Desert · South Sinai
Coloured Canyon
A labyrinth of banded sandstone in Sinai, shading from yellow to red and brown, and one of the region's most popular desert walks.
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The story
The Coloured Canyon is a rock formation on the Sinai Peninsula near Nuweiba, described in Arabic sources as one of the natural wonders of the Taba protectorate. It runs for about 800 metres and its walls rise to roughly 40 metres, with some Arabic sources giving 40 to 80 metres. It was shaped by water erosion, and its colours are attributed to iron and magnesium oxides. The nearest town is Nuweiba, and the canyon lies about 90 km north of Dahab.
Good to know
- The canyon is about 800 metres long.
- Its walls rise to roughly 40 metres, with some sources giving higher figures.
- The nearest town is Nuweiba, and it lies about 90 km north of Dahab.
Visiting tips
The passage is narrow in places and fallen boulders must be climbed over, so wear sturdy comfortable shoes. Visiting arrangements, fees and tours change, so check before you go.