WADI HITAN NATIONAL PARK

About Wadi Hitan National Park

In the Al Fayoum region of Egypt, you'll find Wadi Hitan National Park, which is acclaimed all over the world for being a Whale Valley. The site's well-preserved fossils illustrate the interesting transition of whales from terrestrial to aquatic creatures. As a heavily protected zone inside the Wadi El-Rayan Protected Area, it gives you an unusual glimpse into the past with full whale skeletons, including those of the extinct Basilosaurus isis. 

There are numbered signs along the 2 km hiking path that lead you to fossil sites with fossilised plants, shells, and even a fossilised watermelon. On your Egypt trip, you can look around and spot the remnants of a preserved mangrove ecosystem that suggests the area was once underwater. As you go deeper into the valley, you can find whale fossils. Along the way, the scenery gets more beautiful, with eroded hills that look like giant mushrooms.

Wadi Hitan National Park Highlights

• Explore the fossilised remains of extinct whales at Wadi Hitan National Park and see them changed from land animals to sea creatures.
• Visit the Wadi Hitan Fossil and Climate Change Museum to see the largest intact Basilosaurus isis whale fossil and a rare fossil collection.
• Explore a walking track that leads past complete skeletons of Dorudon as well as invertebrate fossils.
• Take an exciting 4WD ride across a sand-blown road, combined with off-road experiences from time to time.
• Marvel at the uniqueness of oddly weathered hills that resemble enormous mushrooms down the valley.

How To Reach Wadi Hitan National Park

Wadi Hitan National Park is in Egypt's Fayoum Governorate. There are three ways to reach the Park from Cairo City Centre.

1. By Car: Wadi Hitan National Park is approximately 150 miles southwest of Cairo. Take the Al Wahat Road (Desert Road) and continue onto Fayoum Road until you reach the Park. The journey takes about 3-4 hours, depending on traffic conditions.

2. By Bus: You can take a bus from the Cairo Gateway Bus Station to Fayoum. From Fayoum, you can hire a local taxi or arrange a tour to Wadi Hitan National Park. The bus journey from Cairo to Fayoum can take you about 2-3 hours.

3. By Cab: Booking a cab from Cairo to Wadi Hitan National Park is a convenient option. You can use local cab services like Careem or Uber to reach your destination. The cab ride will take around 3-4 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Best Time To Visit Wadi Hitan National Park

The Wadi Hitan National Park in Egypt is a year-round hotspot for sightseers. The ideal time to explore Egypt's Wadi Hitan National Park is during the cooler months, from October to April. During this period, the weather is pleasant, making it perfect for hiking and outdoor adventures. Additionally, wildlife sightings are more common during these months, adding to the experience.

Opt for weekdays rather than weekends to avoid crowds and experience the tranquillity of Wadi Hitan National Park. Weekdays offer quieter surroundings, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the park's natural beauty and unique landscapes.

Wadi Hitan National Park Other Essential Information

1. Plan your visit during the cooler months, from October to April, to avoid the scorching desert heat.

2. Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes for exploring the sandy terrain and fossil sites.

3. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water to stay hydrated under the blazing sun.

4. Arrange transportation in advance, as public transport options to the park are limited.

5. Respect the park's rules and regulations, including staying on designated trails and not removing any fossils or artefacts.

6. Consider hiring a guide to enhance your experience and learn more about the park's history and significance.