Wadi Al-Hitan: Valley of the Whales
Explore Wadi Al-Hitan: A UNESCO site revealing the evolution of whales through remarkable fossils in Egypt's Western Desert.
Wadi Al-Hitan, or Whale Valley, is a paleontological site in the Faiyum Governorate of Egypt, about 150 km southwest of Cairo. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it contains a remarkable collection of early whale fossils, showcasing their transition from land-dwelling mammals to marine creatures. The site features skeletons of archaeoceti, an extinct suborder of whales, some with hind limbs, providing invaluable insights into whale evolution.
A brief summary to وادي الحيتان
- وادى الحيتان, مركز يوسف الصديق, Faiyum Governorate, EG
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during the cooler months (October to April) for more comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds.
- Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the desert sun.
- Wear light, comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain.
- Respect the site by not touching the fossils and sticking to designated paths.
- Consider an overnight camping trip to experience the desert's tranquility and stargaze.
Getting There
-
Driving
From Cairo, take a private car or taxi southwest towards Faiyum. The journey to Faiyum is approximately 100 km and takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Once in Faiyum, follow the road towards Wadi El-Rayan. From Wadi El-Rayan, continue on an unpaved road for about 40 km to reach Wadi Al-Hitan. It's recommended to use a 4x4 vehicle due to the desert terrain. Hiring a 4x4 with a driver in Faiyum is also an option. Entrance fees to Wadi Al-Hitan and the Climate Change Museum are approximately $15 USD per person.
Discover more about وادي الحيتان
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
وادي الحيتان
0.0 km
Explore Wadi Al-Hitan: A UNESCO site revealing the evolution of whales through remarkable fossils in Egypt's Western Desert.
Jabal El Medawara
31.5 km
Discover breathtaking desert views and tranquil hiking at Jabal El Medawara in Faiyum, Egypt. A perfect escape into nature's beauty.
Wadi El Rayan Lake
35.8 km
Discover Wadi El Rayan Lake: Egypt's stunning desert oasis with waterfalls, wildlife, and ancient history in the heart of Fayoum.
Wadi El Rayan Fayoum Falls
37.2 km
Discover Egypt's only waterfalls at Wadi El Rayan, a stunning desert oasis with lakes, dunes, and unique wildlife in Fayoum Governorate.
شلالات وادي الريان
37.3 km
Discover the beauty of Wadi El Rayan Waterfalls, a unique desert oasis in Fayoum, Egypt, offering stunning landscapes and refreshing activities.
Mangrove Camp Fayoum
40.2 km
Escape to a tranquil lakeside oasis at Mangrove Camp Fayoum, offering nature, relaxation, and cultural experiences near Cairo.
Euhemeria - Qasr el-Banat
50.0 km
Explore Euhemeria - Qasr el-Banat, a captivating archaeological site in Faiyum showcasing Egypt's rich history and stunning landscapes.
تنظيم رحلات الفيوم بحيره قارون وادي الريان وادي الحيتان
69.5 km
Discover Fayoum: Explore ancient wonders, stunning lakes, and unique desert landscapes in Egypt's largest natural oasis.
Umm El Baragat
72.0 km
Discover Umm El Baragat: An ancient Egyptian statue offering a serene and authentic historical experience in Faiyum Governorate.
سواقي الهدير
78.1 km
Discover the historic Roaring Waterwheels (سواقي الهدير) in Fayoum, Egypt—an ancient irrigation marvel blending natural beauty with rich cultural heritage.
Pyramid of Amenemhat III at Hawara
83.2 km
Explore the Pyramid of Amenemhat III at Hawara, a window into the architecture and ingenuity of ancient Egypt's Middle Kingdom.
Labyrinth
83.2 km
Explore the enigmatic ruins of the Labyrinth of Faiyum, a testament to ancient Egyptian ingenuity and a site that once rivaled the pyramids.
معبد حريشيف
88.9 km
Explore the ancient wonders of معبد حريشيف in Beni Suef, a captivating gateway to Egypt's rich history and culture.
Unmissable attractions to see
Wadi Hitan National Park
1.9 km
Explore Wadi Hitan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and witness the fascinating fossil history of ancient marine life in stunning desert landscapes.
Magic lake camp
31.5 km
Experience nature's embrace at Magic Lake Camp in Faiyum, offering serene landscapes, diverse wildlife, and a magical outdoor adventure.
Sand boarding faiyum
32.3 km
Experience the thrill of sandboarding amidst the breathtaking dunes of Faiyum, a unique adventure in Egypt's stunning desert landscape.
