A Look at Wadi El-Rayan Reserve

Indeed, Wadi El-Rayan reserve is a marvelous site which surrounded by numerous sandy rocks shaped by natural winds.

According to international institutions, Wadi El-Rayan desert in Fayoum Governorate is regarded as one of the best places to watch the stars in the sky.

It features wonderful attractions like Upper Lake - Lower Lake - Waterfalls Area - Al-Mudawara Mountain Area - Qarat Jahannam Area - Ayoun Al-Rayyan Area - Jabal Al-Rayyan Area (Manaqeer Al-Rayyan). We present some information about these areas.

Approximately, the valley of Wadi El-Rayan is an area of 1759km2, 113km2 of which are the dominating water body of the Wadi El-Rayan lakes.

It is situated about 65km southwest of Fayoum city and 80km west of the Nile River.

The Wadi has been used for man-made lakes from agricultural drainage which has made a reserve of the two separate Wadi El-Rayan Lakes. 

Moreover, the reserve includes a 50.90km2 upper lake and a 62.00km2 lower lake, with waterfalls between the two.

Additionally, the valley is knowing for its three sulphur springs at the southern side of the lower lake, with extensive mobile sand dunes. Wadi El-Rayan Waterfalls are considered to be the largest waterfalls in Egypt.

At the south and southeast of the springs is Jabal Manqueer Al-Rayan, where marine fossils and archeological remains are found. Jabal Madwera, near the lower lake, is known for its extensive dune formations.