Overview
Whale Valley (Wadi al-Hitan) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site protecting one of the most important fossil sites on Earth. The valley contains remarkably preserved skeletons of the earliest whales, demonstrating the evolution from land mammals to ocean dwellers over 40 million years ago.
Day Trips · Desert · Nature
Before you go
Food
Bring all food and water. The on-site cafe is very basic with limited supplies.
Money
Bring Egyptian pounds in cash for the gallery shop and tips. No ATMs in the valley.
Safety
Scorpions inhabit the area. Wear closed-toe shoes and stay on marked paths. No mobile coverage in the valley.
Transport
Only 4x4 vehicles can access the valley. Organized tours from Cairo are the safest option. The desert track takes 2-3 hours each way.
Weather
Summer temperatures exceed 40°C. Visit October-April for comfortable conditions. Always carry excess water regardless of season.
