Fayoum - Discovering Egypt

Travelling to Fayoum

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Fayoum, a pretty good destination in Egypt (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Fayoum and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Fayoum, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Egypt, here's everything to know about Fayoum for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Fayoum

Fayoum is a city located in the western region of Egypt, about 80 kilometers southwest of Cairo. It is the capital city of the Fayoum Governorate and is situated in a depression known as the Fayoum Oasis. It has a rich history dating back to ancient Egyptian times and is home to a number of notable archaeological sites, such as the Medinet Madi Temple and the Valley of the Whales. The city is known for its beautiful scenery, including a large lake known as Lake Qarun, and is a popular destination for birdwatching and ecotourism.

What to visit in Fayoum

Sure, here are some of the most popular tourist attractions in Fayoum along with some information about them: 1. Wadi El Rayan: This is a protected area that features two beautiful waterfalls and several lakes. Visitors can enjoy swimming, hiking, and picnicking while taking in the stunning scenery.
2. Tunis Village: This charming village is known for its traditional architecture and handicrafts, such as pottery and weaving. Visitors can stroll through the village's streets and visit local shops and markets to purchase souvenirs.
3. Qaroun Lake: This is one of the largest lakes in Egypt and is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and birdwatching. Visitors can take a boat ride around the lake and watch for species like flamingos and pelicans.
4. Karanis: This ancient city was once a thriving Greco-Roman settlement and is now an archaeological site. Visitors can see the remains of temples, houses, and other structures, as well as artifacts like pottery and jewelry.
5. Mudawara Mountain: This scenic mountain offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and is a popular spot for hiking and rock climbing. Visitors can also see the remains of an ancient fortress on the mountain's summit.
6. Water Wheels: These historic water wheels, known as sakias, are a fascinating sight to behold. Visitors can watch as local farmers use them to irrigate their fields, and can even try their hand at operating one themselves.
Overall, Fayoum offers a unique blend of natural beauty, culture, and history, making it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Egypt.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Egypt, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Fayoum.

When to go on holiday to Fayoum

The best time to visit Fayoum is between November and March when the weather is cooler and more pleasant for outdoor activities. Temperatures during these months average around 20-25°C (68-77°F). However, if you don't mind the heat, you can also visit during the summer months (June-August) when temperatures can reach up to 40°C (104°F), but prices for hotels and attractions may be lower during this low season.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Fayoum

There are several ways to get to Fayoum, Egypt. Here are some options: 1. By car: You can rent a car or take a taxi from Cairo to Fayoum. The journey takes approximately 1.5 - 2 hours, depending on traffic.
2. By bus: There are several buses that depart from Cairo to Fayoum daily, from different bus stations such as Turgoman, Giza, or Nasr City. The journey takes around 2-2.5 hours.
3. By train: There is a train that runs from Cairo to Fayoum, however, it is not a direct route and requires a transfer in Beni Suef. The journey takes approximately 3-4 hours.
4. By private tour: There are several tour companies that offer private tours to Fayoum from Cairo. This option may be more expensive, but it allows for a more personalized and curated trip experience. I hope this information helps you plan your trip to Fayoum!
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Fayoum, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Fayoum

Sure, here are some typical foods of Fayoum in Egypt: 1. Fesikh - A seasoned and salted mullet that is traditionally eaten during the Egyptian holiday of Sham El Nessim.
2. Baramili rice - A creamy rice dish made with milk, chicken or meat, and a variety of spices.
3. Mulukhiyah - A soup made with the leaves of the jute plant, chicken or meat, and a variety of spices. It is often served with rice or bread.
4. Taro - A starchy root vegetable that is typically mashed and mixed with spices and herbs to make a dip or spread.
5. Foul medames - A hearty stew made with fava beans, garlic, cumin, and olive oil. It is typically served with bread.
6. Koshari - A popular Egyptian street food made with lentils, rice, pasta, and tomato sauce. It is often topped with fried onions.
7. Asabi'a - A sweet pastry made with a dough filled with cream or nuts, then fried and coated with a syrup.
8. Molokhia soup - A green, slimy soup made with jute leaves, a meat broth and spices. It is usually eaten with rice or bread.
I hope this helps!
You can find general info about typical foods in Egypt here.

