Egypt is a great place to go trekking in the desert. Bedouin guides can lead you on hikes in the Sinai Peninsula and Red Sea Mountains. These hikes allow you to visit two of the Middle East’s most harsh wildernesses while learning about Bedouin culture.

 

Even though the terrain is difficult, trekking is not only for experienced hikers. Mount Sinai has paths for all abilities, and even beginners can climb to the top. Even on Egypt’s two long-distance trails, shorter trips are possible for experienced hikers.

 

Most treks require guides because the environment is hard and remote. Local knowledge is essential for safe hiking and obtaining the appropriate licenses. Here is our selection of the top treks in Egypt.

 

Hiking Summit of Mount Sinai (Gebel Musa)

Hiking to the summit of Mount Sinai, known as Gebel Musa, is a popular activity for both outdoor enthusiasts and pilgrims. The mountain stands at 2,285 meters (7,496 feet) and is believed by many to be the place where Moses received the Ten Commandments.

 

The most straightforward route to the top is the Camel Trail. This wide, well-marked trail features a series of switchbacks that make the ascent gradual and manageable. The trailhead is conveniently located right in front of St. Catherine’s Monastery, at the base of the mountain.

 

The round-trip distance to the summit is about 6.2 miles (10 kilometers), and the hike typically takes between 4 to 5 hours. While the path can be gravelly, especially in the higher sections, overall it offers an easy to moderate hiking experience. This makes it accessible for many people who want to enjoy the stunning views and the spiritual significance of this iconic location.

 

The Steps of Repentance

 

The second trail on Mount Sinai is the Steps of Repentance, which begins behind the monastery. This steeper, more direct route of 3750 rough-cut stone steps was built as an act of penance by one of St Katherine’s monks.

 

The arduous stairs are worth it for the panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and, if you’re lucky, a glimpse of a mountain ibex along the route. If your knees aren’t up to it, go up the Camel Trail and then down the Steps of Repentance.

 

The Wadi Arbain Trail

 

The Wadi Arbain Trail is a less basic third alternative. This journey begins in the spring-fed wadi (valley) below St Katherine hamlet, passing the Forty Martyrs Monastery (Deir Arbain) and the massive boulder known as the Rock of Moses, where, according to local legend, Moses hit with his staff to produce water.

 

From here, follow a narrow, stony-underfoot path up the nearby slope of Gebel Safsafa, past early Christian hermit cells, until it joins with the Camel Trail’s final switchback.

All three routes meet in Elijah’s Basin, a small plateau believed to be where the Prophet Elijah waited for God. Everyone then climbs the remaining 750 steps of the Steps of Repentance to Mount Sinai’s peak. On all Mount Sinai routes, guides are required. This gives St Katherine’s Jabaliyya Bedouin tribe much-needed work.

 

 

Blue Hole to Ras Abu Gallum hike

The Blue Hole to Ras Abu Gallum hike is a simple and scenic seaside trek. The trail is about 5 miles (8 kilometers) one way, taking around 1.5 hours to complete, and is easy to follow.

 

This hike takes you along the narrow coastline from the Blue Hole bay in Dahab to Ras Abu Gallum National Park. Even though there are no signs or markers, it’s easy to do on your own as you simply follow the narrow strip of land between the steep cliffs to the west and the Red Sea to the east. The path is a bit rough but mostly flat and clearly visible.

 

At the northern end of the hike, in Ras Abu Gallum, you’ll find several Bedouin beach camps. These camps offer simple huts made of palm thatch (called hoosha) and meals if you decide to stay overnight before hiking back. It’s a great way to enjoy nature and relax by the sea.

 

The Sinai Trail

 

The Sinai Trail is a network of four interconnected trails that form a rough triangle and follow centuries-old routes used by Bedouin pilgrims, traders, and smugglers. The Path is a community tourism project run by eight Bedouin tribes on the peninsula, who arrange and guide all tours, giving hikers a rare opportunity to experience traditional Bedouin culture while simultaneously providing fair-paying work and possibilities for Bedouin communities.

 

The original 12-day, 130-mile (210-kilometer) Ras Shetan to St Katherine stretch is a moderately difficult journey. You must be physically active and have stamina to hike long distances over sand (tough on the feet) and over rocky terrain.

 

Over the first portion of the trek, you’ll traverse stark coastal plains speckled with tiny spring-fed oases and hike through the orange and pink swirled walls of South Sinai’s Colored Canyon.

 

Further into the highlands, the terrain gets rougher, following deep gorges and wide desert passes punctured by vast rock outcrops, into the High Mountains. On the trek’s last two days, hikers summit Mount Sinai and Gebel Katarina for views of rolling waves of jagged-edged peaks stretching out below.

 

 

Red Sea Mountain Trail

The Red Sea Mountain Trail (RSMT) is a 105-mile (170-kilometer) long-distance hiking trail that opened in 2019. The trail passes through the coastal mountain range that is located inland from Hurghada. Because of COVID and the slow-moving bureaucracy that approves overnight permits in this area, the trail is presently only open for day hikes. Multi-day treks are expected to resume in 2022.

 

The RSMT is dedicated to introducing a sustainable kind of tourism that serves more remote villages. Local Maaza Bedouin tribe members operate the trail, providing mandated guides and the essential support to travel out into this hard, lonely territory.

 

Day hikes range from a 3-mile (5km) stroll to the ruins of the Roman quarry town of Mons Claudianus to a 10.5-mile (17km) trip via the narrow valleys and high mountain passes of the Gebel Abul Hassan massif. Most day-hike trailheads are within a 90-minute or two-hour drive of Hurghada, the Red Sea coast’s biggest city.

 

Wadi Degla Protectorate

Easy hikes near Cairo

8-13km (5-8mi) round-trip trails, easy, 2-4 hours

 

If you need a break from Cairo’s automobile horn cacophony, head to the Wadi Degla Protectorate on the eastern outskirts of the Cairo district of Maadi, around 6 miles (10 kilometers) from the Maadi metro station. This desert valley meanders over 22 miles (37 kilometers), surrounded by low, worn limestone cliffs eroded by wind and water over millions of years.

 

Wadi Degla attracts Cairene outdoor enthusiasts who come to hike, run, and mountain bike on the well-marked routes and picnic at authorized camping areas.

 

Wadi Degla is hardly the most serene trekking experience on earth, which is not surprising given its proximity to one of Africa’s most important cities. The ideal time to see the valley’s red foxes, cape hare, and deer is on a weekday when there are fewer visitors.

 

The Wadi Degla Loop trek goes upwards from the valley basin to traverse the clifftops and offers spectacular views of the rocky expanse below. Connect this to the Wadi Degla Deep Loop for a 2.5-mile (4km) level ramble that simply follows the valley bottom for the most peaceful trekking.

 

Tips for Hiking in Egypt

Planning Your Hike:

  • Choose the right trail: Egypt offers a variety of trails, from easy day hikes to multi-day treks. Consider your fitness level and experience when selecting a trail.
  • Check weather conditions: Desert temperatures can fluctuate greatly. Research the weather forecast for your chosen destination.
  • Obtain necessary permits: Some areas require permits, especially for overnight camping or trekking in protected areas.
  • Hire a local guide: A knowledgeable guide can provide valuable insights, ensure your safety, and help you navigate the terrain.

Packing Essentials:

  • Hydration: Carry plenty of water, as dehydration is a significant risk in the desert.
  • Sun protection: Wear a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the harsh sun.
  • Appropriate clothing: Dress in lightweight, breathable clothing that can withstand temperature fluctuations.
  • Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support are essential.
  • First-aid kit: Pack a basic first-aid kit to treat minor injuries.
  • Food: Bring energy-rich snacks and meals, as you may not encounter many food options along the trail.

Safety Tips:

  • Stay on designated trails: Avoid venturing off the marked paths to prevent getting lost.
  • Be aware of wildlife: While encounters with wildlife are rare, be cautious and respect their habitat.
  • Protect the environment: Leave no trace. Pack out all your trash and avoid disturbing the natural surroundings.
  • Respect local customs: Be mindful of cultural norms and traditions.
  • Communicate with your guide: Stay in regular communication with your guide to ensure your safety and address any concerns.

Additional Tips:

  • Consider the best time to visit: The cooler months of October to April are generally the most comfortable for hiking in Egypt.
  • Pack a camera: Capture the stunning landscapes and unique experiences you’ll encounter.
  • Enjoy the journey: Hiking in Egypt offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and experience the country’s rich history and culture.