The Coloured Canyon presents one of the most magnificent rock formations in the world which are an incomparable attraction: they vary from sandstone to limestone, granite and veins of basalt dominate the scenery through the entire hike. The road to the Coloured Canyon snakes nicely through magnificent mountains and bold, rugged rock-formations of awe-inspiring beauty.

Whilst walking through the 800m long Canyon it’s apparent that you’re in the midst of a geological wonderland. At some places, the rocks radiate crystalline colours, at others they have a smooth velvety appearance. Except for one or two obstacles, it’s a fairly easy hike. For example, at one point, you have to slide down through a vent, where the two sides of the canyon almost touch each other and where maybe thousands of years ago, a fallen boulder had blocked the way, leaving a narrow opening underneath. On the other side of this obstacle, the canyon floor gradually starts to rise again. A few minutes later, another obstacle appears where the best way to handle is to swing yourself around a huge rock to slide two meters down, or simply to jump over it.

The journey from Dahab takes approximately one and a half hours each way, with the last half an hour off-road, venturing into the mountains. There’s plenty of time to stop and rest along the walk with Bedouin tea offered by locals. It is strongy advised to have good fitting footwear for the walk.

Slightly smaller than The Coloured Canyon, the White Canyon forges through the high plains of St. Catherine’s National Park. Sandstone and limestone combine to give the walls and fine sandy floora brilliant white colour. After arriving by jeep in the middle of desert between St. Catherine’s and Nuweiba there is a twenty minute walk across a stunning plain with towering wind shaped boulders before reaching the canyon.
Descending into the canyon by ladder it’s an easy stroll through the scenic cliffs.

After about an hour, a picture perfect desert oasis can be seen in the next valley. Its name, Ein Khudra (Green Oasis), perfectly describes this eruption of life where gushing fresh water springs nourish date palm gardens in the seemingly barren desert. It’s the perfect place to take five with the locals, drink Bedouin tea and enjoy some well deserved lunch before ascending from the deep desert valley to the plain again via another route.



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