Valley of Whales & Wadi El Rayan Waterfalls Tour

From$130
10 hours
Cairo, Egypt

About this activity

Experience Egypt's ancient marine life and stunning desert landscapes on this guided day trip from Cairo to the Valley of Whales and Wadi El Rayan Waterfalls.

Highlights

  • Explore ancient whale fossils
  • Marvel at cascading waterfalls
  • Discover unique desert landscapes
  • Learn about Egypt's geological history
  • Enjoy a scenic desert drive

Full description

Join us on an unforgettable journey from Cairo to the Valley of Whales, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its ancient whale fossils. Marvel at the Wadi El Rayan Waterfalls, Egypt's largest waterfalls, and immerse yourself in the unique desert landscapes. This guided tour offers insights into Egypt's geological history and provides ample opportunities for photography and exploration. Don't miss this chance to witness the natural wonders that lie just beyond Cairo's bustling cityscape.

Included / Excluded

  • Round-trip transportation from Cairo
  • Guided tour of Valley of Whales
  • Visit to Wadi El Rayan Waterfalls
  • Meals and beverages

Important information

Know before you book

  • This tour involves moderate walking; ensure you're comfortable with this level of activity.
  • The tour operates in English; consider this if you're not a native speaker.
  • Meals and beverages are not included; plan accordingly for food and drinks.

Know before you go

  • Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for desert terrain.
  • Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect against the sun.
  • Carry a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day.

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation up to 1 days before the activity starts

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Accessibility

  • Easy Public Transport
  • Infant Seats Available

Good to know

  • Entrance fees
  • Jeep Safari included

Traveler reviews

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Cool desert trip

Super cool and interesting trip! We do not think the lack of seat belts in the car is ok.

Alexis_DApr 13, 2026VIATOR

Great day out in the desert.

The drivers and tour guide were excellent. We were picked up from our hotel at the time specified in a comfortable car. The guide was informative and friendly. We got a welcome drink of tea at the desert camp (which also has good clean facilities) and then went on the 4x4 trip through the desert, up and down the sand dunes at speed which 3 of us absolutely loved and one of us was slightly terrified by! The valley of the whales was an interesting place and the lunch in the Bedouin tent was excellent, followed by a visit to the waterfall.

Rob_IMar 13, 2026VIATOR

Superb day

We visited this very interesting valley. Beautiful landscapes and we take a leap of 40 million years to admire these incredible whale skeletons. Perfect driver and guide

Olivier SFeb 27, 2026TRIPADVISOR

A full and enjoyable day out.

Or guide Hamad Abo Rakika picked us up on time and we’re set off on the first part of the journey, a two hour drive over to al fayoum for a change over to a jeep for the cross desert stage of 45 minutes. This is quite exciting and younger clients will have a great time. Us older ones just hang on and go with it. Once there the valley of the whales is fascinating, who’s ever heard of fossilised crabs? I hadn’t. The whales are actually ancient relatives from about 35 million years ago. Very interesting as you walk about the park you come across them embedded in the bedrock. The museum is small but very interesting. After that is another drive to the magic lake through an enchanting desert scape then on to the water falls before lunch. The food was good and the staff friendly and entertaining. Having a good guide with you makes this trip a lot more informative and enjoyable. Luckily we had just that. Thank you Hamad for the extra help with things. Highly recommended.

Stuart LFeb 21, 2026TRIPADVISOR

A full and worthwhile day out

A long but worthwhile day. Or guide Hamad Abo Rakika picked us up on time and we set off on a two hour drive to the desert. On arrival we had a short break then into a jeep for the cross desert stage of about 45 minutes. That part is quite exciting and the younger clients will really enjoy it. The valley of the whales is very interesting with exposed fossilised skeletons visible from 35 million years ago. After the whales you head up to the magic lake then along to the waterfalls and back to the camp for lunch. The entire area is quite beautiful with plenty of time for photos and walking about. Lunch was excellent even if we did feel a bit guilty as it was Ramadan. An excellent and full day out, well worth the effort. Thank you Hamad for the extra help.

stuart_lFeb 21, 2026VIATOR

Additional information

Entrance fees Jeep Safari included