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Discover the Unique Culture of Egypt's Bedouin Tribes
The Bedouin people are nomadic Arab tribes who have settled the deserts of Egypt for centuries. These people are inextricably linked to the desert; a life has evolved which, with its particular traditions, music, food and hospitality, enthralls travellers the world over.
Traditional Bedouin visits to Egypt can teach you about ancient desert life and hospitality in a way that no tourist trap can. Bedouin hospitality is second to none, and guests will typically be offered traditional mint tea, home-made bread, and food cooked on open fires under the stars in a traditionally adorned desert tent.
Visitors can also enjoy:
- Traditional Bedouin music and dancing
- Authentic desert cookery
- Camel trekking tours
- Handicrafts and textile markets
- Bedouin storytelling around campfires
- Stargazing in the tranquil desert night
The most rewarding experience one can have in Egypt has nothing to do with monuments and historical sites, but instead offers an insight into a vastly different way of life and an experience that will create memories for a lifetime.
Best Bedouin Experiences in the Desert of Egypt
With such a large desert space, a Bedouin desert experience in Egypt is readily available in many forms throughout many regions. Here is a selection of areas that are perfect for this cultural immersion:
The Sinai Desert and Mount Sinai
The Bedouin in Sinai are very famous, and guides from Bedouin tribes will offer to escort you through mountain tracks and desert valleys to sites such as the mountain of Sinai itself and the monastery of Saint Catherine.
A popular activity among travellers is spending the night in a traditional Bedouin camp where you will be treated to incredible sunset views before you consume a traditional Bedouin meal and slumber under the stars.
The White Desert and Bahariya Oasis
Egypt's White Desert is one of the country's most impressive natural sites and is another fantastic place to try Bedouin style camping. Many travellers choose to stay in an overnight desert camp, which is arranged by an experienced desert guide and offers you tranquil nights surrounded by fantastic natural white rock formations. The neighbouring Bahariya Oasis offers a more verdant landscape to the desert. Here you will discover the natural springs, palm groves and traditional villages characteristic of this area, and enjoy similar desert hospitality.
Siwa Oasis
Siwa is a truly unique area that sits close to Egypt’s western border, it’s an oasis unlike any other that Egypt has to offer. Siwa has its own distinct culture, desert environment and peaceful pace. Visitors here can experience amazing Bedouin hospitality, the incredible salt lakes that surround the town and also desert trips far into the desolate areas surrounding the oasis. It is even possible to camp within the desert landscape.Siwa is one of the topeco-tourismdestinations within Egypt.
What is a Bedouin Desert Safari
A bedouin desert safari in Egypt is not just about adventure, but about exploring the country's natural splendor and culture. The desert, in fact, offers a rare opportunity to experience quietude and to disconnect from the typical tourist rush and reconnect with nature.
Tourists can ride over endless stretches of desert sands, discover hidden oases, dramatic mountain settings and remote desert paths while learning a great deal about the ways of life of Bedouins, their traditional customs and survival strategies from seasoned bedouin guides.
Most exciting activities included in desert safaris: 4x4 jeep safaris, camel riding, sand boarding in sand dunes, camping and desert adventures, camel and jeep drives to watch sunrise or sunset in the desert, Bedouin dining experiences and tea ceremonies. The Egyptian Desert is one of the best stargazing venues in the world during the night. There are no light pollutions and the sky becomes completely visible to observe numerous stars from within the Sahara desert.
What is the best time for a bedouin experience in Egypt
The best time of year for you to undertake your bedouin desert safari adventure in Egypt is between October and April. These are the coolest months of the year and this type of travel would be more enjoyable in Egypt. Winters are a particularly enjoyable season for people who want to camp in the desert or take a Bedouin desert safari. During these winter months visitors can fully experience hiking, riding their camels and staying around a bonfire in the evenings.
Bedouin Desert Safari Travel Tips for Egypt: Wear light clothing during day and warm layers at night, pack with you sunscreen, sunglasses and scarf for dust, bring your camera and capture the incredible views and remember that booking your safari trip through local reputable guides will guarantee you a wonderful and authentic experience.
