Things To Do
in Al Qaşr

Al Qaşr is a small town located in the Dakhla Oasis region of Egypt, known for its rich history and beautiful mud-brick architecture. The town offers a picturesque glimpse into traditional Egyptian life, with its narrow streets and local markets. Al Qaşr is surrounded by stunning desert landscapes, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both culture and adventure.

Visitors can explore ancient ruins and enjoy the serene atmosphere of the oasis.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Al Qaşr
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Al Qaşr Museum to learn about the local history and culture.

afternoon
:

Take a walking tour of the old town to admire the traditional mud-brick architecture and visit local artisan shops.

evening
:

Enjoy a sunset dinner at a local restaurant where traditional dishes are served.

day 2
Day 2: Oasis Adventure
morning
:

Embark on a guided tour to explore nearby palm groves and ancient ruins.

afternoon
:

Visit the local market to sample street food and shop for handicrafts.

evening
:

Relax at a local coffee house and experience the social atmosphere of the town.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$5
Coffee at a Cafe$2
🚕Taxi Ride (Short Distance)$3
🛍️Souvenir Shopping$10
🏨Budget Hotel Night$20

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history
  • Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities
  • Authentic local experiences and traditional food
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Extreme temperatures in summer
  • Access to some amenities may be restricted
  • "السلام عليكم" - Peace be upon you
  • "شكرا" - Thank you
  • "من فضلك" - Please
  • "نعم" - Yes
  • "لا" - No

Places to Visit in Al Qaşr

Visit one of these nice places.

Al Qaşr Old Town

Capture the essence of traditional Egyptian life with its narrow streets and historic mud-brick buildings.

Desert Landscapes

The surrounding desert offers stunning views and dramatic sunsets, perfect for landscape photography.

Local Market

Photograph the vibrant colors and bustling atmosphere of the market filled with local produce and crafts.

Culinary Guide

Food in Al Qaşr

Al Qaşr boasts a vibrant culinary scene that reflects the flavors of the Dakhla Oasis. Visitors can indulge in traditional Egyptian dishes that are rich in spices and ingredients sourced from the oasis.

Al Qaşr Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Koshari

A hearty dish made with rice, lentils, pasta, and topped with spicy tomato sauce.

Must-Try!

Fatta

A festive dish of rice, bread, and meat, usually served during special occasions.

Ta'ameya

Egyptian falafel made from fava beans, served with tahini sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Al Qaşr Market

A lively market where you can find fresh produce, local spices, and street food vendors offering delicious snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Al Qaşr experiences a hot desert climate, with very hot summers averaging above 40°C (104°F) and mild winters averaging around 15°C (59°F). Rainfall is scarce, mostly occurring in winter, while summer can have dry winds. The best times to visit are during spring and autumn when temperatures are more moderate.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress Modestly

Visitors are encouraged to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

Respect Local Customs

Show respect for local traditions and practices, particularly during Ramadan.

Greetings

A friendly handshake is common, but be mindful of cultural norms regarding gender interactions.

Safety Guide

Safety

Al Qaşr is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid traveling alone at night and be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas. Always stay informed about local conditions and respect any travel advisories.

Tipping in Al Qaşr

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip service providers, typically around 10-15% for restaurants and small amounts for guides.

Payment Methods

Cash is preferred, but some larger establishments may accept credit cards. Ensure to have local currency.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures make it an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploration.

Summer

Hot and dry conditions; visitors should plan for early morning or late afternoon excursions.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures return, providing pleasant weather for sightseeing.

Winter

Mild weather but can get cold at night; ideal for desert camping.

Nightlife Guide

Al Qaşr at Night

Al Qaşr's nightlife is relatively low-key, with a focus on social gatherings in cafes and local eateries. Visitors can enjoy traditional music and dance performances on special occasions, and some cafes may feature live music. The atmosphere is family-friendly, with most activities winding down by midnight.

Hiking in Al Qaşr

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

White Desert Trail

A stunning hiking trail that leads through unique chalk rock formations in the White Desert, offering breathtaking views.

Mountain of the Dead Trail

An adventurous hike that takes you to ancient burial sites with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Airports

How to reach Al Qaşr by plane.

Kharga Airport

The nearest airport located approximately 100 km from Al Qaşr, primarily serving domestic flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Al Qaşr is a walkable town with narrow streets and a compact layout. Most attractions, markets, and restaurants are within walking distance, allowing visitors to easily explore on foot. However, comfortable footwear is recommended due to uneven surfaces.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Bedouins

A nomadic group traditionally living in the desert, known for their rich cultural heritage and hospitality.

Local Farmers

Residents engaged in agriculture, benefiting from the oasis' fertile land, growing dates and other crops.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is highly popular in the region, with local teams and community matches frequently held.

Camel Racing

An exciting traditional sport that showcases the local culture and attracts visitors during racing events.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Al Qaşr is minimal, making it easy to navigate the town by foot or bicycle. Public transportation options are limited, but taxis and microbuses are available for longer distances. Visitors should expect a relaxed pace compared to larger cities.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Al Qaşr.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local dishes can be adapted to suit vegetarian diets, but it's advisable to communicate your needs clearly.

Halal Food

All food in Al Qaşr is halal, making it suitable for Muslim travelers.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Al Qaşr are limited, with basic clinics available for minor ailments. For more serious medical needs, traveling to larger cities like Kharga is advisable. It is recommended for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Egypt

Read more in our Egypt 2025 Travel Guide.

Egypt Travel Guide