Coloured Canyon

The Coloured Canyon is a narrow sandstone gorge near Nuweiba on the Gulf of Aqaba coast of South Sinai, Egypt, about 170 km from Sharm El Sheikh. Its walls show bands of red, orange, yellow, pink, purple and cream, formed by mineral layers in the rock and shaped by water erosion over millions of years. Visitors walk through the canyon on a short guided hike, passing through passages that narrow to little more than shoulder width in places and rise to heights of 40 metres or more. Sections include low scrambles and a few steps up rock faces, which a local guide helps with. Light reaching the canyon floor changes the colours throughout the day, and the best photographs are taken in the late morning, when sunlight reflects down the walls. Most visitors come on a jeep tour from Sharm El Sheikh or Dahab, which often includes a ride across the desert, a walk in the canyon, a stop with Bedouin hosts for tea and lunch, and sometimes a swim or viewpoint stop on the coast. A full day is needed, since the journey takes around two to three hours each way. Tours cost about EGP 1,500-2,500 per person. The walk through the canyon itself usually lasts around one hour, or longer with photography. Crowds can build in the narrow sections, particularly at midday when tour groups overlap, so early arrival helps. The ground is sandy and rocky, so sturdy shoes, sun protection and water are essential, and visitors should follow the guide. Heavy rain can make the canyon dangerous, and flash flooding is a real risk in winter, so tours may be cancelled. Coordinates for the canyon mouth are approximate, and visitors should travel with a licensed operator.