Top 10 Best Hikes in Egypt: Breathtaking Trails & Hidden Gems

With an expanse of one million square kilometers, Egypt boasts remarkable diversity in its natural landscape—with everything from sand dunes to snow-capped peakes . The country’s varied yet easily traversable terrain is part of what made it a hub for trade caravans journeying from South and West Africa to the Arabian Peninsula and the Far East in bygone times. These ancient caravans created a wealth of remarkable hiking routes as they transported goods as far as China.

Though hiking isn’t a popular pastime in modern Egypt, until well into the 1970s, people commonly walked long distances before the microbus and the tuk-tuk came along. Nevertheless, there are still those who know Egypt’s old trails intimately. Here are just some of the best hikes in Egypt.

Why Egypt is great for hiking

Egypt has a moderate climate for most of the year and many well-established paths—trails once used by traders, Bedouins, or monks. This makes it an ideal location for outdoor adventures. Egyptians are known for their warm hospitality toward guests, which means you are guaranteed unforgettable encounters and lasting memories. Not only will you explore stunning trails, but you’ll also have the chance to discover yourself (and the culture of the area), and even make new friends along the way.

Here are just some of the best hikes in Egypt:

Best Hikes in Egypt

• The Sinai Trail.
• The Red Sea Mountain Trail.
• Wadi Al-Arbaeen Trail Mt Catherine Hike.
• Wadi Degla Protectorate.
• Blue Hole to Ras Abu Galum.
• Wadi Itlah.
• Red Mountain Valley Hike.
• Mount Abbas Hike.
• Hiking in Egypt Highland Trails  .
• The Sinai Desert Trek.

• The Sinai Trail

It’s only fitting to kick things off with the longest hiking trail in the country and one that Wanderlust Travel Magazine ranks among the best trails in the world. Spanning 250 km (155 miles) from the Gulf of Aqaba to the summit of Mount Saint Catherine, this trail offers a chance to immerse yourself in nature while experiencing the authentic Bedouin lifestyle. Over a two-week journey, you’ll traverse mountains, wadis, and natural springs, guided by a local Bedouin and accompanied by camels carrying your gear. All that’s left is for you to embrace the spirit of adventure and soak in the serenity around you, surrounded by sky, mountains, and camels. 

– Location: South Sinai, Egypt.

– Best Time for Hiking: September to February

– Difficulty Level: Hard

• The Red Sea Mountain Trail  

The Red Sea Mountain Trail, opened in 2019, is mainland Egypt’s first long-distance hiking route. Its path tells the tales of the various peoples who traversed it for trade and pilgrimage over many years. Enriched by the stories of the Bedouin guides, this hike offers a unique and unforgettable adventure. 

– Start Point: 4 km from Hurghada Airport  

– Highlights: Shaiyb al-Banat Mountains, Abu Dukhaan Mountain summit, and Umm Anab Mountain  

– Distance: 170 km (105 miles)  

– Best Time for Hiking: September to February  

– Difficulty: Hard  

• Wadi Al-Arbaeen Trail Mt Catherine Hike

The Wadi Al-Arbaeen Trail leads to Mt Catherine hike, beautifully lined by olive and fig trees. This trail is not only scenic but also holds deep religious significanc, it’s like you are walking all this trail to feel the depth of nature and to get ready for one of the most calming spiritual hikes you might ever have. Then when you do finish the mount Saint Catherine itself you will get rewarded with the wide scene of sun whether it’s rising or sitting.

Highlight: The highest mountain in Egypt.

Distance: 21.3 km (13.2 miles)

Location: Saint Catherine city, 2.5 hours from Sharm El Sheikh Airport, 1.5 hours from Dahab, 6 hours from Cairo 

Best time for Hiking: March to October

Difficulty Level: Challenging 

• Wadi Degla Protectorate  

Situated in 10km south of central Cairo, Wadi Degla is long valley bursting with natural wells, limestone rocks, and a variety of wildlife. It’s perfect for day hiking and overnight camping, trail running and camping and is a favorite weekend getaway for Cairo residents seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.  

