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Nestled within the White Desert, approximately 120 km from the Farafra Oasis and 160 km from the Bahariya Oases, lies the magnificent Crystal Mountain. This extraordinary geological wonder is one of the rarest mountains in the world, boasting over 12 types of crystals clustered together in a massive mountain mass.
Formed during the Oligocene age, some 33 million years ago, this hill is a subvolcanic vault that emerged over time. Often referred to as the Jewel of the Desert, Crystal Mountain is primarily composed of quartzite crystals that shimmer beautifully under the sun’s rays.
Interestingly, this natural phenomenon was discovered quite by chance a few decades ago, as locals had been using the minerals to construct a nearby road. When scientists realized the uniqueness of this place, Crystal Mountain was designated a protected area, and today, it is a must-visit destination for desert tours.
Despite its remote location, Crystal Mountain is a popular attraction for tourists and locals alike. Many are drawn to its breathtaking beauty, as the small arch of rock shines brightly in the sun, resembling a crown adorned with thousands of colored gems amidst the desert landscape. However, this popularity has also led to its destruction, as many visitors insist on collecting pieces of the calcite crystals scattered around the mountain. Even some local “guides” and “tour guides” encourage this behavior, seeing it as a hobby to collect colored stones, which has put this treasure at risk of disappearing.
In conclusion, Crystal Mountain is located between the Bahariya and Farafra areas, and due to its remote location, it can only be reached through specialty tours. This unique and rare mountain mass is truly one of the most beautiful mountains in the world, and it is a sight to behold for anyone who appreciates the wonders of nature.
