How to Plan Your Full Day Trip to El Fayoum Oasis and Wadi El Hitan from Cairo
If you are visiting Cairo and want to explore some of the nearby natural wonders, then a full-day trip to El Fayoum Oasis and Wadi El Hitan is a must-do experience. This tour will give you the chance to see unique landscapes, learn about Egypt’s rich history, and enjoy a day out away from the bustling city. In this post, we’ll take you through everything you need to know to plan your perfect trip.
Overview
The Full-Day Trip to El Fayoum Oasis and Wadi El Hitan from Cairo is a private tour operated by Egypt Local Tours. You will be picked up in the morning from your hotel or any address within Cairo or Giza by a private air-conditioned vehicle and driven to the sites. The tour includes lunch and bottled water, all fees and taxes, and tipping. The total duration of the tour is approximately 10-12 hours.
What’s Included
The tour includes the following:
- Pickup and dropoff from your hotel or any address within Cairo or Giza
- Private air-conditioned vehicle
- Expert Egyptologist tour guide
- All entrance fees
- Lunch and bottled mineral water included
- All taxes and service charges
Meeting and Pickup
The pickup will take place between 7:00 am and 7:30 am, depending on your location. You can select your preferred pickup point when booking the tour. Hotel pickup is available from any hotel within Cairo or Giza, and pickup from any address within Cairo or Giza can be arranged. If you are arriving by train, pickup can be arranged from Giza train station.
What To Expect
After pickup, you’ll head out on a scenic drive to El Fayoum Oasis, which is located about 100 km southwest of Cairo. The oasis is an area of lush greenery surrounded by sandy desert, and it’s a popular getaway for locals looking for a break from city life.
You’ll first visit the Meidum Pyramid, an ancient Egyptian pyramid located in El Fayoum. The pyramid was built during the reign of Sneferu, about 2600 BC, and is one of the earliest pyramids in Egypt. After visiting the pyramid, you’ll continue on to Wadi El Hitan, also known as the Whale Valley.
Wadi El Hitan is a unique site that contains the fossils of early whales that lived in the area around 40 million years ago. The fossils are remarkably well-preserved and provide valuable insights into the evolution of whales. You’ll take a guided tour of the site with an expert Egyptologist guide who will explain the significance of the fossils and the history of the area.
After visiting Wadi El Hitan, you’ll head back to El Fayoum Oasis for lunch at a local restaurant. You’ll have the chance to try traditional Egyptian dishes and relax before returning to Cairo.
Additional Info
Here are some additional details to keep in mind before booking:
- Confirmation will be received at the time of booking
- The tour is not wheelchair accessible
- Infants must sit on laps
- Most travelers can participate
- This is a private tour/activity, and only your group will participate
- Cancellation Policy: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a unique day trip from Cairo, then the Full-Day Trip to El Fayoum Oasis and Wadi El Hitan is an excellent option. You’ll get to see some of Egypt’s natural wonders, learn about its rich history, and enjoy a break from the city. To book, click the link below and select your preferred date and pickup location.
The Insider’s Guide to El Fayoum Oasis and Wadi El Hitan
El Fayoum Oasis and Wadi El Hitan are not your typical tourist destinations, but they are true hidden gems waiting to be explored. As a local, I’d love to share with you the best places to visit and the experiences you wouldn’t find in any guidebook.
Local Attractions: Discover the Hidden Gems
While visiting El Fayoum Oasis and Wadi El Hitan, don’t miss Qatrani Mountain, which offers stunning views of the surrounding desert landscape. For a unique experience, check out Lake Qarun, the third-largest lake in Egypt, where you can take a felucca ride or enjoy some bird watching. Do not forget to explore the Wadi Rayan, where you’ll find crystal-clear waterfalls and natural springs.
Dining Spots: Taste the Local Cuisine
While in El Fayoum, you must try the traditional falafel sandwich, made only in the city with a unique blend of spices and herbs that will make your taste buds dance. For a more substantial meal, try the local Koshary dish, which is a mixture of pasta, rice, and lentils topped with tomato sauce and fried onions. In Fayoum, you will also find some of the best bakeries in Egypt; don’t miss the chance to try their freshly-baked bread.
Cultural Experiences: Embrace the Traditions
If you’re interested in local culture, be sure to attend the annual Date Festival, celebrated in El Fayoum Oasis, where you can taste and learn about the different varieties of dates grown in the region. Also, check out the pottery workshops in Tunis Village, where you can witness the method of traditional Egyptian pottery and even try it for yourself.
Local History: Tales from the Past
El Fayoum Oasis and Wadi El Hitan have a rich history dating back thousands of years. From the pharaonic temple of Karanis to the Greco-Roman era ruins of Tamia, each of these sites has a unique story to tell. Do not miss the chance to visit the UNESCO world heritage site of Wadi El Hitan, also known as the “Valley of Whales,” where you can see the fossilized skeletons of ancient whales and learn about the evolution of this incredible creature.
Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Beyond the Conventional
For a unique experience, try camping overnight in the desert, where you can stargaze and experience the magical silence of the desert. If you enjoy hiking, head to the twin mountains of Denb and Bolos, where you can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding area. You can also try sandboarding on the dunes of Qatrani Mountain for an adrenaline rush unlike any other.
I hope you have found this insider’s guide helpful and are now inspired to visit El Fayoum Oasis and Wadi El Hitan. With these hidden gems and unique experiences, you’ll have unforgettable memories and stories to share with your friends long after your trip is over.
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