Overview
A UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Fayoum desert holding fossil skeletons of early whales that retained hind limbs.
Attraction
Wadi El Hitan (Valley of the Whales)
A UNESCO World Heritage Site holding the fossil skeletons of early whales that still had legs.
Why Visit Wadi El Hitan (Valley of the Whales)
The fossils sit in the open along a walking trail exactly where they were excavated - a fossil site you walk through rather than view in cases.
History of Wadi El Hitan (Valley of the Whales)
Around 40 million years ago the area lay beneath the Tethys Sea. The archaeoceti fossils found here document the transition of whales from land mammals to fully marine animals. UNESCO inscribed the valley as a World Heritage Site in 2005.
Best Time to Visit Wadi El Hitan (Valley of the Whales)
October to April. There is little shade on the trail, so start early.
How to Get to Wadi El Hitan (Valley of the Whales)
In the desert west of Fayoum, roughly 150 km from Cairo, with the final stretch on desert road. Usually a private day trip, often with Lake Qarun.
Nearby Attractions
Tours That Include Wadi El Hitan (Valley of the Whales)
Plan Your Visit to Wadi El Hitan (Valley of the Whales)
Want to include Wadi El Hitan (Valley of the Whales) in your Egypt itinerary? Browse our tours or ask for a custom plan.
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