Categories
Desert Safari

Eid Mubarak Safari 2025

Eid Safari in Western Desert – March 31st – April 4th, 2025

Join us for 4 nights, 5 days out of Cairo for our newest program in the Western Desert of Egypt.

Day 1: Pick-up in Cairo 2PM, 4.5 hour drive just past Baharya Oasis to our land in Al Haiz. After dinner you will settle in rooms.

Day 2: 7AM wake-up to hot coffee, fruit and biscuits while the crew prepare breakfast and the cars. We will take a quick tour of the local village and visit a hot spring, returning to Al Haiz for breakfast. Final packing of luggage into the 4×4’s.
11AM we start our journey off-road in the Black Desert, Village of Rees and the local hot spring, ancient Roman Winery. Heading north through Black Desert, up the escarpment towards the gorgeous El Gerrenat mountainous area for lunch. We will pack up lunch and continue towards Abu Muharrik sand dunes (Father of Dunes) with several points of interest along the way and photo and discovery stops until we find our camp spot for the night.
Bedouin BBQ dinner, campfire, music and stargazing.

Day 3: 7AM sunrise in the dunes, with the long shadows and picturesque landscapes, we will pack up camp, and have a hot breakfast. Continuing to head southwest through the dunes, to Djara Cave; the largest of its kind in Egypt, this underground cave is approximately 20 meters down soft sand to arrive at a massive cavern full of stalactites, stalagmites and petroglyphs. 

As you tour the cave, our crew will prepare a hot lunch outside the cave, where we will eat, have hot tea/coffee before we continue on.
After a short time on the asphalt, a quick rest stop to re-fuel, grab snacks or use the restroom.
We will head off-road again, passing through a very unique area of ‘watermelon stones’. Our journey continues north west through Caraween dunes, for an afternoon of riding the dunes, sand boarding, until we find the perfect spot to set-up camp for the night.
Bedouin BBQ dinner, campfire, music and stargazing.

Day 4: 7AM sunrise in the dunes, time for a walk up the dunes for pictures or sand boarding, while we pack up camp, and have a hot breakfast. Once camp is down and packed up, we will arrive at the southend of the White desert. We will spend the next few hours discovering the large wind-swept rock formations, stoping to walk and take pictures.
As we leave the White Desert, we will be on the asphalt for a short while until we hit Aguabat Valley where we will find a nice lunch spot in this area. Final stop is Crystal Mountain, a massive Quartz crystal area for discovery.
We will head back to Al Haiz Oasis Ecolodge, unpack while everyone settles into their rooms for a hot shower and a restful time until dinner is served, followed by a Bedouin party!

Day 5: Good morning! Last breakfast with us at 10AM, enjoy the fresh spring pool, the animals on the farm, or relax in the sunshine. We will be back in the 4×4;s to head north for a tour of Baharyia Oasis.
We will visit important points of interest including: English Mountain, Pyramid Mountain, Golden Mummies museum (from the pharaonic time period), tour through the massive Date Palm groves of the Oasis and arrive at the Salt Lake for lunch, until the mini-bus picks up by 5PM. Arriving in Cairo by 10PM.


Safari Includes:
Transportation from Cairo return, 4×4 cars, English speaking guides, Bedouin chef, room for 2 nights in Al Haiz Oasis Ecolodge. 3 meals a day: including hot beverages, water, juice and snacks. Camping gear: Personal tents, plush sleeping bag, mattress, warm camel blankets, Military and park permission. Please note, gratuities are not included but much appreciated for the staff.
Total Cost: $100 per person, per day = $500USD
Contact on WHATSAPP: Abdu Shaban +20 100 9510219 (Arabic) 
Joanne Clayton +20 0112 2160147 (English)
Visit our website to make a deposit to secure your spot: www.alhaizoasis.com
 

Categories
Baharyia Oasis

The Healing Waters of Baharyia Oasis

The Healing Waters of Bahariya Oasis: A Natural Sanctuary for Health and Wellness
Al Haiz Oasis offers tailored treatments, combining hydrotherapy with desert excursions for a holistic retreat.

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Nestled in Egypt’s Western Desert, the Bahariya Oasis is a hidden gem renowned for its thermal waters, which have been celebrated for centuries for their remarkable therapeutic properties. These mineral-rich springs, emerging from deep within the earth, offer a unique blend of warmth and natural chemistry, making them a sought-after destination for those seeking relief from various ailments. Let’s explore the science and tradition behind their healing power.

