Wadi al-Gemal (Arabic for Camels’ Valley) has always fascinated visitors and those who read about it, being a pristine area where visitors can have a lot of fun.
Located in the southern part of the Red Sea Governorate, the reserve has its own beaches and world-class sites.
It is an ideal site for a wide range of activities, including snorkelling and diving.
The marine environment of the area also contains a large number of interesting animal species, including – among others – turtles.
The reserve also contains a wild part that boasts rare and beautiful animals and plants.
The mountain ibex is among the animals that can be found in the area, along with different species of deer. There is also a large collection of eagles and rabbits.
The reserve contains a number of visitor centres where nicely-dressed employees receive visitors and give them guidance about where to go in the reserve and where to start.
One of the offices is located in Hama islands.
Wadi al-Gemal reserve extends over 4,770 square metres. It has a marine area that covers an additional 2,000 square metres. This marine area also extends over 120 kilometres of the coastline, bordered by mangrove vegetation areas.
The reserve is mainly rocky, especially in the western part. As one travels towards the coast, the land assumes a sandy nature. This part contains long beaches that are suitable for swimming.
In many parts of the coast, mangrove trees grow, forming the unique ecosystem of the Red Sea.
The mangroves are known for their ability to filter sea water and expel salt through their leaves. They form suitable nurseries for many fish species and bird species and provide mechanical stability to the soil. This makes them able to protect the coast from erosion.
However, mangrove trees are not the only plants growing in the coastal zone of the reserve. There are also many shrubs whose roots form small coastal dunes, such as marsh reeds and date palms.
Those who visited Wadi al-Gemal reserve know that it is a piece out of heaven.
The reserve has noticeable biodiversity, one enriched also by the presence of many migratory birds.
Over the years, sea turtles managed to dig holes in the sand near the coast, where they place their eggs. Apart from the holes dug by the turtles, resident and migratory birds also build their nests on the trees of the reserve, creating a peaceful habitat.
Bedouins living in and near the area also play a role in entertaining visitors to the reserve.
Members of the Bedouin Ababda tribe live near the reserve. They welcome visitors and treat them to their traditional drinks and cuisine.
Tribal women also parade their handmade products and invite visitors to buy them as reminders of their visit to the area.
Wadi al-Gemal can be part of a visit to the Red Sea Governorate which boasts a large number of hotels and beaches that cater to the needs of almost all types of tourists.
There are various transport options from Cairo to the governorate and from there to Wadi al-Gemal.
Some tour operators working in the area also organise guided tours to the reserve.
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