Hiking the Coloured Canyon

The Coloured Canyon is one of Sinai's most photographed places, and one of its most fun short hikes. The sandstone walls are striped with reds, yellows, pinks and purples from minerals in the rock, and in places the canyon is so narrow you touch both sides.

How it works

The canyon is in the mountains near Nuweiba. You reach the top by 4x4 over desert tracks, then walk down through the canyon. The hike itself takes about one to two hours, with some easy scrambles over rocks.

Is it hard?

Not very. If you can climb a few big steps and squeeze through narrow gaps, you'll be fine. It's a great trip for families with older children.

Best time of day

Morning or late afternoon. The light is softer, the colours glow, and it's cooler. Midday in summer is hot, even in the shade of the walls.

What to bring

• Shoes with grip (not sandals)
• Water, at least 1.5 litres
• A hat and sunscreen for the 4x4 part
• Your camera. You will use it a lot.

Make a day of it

Most trips include a stop for Bedouin tea, and you can add lunch. It's a full, easy day from Dahab.

See our Coloured Canyon trip.