Wadi El Gemal National Park: Day Trips and Tours from Marsa Alam

Wadi el Gemal National Park, located a short drive from Marsa Alam, is a treasure trove of natural and historical wonders. Covering an area of just less than 5,000 square kilometers on land and 2,000 square kilometers of marine area, the park encompasses diverse landscapes, from the Red Sea coastline to the rugged mountains and sweeping desert plains of Egypt's Eastern Desert.

The rich biodiversity of the park includes various rare and endangered species, and is a must-see for nature lovers. Remnants of ancient mining activities and trade routes and the remnants of the old Roman port town of Berenice are just a few of the historical sites to be seen.

A day trip to Wadi el Gemal National Park from Marsa Alam is an immersive and engaging experience that provides authentic insight into the desert environment, culture and tradition.

Here's all you need to know about Wadi el Gemal, one of the most exciting day trips from Marsa Alam.

How to get to Wadi el Gemal National Park from Marsa Alam?

Wadi el Gemal National Park is situated a 45-minute drive south of Marsa Alam. The Park spans a vast distance, and includes both a land and marine reserve.

From Marsa Alam to Wadi el Gemal National Park by car

Although the route between Marsa Alam and Wadi el Gemal is relatively direct along the coastal road that runs beside the western bank of the Red Sea, self-driving within the park is not recommended as it is easy to become lost in the vast expanse.

Guided tour to Marsa Alam to Wadi el Gemal National Park

Due to the remoteness and vast expanse of the park, a guided tour is the safest and most sensible way of sightseeing in Wadi el Gemal National Park. Guided tours typically begin with a pickup from selected hotels in Marsa Alam and last between 6 and 11 hours depending on the route and stops planned for the day.

How much does the entrance ticket to Wadi el Gemal National Park cost?

The Wadi el Gemal National Park charges EGP5 for Egyptian citizens and EGP 40 (US$3) for non-Egyptians. Tickets are bought via the National Park offices in Wadi el Gemal and Um el Abbas. On a guided tour, these entrance tickets will be obtained and included by the tour operator.

What is the typical itinerary?

A tour of the National Park can begin in the morning or at around midday depending on the type of tour booked. Trips take place in 4x4 vehicles for comfort and so that you can admire the scenery.

Once in the park, various sites will be seen and activities such as short hikes and lunch will take place. Some tours may include a water activity such as a boat ride or snorkeling.

As the tour draws to a close, you will have some time to take in the remote beauty of the region before returning to Marsa Alam.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Wadi el Gemal?

Tours to Marsa Alam are differentiated by their itinerary and whether they are organized shared experiences or private excursions.

Small group tours to Wadi el Gemal from Marsa Alam

A small group tour to the Park provides a captivating experience, with time spent exploring the park and visiting an abandoned Roman settlement, engaging with the local Bedouin people and then relaxing on the shoreline at Qulaan.

With a maximum of 8 participants per tour, your attentive guide will ensure an enjoyable and hassle-free experience. Lunch is included in the price of this type of excursion.

Private day trips from Marsa Alam to Wadi el Gemal: Sharm el Luli and Wadi el Qulaan

Private day trips from Marsa Alam are great for avoiding large crowds. This type of tour starts with a snorkeling experience at Sharm el Luli and is followed by a visit to Wadi el Qulaan.

Snorkeling equipment and some refreshments are included in the tour and you can be assured of your guide’s full attention for the duration of the experience.

How much does a day trip to Wadi el Gemal National Park from Marsa Alam cost?

The cost of a day trip to Wadi el Gemal from Marsa Alam ranges in price depending on the type of tour and what is included.

Small group tours to Wadi el Gemal from Marsa Alam are suitable for adults and cost from US$180 per person. These tours accommodate a maximum of 8 participants

Private day trips from Marsa Alam to Wado el Gemal: Sharm el Luli and Wadi el Qulaan cost in the region of US$160 per person.

What will you see and do?

The highlights of a tour to Wadi el Gemal, or "Valley of Camels",  are visits to Appolonia and Qulaan. In addition to these sites, the experience usually includes a 4x4 ride along the desert trails and sand dunes.

Hamata Islands

Forming part of Wadi el Gemal, the Hamata Islands are treasured for their pristine natural beauty and coral reefs. The waters surrounding the islands are teeming with diverse marine life, including rays, turtles, dolphins, and a colorful array of fish species. The coral formations are some of the best in the Red Sea, making this a top diving and snorkeling destination.

Appolonia

Along with the stark beauty of the park's natural features, Roman ghost cities such as Appolonia are evidence of human habitation of the region. At Appolonia, your guide will bring the abandoned city to life by sharing stories of the lifestyle and engineering feats of the Ancient Romans who lived and worked here.

Appolonia is reached on foot by means of a 5-kilometer hike. The emerald mines of Queen Cleopatra located here are said to have produced some of the world’s finest examples of these precious gems.

Bedouin village

After the hike, these tours typically visit the Bedouin settlement of Ababda for a tasty lunch that includes traditional foods and refreshments, including Gabana coffee. The Bedouin have lived in these regions for centuries, moving from place to place to graze their livestock and in search of water.

Qulaan

Qulaan is considered one of the Red Sea’s most beautiful lagoons with its turquoise waters and a fringe of mangrove forests. Here you will have time to relax and unwind on the beach for the evening before returning to Marsa Alam.

Tours that are more focused on the coastline or marine environment may see some of the fine sandy beaches that are common in the region. Coral reefs are accessible from the shoreline in some instances, while in others, a boat trip may be required.

When is the best time to visit Wadi el Gemal National Park?

The best time to visit Wadi el Gemal National Park is from October to April. During these months, the weather is relatively cool, which is ideal for desert hikes, wildlife spotting, and other outdoor activities.

What other day trips can you do from Marsa Alam?

• Luxor day trips from Marsa Alam
• Cairo day trips from Marsa Alam
• Edfu day trips from Marsa Alam
• Kom Ombo day trips from Marsa Alam

Travel tips

• Wear light, breathable clothing, but also consider modest attire to respect local customs, especially when visiting Bedouin communities.
• Good hiking shoes are essential if you're planning on trekking.
• The park houses several endangered species. Always maintain a safe distance, avoid feeding animals, and don't disturb their habitats.
• The sun can be intense, so use sunscreen, wear a hat, and have sunglasses on hand.
• Don't miss out on trying local Bedouin dishes. They offer a unique culinary experience and are a part of the cultural journey.
• Preserve the beauty of the park by not leaving behind any litter and not taking any natural souvenirs, like rocks or plants.