Lakes in Egypt: A Complete Guide

Egypt is home to around 12 lakes, with some still thriving and others gradually disappearing. Among them, seven major lakes stand out, covering nearly 3,600 square miles: Lake Nasser (High Dam Lake), Lake Qarun (Moeris), Lake Mariout, Lake Edko, Lake Burullus, Lake Manzilah, and Lake Bardawil. Other notable ones include the Wadi El Rayan Lakes, Toshka Lakes, Great Bitter Lake, Wadi El Natrun Lakes, och Salt Lakes of Siwa. While most lakes contain fresh water, several are salty due to their natural formations.

Lake Nasser

One of the most famous lakes in Egypt is Lake Nasser, the world’s largest man-made lake. Created after the construction of the Assuans höga damm, it was named in honor of President Gamal Abdel Nasser. Spanning about 2,030 square miles across Egypt and Sudan, this lake plays a crucial role in generating hydroelectric power and controlling Nile floods.

Lake Nasser is also a popular tourist destination, especially for those visiting Aswan. Travelers enjoy multi-day cruises departing from Aswan or Abu Simbel, offering stunning views and cultural experiences. Fishing is another highlight, as the lake is home to some of the biggest freshwater fish in Egypt.

The Salt Lakes of Siwa Oasis

Located in Egypt’s western desert, the Siwa-Oasen is a magical spot filled with palm groves, hot springs, and shimmering saltwater lakes. The largest is Zeitoun Lake, covering over 12,000 hectares, while Siwa Lake spreads across 5,300 hectares.

The high salt content of these lakes is believed to have healing properties, especially for skin, eye, and joint conditions. This makes Siwa not only a place for relaxation but also a hub for medical tourism. Visitors come from around the world to experience its unique combination of wellness and desert charm.

Magic Lake

Tucked away in Wadi El Hitan, Fayoumden Magic Lake is known for its stunning beauty and ever-changing colors, which shift depending on sunlight and time of day. Surrounded by rocky mountains and desert dunes, it’s one of Egypt’s most picturesque freshwater lakes.

Travelers can enjoy camping, desert safaris, sandboarding, horseback riding, and peaceful sunsets by the lake. Its unique landscape makes it one of the most popular attractions in the Fayoum area.

Wadi El Rayan Lakes

Situated in the Fayoum-oasenden Wadi El Rayan Lakes consist of two freshwater lakes connected by Egypt’s only natural waterfall. The combination of desert dunes, wide-open scenery, and the tranquil waterfall makes it a favorite spot for day trips, picnics, and relaxation.

Lake Qarun (Moeris)

Qarun-Sjön, also known as Lake Moeris, is one of Egypt’s most ancient lakes, formed thousands of years ago when Nile floodwaters spilled into the Fayoum depression. Covering about 202 square kilometers, the lake is surrounded by archaeological sites and ancient ruins, making it a fascinating stop for history lovers.

Lake Burullus

Beläget i Kafr El-Sheikh Governorate, Lake Burullus is Egypt’s second-largest lake, stretching across 460 square kilometers. Its slightly salty waters attract a variety of fish, birds, reptiles, and mammals. The surrounding sandy plains and marshlands are ideal for birdwatching and exploring Egypt’s natural ecosystems.

Lake Timsah

Found in Ismailia Governorate, Lake Timsah lies on the isthmus connecting the Red Sea and Mediterranean. Covering about 5.4 square miles, it is surrounded by popular beaches such as Bahary, Fayrouz, and Melaha. Its location along the Suez Canal also makes it a lively area for both trade and leisure.

Lesser-Known Lakes

• Lake Mariout – A salty northern lake of about 200 km², historically significant as the site where the Rosetta Stone was discovered. Ancient tombs can still be found around its edges.
• Lake Bardawil – A shallow, highly saline lake on the Sinai coast, vital for Egypt’s fishing industry and a key wintering ground for migratory birds and reptiles.

Why Lakes in Egypt Matter

Each Egyptian lake offers something unique:

• Lake Nasser provides electricity, irrigation, and fishing.
• Siwa Lakes promote wellness through their therapeutic waters.
• Magic Lake och Wadi El Rayan are natural attractions perfect for adventure and relaxation.
• Burullus och Bardawil support ecosystems rich in birdlife and marine species.
• Qarun-sjö connects modern travelers with Egypt’s ancient history.

Altogether, Egypt’s lakes are more than just water bodies—they are cultural landmarks, ecological treasures, and tourist destinations that continue to attract visitors worldwide.

FAQ

How many lakes are there in Egypt?
There are around 12 recognized lakes.

What are the main lakes in Egypt?
The most notable are:

• Lake Nasser
• Lake Qarun (Moeris)
• Lake Timsah
• Burullus Lake
• Magic Lake
• Wadi El Rayan Lakes
• The Salt Lakes of Siwa

What is the largest lake in Egypt?
Lake Nasser, stretching about 550 km, is not only the largest in Egypt but also one of the world’s largest artificial lakes.

Which is the oldest lake?
Lake Qarun (Moeris), dating back to the time of the Pharaohs, is considered the oldest.