– Difficulty Level: Easy  

– Best Times to Visit: April to June and September to February  

• Blue Hole to Ras Abu Galum  

Just 2.4 km (1.5 miles) from Dahab lies the world-famous diving site, the Blue Hole. But here, instead of diving, you’ll take an 11 km (7 miles) walk along the stunning Red Sea coast to Ras Abu Galum—there’s nothing but nature and turquoise waters.

Highlights: Towards the end, you’ll pass a series of secluded coves with marine life shimmering below the surface like an open-air aquarium.  

– Difficulty Level: Moderate  

– Best Time to Visit: September to May  

• Wadi Itlah  

Nestled between mountains and lined with trees, Wadi Itlah is an expanse of hidden canyons teeming with palm groves, water springs, and caves. For those seeking tranquility, this is a perfect one-day trip. During harvest season, you’ll have the chance to taste the fresh apricots and almonds that thrive solely on rainwater. 

Highlights: You might even encounter Ahmed Mansour, the local herbalist, who can help you discover the medicinal qualities of the native herbs.

Location: Saint Catherine city, 2.5 hours from Sharm El Sheikh Airport, 1.5 hours from Dahab, 6 hours from Cairo

Distance: 6.15 km (3.8 miles)

– Best Time to Visit: March to October  

– Difficulty Level: Easy

• Red Mountain Valley Hike  

Egypt is home to a veritable motley mix of landscapes: the Colored Canyon, the White Canyon, the White Desert, and the Blue Desert, to name but four. Add to that list the spectacular Red Mountain Valley in Sinai, and you’re on your way to collecting the full rainbow of Egypt. You can do this hike as a single trip or as part of a longer trekking adventure. In either case, reaching the top of the Red Mountain will reward you with breathtaking panoramic views of Saint Catherine town below. This hike stands out for the rocky terrain and the boulders of the wadi you’ll encounter, both ascending and descending one of the tallest peaks in the area.

Highlights: Breathtaking views over Saint Catherine.  

Location: Located southeast of Saint Catherine city, 2.5 hours from Sharm El Sheikh Airport, 1.5 hours from Dahab, 6 hours from Cairo, approximately 3 km from Sharm El Sheikh Airport

Distance: 11:6 km (7.2 miles)

Best Time: March to October  

Difficulty Level: Challenging   

• Mount Abbas Hike

In the mid-1800s, a group of scientists scattered pieces of meat across the mountaintops of Saint Catherine to determine which had the best climate based on how long the meat could stay fresh. Mount Abbas was the victor. This led Khedive Abbas Pasha I, a tuberculosis sufferer, to commission the construction of a grand palace atop the mountain in 1853. Although he passed away before its completion (in 1854), what remains stands as a testament to the area’s healthy climate. It can be seen clearly from below in the town of Saint Catherine and is open for a closer exploration after a rewarding climb.  

Highlights: Visiting Umm Al-Saad in her small farmstead at the halfway mark. She’s a local Bedouin celebrity renowned for her hospitality and stories.

Location: Southwest of Saint Catherine city, 2.5 hours from Sharm El Sheikh Airport, 1.5 hours from Dahab, 6 hours from Cairo  

Distance: 12.5 km (7.7 miles)  

Best Times: March to October  

Difficulty Level: Moderate  

• Hiking in Egypt Highland Trails  

One of the best hiking in Egypt mountains is Saint Catherine Highland Trails, imagine spending nearly two weeks trekking and camping as you climb the seven main mountains of Saint Catherine. Takes you through rocky valleys and presents a challenging yet rewarding journey through the heart of a UNESCO World Heritage site. During this adventure, you’ll become firm friends with the area’s Gebalia tribe, known for their warm hospitality and kindness. Time spent with these Bedouins offers a unique glimpse into a different culture, far from a phone signal. 

