Wadi El Natrun Travel Guide

Read our in-depth travel guide to explore Wadi El Natrun in Egypt, including a list of places to visit, food and drink scene, where to stay, safety and health, transportation options, and more.


Introduction to Wadi El Natrun

Wadi El Natrun is a desert depression in Lower Egypt, located approximately 70 km northwest of Cairo. It is known for its serene atmosphere, stunning scenery, and historical landmarks. The name Wadi El Natrun means “Valley of Natron” due to the salt deposits found in the area since ancient times. The valley of Wadi El Natrun was a vital route for pilgrims traveling between Egypt and Libya. Today, it is a popular destination for travelers looking to experience the natural beauty, history, and culture of Egypt.

List of Places to Visit in Wadi El Natrun

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

1. Monasteries of Wadi El Natrun

The valley of Wadi El Natrun is renowned for its four ancient monasteries, which are among the world’s oldest Christian monasteries. They are:

  • The Monastery of Saint Macarius the Great
  • The Monastery of Saint Pishoy
  • The Syrian Monastery
  • The Monastery of Saint Bishoy

Each monastery has its unique history, architecture, and artifacts. Visitors can explore the chapels, libraries, towers, and tombs, as well as see the monks’ daily rituals and practices.

2. Salt Pans

The salt pans in Wadi El Natrun have been used since ancient times for preserving meat and other foods. Today, they are still used to extract salt for various purposes. Visitors can see the traditional process of salt extraction and learn about the valuable properties of Natron.

Natural Attractions of Wadi El Natrun: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

1. Petrified Forest

The Petrified forest is a geological wonder situated north of Wadi El Natrun. It is a display of fossilized trees, some of which date back 50 million years. The forest offers a unique opportunity to explore the ghostly remains of ancient plants and trees.

2. Lake of Wadi El Natrun

The lake of Wadi El Natrun is a saltwater lake located in the heart of the valley. It offers a tranquil spot for bird watching, fishing, and relaxing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Wadi El Natrun

Wadi El Natrun offers several hiking and biking trails for adventure enthusiasts. Visitors can hike from one monastery to another or explore the rugged terrain of the Petrified forest. Biking tours are also available for those who prefer to see the sights on wheels.

Best Things to Do in Wadi El Natrun: Activities and Tours

Visitors can enjoy various activities and tours in Wadi El Natrun, such as:

  • Guided monastery tours
  • Horseback riding tours
  • Day trips to nearby destinations
  • Hot air balloon rides
  • Stargazing tours

Week-Long Itinerary for Wadi El Natrun

For a comprehensive experience of Wadi El Natrun, we recommend the following itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive and check into a hotel Day 2: Visit the Monastery of Saint Macarius the Great and the Salt Pans Day 3: Explore the Monastery of Saint Pishoy and the Petrified forest Day 4: Relax at the Lake of Wadi El Natrun Day 5: Visit the Syrian Monastery and the Monastery of Saint Bishoy Day 6: Enjoy a hot air balloon ride or horseback riding tour Day 7: Depart Wadi El Natrun

Food and Drink Scene of Wadi El Natrun

Must-Try Dishes

The cuisine of Wadi El Natrun reflects the Bedouin heritage of the valley, offering an array of hearty and flavorful dishes. Some must-try dishes include:

  • Ful Medames - a traditional Egyptian breakfast made from mashed fava beans, olive oil, lemon juice, and spices
  • Kofta - spiced minced beef or lamb formed into balls and grilled or fried
  • Shawarma - a Middle Eastern sandwich made of sliced meat, vegetables, and sauce wrapped in pita bread

Local Beverages

Wadi El Natrun is famous for its herbal tea, made from sage, chamomile, and mint, which is believed to have healing properties. Visitors can also try the Egyptian coffee, which is strong and sweet, or a refreshing glass of hibiscus juice.

Where to Stay in Wadi El Natrun: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Wadi El Natrun offers a range of accommodation options for visitors, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Some popular options include:

  • Desert Rose Hotel
  • Al-Nafoura Resort
  • Deir El Baramous Guest House

What to Buy in Wadi El Natrun: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors can shop for unique souvenirs and local products in Wadi El Natrun, such as:

  • Natron salt
  • Hand-woven Bedouin carpets
  • Traditional pottery
  • Organic herbs and spices

Local Culture and Customs of Wadi El Natrun

Wadi El Natrun has a rich cultural heritage, shaped by its Bedouin roots and significant Christian history. Visitors are advised to respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting religious sites. It is also customary to remove shoes when entering a monastery or private home.

Best Time to Visit Wadi El Natrun

The best time to visit Wadi El Natrun is during the winter season from November to February when the weather is mild and pleasant. Summer months can be extremely hot, and monasteries may be closed for renovation during Easter and Christmas.

Do’s and Don’ts of Wadi El Natrun

Do:

  • Learn about the significance of the monasteries and respect the monks’ lifestyle
  • Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites
  • Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated

Don’t:

  • Take photographs of monks without their permission
  • Wear revealing clothing in public
  • Enter a monastery during a worship service

Safety and Health

Safety in Wadi El Natrun

Wadi El Natrun is generally safe for travelers, but visitors are advised to take necessary precautions, such as:

  • Avoid solo trips in remote areas
  • Hire a local guide for hiking or biking excursions
  • Keep valuables in a safe place

Health in Wadi El Natrun

Visitors are advised to drink bottled water and avoid street food to prevent food-borne illnesses. Mosquitoes may be prevalent during summer months, so travelers should wear long-sleeved clothing and use insect repellent.

Getting to Wadi El Natrun: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Wadi El Natrun

The nearest international airports to Wadi El Natrun are Cairo International Airport, approximately 70 km away, and Alexandria International Airport, approximately 170 km away. Travelers can take a taxi or rent a car to reach Wadi El Natrun.

Bus Stations Near Wadi El Natrun

Buses run regularly from Cairo to Sadat City, the nearest town to Wadi El Natrun. Visitors can take a taxi from Sadat City to reach Wadi El Natrun.

Other Options

Private transfers and guided tours are also available for visitors who prefer a hassle-free journey.

How to Get Around in Wadi El Natrun

Visitors can explore Wadi El Natrun on foot, by bike, or by taking a taxi or rental car.

Where to Go Next from Wadi El Natrun: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Travelers can extend their Egyptian adventure by visiting nearby destinations, such as:

  • Alexandria, a historic port city
  • Cairo, the capital city of Egypt, home to the famous Giza pyramids
  • Siwa Oasis, a beautiful desert oasis in western Egypt

Conclusion

Wadi El Natrun is a beautiful and historic destination in Egypt that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and culture. Visitors can explore the ancient monasteries, take in the stunning scenery, and savor the flavors of Bedouin cuisine. Whether you are a history enthusiast or an adventure seeker, Wadi El Natrun has something to offer for everyone.

Monastery of Saint Macarius the Great-13 Monastery of Saint Macarius the Great-13 Paromeos Monastery Paromeos Monastery Bischoy Kloster BW 9 Bischoy Kloster BW 9 Deir as Suriani Deir as Suriani