Origins
Wadi Degla lies in the northern part of the Eastern Desert and runs east to west for 30km to drain into the Nile Valley at Maadi, south of the Governorate of Cairo. The area, which encompasses 60 km², was declared a Natural Protectorate in 1999.
During the Upper Eocene epoch, 50 – 60 million years ago, Egypt was covered by the ancient Mediterranean Sea. At the same time tectonic movements were raising the seabed and creating the Moqattam Hills. These formed a southward slope that became covered with sedimentary layers rich in marine fossils, notably nummulites. When the sea receded northwards, the whole area with its marine sediments was exposed
During the Pleistocene epoch, extended periods of rain eroded the exposed limestone and formed Wadi Degla. Waterfalls cut into the wadi at different levels and deep rock pools were created below them. About 10,000 years ago, dry periods began to dominate and the land stabilized. Today, winter rains refill the attractive rock pools.
On either side of the wadi, karst caves were created that provide shelters and habitat for wildlife.
Activities
Wadi Degla is a tranquil haven from the frantic pace of life in modern Cairo. It provides a variety of ways to relax including nature trails and bird watching. Biking, mountain climbing, and jogging are available for the more energetic. Camping out on quiet nights or arranging a picnic will sooth the most overstressed among us.
The Visitor Center provides many facilities including a museum, library and auditorium. The center’s cafeteria and observation points overlook the ancient and peaceful landscape.
Wildlife
Despite its proximity to the city, Wadi Degla is to a variety of wildlife including such large forms as the handsome Nubian Ibex and the Dorcas Gazelle. The Cairo Spiny Mouse is common as is the Red Fox and the Cape Hare. The caves form a habitat for bats like the Short-tailed Bats.
Among the reptiles the Horned Viper is seldom seen due to its remarkable ability to camouflage itself in the sand. The Fan-footed Gecko is much more visible as it climbs on rocks.
The birds are well represented, not least by the Honey Buzzard, the ubiquitous White-crowned Black Wheatear and the majestic Pharaoh's (Eagle) Owl.
In spring, after the rain, the wadi is carpeted with patches of annuals while a number of hardy perennials bloom throughout the year. Over 75 wild flowering plants are recorded from Wadi Degla, of which the most notable are the caper which mainly occupies the rocky slopes and cliffs of the wadi. Lycium, Atriplex , tamarisk and a single patch of the woody climber Cocculus grow on the sides of the wadi while zilla, ochradenus, zygophyllium and deerra occupy the wadi bed.
Among the medicinal plants are achillea and pylicaria.
How to get to Wadi Degla
Drive out to the Zahraa el Maadi district to the Water Pumping Station. Then turn right and drive parallel to the USAID building until you turn left at the sign indicating the west gate.
To get to the Visitor Center take the Qatamiya/Ain Sokhna road and in front of the Public Transportation Garage, turn right at the sign and drive for three kilometers. Turn left and keep going until you see the sign for the Visitor Center.
The Rules
• Do not collect, transport or damage anything, living or dead.
• Stay on designated tracks.
• Camp only in designated areas.
• Do not litter.
• Take your garbage away with you.
• Do not enter restricted areas.
• Dogs are not permitted.
Visitors should leave by sunset, unless camping in dedicated areas.
For further information please contact:
The Ministry of State for Environmental Affairs,
Egyptian Environmental Affairs Agency,
Nature Conservation Sector,
30 Misr Helwan Road,
Maadi,
Cairo.
