Gilf Kebir National Park Travel Guide

Discover the beauty of Gilf Kebir National Park in Egypt with this comprehensive travel guide. Find out about the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, transportation options, and more.


Introduction to Gilf Kebir National Park

Located in the Western Desert of Egypt, Gilf Kebir National Park is a stunningly beautiful and remote wilderness area that is a must-visit for any adventurous traveler. Covering an area of over 7,000 square kilometers, the park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including desert foxes, hyenas, camels, and a variety of bird species.

Gilf Kebir National Park is also home to some fascinating geological features, such as the sand dunes of the Great Sand Sea, high plateaus and rock formations, and hidden canyons and valleys. The park is also rich in ancient history and is home to important archaeological sites like the Cave of the Swimmers.

List of Places to Visit in Gilf Kebir National Park

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Cave of the Swimmers: A famous cave that features prehistoric paintings of human figures swimming, likely dating back to the Stone Age.
  • Nabta Playa: A prehistoric site containing megalithic structures and stone circles that may have been used for astronomical observations.
  • Wadi Sura: A rocky valley that features more prehistoric paintings, including depictions of giraffes, elephants, and people.

Natural Attractions of Gilf Kebir National Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Great Sand Sea: A vast sea of sand dunes that stretches for hundreds of kilometers and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Jabal Arkenu: A towering plateau that rises above the surrounding desert and offers incredible views of the park.
  • The Gilf Kebir Plateau: A high plateau that features rugged cliffs and stunning canyons.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Gilf Kebir National Park

  • The Gilf Kebir Plateau Trail: A challenging hike that takes you through some of the park’s most rugged terrain.
  • The Great Sand Sea Trail: A thrilling journey through the park’s vast sea of sand dunes.
  • The Cave of the Swimmers Trail: A moderate hike to one of the park’s most important archaeological sites.

Best Things to Do in Gilf Kebir National Park: Activities and Tours

  • Camel safari: Explore the park on the back of a camel and experience the desert like a true Bedouin.
  • Nighttime stargazing: Experience the vastness of the desert night sky with a nighttime stargazing tour.
  • Jeep safari: Explore the park’s most rugged terrain with a guided jeep safari tour.

Week-Long Itinerary for Gilf Kebir National Park

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrival in Gilf Kebir National Park, check-in at hotel or guesthouse
Day 2 Camel safari to Wadi Sura and the Cave of the Swimmers
Day 3 Jeep safari to Jabal Arkenu and the Gilf Kebir Plateau
Day 4 Hiking the Great Sand Sea Trail
Day 5 Relaxation day at a local guesthouse or hotel
Day 6 Nighttime stargazing tour
Day 7 Departure from Gilf Kebir National Park

Food and Drink Scene of Gilf Kebir National Park

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ful medames: A savory bean stew made with fava beans and served with pita bread.
  • Karkadeh: A refreshing hibiscus tea that is popular throughout Egypt.
  • Taameya: Similar to falafel, taameya is a deep-fried fava bean patty that is often served with salad and tahini sauce.

Local Beverages

  • Tea: Tea is a staple in Egyptian culture and is often served with meals or enjoyed as a social activity with friends and family.
  • Dukkah: A popular condiment made with ground nuts and spices that is often enjoyed with bread and olive oil.
  • Mango juice: Egypt is famous for its delicious mangoes, and mango juice is a refreshing way to beat the desert heat.

Where to Stay in Gilf Kebir National Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Desert Lodge: This luxurious lodge features comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, and stunning views of the surrounding desert.
  • Al Wardah Lodge: A cozy guesthouse with comfortable rooms and a friendly staff.
  • Bahariya Lodge: This rustic lodge offers affordable rooms and easy access to the park’s most popular attractions.

What to Buy in Gilf Kebir National Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Bedouin jewelry: Handmade jewelry is a popular souvenir in Egypt, and Bedouin jewelry is some of the most unique and beautiful.
  • Hand-woven carpets: Carpets and rugs are another popular souvenir, and many are handmade by local artisans.
  • Spices and herbs: Egypt is known for its exotic spices and herbs, and bringing some home is a great way to remember your trip.

Local Culture and Customs of Gilf Kebir National Park

The local culture in Gilf Kebir National Park is heavily influenced by Bedouin traditions, and visitors should be respectful of these traditions at all times. It is also important to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

Best Time to Visit Gilf Kebir National Park

The best time to visit Gilf Kebir National Park is in the winter months between November and February when the temperatures are cooler and more comfortable. However, it can still get quite cold at night, so visitors should bring warm clothing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Gilf Kebir National Park

Do:

  • Respect local culture and traditions
  • Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites
  • Bring plenty of sunscreen and water

Don’t:

  • Go off-trail or damage the fragile desert ecosystem
  • Take photos of people without their permission
  • Participate in any activities that harm wildlife

Safety and Health

Safety in Gilf Kebir National Park

Gilf Kebir National Park is a remote and rugged wilderness area, and visitors should take appropriate safety precautions. It is recommended to visit with a licensed guide and to not venture off-trail or into unknown areas.

Health in Gilf Kebir National Park

Visitors to Gilf Kebir National Park should take precautions to avoid heatstroke and dehydration. It is important to drink plenty of water and bring sunscreen and a hat to protect against the sun.

Getting to Gilf Kebir National Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Visitors can fly into Aswan or Bahariya Oasis and then take a taxi or shuttle to the park. It is also possible to join organized tours from major cities like Cairo and Luxor.

Airports Near Gilf Kebir National Park

  • Aswan International Airport
  • Bahariya Oasis Airport

Bus Stations Near Gilf Kebir National Park

  • Bahariya Oasis Bus Station

Other Options

  • Private car or taxi: Hiring a private car or taxi is also an option, but it can be expensive.

How to Get Around in Gilf Kebir National Park

The best way to get around in Gilf Kebir National Park is by guided tour or 4x4 vehicle rental. Visitors can also explore the park on foot or by camel, but this is only recommended for experienced hikers and travelers.

Where to Go Next from Gilf Kebir National Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Siwa Oasis: A remote oasis that is home to ancient ruins, hot springs, and traditional mud-brick houses.
  • Bahariya Oasis: A popular starting point for exploring the Black and White Deserts of Egypt.
  • Cairo: The bustling capital of Egypt is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history and culture.

Conclusion

Gilf Kebir National Park is a unique and beautiful wilderness area that is sure to appeal to adventurous travelers. With its rich history, stunning scenery, and abundant wildlife, there is something for everyone in this remote corner of Egypt. Whether you’re a hiker, a history buff, or just looking for a peaceful escape from the crowds, Gilf Kebir National Park is the perfect destination.

South side of Gilf Kebir Plateau South side of Gilf Kebir Plateau View from the Gilf Kebir ridge to the south into wadi Sura View from the Gilf Kebir ridge to the south into wadi Sura Yardangs near the Eight Bells WWII air field Yardangs near the Eight Bells WWII air field Wadi Hamra Wadi Hamra