Dakhla Oasis: The largest Oasis in Egypt
What is the Dakhla Oasis?
The Dakhla Oasis is one of the seven oases of Egypt's Western Desert. It is located in the New Valley Governorate, 375 kilometers (233 mi) from the Nile and 175 kilometers (109 mi) from the Mediterranean Sea. The capital of the governorate, Al-Dakhla, lies at the center of the Egyptian Oases.
The oasis has an area of 21,460 square kilometers (8,280 sq mi), making it by far the largest of Egypt's oases that you will be interested to explore on Egypt tours. Geographically, it consists of a long stretch of black basaltic desert dotted with small depressions that served as ancient lakes in Egypt or swamps. These remnants are now occupied by many towns and villages, which have grown up around springs or wells.
Today, agriculture is an important part of life in the Dakhla Oasis. Crops such as wheat, barley, rice, maize, and cotton are grown in irrigated fields. There are also large date palm plantations. Animal husbandry is another significant activity, with cattle, sheep, and camels being raised. See more in Dakhla Oasis during your Egypt travel packages.
The History of the Dakhla Oasis
Dakhla Oasis is located in the New Valley Governorate of Egypt, between the Nile and the Western Desert. It has an area of 4,000 sq km and a population of around 150,000 people.
The name Dakhla means "the innermost" in Arabic, referring to its location deep in the desert. The oasis was known as the "Southern Oasis" to the ancient Egyptians, who used it as a winter retreat from the heat of the Nile Valley, so you can include it as a winter destination in Egypt luxury tours. It was also known as the "Valley of Bubastis" because one of its towns was the site of an important temple to that goddess.
The history of human settlement in Dakhla Oasis dates back over 12,000 years, making it one of the oldest inhabited places in Egypt. The first settlers were probably drawn by its lush vegetation and plentiful water supplies. Over time, they developed a sophisticated irrigation system that allowed them to grow crops even in the desert climate. Dakhla Oasis is unique in every inch, so why not try these types of Egypt adventure tours?
During the Old Kingdom period (c. 2686-2181 BCE), Dakhla was home to a number of wealthy nobles who built lavish palaces and tombs there you can discover with the customed classic tours in Egypt. During this time, it was also an important center for trade with sub-Saharan Africa. This trade continued during later periods and made Dakhla an important cultural crossroads between Egypt and Africa.
Today, Dakhla Oasis is still home to a thriving community of farmers and artisans who, it has no less important than the popular Siwa Oasis.
What to See in the Dakhla Oasis
The Dakhla Oasis is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Egypt day tours you can visit it from Cairo as it’s a little bit close, so finish Cairo day tours and head to Dakhla Oasis. It is home to many historical and archaeological sites, as well as the natural beauty that you will enjoy in Egypt spiritual tours.
Popular sights in the Dakhla Oasis
The White Desert: The White Desert is a unique landscape that has been created over time by wind and sand. It is a beautiful sight to see, especially at night when the stars are shining overhead. Join our adventure package in Bahriya Oasis that includes a visit to the White desert.
The Black Desert: The Black Desert is another unique landscape in the Dakhla Oasis. It is made up of black volcanic rock and sand and is said to be one of the darkest places on Earth. The Black desert should be included in your budget tours in Egypt.
The Crystal Mountain: The Crystal Mountain is a shimmering crystal marvel of nature. Picnics and photography are both popular activities there.
The Cave of Swimmers is a prehistoric archaeological site that was formerly used as a cemetery. It receives its name from the artwork on the walls representing people swimming.
How to Get to the Dakhla Oasis
Around 500 kilometres from Cairo, in the Western Desert of Egypt, sits the Dakhla Oasis. It is one of the most remote oases in the world and the biggest oasis in Egypt. As there are no roads going to Dakhla, the only ways to travel there after day trips to Cairo or Alexandria day tours are by plane or bus.
El-Ganfouda Airport and El-Waha Airport are the two airports in Dakhla. Whereas El-Waha Airport is situated in the southern region of the oasis, El-Ganfouda Airport is situated in the heart of the oasis. There are frequent flights to and from Cairo from both airports.
Bus travel from Cairo to Dakhla Oasis is the most direct route. Many firms provide daily bus service from Cairo to Dakhla. It takes around 10 hours to travel.
In Egypt's Dakhla oasis, several diverse plant and animal species may be found. Due to the fact that it provides a variety of activities including swimming, hiking, and bird viewing, the oasis is another well-liked tourist spot that is secure for women's travel packages in Egypt. Be sure to include Dakhla on your list of places to visit if you ever find yourself in Egypt!