Introduction
A short drive southwest from Cairo, Egypt will reveal a whole new side of the country. With vast green fields, ancient monuments and peaceful villages, plus stunning lakes, El Fayoum City is the gateway to one of the most interesting areas of Egypt.
Fayoum is the perfect place to visit if you want to take a break from the famous pyramids and temples of Egypt. With waterfalls, like those found in Wadi El Rayan, and prehistoric fossils found in Wadi El Hitan.
This guide will help you find out the best places to visit, what to do to experience the culture and some useful tips.
Looking to explore more of Egypt? Take a look at our Egypt Travel Packages for inspiration.
Table of content:
Where Is El Fayoum City Located in Egypt?
Fayoum is approximately 100 km south west of Cairo, on the edge of the Western Desert. It is the capital of the Fayoum Governorate which is known for its beautiful agricultural scenery, lakes, ancient villages and archaeological sites.
Despite being in the desert, it is very green with lots of fertile land. The land is irrigated with the use of the Bahr Yussef canal which branches off the Nile.
This has helped the area become a major agricultural area.
What makes Fayoum Unique?
The uniqueness of Fayoum lies in the variety of scenery available.
Start your day with palm trees and agricultural fields, explore an ancient archaeological site in the afternoon and end your day watching the sun set over a desert lake.
Whilst it is often described as an oasis, lots of the best attractions are actually outside the city.
Volkena's Egypt Travel Guide provides useful information for those wanting to visit more places around Egypt. You will find information on the scenery, history and travel experiences available.
What Are the Best Things to do in Fayoum?
The main highlights of Fayoum are a mixture of nature, geology and local villages, so it is a good idea to plan your route.
Wadi El Rayan and Waterfalls
Wadi El Rayan is one of the best known natural conservation areas in the region.
It offers a stunning landscape with lakes, sand and famous waterfalls.
The waterfalls here form a unique spectacle in Egypt's Western Desert which means it is a popular spot for tourists to capture some great photos.
Enjoy the scenery, find some designated viewpoints and enjoy the mix of water and dunes.
Wadi El Hitan (Valley of the Whales)
Wadi El Hitan is one of the most amazing natural heritage sites in Egypt.
This area was recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005. It contains fossils of ancient whales which help to explain their evolution from land mammals to sea dwellers.
Discover the fossil trails which have been set up to explore the area. Learn about the ancient marine life that used to live here.
Lake Qarun
Lake Qarun is one of the most well known geographical landmarks in Fayoum.
The large lake, local farmland and desert means there are some great photo opportunities to enjoy.
The surrounding area will give you a taste of local communities and a long history.
Tunis Village
Tunis Village is famous for its pottery making, artistic feel and views over Lake Qarun.
Watch local craftsmen shape the clay into handmade pottery. Explore the small workshops filled with colourful pottery.
If you are combining Fayoum with a sightseeing trip to Egypt's capital city then why not check out Volkena's Cairo Attractions guide for more historical and cultural landmarks to visit.
What Makes Fayoum's History and Culture So Special?
Fayoum has a rich cultural history dating back to ancient Egyptian times and the Greco-Roman era.
The region contains some great fertile farmland and is connected to the Nile.
There are many archaeological sites and traditional villages to explore.
Which Ancient Monuments Can You Visit in Fayoum?
The Pyramid of Hawara was built for Pharaoh Amenemhat III during the Middle Kingdom era. It gives you an insight into how the ancient Egyptians buried their Kings.
The Pyramid of Lahun was built for Senusret II and is also an important monument from the Middle Kingdom era.
If you're looking for something a bit more recent there is also a historic temple to visit called Qasr Qarun.
They are a great contrast to the famous King monuments found around Cairo and Luxor.
For another perspective on ancient Egypt's royal burial traditions, explore Volkena's Valley of the Kings Tombs.
Why is Tunis Village famous for pottery?
Tunis Village has become known for its handmade pottery.
There are small workshops and pottery schools which make it a very creative place to visit. You can learn about traditional pottery techniques.
It's a lovely relaxing place to enjoy some local food and browse the craft shops.
