Volume 2, 10th Edition
September, 2023
Tour Highlights
- Cairo | Giza Pyramids & Sphynx
- Abu Simbel | Temple of Ramessess II and Queen Nefertari
- Luxor | Valley of Kings- King Tut
- Karnak | Karnak Temple
- Aswan | Philae Temple
- Saqqara | Step Pyramid
- Kom Ombo | Temple of Kom Ombo
Table of Contents
Location of the Month
The White Desert
Egypt, a land renowned for its ancient pyramids, timeless temples, and bustling cities, harbors hidden natural wonders that are as captivating as its historical treasures. Among these remarkable gems are the ethereal White Desert and the mystical Crystal Mountain. Join us on a journey to uncover the allure of these surreal landscapes, where nature has painted a masterpiece with the strokes of wind and time.
Nestled deep within the heart of Egypt’s Western Desert, the White Desert is a hauntingly beautiful expanse of chalky-white rock formations, unlike anything you’ve ever seen. This otherworldly landscape stretches over 300 square kilometers and is known for its mesmerizing limestone sculptures, carved by the relentless forces of erosion. The White Desert earned its name from the ghostly white hue of its towering rock formations, resembling a desert draped in a blanket of snow.
Geological Marvels
The White Desert’s dramatic landscape is a result of millions of years of geological processes. The primary geological feature that distinguishes this area is the presence of chalk, a soft and porous rock that has been sculpted into bizarre shapes over millennia. Wind and sand have relentlessly worked together, chiseling away at the chalk to create intricate formations that seem almost alien.
One of the most iconic formations in the White Desert is the “Mushroom Rock,” a tall, slender spire that resembles a mushroom perched precariously on a pedestal. Another striking sight is the “Chicken and Tree” formation, which bears a striking resemblance to a chicken perched next to a tree, despite being entirely natural. These formations serve as a testament to the incredible power of erosion and the wonders it can produce.
A Night Under the Stars
While the White Desert’s daytime beauty is undeniable, its allure deepens as the sun sets and the stars emerge. This remote desert location offers some of the clearest night skies you’ll ever encounter. Far from city lights and pollution, stargazing in the White Desert is a transcendental experience. With a telescope, you can observe celestial wonders, including distant galaxies and nebulae, that are normally hidden from view.
Many tour operators offer overnight camping excursions in the White Desert, allowing you to savor both its daytime splendor and its nocturnal enchantment. Picture yourself sitting around a campfire, surrounded by the surreal white landscape, while the Milky Way stretches overhead, illuminating the night with its cosmic glow. It’s a moment that will etch itself into your memory forever.
The Legends of the White Desert
The White Desert has long held a special place in the mythology and folklore of the region. Bedouin nomads, who have traversed these arid lands for centuries, tell stories of jinn, spirits, and supernatural beings that roam the chalky expanse. They believe that these mystical entities are drawn to the White Desert’s ethereal beauty.
As you explore this haunting terrain, you might feel a sense of wonder and reverence for the unknown. The White Desert’s mystique is not only in its geological marvels but also in the stories and legends that have been passed down through generations.
Crystal Mountain: Nature’s Hidden Treasure
While the White Desert captivates with its snowy landscapes, Crystal Mountain reveals a different kind of enchantment – one that glistens and sparkles under the desert sun. Located not far from the White Desert, Crystal Mountain is a geological wonder that seems straight out of a fairy tale.
A Desert Jewel
Crystal Mountain gets its name from the extraordinary crystals that are embedded in its rocky surface. These crystals, primarily composed of quartz, quartzite, and calcite, catch the sunlight in a dazzling display of colors. As the sun moves across the sky, the mountain’s surface seems to come alive, radiating hues of pink, orange, and green. It’s as though the mountain itself is breathing with life.
The crystals found here are not only a visual delight but also a geological marvel. They formed over millions of years as groundwater seeped into the rock, depositing minerals that gradually crystallized. The result is a breathtaking natural mosaic that is unlike anything you’ve seen before.
The Spiritual Significance
For the local Bedouin communities, Crystal Mountain holds profound spiritual significance. They believe that the crystals possess healing properties and that the mountain itself is a sacred site. Many visitors to Crystal Mountain leave offerings or prayers in recognition of its spiritual importance.
As you stand before this shimmering wonder, you can’t help but feel a sense of reverence for the beauty and mystery of the natural world. The juxtaposition of the arid desert landscape and the radiant crystals serves as a reminder of the Earth’s ability to create beauty in the most unexpected places.
