Sannur Cave (Egypt)

Home of the rarest alabaster formations in the world

Located 10 miles outside of the city of Beni Suef, Sannur Cave was discovered in the 1980's after demolitions exposed an entrance inside of a quarry.  The limestone cave, spanning 700 meters (2,300 ft), is only one chamber and was formed by thermal springs. The cave is only about 15 meters (50 ft) wide, and is filled with a white fine-grained, translucent form of gypsum, known as alabaster. The quality of natural formations and "Egyptian Alabaster" located in the cave are the rarest in the world. The Sannur Cave has provided researchers with detailed studies regarding the environmental conditions that were present during the ancient era. Due to the cave's importance, the prime minister declared it a protectorate (protected land) in 1992.

Reaching Sannur Cave is quite an "off-road" adventure. You are required to traverse 30 km through Cairo's desert and therefore need a jeep or pickup for travel. It is advised that you go with a tour or do extensive research prior to your journey. Although some new roads have been implemented on the way towards Sannur Cave, other roads are very hard to observe and tricky to follow. Furthermore, GPS signals have been known to go out as you approach the cave, so having someone who knows the location may prove to be invaluable. 

Rare "Egyptian Alabaster" on display throughout Sannur Cave

Upon reaching the cave, you'll notice pockets of red soil (terra rossa) and swallow-holes (dolines). You'll encounter an iron ladder that will allow you to climb down from the cave's entrance. Once in, you'll have about a 5 minutes walk until you're at the floor of the cave. You'll instantly be exposed to numerous, beautiful, alabaster formations. Although poorly lit, the beauty of the cave is apparent. 


Why should you visit?

• Rarest Alabaster formations in the world. 
• A protectorate declared by the prime minister.
• A fun adventure through Cairo's desert.