Wadi El Gemal National Park Safari*****

Description

Price – Steven’s taxis can arrange a private safari trip to the park which can be designed around what you want but might typically include, if it is a half day trip from your hotel, exploring the valley with its mangrove and acacia trees and a visit to the ancient emerald mines and the ancient Egyptian temple built during the Roman period. Trips usually include at least lunch, tea and soft drinks but Seifein can usually tailor make a package to suit your interests. After your trip around some of the highlights of the valley you can enjoy a cool-off swim at Gullan Bay prior to your return transfer to your hotel. For more information contact Steven at steven@marsaalam.com and let him know what sort of trip you would like and he will give you a price and confirm in writing what’s included.

Plus points – massively underrated.  Marvel in wonder at how mangrove and acacia trees thrive in such an arid waterless land.  Be amazed by the variety of wildlife including gazelle, the nubian ibex and wild foxes.  Watch a huge variety of birds which use the wadi as a resting place on their migration routes. Explore the surprising history of the area harbouring possibly the world’s oldest emerald mine and learn about the survival strategies and complex culture of the local Bedouin.  And if you like snorkelling there’s Wadi El Gemal Island with its turtles and dugongs.

Negatives – Distances inside the 5000 square mile park take time to cover with only poor infrastructure. You really need more than a half day or one day excursion to really see everything.

Steven also offers exciting Quad Safari for 50 euros per person or Jeep Safari for 50 euros per person – for details on that and further information on the national park please also check the Wadi El Gamal page.