Wadi El Rayan
35.8 km
Discover the serene beauty of Wadi El Rayan, a stunning desert oasis in Egypt, featuring breathtaking lakes and diverse wildlife for an unforgettable adventure.
Entry gate Wadi Rayan Falls
35.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Wadi Rayan Falls, a natural landmark in Egypt, offering stunning vistas and serene landscapes for nature lovers.
Qasr Qaroun Temple
39.7 km
Explore Qasr Qaroun Temple, a breathtaking historical landmark in Faiyum, where ancient architecture meets the serene beauty of the desert.
Wadi el Rayan Gates
40.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Wadi el Rayan Gates, a stunning natural park in Egypt's Faiyum Governorate, filled with waterfalls and diverse wildlife.
وادي الريان
43.5 km
Explore Wadi Al Raian, a stunning park in Faiyum, Egypt, known for its breathtaking landscapes, wildlife, and serene natural beauty.
Tarek Sailing Boat طارق للمراكب الشراعية
46.0 km
Explore the serene waters of Qarun Lake with Tarek Sailing Boat, offering a picturesque adventure amidst Egypt's natural beauty.
Explore Fayoum
46.1 km
Explore Fayoum, Egypt: A captivating oasis of history, nature, and culture with stunning landscapes and vibrant local life.
Bird watching
46.2 km
Explore a stunning bird watching area in Faiyum Governorate, home to diverse avian species and breathtaking natural landscapes.
Fayoum
56.3 km
Discover the captivating beauty and rich culture of Fayoum, Egypt's serene oasis, perfect for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Watermelon Valley
60.8 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Watermelon Valley, a natural wonder in Faiyum Governorate, Egypt, perfect for adventurers and nature lovers.
Danau Qarun
64.2 km
Explore the rich history and natural beauty of Danau Qarun, a serene lake in Egypt's Faiyum Governorate, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
تنظيم رحلات الفيوم بحيره قارون وادي الريان وادي الحيتان
69.5 km
Experience the natural beauty and rich biodiversity of Egypt at the ecological park of Lake Qarun and Wadi Al-Riyan, a true haven for nature lovers.
Essential places to dine
Wadi Rayan Cafeteria
37.1 km
Discover authentic Egyptian cuisine at Wadi Rayan Cafeteria in Faiyum, where stunning views meet delicious local flavors.
جنة الوادي
37.1 km
Experience authentic Egyptian cuisine at جنة الوادي in Faiyum - where flavor meets tradition in a beautiful buffet setting.
ايس كريم الشلال
37.4 km
Experience irresistible ice cream delights at ايس كريم الشلال amidst the stunning landscapes of Wadi El Rayan in Faiyum Governorate.
Flamingo camp
40.6 km
Discover tranquility at Flamingo Camp by Qarun Lake—where nature meets comfort with delicious dining options.
Ibis Restaurant & Cooking School
45.5 km
Experience authentic Egyptian flavors at Ibis Restaurant & Cooking School - where dining meets culinary education in Faiyum.
Blue Donkey
45.8 km
Experience unparalleled fine dining at Blue Donkey in Faiyum Governorate, where exquisite flavors meet stunning views.
Lazib Inn Resort & Spa
46.0 km
Experience luxury and tranquility at Lazib Inn Resort & Spa in Faiyum - your perfect getaway surrounded by nature's beauty.
مطعم قرية تونس _Tunis Village Restaurant
46.1 km
Discover authentic Egyptian flavors at Tunis Village Restaurant in Faiyum—where delicious cuisine meets breathtaking scenery.
Elsawy Restaurant
46.1 km
Discover authentic Egyptian barbecue at Elsawy Restaurant in Ibsheway – where flavor meets tradition in a welcoming atmosphere.
Tunis Cafeteria
46.2 km
Savor authentic Egyptian dishes at Tunis Cafeteria in Faiyum Governorate—where tradition meets taste in every bite.
Set El-Beet - ست البيت
46.2 km
Experience authentic Egyptian flavors at Set El-Beet in Faiyum - a delightful culinary retreat near Qaroun Lake.
الريان
76.9 km
Experience authentic Egyptian flavors at Al Rayan, a delightful restaurant in Faiyum Governorate perfect for every traveler seeking local cuisine.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
White Desert Camp
36.6 km
Discover the serene beauty of the White Desert Camp in Faiyum, Egypt, where adventure and tranquility meet under the stars.
Kom El Dikka Restaurant
45.7 km
Discover the authentic taste of Egypt at Kom El Dikka Restaurant, where organic flavors meet stunning landscapes in Tunis Village.
