Wadi El Gemal National Park
وادي الجمال
A desert-and-sea national park south of Marsa Alam; dry wadis shelter Nubian ibex and Dorcas gazelles, and the coast has mangroves and quiet, uncrowded reef flats.
وادي الجمال (Camel Valley) National Park was established in 2003 and covers about 7,450 square kilometers, spanning eastern desert mountains, dry wadis, and the Red Sea coast and islands. Both sides of the dry valley are rugged reddish-brown ridges, and the valley floor is lined with acacia trees and desert plants. It is home to Dorcas gazelles, Nubian ibex, red foxes and many migratory birds, as well as the Ababda nomadic people, who have lived here for generations. Visitors can see their tents and taste traditional jebena coffee. The park also contains ancient Roman emerald mining sites (the Sikait mining area) and the stations of ancient trade routes. The marine section has mangroves, islands where herons nest, and pristine reef flats with few visitors, and large numbers of migratory birds gather in winter. The main way to visit is a full-day 4WD trip led by a local guide, about 1 hour from Marsa Alam. You can also combine it with snorkeling or spend a night at the park's eco-camp for stargazing. Entering desert areas requires a guide, and self-drivers should check access regulations in advance. Bring plenty of drinking water, sun protection and a headscarf, as the difference between day and night temperatures is large.
Opening hours
Daytime (guide required)
Nearby sights
- Sharm El Luli
- Qulan Islands
- Samadai Reef (Dolphin House)
- Sataya Reef
- Marsa Alam Town
- Marsa Shagra
- Elphinstone Reef
- Abu Dabbab Bay, Marsa Alam