Egypt Hiking: Wadi Gemal’s Ancient Ruins
Duration: Full dayTour Overview
Get ready to step back in time on an unforgettable full-day adventure into the heart of Egypt’s Eastern Desert!
Journey deep into the breathtaking Wadi El Gemal National Protectorate, a land of beauty and ancient secrets. Here, you’ll discover the fascinating remains of times past – most notably the remarkably well-preserved Sikait Temple, once a bustling Greco-Roman hub for emerald mining. Wander through its ancient chambers, pass through 1,600-year-old stone doorways, and feel the echoes of history all around you.
The adventure begins with a scenic drive into the lush valley, where vibrant desert flora flourishes and camels roam freely. You’ll climb a natural rock waterfall that leads to a an upper valley where, surrounded by dramatic mountain backdrops and age-old shepherding trails, the sense of discovery is palpable.
Descending once more, you’ll enter the temple ruins and explore its mysterious halls before following a trail to a stunning panoramic viewpoint that reveals the vastness of the surrounding wilderness.
Cap off your journey with a moment of desert serenity – sipping freshly brewed tea and enjoying warm Bedouin bread served with honey and cheese, a true taste of local tradition. This is a walk through history, nature, and culture all rolled into one incredible desert adventure.
Tour Enquiry
Additional Information
The exploration of Wadi Gemal and its Sikait Temple commences with a drive from our base in the beautiful Wadi Sabarah Lodge & Botanical Garden.
The round trip takes around five hours which leaves time for a trek of about two hours during which we’ll cover 4km.
Stunning landscapes, ancient ruins, and a taste of Bedouin hospitality make this an adventure to remember.
Wadi Sabarah is the perfect place to stay if you want to combine a number of adventure activities. From here you can join us in the Red Sea and dive from our stunning centre in the hotel grounds and right on the water’s edge.
There is also the opportunity bike in the desert, take a jeep ride into the wadi, cuisine and culture, swim, or just find peace in this amazing sanctuary.
Price Info
This trip costs €129 per person.
Included in this price is:
- Transport to the hike’s starting point
- An expert guide to lead you on this tour
- Refreshments
Not included is:
- Sun protection (clothing or skin cream)
- Insurance
FAQ
Is there a minimum/maximum number of people needed for the trip to take place?
There is no minimum number of participants but there is a 50% supplement if only one person is on the trip
Should I leave a minimum amount of time between diving and hiking?
So long as you are not overtired the answer to this is, no. We have consulted with DAN - the Divers Alert Network – who are at the forefront of dive medicine. Their advice is to wait 24 hours after a dive before going above 2,000ft/600m. There are no restrictions below this height which means our trips should cause no problems as the maximum climb is 1,300ft/400m.
Do I need a certain level of fitness to take part?
You should be moderately fit and be able to walk on uneven terrain without aid.
Will I be accompanied by a guide at all times?
Yes. Each tour is led by a group leader who will escort you through the entirety of the trip.
