Wadi El gemal, Marsa Alam Travel Guide

Explore Wadi El Gemal National Park: Where ancient history meets stunning natural beauty in Egypt's Eastern Desert.

Wadi El Gemal National Park, meaning 'Valley of the Camels,' is a vast protected area in Egypt's Eastern Desert, combining dramatic desert landscapes with rich marine ecosystems. It offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historical sites, and opportunities for adventure, from exploring ancient ruins to diving in pristine coral reefs.

A brief summary to Wadi El gemal

3V9H+3H5, Marsa Alam, Red Sea Governorate, EG

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Wadi El gemal.

The best time to visit is during the cooler months (November to March) for comfortable hiking and exploring.
Hire a local guide for desert excursions to navigate the challenging terrain and discover hidden gems.
Bring snorkeling gear to explore the vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life along the coast.
Respect the local culture and traditions of the Ababda Bedouin community.
Obtain necessary permits for camping and overnight stays from the National Park Administration.

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Explore Wadi El gemal on the Map

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Getting There

Taxi

From Marsa Alam International Airport, take a taxi to the Wadi El Gemal National Park entrance, approximately 70 km south. Negotiate the fare beforehand, with a typical cost ranging from EGP 300-500. Alternatively, arrange a private transfer through your hotel or a tour operator.
Tour

Consider booking a guided tour from Marsa Alam, which typically includes transportation, entrance fees, and a 4x4 vehicle for exploring the park's interior. Prices vary depending on the tour operator and itinerary, but expect to pay between EGP 500-1500 per person. Some tours also include snorkeling at Sharm el Lulli or a visit to the mangrove beach of Wadi el Qulaan.
Entrance Fee

Upon arrival at the park entrance, pay the entrance fee of EGP 40 for non-Egyptians. Tickets are available at the National Park Offices in Wadi El-Gemal and Um El-Abbas. Keep your ticket handy, as it may be checked at various points within the park.

Discover more about Wadi El gemal

Wadi El Gemal National Park, established in 2003, encompasses over 7,450 square kilometers of land and sea, making it one of Egypt's largest national parks. The park's name, meaning 'Valley of the Camels,' reflects its historical importance as a habitat and migration route for these animals.The park boasts a diverse range of ecosystems, from arid mountains and vast deserts to vibrant coral reefs and mangrove-lined shores. The wadi system, fed by the main Wadi el Gemal and its tributaries, creates impressive rocky valleys that support a rich flora of over 140 plant species. The coastal area features long sandy beaches and thriving mangrove forests, which provide a unique habitat for various species.Wadi El Gemal's marine environment is equally impressive, with pristine coral reefs teeming with diverse marine life. These reefs are home to over 450 species of coral and 1200 species of fish, including many that are native to the Red Sea region. The park also includes several islands that serve as breeding grounds for various bird species and provide important feeding areas for endangered dugongs and green turtles.Beyond its natural beauty, Wadi El Gemal is rich in history and culture. The park contains prehistoric rock art, Ptolemaic ruins, and remnants of the Roman Empire, including the ancient emerald mines of Mons Smaragdus. These mines, dating back to ancient Egypt, are the oldest known emerald mines in the world. The park is also home to the Ababda Bedouins, who maintain their traditional lifestyle as herders and guides.Visitors to Wadi El Gemal can enjoy a variety of activities, including hiking, camping, bird watching, snorkeling, diving, and jeep safaris. The park offers a chance to experience the cultural, historical, natural, and marine facets of Egypt in one visit.