Valleys & Mountains
Don’t get too lazy relaxing on the beaches; there is plenty of wonder to discover tucked away in Nuweiba’s mountains. Thick palm tree groves, oases, and hidden fresh springs are easy to find, but you’ll need a guide. Check with any of the Bedouins hanging around in your camp or hotel and ask them to take you into the desert to explore the mountains, valleys, and prehistoric dwellings. Planning ahead and asking the residents is key to make sure the places you want to explore are open for visitors.
Wadi al-Wishwashi
Hikers and climbers will love this! Located around 20 km from the city of Nuweiba, this beautiful valley is buried deep within stunning granite mountains. The hike takes about an hour and a half, and you are rewarded by getting to cool off in Green Lake—three freshwater springs accumulated over centuries of rainfall.
The Colored Canyon
This 800-meter-long valley was formed by rainwater and takes its name from the multitude of colors etched by mineral salts into the limestone of its steep walls. You’ll find fossilized coral reefs from the time this area was submerged under the sea and natural carvings in the rocks from the past. Head to the highest peak for a view of the entire surrounding landscape, including Jordan and Saudi Arabia.
The Nawamis
These funny little structures are most likely dwellings from prehistoric times that have been repurposed over the centuries by nomadic tribes traveling through the area for shelter and sometimes burials. Some bones found in the area date back to 4,000–3,150 BC. These stone buildings appear in the form of circular rooms constructed of large stones with no ventilation holes and a door that faces west. The biggest site containing some of the best-preserved structures can be found on an open sandy plain near the main St Catherine’s Road.
