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Wadi El Rayan Fayoum Falls: Egypt's Desert Oasis

Discover Egypt's only waterfalls at Wadi El Rayan, a stunning desert oasis with lakes, dunes, and unique wildlife in Fayoum Governorate.

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Wadi El Rayan Fayoum Falls, located in the Fayoum Governorate, is a unique natural attraction in Egypt, featuring the country's only waterfalls formed by the overflow between two large lakes in the desert. This scenic spot offers a refreshing escape and a chance to witness a geological wonder amidst the Egyptian desert.

A brief summary to Wadi El Rayan Fayoum Falls

  • شلالات وادي الريان, Youssef Al Seddik, Faiyum Governorate, EG
  • +201091629605

Local tips

  • Visit during the winter months (November to February) for mild weather and the best scenery.
  • Bring cash for the entrance fee, as credit cards are typically not accepted.
  • Pack sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, as the desert sun can be intense.
  • Consider booking a tour from Cairo to handle transportation and activities.
  • Explore beyond the waterfalls, including the Magic Lake, Jabal El Modawara, and Wadi El Hitan.
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Getting There

  • Car

    To reach Wadi El Rayan Fayoum Falls by car from Cairo, take the road to El Fayoum. Then, turn right towards the southern shore of Lake Qarun, enjoying the scenic views. Continue until the end of Lake Qarun and turn left onto the road to Wadi El Rayan National Park. The entrance gate is approximately 8.5 kilometers away. Upon entry, purchase a ticket for the vehicle and each passenger. Follow the desert track to the left for 14 kilometers to reach the waterfalls. Expect a drive of about two hours from Cairo. Parking is available near the site, but the final approach requires walking. Entrance fees to Wadi El Rayan are around 5 USD for foreigners.

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Discover more about Wadi El Rayan Fayoum Falls

Wadi El Rayan Fayoum Falls is a captivating destination in Egypt's Fayoum Governorate, approximately 65 km southwest of Fayoum city. This natural reserve is distinguished by its two large lakes, created in the 1970s to channel excess water from the Fayoum Oasis, resulting in a unique desert landscape. The main attraction is the series of waterfalls formed where the water from the upper lake cascades into the lower lake, creating a refreshing and unexpected sight in the arid environment. The history of Wadi El Rayan is intertwined with ancient Egyptian water management projects initiated by pharaohs like Ptolemy I and Amenemhet I. These projects aimed to reclaim land and transform the Fayoum Oasis into a fertile area. In 1989, Wadi El Rayan was declared a protected area, recognizing its biodiversity and geological significance. The reserve spans 1,759 square kilometers and is home to diverse wildlife, including the endangered slender-horned gazelle, various bird species, and desert fauna. Visitors to Wadi El Rayan can enjoy a variety of activities, such as swimming in the lower lake, taking boat rides, hiking in the surrounding hills, and sandboarding on the dunes. The area also includes attractions like the Magic Lake, Jabal El Modawara (a scenic mountain with panoramic views), and Wadi El Hitan (Valley of the Whales), a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its prehistoric whale fossils. While the waterfalls themselves may appear worn due to a lack of maintenance, the overall experience of exploring this desert oasis is well worth the visit.

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