Colored Canyon Sinai Day Trip from Sharm El Sheikh — Hike Egypt’s Rainbow Slot Canyon
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
6–8 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness required: comfortable walking on uneven terrain and the ability to manage short scrambles.
Overview
Drive east from Sharm El Sheikh and descend into Sinai’s Colored Canyon, a short but dramatic slot canyon of red, gold and purple sandstone. This full‑day trip pairs a 1–2 hour canyon hike with lunch and a swim at Nuweiba.
Colored Canyon Sinai Day Trip from Sharm El Sheikh — Hike Egypt’s Rainbow Slot Canyon
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The morning sun slices across the Sinai plateaus long before the 4x4 convoy reaches the canyon. You leave Sharm El Sheikh while the town is still soft with hotel terraces and early coffee; hours later the road drops you at a ragged entrance where stone ribs fold into a narrow gorge. Step into the Colored Canyon and the world changes: walls lean close, the air cools, and layers of sandstone flare from ochre to purple as if someone painted the cliff faces in broad, impatient strokes.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Start early
Departures begin around 08:00 to avoid peak desert heat—earlier light amplifies the canyon’s colors and keeps midday temperatures tolerable.
Footwear matters
Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good grip; the canyon floor alternates between loose sand and smooth rock slabs that can be slippery.
Hydrate and pack light
Carry at least 1.5–2 L of water in a small daypack and leave heavy items on the vehicle—the hike includes short scrambles where balance matters.
Follow the guide
Sections of the canyon are narrow and route‑finding can be tricky—stay with your Bedouin guide for safety and cultural context.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Desert fox (Fennec or Rüppell’s fox) sightings at dawn/dusk
- Native lizards sunning on rock faces
History
The canyon sits within Sinai’s long trade routes; Bedouin communities have traversed these washes for generations and still guide and shepherd in the region.
Conservation
Stick to the route and pack out all waste—desert ecosystems recover slowly. Operators often work with local guides to support community livelihoods and limit impacts.
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Adventure Hotspots in Sharm El Sheikh
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sturdy hiking shoes
Grippy shoes protect ankles on loose sand and smooth, worn rock.
Water (1.5–2 L)
Desert heat and exertion dehydrate quickly—carry more in summer.
summer specific
Sun protection (hat + SPF 30+)
A broad hat and sunscreen reduce heat exposure in open sections of the canyon.
summer specific
Light windbreaker or layers
Mornings and coastal breezes can be cool—thin layers add comfort without bulk.
winter specific