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Total Solar Eclipse, Egypt, August 2027
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A solar eclipse in the deep desert is one of the most magical experiences, only occuring a few times in a lifetime. We were extremely lucky to have witnessed one in March 2006, now there is another one coming on the 2nd August 2027. The path of totality will cross Egypt, with the greatest eclipse (6 minutes 23 seconds!) occurring just before the path reaches the Nile at Sohag, at 10:00UTC (noon local). The sun will be almost overhead at 82 degrees elevation (NASA: Total Solar Eclipse of 2027 Aug 02)
While there are numerous restrictions still in place in Egypt for travel into the deep desert, at present Bahariya Oasis and the adjacent Abu Moharig dunes may be visited without any permits or escorts. Assuming the situation persists, one of the most spectacular viewing spots will be from among the Abu Moharig dunes, a range of elongated seif dunes with interdune corridors extending for nearly 300 kilomertes from north of Baharya to Kharga, about 100 kilometres to the west of the Nile. All things going well, we'll be able to set up a viewing camp the day before. In August at midday cloudless skies are practically guaranteed. The location will have totality at 09:56 UTC, lasting just two seconds less than at the greatest eclipse, but at a magnificent (and secluded) location.
The tradeoff is that it will be extremely hot, temperatures will easily reach 40+ Celsius, which means a very warm night out in the desert, but under a marvelous moonless star filled sky.
While the core trip will be just a couple of days to get to the viewing location and back, the time of year is perfect for this event to be combined with a Red Sea holiday, or perhaps visiting some of the monuments of Egypt (though because of the heat this is not the ideal time). As this is likely to be a very busy time in Egypt, flights, accomodation and transport will need to be booked as soon as possible, correspondingly I will need firm commitment well in advance. Group size will be limited to a maximum of 12 on a first come first served basis.
For information on expected costs, planned dates and any further questions, please send me an email.
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