Wadi El Rayan: Egypt's Desert Oasis
Discover Wadi El Rayan: Egypt's unique desert oasis with waterfalls, wildlife, and ancient whale fossils in a stunning natural reserve.
Wadi El Rayan, a protected area in Egypt's Fayoum Governorate, offers a unique blend of desert scenery and aquatic environments. It features two man-made lakes connected by the country's only waterfalls, creating a striking contrast to the arid surroundings. Home to diverse wildlife and the famed Valley of the Whales, it's a must-visit for nature and history enthusiasts alike.
A brief summary to Wadi El Rayan
- Al Faiyum Governorate Desert, Faiyum Governorate, EG
Local tips
- Visit during the winter months (November to February) for mild weather and optimal scenery.
- Bring cash for the entrance fee, as credit cards are not accepted.
- Pack sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water to protect yourself from the intense sun.
- Consider booking a tour from Cairo, as there is no public transportation directly to Wadi El Rayan.
- Explore beyond the waterfalls, including the Valley of the Whales and the sand dunes.
Getting There
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Car
From Cairo, take the road to El Fayoum (approximately 2 hours). Then, turn right towards قارون Lake's southern shore. Before reaching the end of the lake, turn left onto the Wadi El Rayan National Park road. Continue for about 8.5 kilometers to reach the entrance gate. You must purchase a ticket for the vehicle and each occupant at the gate. Remember to bring cash.
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Taxi
Taxis can be hired from Cairo to Wadi El Rayan. The journey takes approximately 2.5 hours. Negotiate the fare beforehand. From Fayoum city, a taxi can take you to Wadi El Rayan's entrance for the final leg of the journey. Confirm the fare before departure.
Discover more about Wadi El Rayan
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Wadi El Rayan Lake
0.0 km
Discover Wadi El Rayan Lake: Egypt's stunning desert oasis with waterfalls, wildlife, and ancient history in the heart of Fayoum.
شلالات وادي الريان
3.2 km
Discover the beauty of Wadi El Rayan Waterfalls, a unique desert oasis in Fayoum, Egypt, offering stunning landscapes and refreshing activities.
Wadi El Rayan Fayoum Falls
3.3 km
Discover Egypt's only waterfalls at Wadi El Rayan, a stunning desert oasis with lakes, dunes, and unique wildlife in Fayoum Governorate.
Jabal El Medawara
5.2 km
Discover breathtaking desert views and tranquil hiking at Jabal El Medawara in Faiyum, Egypt. A perfect escape into nature's beauty.
Euhemeria - Qasr el-Banat
24.5 km
Explore Euhemeria - Qasr el-Banat, a captivating archaeological site in Faiyum showcasing Egypt's rich history and stunning landscapes.
Mangrove Camp Fayoum
29.0 km
Escape to a tranquil lakeside oasis at Mangrove Camp Fayoum, offering nature, relaxation, and cultural experiences near Cairo.
وادي الحيتان
35.8 km
Explore Wadi Al-Hitan: A UNESCO site revealing the evolution of whales through remarkable fossils in Egypt's Western Desert.
Umm El Baragat
36.2 km
Discover Umm El Baragat: An ancient Egyptian statue offering a serene and authentic historical experience in Faiyum Governorate.
تنظيم رحلات الفيوم بحيره قارون وادي الريان وادي الحيتان
43.4 km
Discover Fayoum: Explore ancient wonders, stunning lakes, and unique desert landscapes in Egypt's largest natural oasis.
سواقي الهدير
45.0 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
49.2 km
Explore the Pyramid of Amenemhat III at Hawara, a window into the architecture and ingenuity of ancient Egypt's Middle Kingdom.
Labyrinth
49.2 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
53.1 km
Explore the ancient wonders of معبد حريشيف in Beni Suef, a captivating gateway to Egypt's rich history and culture.
Mosque of Imam Ali Ibn Abi Taleb
68.2 km
Discover the serene beauty and spiritual significance of the Mosque of Imam Ali Ibn Abi Taleb in Beni Suef, Egypt.
Beni Suef Museum
69.0 km
Explore artifacts from the Pharaonic, Greco-Roman, Coptic & Islamic eras at the Beni Suef Museum, a cultural gem in the heart of Beni Suef.
Unmissable attractions to see
Entry gate Wadi Rayan Falls
4.8 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Wadi Rayan Falls, a natural landmark in Egypt, offering stunning vistas and serene landscapes for nature lovers.
Sand boarding faiyum
5.2 km
Experience the thrill of sandboarding amidst the breathtaking dunes of Faiyum, a unique adventure in Egypt's stunning desert landscape.
