Families
The White Desert with kids
Yes, the White Desert is a wonderful family trip, and children from about six usually love it: dunes to run down, strange rocks to climb, a campfire, foxes and more stars than they have ever seen. The hard parts are the four-hour drive each way, the cold at night in winter and the lack of toilets. A private trip, a third day with a night in a Bahariya lodge and the right clothes make it easy. Older travellers who can manage uneven ground do it comfortably too.
How young
What age works
From about six, most children cope well with the drive and love the camp. Younger children can go, especially on a private trip with stops when you need them, but the long day and the cold night are harder. Teenagers tend to rate it the best part of an Egypt trip.
Tips
How to make it easy
- 1Go private. Your own 4x4 means stops when the children need them; a family of four to six fills one anyway.
- 2Add a third day. A night in a Bahariya lodge splits the drive and gives time for a warm spring.
- 3Pick the season. October, November, March and April have milder nights than December and January.
- 4Dress them warmly. Hats, fleeces and thermal layers to sleep in; it gets cold fast after sunset.
- 5Bring the familiar. Snacks they like, a torch each, wet wipes and a favourite blanket.
- 6Tell us about food. The cook can make plain dishes for fussy eaters.
Comfort
For older travellers
The 4x4 sections are bumpy, the ground around camp is uneven and the toilet is a walk behind a rock, so you need to be steady on your feet. A three-day trip with a lodge night, a tent with a proper mattress and an early night after dinner make it much more comfortable. Tell us about any health condition in advance. See medical help and safety.
Next steps
Planning a family trip
Read what the camp is like, the packing list and how many days to allow, then tell us the children's ages and your dates.
Asked often
Families, answered
- Is the White Desert suitable for children?
- Yes, especially from about six. The drive is long and nights are cold in winter, so a private trip and warm clothes help.
- Is it safe for kids to camp in the desert?
- Yes, with a licensed team who stay with you all night. Keep an eye on them on the rocks and give each child a torch.
- Can older people visit the White Desert?
- Yes, if they are steady on uneven ground. A three-day trip with a lodge night is the most comfortable way.
- Are there toilets for children?
- Usually not; a walk behind a rock. Some trips bring a small toilet tent, so ask when you book.
- What is the best month for a family trip?
- October, November, March or April, when nights are cool rather than cold.
