El Fayoum is a large oasis about two hours southwest of Cairo, with lakes, waterfalls, golden dunes and one of Egypt’s most remarkable natural sites. It is the easiest way to see the Egyptian desert in a day trip from Cairo.
Our Fayoum tours are private, with hotel pickup in Cairo or Giza, a 4×4 for the desert sections and a local guide. We can also tailor the day to your interests, from fossils and archaeology to sandboarding and village life.
Fayoum tours from Cairo
- Fayoum Oasis & Modawara Mountain From Cairo – from $175
A full day in the oasis: village life in the Fayoum countryside, Bedouin tea, Lake Qarun and the Modawara mountain. Ask us to add Wadi El Rayan or the Valley of the Whales. - Private transfer from Cairo Airport to Fayoum – from $70
A private transfer from Cairo Airport straight to your hotel in Fayoum. - 2 Days White Desert Safari – Egypt Desert Safari – from $330
Want to go deeper into the desert? Two days in the Bahariya Oasis and the White Desert.
What to see in Fayoum
- Wadi El Rayan: a protected area with two lakes linked by the only waterfalls in Egypt.
- Magic Lake: a lake surrounded by dunes whose colours change through the day.
- Wadi Al-Hitan (Valley of the Whales): a UNESCO World Heritage Site where fossil skeletons of ancient whales lie in the desert where they were found.
- Lake Qarun: one of the oldest lakes in the world, popular for birdwatching.
- Tunis Village: a village known for its pottery workshops.
Good to know
- Best time: October to April. In summer, visits start early to avoid the midday heat.
- What to bring: sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat and comfortable shoes for walking on sand.
- Combine it: Fayoum pairs well with a day at the Pyramids and the Grand Egyptian Museum.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Fayoum from Cairo?
About 100 km, roughly two hours by road.
Can I visit Fayoum in one day?
Yes. A full-day trip from Cairo can cover the countryside and Lake Qarun, or Wadi El Rayan, the waterfalls and the Magic Lake, depending on what you want to see.
Is Wadi Al-Hitan included?
It depends on the itinerary. Tell us if you want to visit the Valley of the Whales and we will plan the day around it.
Do I need a 4×4?
For the desert areas around Wadi El Rayan and Wadi Al-Hitan, yes. Our desert trips use 4×4 vehicles.
Plan your Fayoum day trip
Tell us your date and hotel, and the places you want to see, and we will send you a plan with a clear price.
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