Wadi Degla Reserve, New Valley Travel Guide

4.5 (2320)

Discover canyons, fossils, and wildlife in this natural reserve, a quick escape from Cairo's urban landscape.

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Wadi Degla Reserve

Escape the urban sprawl of Cairo and discover the natural beauty of Wadi Degla Reserve. This protected area offers stunning canyons, hiking trails, and a chance to spot unique wildlife, all just a short drive from the city.

A brief summary to Wadi Degla Reserve

W9XG+CW6، Maadi, Qattamiya, Ain Sokhna Road, Cairo, Egypt, Wadi Degla Path, Tura, Cairo Governorate, EG
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Monday 7 am-6 pm
Tuesday 7 am-6 pm
Wednesday 7 am-6 pm
Thursday 7 am-6 pm
Friday 7 am-6 pm
Saturday 7 am-6 pm
Sunday 7 am-6 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Wadi Degla Reserve.

Visit early in the morning to avoid the heat and enjoy quieter trails.
Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are limited facilities within the reserve.
Wear comfortable hiking shoes and sun protection due to the rugged terrain and exposure.
Consider visiting during the cooler months (October to April) for a more pleasant hiking experience.

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Hiking Adventure in the Heart of Cairo

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Getting There

Public Transport

To reach Wadi Degla via public transport, take the Cairo Metro Line 1 to Maadi station. From there, you can either grab a taxi or hop on a microbus heading towards Ain Sokhna Road. A taxi from Maadi station to Wadi Degla will cost approximately 20-30 EGP. Alternatively, the microbus is cheaper (around 5 EGP), but may require a bit of a walk from the drop-off point to the reserve entrance.
Taxi

You can take a taxi directly from anywhere in Cairo to Wadi Degla Reserve. Negotiate the fare beforehand; it should be between 100-150 EGP depending on your location. Ride-sharing apps like Uber or Careem are also available. Be aware that the road gets rough closer to the entrance.

Discover more about Wadi Degla Reserve

Wadi Degla, meaning 'Degla Valley' in Arabic, is a protected area in the Cairo Governorate, designated in 1999. Spanning 60 square kilometers, this desert landscape provides a haven for those seeking respite from Cairo's bustling city life.The reserve's main feature is a 12km canyon carved by water erosion through limestone rock formations dating back to the Eocene Epoch, over 50 million years ago. These formations are rich in fossils, offering a glimpse into the area's ancient marine past. Keep an eye out for petrified wood and the remains of sea creatures embedded in the canyon walls.Wadi Degla is home to a variety of wildlife, including mammals like mountain rabbits, red foxes, and even gazelles. Birdwatchers will appreciate the diverse avian species that inhabit the area, while reptile enthusiasts can search for the 18 recorded species.The reserve offers trails for all skill levels, from easy walks along the main path to more challenging hikes deeper into the canyon. It's a popular spot for picnics, cycling, bouldering, and even camping. The park is open daily from 7 AM to 6 PM.