Tunis stable
46.2 km
Discover the beauty of Faiyum on horseback at Tunis Stable, a premier horse rental service in the heart of Egypt's picturesque landscapes.
Fayoum Pottery School
46.4 km
Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of traditional pottery at Fayoum Pottery School, where art and culture converge in Egypt.
Art House Furniture
57.3 km
Explore the beauty of handcrafted furniture at Art House Furniture, where artistry meets tradition in the heart of Al Shawashna, Egypt.
al-Nazla
59.2 km
Explore the artistry of Egypt at Al-Nazla, a unique pottery store in Faiyum, where tradition and craftsmanship come alive.
Global Green for export
62.5 km
Explore Global Green in Faiyum, a vibrant hub for cannabis, spices, and food exports, celebrating sustainable trade and local culture.
Helnan Auberge Fayoum
74.2 km
Experience luxury and tranquility at Helnan Auberge Fayoum, where stunning landscapes meet rich Egyptian culture in a perfect getaway.
Drake Store - DS
77.1 km
Explore the vibrant Drake Store in Faiyum - a unique shopping destination for locals and tourists alike, offering handmade crafts, souvenirs, and more.
Joe Store
77.6 km
Explore Joe Store in Faiyum for top-quality computer accessories and exceptional service in the heart of Egypt's tech scene.
LG Brand Shop - Ahmed Ateya
77.6 km
Explore the LG Brand Shop - Ahmed Ateya in Faiyum for top-notch appliances and exceptional service in a modern shopping environment.
I Wear - Men's Clothes
77.7 km
Explore I Wear, the ultimate men's clothing destination in Faiyum, where fashion meets quality in every stylish piece.
Girly - جيرلي
77.7 km
Discover unique treasures at Girly - جيرلي, your go-to gift shop in Faiyum for authentic souvenirs and local crafts.
Creme
77.7 km
Experience the taste of Faiyum at Creme, a charming bakery offering delectable pastries and a cozy ambiance for all to enjoy.
2B Egypt
77.7 km
Discover the best in electronics at 2B Egypt in Faiyum, offering top phones, computers, and accessories for every traveler’s needs.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
ريست
38.5 km
Experience the essence of nightlife at ريست, a vibrant cocktail bar in Faiyum, blending local flavors with creative mixes.
ريست
38.5 km
Unwind at ريست Cocktail Bar in Faiyum: Exceptional cocktails, vibrant atmosphere, and unforgettable nights await you.
Tunisia Green Resort - منتجع تونيزيا جرين الفيوم
44.3 km
Experience tranquility and adventure at Tunisia Green Resort in Faiyum, where dining meets nature in a stunning getaway.
Kom El Dikka Agri Lodge
45.7 km
Discover the beauty of organic living and outdoor adventure at Kom El Dikka Agri Lodge in Tunis Village, Faiyum Governorate.
مطبخ قرية تونس ( Tunis village kitchen)
46.2 km
Discover the heart of Egyptian cuisine at Tunis Village Kitchen, where every dish is crafted with love and local flavor.
تونس هاوس - Tunis house
46.2 km
Experience the serene beauty and authentic cuisine at Tunis House, a charming country club in Faiyum, Egypt, perfect for a tranquil getaway.
Tunis House - Fayoum
46.2 km
Discover Tunis House in Fayoum: A lakeside restaurant serving authentic Egyptian cuisine amidst stunning views and warm hospitality.
Safari Arabs - Tunis Village
46.4 km
Discover the serene beauty and warm hospitality of Safari Arabs - Tunis Village, a unique retreat by Qarun Lake, Faiyum's hidden gem.
Haduta Tunis - حدوتة تونس
46.5 km
Explore the authentic flavors of Tunisia at Haduta Tunis, a charming restaurant and lodge in the scenic Faiyum Governorate.
Bahia Restaurant
56.3 km
Experience the rich flavors of Egyptian cuisine at Bahia Restaurant, nestled in the breathtaking Al Faiyum Governorate Desert.
Mefreh 2 Fish Restaurant
69.0 km
Experience the authentic taste of fresh seafood at Mefreh 2 Fish Restaurant in Ibsheway, Faiyum - a culinary gem for every food lover.
Oasis Resort and Hotel
70.2 km
Discover tranquility and luxury at Oasis Resort and Hotel in Faiyum, Egypt—your ultimate destination for relaxation and adventure.
دندرمه . Dondurma
78.9 km
Discover Dondurma in Faiyum, a lively cocktail bar offering refreshing drinks and a perfect ambiance for relaxation and socializing.
