Taba Protected Area
Nature
A vast desert reserve behind Taba and Nuweiba, famous for the Coloured Canyon, the oasis of Ain Khudra and sculpted sandstone wadis.
- Arabic name
- محمية طابا
- Type
- Protected area
- Governorate
- South Sinai
- Area
- 2,978 km²
- Protected since
- 1998
- Nearest city guide
- Sinai
- Official website
- eeaa.gov.eg
The Taba protectorate covers the mountainous interior of north-eastern South Sinai, inland from the resorts of Taba and Nuweiba. It is classified as a natural monument because of its geology: narrow slot canyons, multicoloured sandstone, granite peaks and hidden springs.
Highlights
The Coloured Canyon is the best known site, a narrow gorge whose walls are banded in red, yellow, purple and white mineral layers. Nearby, the White Canyon and Wadi Ghazala offer similar walks. Ain Khudra is a small palm oasis traditionally linked to the route of the Exodus, and Wadi Watir brings seasonal water and greenery down towards Nuweiba. Wildlife includes Nubian ibex, sand foxes, hyraxes, and resident and migrating raptors.
What to do
- Walk the Coloured Canyon with a Bedouin guide (about 2 to 3 hours including the jeep transfer).
- Join a multi-day camel trek linking oases and canyons.
- Camp in the desert for stargazing.
Getting there and best time
Tours start from Nuweiba, Taba and Dahab by 4×4. Hire a licensed local guide: tracks are unmarked and flash floods are possible after rain. October to April offers the most comfortable walking temperatures.
Entry fee: a modest protectorate fee for foreign visitors, normally part of the tour price (last checked October 2026).
Last checked October 2026. Entry fees and access rules change; check with the Egyptian Environmental Affairs Agency or a local operator before you go. Sources: eeaa.gov.eg, en.wikipedia.org.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Coloured Canyon?
A narrow gorge with walls banded in red, yellow, purple and white minerals. A guided walk takes about 2 to 3 hours including the jeep transfer.
Do I need a guide?
Yes, hire a licensed local guide. Tracks are unmarked and flash floods are possible after rain.
What else can I see?
The White Canyon, Wadi Ghazala, the palm oasis of Ain Khudra and Wadi Watir. Wildlife includes Nubian ibex, sand foxes, hyraxes and raptors.
How do I get there?
Tours start by 4x4 from Nuweiba, Taba and Dahab, and multi-day camel treks link the oases and canyons.
When should I go and is there a fee?
October to April. A modest protectorate fee for foreign visitors is normally part of the tour price.