Magic lake camp
6.3 km
Experience nature's embrace at Magic Lake Camp in Faiyum, offering serene landscapes, diverse wildlife, and a magical outdoor adventure.
وادي الريان
11.1 km
Explore Wadi Al Raian, a stunning park in Faiyum, Egypt, known for its breathtaking landscapes, wildlife, and serene natural beauty.
Wadi el Rayan Gates
18.5 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.
Qasr Qaroun Temple
23.9 km
Explore Qasr Qaroun Temple, a breathtaking historical landmark in Faiyum, where ancient architecture meets the serene beauty of the desert.
Bird watching
24.6 km
Explore a stunning bird watching area in Faiyum Governorate, home to diverse avian species and breathtaking natural landscapes.
Explore Fayoum
24.8 km
Explore Fayoum, Egypt: A captivating oasis of history, nature, and culture with stunning landscapes and vibrant local life.
Tarek Sailing Boat طارق للمراكب الشراعية
25.5 km
Explore the serene waters of Qarun Lake with Tarek Sailing Boat, offering a picturesque adventure amidst Egypt's natural beauty.
Fayoum
34.0 km
Discover the captivating beauty and rich culture of Fayoum, Egypt's serene oasis, perfect for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
وادي الحيتان
35.8 km
Explore the wonders of Wadi Al-Hitan, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing ancient whale fossils and stunning desert landscapes.
Wadi Hitan National Park
37.7 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.
Watermelon Valley
40.5 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Watermelon Valley, a natural wonder in Faiyum Governorate, Egypt, perfect for adventurers and nature lovers.
Danau Qarun
40.8 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
43.4 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
3.3 km
Discover authentic Egyptian cuisine at Wadi Rayan Cafeteria in Faiyum, where stunning views meet delicious local flavors.
جنة الوادي
3.3 km
Experience authentic Egyptian cuisine at جنة الوادي in Faiyum - where flavor meets tradition in a beautiful buffet setting.
ايس كريم الشلال
3.4 km
Experience irresistible ice cream delights at ايس كريم الشلال amidst the stunning landscapes of Wadi El Rayan in Faiyum Governorate.
Elsawy Restaurant
24.3 km
Discover authentic Egyptian barbecue at Elsawy Restaurant in Ibsheway – where flavor meets tradition in a welcoming atmosphere.
Set El-Beet - ست البيت
24.6 km
Experience authentic Egyptian flavors at Set El-Beet in Faiyum - a delightful culinary retreat near Qaroun Lake.
Tunis Cafeteria
24.7 km
Savor authentic Egyptian dishes at Tunis Cafeteria in Faiyum Governorate—where tradition meets taste in every bite.
Blue Donkey
24.8 km
Experience unparalleled fine dining at Blue Donkey in Faiyum Governorate, where exquisite flavors meet stunning views.
مطعم قرية تونس _Tunis Village Restaurant
25.0 km
Discover authentic Egyptian flavors at Tunis Village Restaurant in Faiyum—where delicious cuisine meets breathtaking scenery.
Ibis Restaurant & Cooking School
25.1 km
Experience authentic Egyptian flavors at Ibis Restaurant & Cooking School - where dining meets culinary education in Faiyum.
Lazib Inn Resort & Spa
25.1 km
Experience luxury and tranquility at Lazib Inn Resort & Spa in Faiyum - your perfect getaway surrounded by nature's beauty.
Flamingo camp
29.2 km
Discover tranquility at Flamingo Camp by Qarun Lake—where nature meets comfort with delicious dining options.
الريان
43.9 km
Experience authentic Egyptian flavors at Al Rayan, a delightful restaurant in Faiyum Governorate perfect for every traveler seeking local cuisine.
الكورنيش اللي على طريق صلاح سالم
68.4 km
Experience authentic Egyptian pizza at الكورنيش اللي على طريق صلاح سالم in Beni Suef—where flavor meets local culture.
عربية فول
68.4 km
Discover authentic Egyptian breakfasts at عربية فول in Beni Suef – indulge in flavorsome Foul Medames and more.
مطعم ٢٣ يوليو الاصلي
68.6 km
Experience authentic Egyptian barbecue at مطعم ٢٣ يوليو الاصلي in Beni Suef - where tradition meets taste.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
White Desert Camp
6.9 km
Discover the serene beauty of the White Desert Camp in Faiyum, Egypt, where adventure and tranquility meet under the stars.
Fayoum Pottery School
24.5 km
Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of traditional pottery at Fayoum Pottery School, where art and culture converge in Egypt.