Mineral Composition: Nature’s Pharmacy  

The thermal waters of Bahariya are infused with a potent mix of minerals, including sulfur, iron,  and magnesium each contributing distinct health benefits. These elements work synergistically with the water’s naturally warm temperature (typically between 35°C to 45°C) to create a therapeutic environment that promotes healing and relaxation.

Therapeutic Applications of Bahariya’s Thermal Waters

1. Muscle Relaxation: Warmth and Magnesium Unite 

The heat of the water penetrates deep into muscle tissue, alleviating tension and stress by increasing blood flow and reducing stiffness. Magnesium, a mineral crucial for muscle function, enhances this effect by aiding in the relaxation of muscle fibers and preventing cramps. This combination makes the waters ideal for athletes, individuals with chronic pain, or anyone seeking post-stress recovery.

2. Skin Health: Sulfur’s Restorative Power 

Sulfur, a cornerstone of the oasis’s waters, is renowned for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps combat skin conditions like acne by unclogging pores and reducing bacteria, while its soothing effects alleviate inflammation in eczema and psoriasis. Regular immersion can promote smoother, healthier skin, drawing visitors seeking natural dermatological solutions.

3. Enhanced Circulation: Iron and Heat Synergy 

The warm water induces vasodilation, improving blood flow and oxygenation throughout the body. While the role of iron here is more symbolic (as topical absorption is minimal), its presence underscores the water’s mineral richness. The improved circulation aids in detoxification, accelerates healing, and may benefit those with mild circulatory issues.

4. Joint and Arthritis Relief: Buoyancy and Anti-Inflammatory Action  

The buoyancy of the water reduces pressure on joints, allowing for pain-free movement, while sulfur’s anti-inflammatory properties target conditions like arthritis and rheumatism. This natural remedy offers respite from stiffness and swelling, making it a haven for elderly visitors or those with chronic joint pain.

Historical and Cultural Significance 

For millennia, the thermal springs of Bahariya have been a wellness cornerstone for local communities and travelers. Ancient Egyptians likely valued these waters for their restorative qualities, a tradition upheld today by modern visitors. The oasis itself, with its lush palm groves and stark desert contrasts, adds a serene backdrop to the healing experience.

Experiencing the Waters: A Traveler’s Guide 

Bahariya Oasis hosts several spas and open-air pools where visitors can immerse themselves in the therapeutic waters. Popular sites include Bir Sigam a sulfur-rich spring, and Bir Al-Ghaba, known for its high iron content. Al Haiz Oasis offers tailored treatments, combining hydrotherapy with desert excursions for a holistic retreat.

A Natural Oasis of Renewal  

The thermal waters of Bahariya Oasis stand as a testament to nature’s ability to heal and rejuvenate. Whether seeking relief from physical ailments or a tranquil escape, these mineral springs offer a timeless remedy. As both a scientific marvel and a cultural treasure, Bahariya invites the world to discover its restorative embrace—one soak at a time. 

Plan your journey to Bahariya Oasis, where ancient wellness meets the serenity of the desert. 🌿✨

Bahariya Oasis, Egypt offers mineral-rich thermal waters (sulfur, iron, magnesium) with therapeutic benefits: relieves muscle/joint pain, improves circulation, treats skin conditions (acne, eczema), and promotes relaxation. Warm, buoyant springs reduce inflammation and enhance healing, drawing visitors to this desert sanctuary for natural wellness. 🌿✨

Categories
Desert Safari

Celestial Symphony in the Desert

On January 25th, a rare planetary alignment will grace the night sky, featuring Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn clustered together after sunset. Visible to the naked eye, in the vast expanse of Egypt’s Western Desert,
this celestial event will offer a stunning visual display.

Their positioning will create the illusion of cosmic choreography. Alignments like these are relatively rare and bring an aura of mystery and fascination, as ancient cultures often associated them with pivotal changes or moments of great significance.

Astrology views such alignments as amplifiers of planetary energies. Mercury, the planet of communication, might stir deep conversations. Venus, shining brightly, symbolizes love and beauty, while Mars energizes with its fiery passion. Jupiter’s presence brings expansion and wisdom, while Saturn offers lessons in discipline and resilience. Together, they create a dynamic mix of energies, sparking reflection on personal and collective paths.

Travel the dunes by day and camp under the expansive sky at night, warm up by the fire and enjoy the Bedouin food, music and hospitality.

This 2 night safari will have many points of time to meditate, take a contemplative walk, discover ancient desert tools and travel over the smooth sands in 4×4’s with awe.

Solo travelers welcome!

