The Fayoum is a green oasis south-west of Cairo, and beyond it lies empty desert. A day trip combines both, with a lake, waterfalls and one of the world's best places to see fossil whales. It makes a good change after several days of temples.
The drive and Lake Qarun
You leave Cairo at seven and drive for about two hours across farmland and desert. The first stop is a viewpoint over Lake Qarun, one of the oldest lakes in Egypt. Birdlife is often visible, particularly in winter.
Wadi El Rayan
At about ten you change to a 4x4 and head into the Wadi El Rayan protected area. Two lakes lie among the dunes, linked by a small waterfall that is unusual in an Egyptian desert. The scenery is the main attraction, and there is time to walk and take photographs.
The Valley of the Whales at Wadi El Hitan
Around midday you reach Wadi El Hitan, where skeletons of early whales lie in the rock where they were fossilised. A marked trail passes the best specimens, and a small museum explains what you are looking at. The site is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Lake Qarun viewpoint.
- Wadi El Rayan lakes and waterfalls.
- Wadi El Hitan fossil trail and museum.
- A simple Bedouin-style lunch.
Getting back
After lunch at about two, you drive back to Cairo, arriving between half past five and six in the evening. The return can be slower if traffic is heavy, so we suggest not planning dinner too early. Sandboarding and other optional activities are paid separately, if you want to try them.
What the day is like physically
Most of the day is spent in the vehicle, with short walks at each stop. The fossil trail at Wadi El Hitan is a marked loop on sand and rock, which takes around an hour at an easy pace, and there is little shade along it. The 4x4 drive into the protected area is bumpy, so anyone with a bad back should say so when booking. Wear closed shoes, a hat and light clothing that covers your shoulders, and bring sun cream.
When to go
October to April is the best time, with mild days and clear light. In summer the desert heat is strong at midday, and the drive is long, so choose the cooler months if you can. Birdlife around Lake Qarun is richest in winter. The tracks can be affected by weather, so we may adjust the order of the stops on the day, and your guide will explain any change as it happens.
What to bring
Bring a hat, sunglasses, sun cream and a light jacket for the wind in the open desert. A small daypack with water and snacks is useful, along with a scarf to cover your face if the wind picks up. Shoes with a firm sole suit the fossil trail. The museum at Wadi El Hitan is small, so do not expect long indoor breaks. Lunch is simple, and we can note vegetarian needs if you tell us in advance.
Open the trip page to see the details and choose your date.
Plan with us
The Fayoum and Wadi El Hitan: a day from Cairo by 4x4
A private 4x4 day from Cairo to Lake Qarun, Wadi El Rayan and the Valley of the Whales. Timings, driving, lunch and what to bring.