Wadi El Rayan Travel Guide
Facts and practical information
Wadi El Rayan is a stunning natural wonder located in the Al Fayyum region of Egypt. This breathtaking oasis is a nature preserve that boasts an array of landscapes, from lush greenery to serene blue lakes, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
The main attraction of Wadi El Rayan is its two beautiful lakes, which were created as a result of a human-made canal that was built to divert excess water from the Nile River. The Lower Lake is the larger of the two and is surrounded by picturesque sand dunes, providing a tranquil setting for visitors to relax and take in the beauty of their surroundings. The Upper Lake, on the other hand, is a popular spot for birdwatching, with a variety of bird species making it their home.
In addition to its stunning lakes, Wadi El Rayan is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including the endangered Slender-horned Gazelle and the Fennec Fox. Visitors can embark on a safari tour to catch a glimpse of these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat, adding an exciting element to their visit.
For those seeking adventure, Wadi El Rayan offers a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and sandboarding. Hikers can explore the area's scenic trails, taking in the picturesque views of the surrounding desert landscape, while thrill-seekers can try their hand at sandboarding down the area's towering sand dunes.
Al Fayyum
Wadi El Rayan Attractions - What to See and Explore
Wadi El Rayan offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Wadi al Hitan. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.
Best Time To Visit Wadi El Rayan
Learn when is the best time to travel to Wadi El Rayan weather-wise and what to expect in each season.
Best Ways to Experience the Park
Wildlife
AnimalsSee what popular animal species you can meet in this location.
Dorcas gazelle
The dorcas gazelle, also known as the Ariel gazelle, is a small yet widespread species found across Africa and Arabia. These graceful animals stand about 55-65 cm tall at the shoulder and weigh between 15-20 kg. In the wild, there are approximately 35,000-40,000...
Mammals
Rhim gazelle
The rhim gazelle, also known as the slender-horned gazelle, sand gazelle, or Loder's gazelle, is a remarkable creature perfectly adapted to desert life. With its pale coat and long, slender horns, it is one of the more striking endangered species, with fewer than 2,500...
Mammals
Fennec fox
The fennec fox is a small, nocturnal fox native to the Sahara Desert and the Sinai Peninsula. It is easily identified by its large ears, which assist in thermoregulation in the hot desert climate, along with its specialized coat and kidneys that conserve water.
Mammals
Rüppell's fox
Rüppell's fox, often referred to as Rüppell’s sand fox, is a captivating small fox that flourishes in the deserts and semi-desert regions of North Africa, the Middle East, and southwestern Asia. Named after the German naturalist Eduard Rüppell, this fox has been...
Mammals
Al Fayyum