Kom El Dikka Restaurant
24.9 km
Discover the authentic taste of Egypt at Kom El Dikka Restaurant, where organic flavors meet stunning landscapes in Tunis Village.
Tunis stable
25.1 km
Discover the beauty of Faiyum on horseback at Tunis Stable, a premier horse rental service in the heart of Egypt's picturesque landscapes.
al-Nazla
27.4 km
Explore the artistry of Egypt at Al-Nazla, a unique pottery store in Faiyum, where tradition and craftsmanship come alive.
Art House Furniture
28.1 km
Explore the beauty of handcrafted furniture at Art House Furniture, where artistry meets tradition in the heart of Al Shawashna, Egypt.
Global Green for export
32.5 km
Explore Global Green in Faiyum, a vibrant hub for cannabis, spices, and food exports, celebrating sustainable trade and local culture.
Drake Store - DS
44.0 km
Explore the vibrant Drake Store in Faiyum - a unique shopping destination for locals and tourists alike, offering handmade crafts, souvenirs, and more.
LG Brand Shop - Ahmed Ateya
44.7 km
Explore the LG Brand Shop - Ahmed Ateya in Faiyum for top-notch appliances and exceptional service in a modern shopping environment.
Zaman Coffee
44.7 km
Experience authentic Egyptian coffee at Zaman Coffee in Second Al Faiyum – a must-visit for any coffee lover.
مكة للعطور - Makkah For Perfumes
44.7 km
Explore Makkah For Perfumes in Faiyum, where scents tell stories and every fragrance is a journey into Egyptian culture.
I Wear - Men's Clothes
44.7 km
Explore I Wear, the ultimate men's clothing destination in Faiyum, where fashion meets quality in every stylish piece.
Creme
44.8 km
Experience the taste of Faiyum at Creme, a charming bakery offering delectable pastries and a cozy ambiance for all to enjoy.
Girly - جيرلي
44.8 km
Discover unique treasures at Girly - جيرلي, your go-to gift shop in Faiyum for authentic souvenirs and local crafts.
Joe Store
44.9 km
Explore Joe Store in Faiyum for top-quality computer accessories and exceptional service in the heart of Egypt's tech scene.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
ريست
12.1 km
Experience the essence of nightlife at ريست, a vibrant cocktail bar in Faiyum, blending local flavors with creative mixes.
ريست
12.1 km
Unwind at ريست Cocktail Bar in Faiyum: Exceptional cocktails, vibrant atmosphere, and unforgettable nights await you.
مطبخ قرية تونس ( Tunis village kitchen)
24.6 km
Discover the heart of Egyptian cuisine at Tunis Village Kitchen, where every dish is crafted with love and local flavor.
Kom El Dikka Agri Lodge
25.1 km
Discover the beauty of organic living and outdoor adventure at Kom El Dikka Agri Lodge in Tunis Village, Faiyum Governorate.
تونس هاوس - Tunis house
25.2 km
Experience the serene beauty and authentic cuisine at Tunis House, a charming country club in Faiyum, Egypt, perfect for a tranquil getaway.
Safari Arabs - Tunis Village
25.2 km
Discover the serene beauty and warm hospitality of Safari Arabs - Tunis Village, a unique retreat by Qarun Lake, Faiyum's hidden gem.
Tunis House - Fayoum
25.3 km
Discover Tunis House in Fayoum: A lakeside restaurant serving authentic Egyptian cuisine amidst stunning views and warm hospitality.
Haduta Tunis - حدوتة تونس
25.4 km
Explore the authentic flavors of Tunisia at Haduta Tunis, a charming restaurant and lodge in the scenic Faiyum Governorate.
Tunisia Green Resort - منتجع تونيزيا جرين الفيوم
25.8 km
Experience tranquility and adventure at Tunisia Green Resort in Faiyum, where dining meets nature in a stunning getaway.
Bahia Restaurant
34.0 km
Experience the rich flavors of Egyptian cuisine at Bahia Restaurant, nestled in the breathtaking Al Faiyum Governorate Desert.
Mefreh 2 Fish Restaurant
43.0 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
44.4 km
Discover tranquility and luxury at Oasis Resort and Hotel in Faiyum, Egypt—your ultimate destination for relaxation and adventure.
دندرمه . Dondurma
46.0 km
Discover Dondurma in Faiyum, a lively cocktail bar offering refreshing drinks and a perfect ambiance for relaxation and socializing.
ظمن
68.0 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at ظمن Bar in Beni Suef, where local culture meets a lively atmosphere for an unforgettable experience.
محل وافل ومشروبات 12.pm بار
68.9 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Beni Suef at 12.pm Bar, a local favorite for delicious waffles and refreshing drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