Pickup Cairo 8AM Saturday Jan 25th Cilantro Cafe Moustafa Mahmoud Sq. toward Baharyia Oasis SW.  3 hours. Transfer to 4×4 cars and head into Abu Muharrik Dunes. 2 nights camping with Djara Cave on day 2 and White Desert on Day 3. Returning to Cairo Monday Jan 27th, 8PM.


All inclusive of meals, camping gear, park permits, bottled water. 
$350 USD _ 335€ _ 14,000le for Egyptian

WhatsApp:
Abdu Shaban (Arabic/English) +20 0100 9510219
Joanne Clayton (English) +20 0112 2160147

Categories
Desert Safari

8 Nights Cairo, Fayoum, White Desert

Itinerary for 8 Nights 9 days 2024/25 Season

Cairo –  2 nights

Western Desert Safari – 3 nights

Al Haiz Oasis – 2 nights

Fayoum Desert and Oasis- 1 night

Day 1

Pickup at Cairo International airport to hotel 

  • Mohammed Ali Mosque, Citadel
  • Dinner on Nile in Zamelek
  • Hotel downtown

Day 2

Full day in Cairo – Early breakfast 7AM 

  • Car to Pyramids of Giza – climb inside of Khufu must be done early before lineups form 
  • Lunch in Giza
  • Civilization Museum in Tahrir Square or GEM museum in Giza
  • Khan el Khalili Souk & dinner at Nageb Mahfouz Egyptian Restaurant (live music)
  • Hotel in Giza

Day 3 

  • Saqqara Necropolis in morning
  • Drive to Fayoum in afternoon
  • Visit Qaran Lake, Tunis Village, pottery lesson
  • Hotel in Tunis Village

Day 4

  • Visit to Wadi el Hitan Museum (Valley of the Whales)
  • Wadi el Ryan (waterfalls)
  • Magic Lake
  • Move south through Fayoum Desert to Abu Muharrik Dune Belt
  • Camping in Abu Muharrik Dunes

Day 5 

  • 7AM sunrise in dunes with coffee and fruit
  • Time here while we pack up camp, load the car and prepare breakfast 8AM
  • Continue in 4×4 through Abu Muharrik
  • Spend the day in one the longest moving dune belt in the world (600+kms) , with many interesting discovery spots
  • Sand boarding
  • Stone age tools area 

Day 6 

  • 7AM sunrise with coffee and fruit
  • You will have time to walk around, relax while we prepare breakfast 8AM
  • Djara Cave for lunch – hidden underground cave with many stalactites and stalagmites
  • Find perfect camp spot, enjoy sunset while camp is set-up 
  • Bedouin BBQ, campfire and music under the stars

Day 7 

  • Visit Magic spring – ancient Roman Spring – time to wash and refresh
  • New White desert, Old White Desert with many interesting large wind-swept rock formations
  • Crystal Mountain – time here for discovery of quartz crystal area, climb up into cave
  • Dinner in and room in Al Haiz Lodge

Day 8 

  • Tour of Rees Village – Ancient Roman Winery, Hot Springs, local dunes
  • Black Desert
  • Baharyia Oasis Tour – English Mountain, Pyramid Mountain, Salt Lake for sunset
  • Dinner in local House
  • Back to Al Haiz Lodge

Day 9 Nov 9

  • Breakfast in Al Haiz Oasis
  • Local tour (if time permitting) of hot springs in Tabl Amoun
  • Back to airport in Cairo

185E /person per day = … x 9 days =  ( 2 people = 3330 Euro) 

Itinerary includes:

  • All transportation- pickup in Cairo International Airport and return  
  • All hotels in Cairo and Fayoum
  • Full board: 3 meals a day, bottled water, hot beverages, fresh local fruits, vegetables and organic meats, snacks
  • camping gear in desert
  • Egyptologist Guide in Cairo
  • Natural Park permits and military permissions
  • Solar light panels, GPS marking equipment, satellite phone, USB charging ports in car
  • Bedouin chef 
  • 1 4×4 Landcruiser from Cairo the whole trip

 Itinerary excludes:

  • Tomb, temple or museum entrance fees
  • Personal purchases or additional snacks
  • Alcohol 
  • Gratuities for any team member

25% deposit required 1 weeks from arrival 

Don’t forget: headlamp, power-bank, bathing suit for springs,  travel towel, wet wipes, sun hat/scarf for wind and sand, sunscreen, clothes in layers, light winter jacket for wind and cooler nights, Merino wool base layers and toque are ideal at night in desert. 

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