Exploring These Natural Wonders
Visiting the White Desert and Crystal Mountain is an adventure that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. Here are some practical tips for planning your journey:
1. Guided Tours
Both the White Desert and Crystal Mountain are located in remote desert areas, so it’s highly recommended to join a guided tour. Local guides are familiar with the terrain, safety protocols, and can provide you with valuable insights into the history and folklore of these places.
2. Camping
To fully immerse yourself in the desert experience, consider an overnight camping excursion. Camping under the desert sky, whether in a traditional Bedouin-style camp or a modern setup, offers a unique opportunity to connect with the landscape and its mysteries.
3. Packing Essentials
Make sure to pack essentials like sunscreen, plenty of water, sturdy hiking boots, and warm clothing for chilly desert nights. Also, don’t forget your camera to capture the surreal beauty of these landscapes.
4. Respect the Environment
As you explore these fragile ecosystems, be mindful of leaving no trace. Respect the natural environment, avoid disturbing wildlife, and carry out all your trash.
5. Permits and Regulations
Check with local authorities and obtain any necessary permits for visiting these protected areas. Follow all regulations to ensure the preservation of these natural wonders for future generations.
Upcoming Tour Dates
2024 Dates
Oct. 19, 2024 to Nov. 1, 2024
Nov. 09, 2024 to Nov. 22, 2024
Nov. 30, 2024 to Dec. 13, 2024
Limited Spaces
Limited Spaces
2025 Dates
Jan. 11, 2025 to Jan. 24, 2025
Feb. 1, 2025 to Feb. 14, 2025
Feb. 15, 2025 to Feb. 28, 2025
Mar. 1, 2025 to Mar. 14, 2025
Mar. 15, 2025 to Mar. 28, 2025
Apr. 5, 2025 to Apr. 18, 2025
Apr. 19, 2025 to May 2, 2025
Sept. 13, 2025 to Sept. 26, 2025
Oct. 4, 2025 to Oct. 17, 2025
Oct. 18, 2025 to Oct. 31, 2025
Nov. 1, 2025 to Nov. 24, 2025
Nov. 30, 2025 to Dec. 13, 2025
2026 Dates
Sept. 12, 2026 to Sept. 25, 2026
Oct. 3, 2026 to Oct. 16,2026
Oct. 17, 2026 to Oct. 30,2026
Oct. 31, 2026 to Nov. 13, 2026
Nov. 14, 2026 to Nov. 27, 2026
Dec. 05. 2026 to Dec. 18, 2026
Jan. 10, 2026 to Jan. 23, 2026
Jan. 31, 2026 to Feb. 13, 2026
Feb. 14, 2026 to Feb. 27, 2026
Feb. 28, 2026 to Mar. 13, 2026
Mar. 14, 2026 to Mar. 27, 2026
Apr. 4, 2026 to Apr. 17, 2026
Apr. 18, 2026 to May. 1, 2026
Word of the Month
Arabic: “الجمال في الداخل” (Al-Jamal Fi Ad-Dakhil)
English: “Beauty is on the inside.
Monthly Weather
- September is known for its pleasant weather in Egypt, with average temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F).
- Expect mostly sunny days with minimal rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
- Comfortable temperatures for exploring historical sites and taking Nile cruises.
- Warm evenings, perfect for stargazing in the Egyptian desert.
- A light breeze along the coast, making beach outings enjoyable.
Recipe of the Month
Shorbat Adas
A delicious Egyptian lentil soup
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed and drained
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon ground paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves for garnish
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic and continue cooking for another 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
Add the ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, and paprika to the pot. Stir the spices into the onion and garlic mixture, allowing them to toast for about a minute to release their flavors.
Add the rinsed red lentils to the pot and stir well to combine them with the onion and spice mixture.
Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring the soup to a boil. Once it boils, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and fully cooked.
Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, carefully puree the soup until it reaches your desired level of smoothness. If using a regular blender, do this in batches and be cautious with the hot liquid.
Return the soup to the pot and reheat it gently. If it’s too thick, you can add a bit more broth to reach your desired consistency.
Season the Shorbat Adas with salt and pepper to taste. Squeeze in the juice of one lemon and stir to incorporate the citrusy flavor.
Serve the Shorbat Adas hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro leaves, and offer lemon wedges on the side for those who’d like an extra zesty kick.
Enjoy this comforting Egyptian lentil soup as a delightful appetizer or a hearty main course, accompanied by some warm bread. It’s a taste of Egypt’s culinary warmth and tradition in every spoonful.
