Wadi Hitan National Park: Valley of the Whales
Explore the ancient Valley of the Whales in Egypt's Faiyum Desert, a UNESCO site with unique whale fossils and stunning desert landscapes.
Wadi Hitan National Park, or the Valley of the Whales, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Egypt's Faiyum Desert, approximately 150 km southwest of Cairo. It's renowned for its abundant, well-preserved fossils of early whales (archaeoceti), showcasing their evolutionary transition from land to marine mammals.
A brief summary to Wadi Hitan National Park
- 729F+226, Faiyum Governorate, EG
- +201146742577
Local tips
- Visit during the cooler months (October to April) to avoid the desert heat.
- Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the sandy terrain.
- Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water.
- Arrange transportation in advance, as public transport is limited.
- Respect park rules: stay on trails and do not remove fossils.
Getting There
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Car
From Cairo, take the Al Wahat Road (Desert Road) southwest towards Fayoum. Continue onto Fayoum Road until you reach Wadi Hitan National Park; the journey is approximately 3-4 hours. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended for navigating the desert terrain. Note that it's impossible to self-drive through this landscape, so either a scheduled tour or private driver is needed. Entrance fees to Wadi Al Hitan are approximately 180 LE per person.
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Taxi
A taxi from Cairo to Wadi Hitan National Park takes around 3-4 hours. Local cab services like Careem or Uber can be used. Expect to negotiate the fare, as it will be a long-distance trip. Once in Fayoum, you will still need a 4x4 to access the park. Entrance fees to the park are approximately 180 LE per person.
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Public Transport
Take a bus from Cairo Gateway Bus Station to Fayoum. The bus journey takes about 2-3 hours. From Fayoum, hire a local taxi or arrange a tour to Wadi Hitan National Park. A 4x4 vehicle is necessary to access the park from Fayoum. Entrance fees are approximately 180 LE per person.
Discover more about Wadi Hitan National Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
وادي الحيتان
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شلالات وادي الريان
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Mangrove Camp Fayoum
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Umm El Baragat
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Wadi El Hitan
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Wadi El Rayan Lake
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Wadi El Rayan
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Entry gate Wadi Rayan Falls
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Wadi El Rayan Fayoum Falls
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Wadi el Rayan Gates
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Essential places to dine
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Blue Donkey
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Lazib Inn Resort & Spa
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Tunis Cafeteria
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الريان
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Kom El Dikka Restaurant
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Fayoum Pottery School
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Art House Furniture
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al-Nazla
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Helnan Auberge Fayoum
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Drake Store - DS
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Joe Store
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LG Brand Shop - Ahmed Ateya
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