Guide to Wadi el Gemal: Egypt’s Stunning Safari

Located in the southeastern part of Egypt, Wadi El Gemal National Park is one of the country’s most stunning and remote natural reserves. Stretching across nearly 7,450 square kilometers of desert and coastal terrain, the park offers a diverse range of landscapes, from arid mountains and vast deserts to vibrant coral reefs and mangrove-lined shores.

It is a haven for nature enthusiasts, wildlife lovers, and those seeking a truly off-the-beaten-path adventure. Here’s our comprehensive guide to Wadi el Gemal National Park;

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Overview of Wadi el Gemal National Park

Wadi El Gemal National Park spans 2,880 square miles (7,450 square kilometers), making it one of Egypt’s largest protected areas. Established in 2003, the national park is divided into land and marine portions. The land areas cover 1,840 square miles (4,770 square kilometers) while the sea encompasses 810 square miles (2,100 square kilometers).

The national park is known for its remarkable biodiversity, particularly in the Red Sea section, where over 450 species of coral and more than 1,200 species of fish thrive. The land portion adds significant historical and cultural value, featuring prehistoric rock art, Ptolemaic ruins, and Roman-era remnants.

The national park also includes five islands that serve as important breeding grounds for marine life, including the endangered dugong and green turtle. Mangroves and seagrass beds along the coastline further enhance the park’s unique ecosystem, supporting both marine and bird species.

Wildlife in Wadi el Gemal National Park

Wadi El Gemal National Park is home to an extraordinary diversity of wildlife, both on land and in the sea. The park’s coral reefs boast 450 species of vibrant coral, providing a sanctuary for over 1,200 species of fish, many of which are endemic to the Red Sea. Snorkelers can encounter dolphins, sea turtles, rare dugongs, emperor fish, green turtles, and parrotfish while exploring the crystal-clear waters.

On land, the park’s inland areas support a variety of mammals, including the resident Dorcas gazelle, Nubian ibex, and Barbary sheep. Reptiles like Jerboa also call the park home. Birdlife is abundant, with sightings of Caspian terns, spoonbills, striated herons, and western reef herons. Raptors, particularly falcons such as the sooty falcon and osprey, can also be spotted soaring through the sky, making Wadi El Gemal a haven for birdwatchers.

Best Time to Visit Wadi el Gemal National Park

The best time to visit Wadi El Gemal National Park largely depends on the activities you wish to enjoy. The cooler season (November to March) offers mild temperatures averaging 25°C, making it an ideal time for hiking through the park’s green landscape and exploring its natural beauty in comfort.

Summer (April to October) can be hot. However, the pleasant sea temperatures rarely drop below 23°C, making it perfect for exploring the beaches and searching for dolphins and sea turtles. Autumn is great for birdwatching, as migratory species like herons and flamingos flock to the park’s wetlands.

Getting to Wadi el Gemal National Park

To get to Wadi El Gemal National Park, you will have to travel first to Marsa Alam. It’s a small coastal town about 45 kilometers north of the park, and then enter the park via the coast road. You can also travel to the park by plane, bus, or guided tour.

Most guided tours include a transfer from Cairo or Gouna to Marsa Alam. They also cater to the entrance fees to the park and a desert experience in a 4×4 vehicle. The tours typically start from around EGP 22,400 ($448) from Cairo and EGP 14,200 ($284) from Gouna.

Other Activities in Wadi el Gemal National Park

Wadi El Gemal National Park offers a wide range of activities that cater to various interests. For those seeking an adrenaline rush, jeep and quad bike safaris provide thrilling day trips into the desert. During these, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the landscape while spotting desert-dwelling wildlife and ancient ruins from Queen Cleopatra’s era.

Camel safaris offer a more tranquil way to explore the park, providing unique views of tributaries in the valley, expansive deserts, and archaeological sites. Marine enthusiasts can enjoy dolphin spotting trips, snorkeling tours to explore vibrant coral reefs, and chartered fishing safaris.

For those looking for a more relaxed experience, activities like mountain biking along the coast, birdwatching in the park’s rich habitats, and simply soaking up the sun are also popular.

Park Fees in Wadi el Gemal National Park

The entrance fees for Wadi El Gemal National Park are EGP 5 (less than a dollar) for Egyptians and EGP 40 (about $0.80) for non-Egyptians. Tickets can be purchased at the National Park Offices in Wadi El-Gemal and Um El-Abbas. For those interested in camping, the fees are EGP 50 (around $1) per person for Egyptians and EGP 200 (about $4) per person per night for non-Egyptians.

FAQs

Can you visit Wadi el Gemal National Park on your own?

No, it’s not recommended to visit Wadi El Gemal National Park on your own. The national park has challenging desert landscapes which can be difficult to navigate, so you run the risk of getting lost. If you do become lost, it can be hard for rescuers to locate you.

Instead, it’s advisable to take a tour with a licensed local guide. Options include private tours or a camel safari. Private guided tours offer a guide, entrance fees, meals, and a 4X4 Land Cruiser Jeep for easier access. On the other hand, while on a camel safari, you can explore the park on a camel or a camel-pulled wagon.

What is the cost of snorkeling in Wadi el Gemal National Park?

The cost of snorkeling in Wadi El Gemal National Park can vary depending on the type of tour and group size. For a private trip from Marsa Alam, prices typically range between $90 and $200 per person, with the final cost depending on the number of participants.

This trip usually includes snorkeling at Sharm el Lulli, a visit to the mangrove beach of Wadi el Qulaan, and the exploration of the park itself. However, the national park entrance fee is not included. Alternatively, a group snorkeling tour costs around £30 for adults and £15 for children.

Conclusion

Wadi El Gemal National Park is an extraordinary destination that offers a perfect blend of adventure, wildlife, and natural beauty. Whether you’re snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea or immersing yourself in Bedouin culture, this park provides a rare escape from the bustle of Egypt’s more tourist-heavy locations.