Ashtum El Gamil Protected Area
Nature
Coastal wetlands at the outlet of Lake Manzala near Port Said, important for waterbirds and for the lake's fisheries.
- Arabic name
- محمية أشتوم الجميل
- Type
- Protected area
- Governorate
- Port Said
- Area
- 203 km²
- Protected since
- 1988
- Nearest city guide
- Port Said
- Official website
- eeaa.gov.eg
Ashtum El Gamil lies on the Mediterranean coast west of Port Said, where channels connect Lake Manzala to the sea. The protectorate includes part of the lake, its islands such as Tennis Island with its archaeological remains, and the coastal strip.
Wildlife and landscape
The shallow waters, reed beds and mudflats form a feeding and nursery ground for fish and shrimp, and they host large numbers of waterbirds. Herons, egrets, cormorants, ducks, waders, gulls and terns are common, and the area is a stopover during spring and autumn migration. The outlets are also vital to the traditional Manzala fishery, which supports thousands of families.
What to do
- Take a boat trip on the lake channels with local fishermen for birdwatching.
- Visit Tennis Island to see the remains of a medieval town.
- Combine the trip with a day in Port Said, with its Suez Canal views and colonial architecture.
Getting there and best time
The site is around 20 km from Port Said along the coastal road towards Damietta. Visitor facilities are basic; arranging a guide in Port Said is recommended. Winter (November to February) brings the largest concentrations of wintering waterbirds, with migration peaks in spring and autumn.
Entry fee: not confirmed (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 does Ashtum El Gamil protect?
A coastal wetland west of Port Said where channels connect Lake Manzala to the Mediterranean. It includes part of the lake, islands such as Tennis Island, and the coastal strip.
What birds can I see?
Herons, egrets, cormorants, ducks, waders, gulls and terns. Winter (November to February) brings the largest numbers, with migration peaks in spring and autumn.
How do I get there?
The site is about 20 km from Port Said on the coastal road towards Damietta. Facilities are basic, so arrange a guide in Port Said.
What can I do there?
Take a boat trip on the lake channels with local fishermen and visit Tennis Island to see the remains of a medieval town.
Is there an entry fee?
No fee has been confirmed; check with the Egyptian Environmental Affairs Agency (eeaa.gov.eg) or a licensed local operator before you go.
