Wadi el Gamal National Park
National Park Coastal national park protecting Red Sea reefs and desert
A Red Sea national park combining coastline, islands and desert shoreline. Divers, snorkelers and wildlife observers visit for coral reefs, coastal mangroves and coastal hiking.
Wadi el Gamal National Park is a protected area on Egypt’s Red Sea coast that conserves coastal desert, mangrove stands, offshore islands, and adjacent coral reef ecosystems. It is noted for marine biodiversity as well as desert flora and fauna.
Recreational activities in and around the park include snorkeling and diving on local reefs, boat trips to islands, and guided desert excursions. The area is valued both for marine conservation and for ecotourism.
The park was designated to protect the region’s terrestrial and marine habitats and to support sustainable tourism and research. Management focuses on balancing local livelihoods with conservation of reefs, mangroves, and desert landscapes.
Wadi el Gamal National Park lies along Egypt’s southern Red Sea coast in the Red Sea Governorate, centered near the coastal village of Hamata, south of the Marsa Alam area.
- Habitats: The park protects a mix of desert wadis, coastal mangroves, offshore islands, and coral reef systems important for diving and biodiversity.
How to Get to Wadi el Gamal National Park #
The park is along the Red Sea coast of Egypt; the closest major town with airport access is Marsa Alam. From Marsa Alam, organized tours or 4x4 transfers travel to park entry points; private charters by boat serve the islands.
Tips for Visiting Wadi el Gamal National Park #
- Bring snorkeling or diving arrangements from local operators - the park's reefs are best seen from the water.
- If visiting the mainland portions, hire a local guide who knows tide schedules and the location of remote beach coves used by nesting species.
- Plan for basic infrastructure - accommodations within the park are minimal and many trips are organized from nearby towns such as Marsa Alam.
Best Time to Visit Wadi el Gamal National Park #
Best for diving and snorkeling in October-April when water visibility and conditions are generally optimal.
Weather & Climate near Wadi el Gamal National Park #
Wadi el Gamal National Park's climate is classified as Hot Desert - Hot Desert climate with very hot summers (peaking in July) and mild winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 11°C to 37°C. Very dry conditions with minimal rainfall with a pronounced dry season.
January
January is the coolest month with highs of 23°C and lows of 11°C. Almost no rain and clear sunny skies.
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February
February is cool with highs of 24°C and lows of 11°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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March
March is mild with highs of 27°C and lows of 13°C. Almost no rain and clear sunny skies.
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April
April is warm with highs of 31°C and lows of 17°C. Almost no rain and clear sunny skies.
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May
May is warm with highs of 34°C and lows of 20°C. Almost no rain and clear sunny skies.
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June
June is hot with highs of 36°C and lows of 22°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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July
July is the hottest month with highs of 37°C and lows of 23°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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August
August is the hottest month with highs of 37°C and lows of 24°C. Almost no rain and clear sunny skies.
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September
September is hot with highs of 35°C and lows of 22°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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October
October is warm with highs of 33°C and lows of 19°C. Almost no rain and clear sunny skies.
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November
November is mild with highs of 28°C and lows of 15°C. Almost no rain and clear sunny skies.
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December
December is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 12°C. Almost no rain and clear sunny skies.