Wadi Degla Protected Area
Nature
A limestone canyon full of marine fossils on the edge of Maadi, popular with Cairo hikers, cyclists and climbers.
- Arabic name
- محمية وادي دجلة
- Type
- Protected area
- Governorate
- Cairo
- Area
- 28 km²
- Protected since
- 1999
- Nearest city guide
- Cairo
- Official website
- eeaa.gov.eg
Wadi Degla is a desert valley that cuts east from the suburb of Maadi into the limestone plateau. A few minutes after leaving Cairo’s traffic you are walking between canyon walls, and the valley is the city’s favourite place to get outdoors.
Landscape and wildlife
The cliffs were laid down on an ancient sea floor, and fossil shells, sea urchins and coral fragments are easy to spot in the rock. After rare winter rains, the valley floor briefly turns green. Wildlife includes foxes, desert hares, reptiles and resident birds such as desert larks and wheatears, along with occasional dorcas gazelle in the quieter upper reaches.
What to do
- Hike or trail-run along the main wadi.
- Mountain bike on the marked tracks.
- Climb or boulder on the canyon walls with local climbing groups.
- Picnic and watch the sunset, keeping the site clean.
Getting there and best time
The main gate is on the eastern edge of Maadi, about 30 minutes from downtown Cairo by taxi or ride-hailing car. Cars can enter part of the valley. Bring water, as there are few facilities. October to April is ideal; in summer go early in the morning.
Entry fee: a small fee per person, higher for foreigners, plus a car charge (last checked October 2026).
Last checked October 2026. Entry fees and access rules change; check with the Egyptian Environmental Affairs Agency or a local operator before you go. Sources: eeaa.gov.eg, en.wikipedia.org.
Frequently asked questions
What can I do at Wadi Degla?
Hike or trail-run along the canyon, mountain bike on marked tracks, climb or boulder with local climbing groups, and picnic at sunset. Fossil shells, sea urchins and coral fragments are easy to spot in the limestone walls.
How do I get there?
The main gate is on the eastern edge of Maadi, about 30 minutes from downtown Cairo by taxi or ride-hailing car. Cars can enter part of the valley.
What wildlife might I see?
Foxes, desert hares, reptiles and birds such as desert larks and wheatears, with occasional dorcas gazelle in the quieter upper reaches.
How much is entry?
A small fee per person, higher for foreigners, plus a charge for cars, paid at the gate.
When is the best time to go?
October to April is ideal; in summer go early in the morning. Bring water, as facilities are few, and take all rubbish away with you.