Is Fayoum an expensive destination for tourists?

Fayoum is generally a more affordable destination compared to other tourist hotspots in Egypt, such as Cairo or Luxor. However, the cost of a trip to Fayoum can vary depending on the type of accommodation and activities chosen by the traveler.
Accommodations in Fayoum range from budget-friendly hostels to more high-end resorts, with prices that can vary greatly. As for activities, there are many free and low-cost options, such as visiting the Qarun Lake, the Wadi El Rayan waterfalls, or the Pyramid of Hawara.
Overall, Fayoum can be a very affordable destination for backpackers, solo travelers, and families on a budget. However, if you're looking for luxury accommodations and high-end activities, the cost can be relatively higher compared to other places in Egypt.

Where to find accomodation in Fayoum

Fayoum city, Medinet El-Fayoum, Tunis Village, and Karanis Village are some of the areas where you can find accommodation to visit Fayoum. However, it's important to do some research beforehand to determine the best location based on your interests and travel plans.
You can check hotel prices at Fayoum here:
Booking.com

Is Fayoum a safe destination for tourists?

Fayoum is a generally safe place for tourists, but like in any other place in the world, it's always important to be cautious and aware of your surroundings. It's also recommended to follow the local customs and laws, and take the necessary safety precautions such as not walking alone at night, avoiding deserted areas, and keeping your valuables secure. In addition, it's a good idea to research the current safety situation before traveling and to stay up to date with any travel advisories issued by your country's government.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Egypt here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Fayoum.

What type of travelers will enjoy Fayoum the most?

Fayoum is a great destination for all types of travelers, whether you are a couple, a young person looking for adventure, or a family. Couples will enjoy the tranquil and peaceful atmosphere of Fayoum. They can take romantic walks by the lake, explore the historic site of Karanis, and indulge in local cuisine.
Young people will enjoy the adventurous side of Fayoum. They can go hiking in the hills, enjoy water sports on Lake Qarun, and explore the Wadi El Rayan nature reserve.
Families will enjoy Fayoum's outdoor activities, historical sites, and family-friendly restaurants. They can visit the Crocodile Museum, the Valley of the Whales, and take a dip in the natural springs at Wadi El Hitan.
Overall, Fayoum offers a unique blend of history, nature and outdoor activities, making it a great destination for all types of travelers.

How to get around Fayoum

To move around Fayoum, the main modes of transportation are taxis, microbuses, and rental cars. Taxis are the most convenient and widely available option, though it's important to negotiate the fare before getting in. Microbuses are a cheaper alternative, but they can be crowded and uncomfortable. Rental cars are also available, but they may not be the best option for those unfamiliar with the area's driving conditions.

What to see around Fayoum

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Fayoum, Egypt: 1. Wadi El Rayan: A beautiful nature reserve with two connected lakes and a waterfall. This place is perfect for hiking, picnicking, and bird watching.
2. Tunis Village: A small, traditional village with beautiful architecture and a peaceful atmosphere. It's a great place to experience rural Egyptian life.
3. Karanis: An ancient Greco-Roman city located in the Fayoum Oasis. You can explore the well-preserved ruins of houses, temples, and baths.
4. Valley of the Whales: A UNESCO World Heritage Site that contains the fossils of over 400 different species of prehistoric whales and other marine animals that lived in the area over 40 million years ago.
5. Qasr Qarun: An ancient fortress and settlement located on the western edge of the Fayoum Oasis. It dates back to the Pharaonic times and it was also used by Graeco-Romans and early Christians. I hope this helps you plan your day trip! Let me know if you have any other questions.
For every travel information about Egypt you can click here.

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