This Coloured-Canyon is One of South Sinai’s Best-Kept Secrets

To visit South Sinai is to embed within your very being the memory of your first sight of it. This is not intended to be hyperbolic, nor does it come from a place of patriotism, despite being Egyptian. It comes from a place of sincerity. Anyone who has travelled far and wide could still find themselves in utter awe of its landscapes: the way its mountains overlap and how the mist lends them an otherworldly brilliance. Visiting Dahab and Nuweiba magnifies this experience, and one might even reach Nirvana upon first stepping into Wadi El-Weshwash, a hidden oasis sitting between the two coastal towns. 

Wadi El-Weshwash is burrowed within the rugged granite mountains of South Sinai, a secluded valley shaped by millennia of natural forces. Its pools, filled by rainwater, are a stark contrast to the surrounding arid landscape. What makes this place remarkable is the serenity that greets visitors upon arrival. The three freshwater pools lie hidden within the rocks, their colour a result of the minerals in the surrounding granite.

The journey to reach these pools can be demanding, with a steep hike over rocky terrain, but the tranquility and beauty of the water make the effort worthwhile.

Historically, Wadi El-Weshwash holds significance for the Bedouin tribes who have lived in the Sinai Peninsula for centuries. Bedouin guides now lead visitors through the valley, offering insight into the land. Their expertise in navigating the landscape ensures that tourists can experience the wadi safely, while also learning about the Bedouin traditions that have allowed this place to remain largely untouched.

While Wadi El-Weshwash is known for its peaceful atmosphere, it is also a destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a more active experience. The hike to the pools is a popular draw for visitors, offering panoramic views of the mountains and valleys along the way. 

For those less inclined to hike, guided jeep tours provide an alternative route to explore the area. Swimming in the cool waters of the pools is a refreshing reward after the hike, and many visitors take the opportunity to relax and connect with nature in this quiet, unspoiled corner of Sinai.

So, if a visit to South Sinai is on your itinerary for the New Year, you might want to carve out some time to explore Wadi El-Weshwash—just be sure to pack your best hiking boots (and a few protein bars).