The Colored Canyon is a narrow gorge of multicoloured sandstone between Dahab and Nuweiba in South Sinai, one of the most popular half-day desert trips from Dahab.
Coming from Cairo? Our 5-day tour from Cairo to Dahab gives you time for this trip.
At a glance
| Where | South Sinai, inland from Nuweiba, about 2 hours’ drive from Dahab |
| What | A narrow sandstone canyon with walls banded in red, orange, yellow and purple |
| Walk | About 1 to 2 hours, with some scrambling and narrow squeezes |
| Getting there | 4×4 tour from Dahab or Nuweiba with a Bedouin guide |
| Best time | Early morning, before the heat and the tour groups |
| Bring | Water, good shoes, a hat |
The Colored Canyon is a narrow sandstone gorge in the mountains between Dahab and Nuweiba. Its walls are banded in red, orange, yellow, purple and white, the colours of minerals in the rock, and in places the passage is so narrow that you have to turn sideways to pass. Wind and water have smoothed the walls into curves and waves.
The colours come from iron, manganese and other minerals that stained the sandstone over millions of years; water and wind then cut the narrow gorge. In places the walls almost touch overhead, and the light changes from gold to pink as the sun moves, which is why photographers love the morning. The area is part of a protected landscape used by the local Bedouin, who still guide most visitors.
The walk through the canyon is about 800 m to 1 km and takes around 1 to 1.5 hours with stops for photos. Some sections need a little scrambling over rocks or squeezing through tight gaps, but no climbing skills are needed. The canyon floor is sandy and the walls give shade for much of the way.
Most trips enter from the top, walk down through the narrowest part and climb out at the other end, where the jeeps wait. A few spots have short, steep steps or a tight squeeze where you may need a hand from the guide, but no climbing skills are needed. Children of about 8 and older usually manage well. Expect sandy, uneven ground, and little shade except inside the canyon itself.
The canyon is about 1.5 to 2 hours from Dahab by 4×4, including an off-road section. Most visitors join a jeep safari from Dahab or Nuweiba with a Bedouin guide, often combined with Wadi Al-Weshwashy, a valley with natural pools.
Choose an operator that names the “Colored Canyon near Nuweiba” clearly, as some trips sell other, less impressive canyons under the same name. Many safaris combine it with the turquoise pools of Wadi Al-Weshwashy or a stop in the oasis of Ain Khudra, and end with lunch or tea at a Bedouin camp. Bring your passport, since there are checkpoints on the road.
What to wear: light long trousers and closed shoes with grip; sandals are not a good idea. In winter mornings it can be cool, so bring a light layer.
| Trip | From Dahab | Why go |
|---|---|---|
| Colored Canyon | About 1.5 to 2 hours by 4×4 | Striped rock walls and narrow passages |
| Wadi Al-Weshwashy | Near Nuweiba | Natural pools for a swim in the rocks |
| Ras Abu Galum | North of the Blue Hole | Coast walk or camel ride, Bedouin camps |
| Mount Sinai | About 2 hours inland | Night climb for the sunrise |
–Discover the Best Things to Do in Dahab: A Complete Guide to Dahab
–10 Compelling Reasons Why You Should Visit Dahab
–When to Visit Dahab City in Egypt: A Comprehensive Guide
–How to spend a day in Dahab?
–Discover Dahab: Top Attractions in Egypt’s Hidden Gem
–Advice for first-time travelers in Egypt
–Top 10 beaches in Egypt
–Safe Traveling in Egypt: Expert Advice from Locals and Tourists
–When is the best time to visit Egypt?
Yes. The colours of the rock and the narrow passages make it one of the most striking landscapes in Sinai, and the walk is fun for most ages. Go early, wear good shoes, and pair it with Wadi Al-Weshwashy. For a bigger adventure, see Mount Sinai.
Book this experience: the Coloured Canyon and Wadi Al-Weshwashy safari from Dahab.
About 1 km, taking 1 to 1.5 hours with stops.
It is easy to moderate, with some scrambling over rocks and narrow gaps. No climbing gear is needed.
By 4×4 with a guide, about 1.5 to 2 hours each way. Most people join a jeep safari.
Sturdy shoes, comfortable clothes, a hat, and bring water.
Join one of our Dahab tours or Dahab day tours with a local guide.
Egypt travel blog dedicated to providing the best possible information for traveling to Egypt. Our articles include information on best holiday Destinations in Egypt, Things to do in Egypt, How to get Around in Egypt, and of course planning Your Perfect Itinerary for your holidays in Egypt.
