Travel Plan
Wadi El Rayan

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ATTRACTION GUIDE · FAYOUM

Wadi El Rayan

A protected area of two desert lakes joined by Egypt's only waterfalls, surrounded by golden dunes perfect for sandboarding and sunset.

Tickets & tours Open in Google Maps
Time needed
Half day
Entry
Paid (park fee)
Best time
Afternoon
Area
Wadi El Rayan

Lakes between golden dunes.

Where it is & how to get there

Address: Wadi El Rayan Protected Area, Fayoum

  • Car: About 2h30 from Cairo.
  • Tours: Day trips from Cairo.
  • 4x4: Needed for the dunes.

The story of Wadi El Rayan

The lakes were created in the 1970s with drainage water from Fayoum's farms.

The area is home to desert foxes and many birds.

Best time to visit

Best season

October to April.

Best time of day

Afternoon to sunset.

Weekends

Busy with Cairo visitors.

Tips before you go

  • Try sandboarding.
  • Try sandboarding on the dunes.
  • Combine with Wadi El Hitan.

Best hotels near Wadi El Rayan

Well-known hotels within easy reach. Check prices and availability for your dates.

Hotels in Tunis Village Fayoum

Pottery village.

See prices

Hotels near Lake Qarun

Lake views.

See prices

Eco lodges in Fayoum

Quiet stays.

See prices
All hotels near Wadi El Rayan

What's around Wadi El Rayan

  • Wadi El Hitan45 minutes.
  • Magic Lake20 minutes.
  • Tunis village1 hour.

Questions travellers ask

Are the waterfalls big?

Small but unique in Egypt.

Can I swim?

In some areas.

How long do I need?

Half a day.

More in Fayoum

Wadi El Hitan

Wadi El Hitan

Read the guide
Tunis village

Tunis village

Read the guide
Back to the Fayoum guide
Travel Plan · Wadi El Rayan Travel times, prices and opening hours change. Check official sites before you go. Photos: Unsplash. Privacy & disclosure · Contact us