Gilf Kebir National Park, National park in New Valley Governorate, Egypt.
Gilf Kebir National Park is a remote desert region dominated by a high sandstone plateau surrounded by vast sand dunes. The park contains several caves with ancient rock art on their walls and scattered rock formations across its expansive landscape.
This region was once home to settled populations during prehistoric times when rainfall and water allowed human communities to thrive. The climate gradually changed over millennia, transforming the landscape into the harsh desert it is today.
The rock paintings in the caves tell stories of people who lived here thousands of years ago through their drawings of daily life. These artworks show hunters, swimmers, and other activities that reveal how ancient communities organized their lives in this desert.
You will need special permits and a four-wheel drive vehicle with an experienced guide to visit this remote area safely. The cooler months are best for exploring since temperatures can become extreme in summer.
The southwestern section of the park contains scattered glass fragments made of pure silica that formed millions of years ago from a cosmic impact. These unusual pieces of natural glass lie scattered across the sand and create a remarkable geological feature.
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