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Wadi Hitan National Park: Valley of the Whales

Explore the ancient Valley of the Whales in Egypt's Western Desert, a UNESCO site with unique whale fossils and stunning landscapes.

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Wadi Hitan National Park, also known as the Valley of the Whales, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Fayoum Governorate of Egypt. The park is renowned for its abundant, well-preserved fossils of early whales, offering a unique glimpse into the evolution of these marine mammals.

A brief summary to Wadi Hitan National Park

Local tips

  • Visit during the cooler months (October to April) to avoid the harsh desert heat.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the sandy terrain and fossil sites.
  • Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water to stay hydrated.
  • Arrange transportation in advance, as public transport options are limited.
  • Respect the park's rules and regulations, including staying on designated trails and not removing any fossils or artifacts.
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Getting There

  • Car

    Wadi Hitan National Park is approximately 150 miles (241 km) 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. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended due to the unpaved roads and desert sands. Entrance fees to the National Park are approximately 180 LE per person. Entrance fees to the Climate Change Museum are approximately 180 LE per person. It's advisable to arrange transportation with a local tour operator or private driver.

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Discover more about Wadi Hitan National Park

Wadi Hitan National Park, approximately 150 kilometers southwest of Cairo, is a paleontological treasure trove in Egypt's Western Desert. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005, the park, also known as the Valley of the Whales, boasts an extraordinary collection of ancient whale fossils dating back over 40 million years. These fossils, belonging to the Archaeoceti suborder, showcase the evolutionary transition of whales from land-dwelling mammals to marine creatures. The park's unique geological formations, shaped by wind and water erosion, create a dramatic desert landscape of cliffs and buttes. The well-preserved fossils, some with intact stomach contents, provide invaluable insights into the environmental and ecological conditions of the Eocene epoch. Visitors can explore the Fossil and Climate Change Museum, which features exhibits on whale evolution and the region's prehistoric environment. A marked fossil trail leads into the desert, allowing tourists to view whale skeletons, fossilized mangroves, and ancient shark teeth in their original locations. Wadi Hitan is not only a paleontological site but also a habitat for diverse desert wildlife, including fennec foxes, gazelles, reptiles, and various bird species. The park offers opportunities for jeep safaris, desert treks, and sandboarding. Camping is permitted within the park, allowing visitors to experience the serene desert environment and clear night skies.

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