Nabq Protected Area and Mangroves

Nabq Protected Area lies on the Gulf of Aqaba coast north of Sharm El Sheikh in South Sinai, Egypt, and is known for the northernmost mangrove forest in the Red Sea. Established as a protectorate in 1992, it covers coastal dunes, salt marsh, coral reef, wadis and desert plains, and it forms part of the wider network of South Sinai reserves. The mangroves, mainly Avicennia marina, grow along a sheltered shoreline, and a boardwalk or marked path leads visitors through the trees to the water, where crabs, small fish and wading birds feed at low tide. Inland, the area is habitat for Dorcas gazelles, Nubian ibex in higher areas, desert foxes and many bird species, though wildlife is often shy and best seen at dawn. Most visitors reach Nabq by jeep or organised tour from Sharm El Sheikh, and some tours combine a mangrove walk with snorkelling on the reef and a stop at a Bedouin camp. A visit generally takes a half day. The park fee is about USD 5 (roughly EGP 250) and is paid at the entrance. Taxis cost about EGP 400-700 one way from Naama Bay. Photography is best in the early morning, when light is soft and wildlife is active, and the mangrove reflections are at their calmest at high tide. Visitors should stay on marked paths, avoid breaking branches, take away their rubbish and not feed animals. The area is exposed and hot from May to September with little shade, so water, sun protection and sturdy shoes are essential. Crowds are small, and the reserve is often quiet outside organised tour hours. Winter and spring offer the most comfortable temperatures and the best wildlife viewing.