normal orange sandy dunes. Now the area is full of black and even red sand. From atop these hills, feast your eyes on the diverse terrain unlike any other. However, although most of the sand mounds and mountains are not that high compared to, for example, the ones in Sinai or even Siwa, there are a few particular spots that offer high altitudes, so you can see more. 

One of the most spectacular views in the Black Desert, Egypt, can be found only when climbing up the highest point. This highest point is known as the English Mountain, and from atop its peak you will have access to stunning views of the strange landscape stretching out before your eyes. 

If you are not up for the adventure but still want to sneak a glimpse of the whimsical location, you can spot it as you traverse the road between El Bahariya and Farafra. However, if you really want to dive in deep, you should definitely go with a tour guide. This does not necessarily have to be arranged in Cairo. You can plan it from the nearby Bahariya or Farafra. 

Black Desert Egypt Location

The Black Desert is approximately five hours by car from Cairo. It is near the White Desert and offers views and terrains unlike anywhere else in the whole country. It is not for everyone, as it is located in a completely uninhabited area full of arid, very dry lands and extremely hot summer heat. Although it does not look like the typical desert, it definitely follows the climate of one. It gets very chilly in the winter and very hot in the summer, so aim for the in-between spring and fall seasons for the best experience.

How Does the Black Desert in Egypt Differ from the Neighboring White Desert? 

Exactly the opposite color of the nearby White Desert, the Black Desert Egypt stands in complete contrast. Its volcano-like mountains spiral up into the sky, covered with an incredible black color. Is this Egypt or is this Mars? The mountains and floors are littered with tiny black stones over brown sands. 

Unlike the White Desert, the Black Desert has a bunch of soft hills that are easy to climb and offer beautiful views of the desert landscape unfolding below your very eyes. Make sure you snap some photos of the stunning panoramic surreal views below.