Cave of Swimmers, Rock art cave in New Valley Governorate, Egypt.
The Cave of Swimmers contains numerous rock paintings depicting human figures with elongated limbs performing swimming motions across stone surfaces.
Hungarian explorer László Almásy discovered this archaeological site in October 1933, documenting the findings in his book The Unknown Sahara published in 1934.
The swimming figures painted on cave walls provide evidence that the Sahara region contained water bodies during the Neolithic period around 5000 BCE.
Visitors need to arrange guided desert expeditions through authorized tour operators to reach this remote location in the Gilf al-Kabir plateau.
German researchers identified the swimming figures as representations of deceased individuals floating in a primordial ocean according to ancient Egyptian beliefs.
Location: New Valley Governorate
GPS coordinates: 23.59472,25.23350
Latest update: May 26, 2025 21:45
Great Manmade River
422.2 km
Dakhla Oasis
452 km
Cave of the Beasts
10 km
Jebel Uweinat
190.1 km
Kellis
445.9 km
Gilf Kebir National Park
63.6 km
Abu Ballas
263 km
Cave of the Archers
11 m
Magharet el-Qantara
102.8 km
Deir el-Hagar
429.3 km
Water Mountain of Djedefre
368.3 km
Mastaba of Khentika
464.2 km
Samir Lama Rock
349.9 km
Gebel el Uwaynat
186.8 km
Qila' el-Dabba
464.3 km
Karkur Talh
180.8 km
Qarat el-Muzawwaqa
432.4 km
Ain Birbiya
466 km
Prince Kamal el Dine Memorial
119.5 km
Mastaba of Ima-Pepi II
464.2 km
Ain Gallaw
468.9 km
Bir el-Shaghala
432.7 km
Wadi Sura
155 m
Deir el-Malak
440.8 km
Mastaba of Khentikau-Pepi
464.3 km
Tomb of Betju and Ideki
464.3 km
Deir Abu Matta
433.8 km
Beit el-Arais
442.5 kmReviews
Visited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes