Travel bucket list idea:
Sharm el-Sheik, Sinai Peninsula, Egypt
This 40m-deep canyon beguiles with undulating layers of ochre, gold, crimson, and mauve. It was formed over millions of years by the erosive forces of wind and water on sandstone and limestone; the colours come from the crystallisation of different minerals.
Day tours from Sharm el-Sheik will involve a 2-hour drive through the desert, then 2-3 hours of hiking through the most appealing parts of the landscape.
Sharm el-Sheik, Sinai Peninsula, Egypt
Bucket List Experience
A remarkable 6th-century UNESCO-listed monastery, set at the base of Mount Sinai. It’s home to one of the world’s great collections of religious icons, and the biblical ‘Burning Bush’.
Adult price: 2
Good for age: 18+
Duration: 3-5 hours
The canyon is a 2-hour drive through the desert from Sharm el-Sheikh. There are numerous guided tours, which will also often include a stop in Dahab. It’s not advisable to go there independently.
The hiking can involve some steep climbs and narrow passages, so ensure you wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring plenty of water and sun protection. For the adventurous, overnight camping trips under starlit skies can also be arranged.
Tours run all year round, seven days a week.
Early morning or late afternoon visits offer the best light to accentuate the canyon’s vibrant colours, and avoid the oppressive daytime heat.
As with all visits to Sharm, July and August are extremely hot, and April can be one of the windiest months, so avoid these months if possible.
Our selection of the best Viator tours of this attraction or activity
Sharm el Sheikh
Price €36
Min age 3
Rating 4.27 / 5 [18 ratings]
Tour supplied by:
Dahab
Price $60
Min age 12
Rating 4.38 / 5 [18 ratings]
Tour supplied by:
Destination guides including or relevant to this experience
Sinai Peninsular, Egypt
With world-class scuba diving, desert hills above, reliable sunshine and almost no rain – Sharm el-Sheik has become one of the world’s top beach destinations. It’s a package holiday nightmare, but you can escape to smaller towns nearby.
