White Desert National Park

White Desert National Park stands out through its setting, defining qualities and wider significance. Sahara el Beyda, the White Desert Protected Area, is a national park in Egypt, first established as a protected area in 2002. It lies in the Farafra depression, 45 km (28 mi) north of the town of Qasr Al Farafra. The park is the site of large white chalk rock formations, created through erosion by wind and sand, "one of the most important karst massifs in the Western Desert. They are made of white calcium, quartz crystals, or limestone. White Desert National Park covers an area of 300 km2 (120 mi2). The highest point in the park is at El Qess Abu Said at 353 m (1,158 ft) above sea level, and the lowest is at Wadi Hennis at 32 m (105 ft).

The park or reserve sits within a broader cultural and ecological region. Communities, conservation authorities and visitor services share responsibility for keeping the landscape viable for both wildlife and travel.

Among its defining features, part of the park is in the Farafra Oasis (New Valley Governorate). Among its defining features, the park is also the site of cliffs (at the northern end of the Farafra Depression), sand dunes (part of the Great Sand Sea), as well as Wadi Hennis and oases at Ain El Maqfi and Ain El Wadi.

Common experiences include guided game drives, birdwatching, nature walks and photography arranged with authorised guides or lodges. Some sites offer boat trips or specialised tracking subject to permits.

Confirm park fees, entry gates, guide requirements, vehicle rules and opening arrangements with the managing authority before travel. Stay on designated tracks and follow ranger instructions at all times.