Located in the northern part of the Sahara desert, Egypt has a unique ecosystem. This ecosystem is home to distinctive species of flora and fauna that scatter the Sinai Peninsula in national parks and protectorates. The protected areas house some of the most distinct species in the world, and several are worthy of a visit. Here are 10 national parks to visit.
10 Ras Mohammed National Park
The first national park in Egypt, the Ras Mohammed National Park, covers a mangrove forest and a significant chunk of land mass. The inland landscape fills the reserve with stretches of dunes, mud plains, wadis, and mountains. The rest of the park covers the Red Sea reef along the Sinai Peninsula.
The reef is home to over 1000 species of fish and about 200 species of corals. Vacationers explore the underwater world of the Red Sea through scuba diving and snorkeling. For hiking enthusiasts, the park is not ideal for that.
9 White Desert National Park
As the name implies, The White Desert National Park is famous for its extensive white rock formations covered by white sands. This spectacular landscape is as a result of limestone, calcium, and quartz crystals accumulation that form a snowy look.
Another iconic feature in the national park is the Crystal Mountain, home to distinct species such as the Fennec fox. The rugged terrain around the park and mountain further makes it ideal for hiking, among other exciting activities to do.
8 Abu Galum Protectorate
The park was declared a protected area in the 1990s. Abu Galum lies on the northern part of the Nabq protectorate and covers over 150 square miles. The park is home to a unique marine ecosystem that houses sea turtles and seagrass species.
The coral reefs surrounding the marine ecosystem make the park a haven for scuba divers and snorkelers. The park also has tall granite mountains suitable for drives and hikes. The park operates from 7 AM through 5 PM every day.
7 Wadi El Gemal National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Wadi El Gemal National Park covers 2,880 square miles making it one of the largest parks in Egypt. The park covers five separate islands and significant size of sea portions. Wadi El Gemal also protects over 1,500 species of fish and coral.
Other exciting features in the park are the prevalence of prehistoric rock art, Roman Empire ruins, and Ptolemaic ruins. As a result of these ruins and art, UNESCO recognized the park as a World Heritage Site.
The five islands under this park are home to about 13 species of birds. On the other hand, the surrounding marine ecosystem offers sufficient breeding grounds for the innumerable fish species in the park.
6 Nabq Protectorate
Another home to unique bird species is the Nabq protected area. The park covers 230 square miles, and its land area hosts animals such as the Nubian ibex and the Dorcas gazelle. On the other hand, the sea portion protects sea turtles and seagrass.
It’s a perfect place for visiting scuba divers since it’s located along the Red Sea. The land area covered by the park also makes it suitable for game drives, bird watching, and hiking.
5 Elba National Park
The Elba National Park is Egypt's most extensive and richest protectorate. The park is prominent for its iconic natural feature, the Mount Gabel Elba, which rises to 1,437 meters. The mountain's summit consists of a mist that occasionally precipitates to promote the rise of rich flora and fauna below it.
The park is home to over 30 species of birds, 23 species of mammals, and 30 species of reptiles. This variety of wildlife makes it the richest protected area in Egypt. Tourists can drive through the park and enjoy game driving every day from 7 AM to 4 PM.
4 St. Katherine Protectorate
The St. Katherine Protectorate covers the mountainous region of the Sinai Peninsula. Its prominent feature is the Saint Catherine monastery, making it a world heritage site.
It has over 472 plant species, 46 reptile species, and 27 mammal species. Its relatively cool climate makes it home to over 7,000 Bedouin citizens who play a part in protecting plants and animals. The park covers 247 square miles and is ideal for hiking through its mountainous terrain.
3 Al Ahrash Reserve
Bordering a vast expansive area of dunes, Al Ahrash Reserve lies in the northeastern part of Egypt. Densely covered by flora, the park attracts migratory birds that fly over to nest. Its accessibility makes it ideal for hiking and bird watching.
2 Wadi El Hitan National Park
A very famous park in Egypt, Wadi El Hitan, lies along the "whale valley" nature reserve. It’s now a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to the prehistoric whale fossils found in the park. It’s home to several animal species such as sea turtles, crocodiles, rays, and sharks, among others. The park operates daily from 7 AM to 5:30 PM.
1 Zaranik Protected Area
The Zaranik Protectorate houses around 270 rare species of land animals and migratory birds. Located next to Lake Bardawil, its surroundings make it suitable for camping and hiking. The park's climate attracts migratory birds, making it ideal for bird-watching enthusiasts.