Dakhla oasis near Luxor

The Dakhla oasis is located 350 kilometres south-west of Luxor. It is one of the most important oases in the region, distinguished by its natural beauty and fascinating history.

Situated in Egypt’s Western Desert, Dakhla offers spectacular desert scenery. Golden sand dunes, rugged mountains and verdant palm trees give the place an exceptional atmosphere.

The star attraction that draws most people to the region is the presence of an underground source of fresh water that allows fertile land and lush vegetation to flourish in the very heart of the desert.

History of the Dakhla oasis

The Dakhla oasis has a rich history dating back to ancient times. It played an essential role as a crossing point on the trade route linking sub-Saharan Africa to ancient Egypt. Archaeological remains bear witness to this historical importance, including temples, citadels, Coptic churches and traditional houses. Among the sites worth visiting are Deir El Hagar, a remarkably well-preserved Roman temple, and Al-Qasr, a medieval village built of adobe.

Things to do in the Dakhla oasis

In addition to its cultural heritage, Dakhla offers a wealth of opportunities for outdoor activities. Visitors can go hiking in the desert, explore the dunes in a 4×4, go quad biking or enjoy a camel ride. Birdwatchers can observe a wide variety of migratory birds in the surrounding area. The oasis also offers a peaceful setting and a starry night sky, ideal for relaxing and recharging your batteries.

Although the Dakhla oasis has a limited tourist infrastructure, there are hotels and campsites offering comfortable accommodation. But most tourists prefer to stay in a hotel in Luxor and head to the oasis for a day trip, which is what we recommend.

When to visit the oasis

The best time to visit Dakhla is during the winter months (October to April), when temperatures are milder. The summer months can be extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 40 degrees Celsius.

How do I get from Luxor to the Dakhla oasis?

To get to the Dakhla oasis from Luxor, you can follow these directions:

By car

The most common and recommended method is by road. From Luxor, you should head west along the Luxor-El Kharga road. The distance between Luxor and Dakhla is around 500 kilometres, and the journey can take around 6 hours depending on road and traffic conditions.

By bus

There are regular bus services between Luxor and Dakhla. You can check with the bus station in Luxor for timetables and fares. However, please note that buses can be less frequent and slower than private cars and it will take you a day on the wheel alone to reach the Dakhla oasis.

Whichever transport option you choose, it’s best to plan your journey in advance, allow for refuelling stops and check road conditions, especially if you plan to travel outside the winter months. It is also advisable to bring a map, GPS or ask for precise directions to ensure you find your way to the Dakhla oasis safely.