Distance: 117 km (72.7 miles)  

Location: Saint Catherine city, 2.5 hours from Sharm El Sheikh Airport, 1.5 hours from Dahab, 6 hours from Cairo

Best Times: March to October  

Difficulty Level: Moderate to Difficult  

• The Sinai Desert Trek 

I saved The Sinai Desert Trek for last because it’s unlike the others. This hike is less about the physical endurance of climbing up and down mountains; it’s more about old-fashioned exploring. For eight days, you’ll immerse yourself in the slower-paced, simple, and serene Bedouin way of life. Just you and your guide traversing canyons, oases and sand dunes—places like the White Canyon, Ain Khadra, Jabal Al-Makhroum, Wadi Al-Matamir, and Wadi Ras Ghazala. No laptop, no cars, no distractions. No regrets.

Distance: 110 km (68.3 miles)  

Location: 2 hours from Sharm El Sheikh Airport, 1 hour from Dahab, 6 hours from Cairo  

Best Times: October to March

Difficulty Level: Moderate  

Egypt’s Hidden Gem Hikes

Many visitors to Sinai come for a brief respite from their hectic lives but inevitably find themselves longing to return, even to move permanently or semi-nomadically. Sinai itself is the true hidden gem. Living here offers daily surprises shaped by the movement of the sun and the phases of the moon. The mountains are continuously transforming, sometimes appearing monumental and stark and other times bathed in soft pastel hues. Just when you believe you’ve seen everything, Sinai reveals yet another breathtaking view, proving that even its most lasting features are remarkably dynamic. Spending even a single day hiking among these majestic mountains, taking in the distant horizon, will leave you with moments that you’ll cherish forever.

Best Time of Year for Hiking in Egypt

Given Egypt’s unique climate, the timing of your visit is important when choosing the best hiking spots. From June to early September, the heat can be intense. However, you can still venture to Saint Catherine, where the higher elevation offers cooler weather. During the winter months of December to February, southern Egypt—from South Sinai to Luxor and Aswan—enjoys warm (but not too warm) temperatures. In late March, when sandstorms may hit, don’t cancel your plans; simply pack a windbreaker and a trusty scarf. Between March and June, the weather is ideal—choose the Saint Catherine Trail for a hike, and you are sure to find waterfalls, wadis bursting with herbs and shrubs, and natural pools for a refreshing dip.

Tips for Safe Best Hikes in Egypt

For a rewarding hiking adventure in Egypt, it’s crucial to prioritize safety and understand the local regulations. Here are some helpful tips:

1. Make sure you have the necessary permits from the Ministry of Tourism; trip organizers typically handle this.
2. Carry a form of personal ID, like your passport.
3. Inform someone about your hiking plans.
4. Stay close to your group or guide, especially on longer treks away from the city.
5. Given the often hot weather, drink plenty of water and bring hydrating snacks, such as fruits or high-energy options like dates.
6. Dress appropriately for the changing conditions and the trail’s difficulty level.
7. While it’s tempting to capture every moment, remember to soak in your surroundings—each rock and mountain you encounter is uniquely different. A memory is often truer than a photo.
8. Be ready for all types of weather. Bring waterproofs, thermal layers, fleece, a woolly hat, gloves, and thick socks. If possible, bring a three-season sleeping bag, waterproof tent, and sturdy hiking boots (make sure you wear these in before coming to minimize blisters).
9. Respect the local Bedouins’ way of life. Always ask permission before taking photos of people or walking through their property. 
10. Be flexible and ready to change your plans if the weather changes or something happens with the group. This will be for the safety of all.

Conclusion: Why You Should Explore Egypt’s Hiking Trails

Hiking in Egypt is enriched by the variety of its ancient culture. In every region, you can discover natural wonders—water springs, valleys, deserts, and trees. Even during December and January, you might find snow on the peaks of Saint Catherine. Your guide will ensure you are safe and have everything you need while you can focus on the joy of walking. Your journey in Egypt will leave an indelible mark on your heart, filling you with unforgettable memories to treasure long after you finish your hike. Whether you’re exploring the desert landscapes or hiking through ancient valleys, you’ll experience some of the best hikes in Egypt.