Wadi Al-Rayan Reserve — in Faiyum Governorate, Egypt — is one of the most attractive natural reserves with integrated eco-tourism, rich in waterfalls and a calm desert climate. The reserve, which is 150 kilometers from Cairo, is an attractive outlet for visitors who love hiking in the desert and a destination for those looking for an atmosphere of relaxation away from the city hustle. Horse and camel riding, skiing, safaris, in addition to camping, stargazing, bird watching, and many water sports are some of the activities to enjoy at the reserve.
The reserve has several areas: the charming waterfalls area, which boasts a large fish population and is considered one of the areas for practicing various marine sports, as well as (Oyun Al-Rayyan) area, which consists of moving sand dunes and three natural sulfur springs, in addition to several types of desert plants. Wadi Al-Rayan also consist of Jabal Al-Rayyan area, which has various types of migratory and resident birds, in addition to important marine monuments and fossils, as well as lakes. In a statement to KUNA, the official spokesman of Faiyum Governorate, Dr Mohammad Al-Tuni, said that Wadi Al-Rayan was an area of national, regional and international importance.
He added that it was an attractive area for eco-tourism. It includes the whale valley (Wadi Al-Hitan), which is more than 40,000,000 years old. In 2005, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) chose it as a natural herita.