Hotels near Wadi El Gemal National Park

Wadi El Gemal protects 7,450 square kilometres of land and sea south of Marsa Alam, making it Egypt's second-largest protected area and one of the most important for the Eastern Desert ecosystem. The reserve covers acacia-lined wadis, granite mountains rising to 1,400 metres, mangrove stands at the coast, and Roman-era emerald mines. Wikipedia's overview of Wadi El Gemal National Park details the park's flora, fauna and the resident Bishari Beja population. Wildlife includes the endangered Nubian ibex, gazelle, hyrax and over 220 bird species. A 4WD safari (2,500-3,500 EGP per vehicle) typically combines the wadi entrance, a Bishari camp visit and a coastal mangrove walk. Park entry costs 250 EGP. Visit October-April for cooler temperatures.

Pro Tip: Combine the park visit with a snorkel at Qulan Mangroves at the southern end - the protected lagoon shelters juvenile reef fish and turtles inside the mangrove roots.