Egypt — Hurghada
Immerse yourself in Egypt's Red Cliffs Trail, a moderate 15km day hike through the Eastern Desert's ancient, fiery granite canyons and high plateaus. This 6-8 hour route offers stunning panoramas of the Arabian-Nubian Shield, showcasing a rugged, minimalist wilderness unlike any other.
Distance: 15.0 km
Elevation Gain: 600 m
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 6-8 hours
The Red Cliffs Trail is one of Egypt's most visually arresting day hikes, offering a profound immersion into the rugged, prehistoric landscapes of the Eastern Desert. Located within striking distance of the Red Sea coast, this 15-kilometre circuit traverses a world of fiery-hued granite canyons, ancient wadis, and high-altitude plateaus that offer panoramic views of the Arabian-Nubian Shield. Unlike the lush, green trails of Europe or New Zealand, the Red Cliffs Trail is a study in minimalism and geological raw power. Here, the silence is absolute, broken only by the occasional desert breeze or the crunch of weathered stone beneath your boots. This is a landscape that has remained largely unchanged for millennia, serving as a timeless corridor for Bedouin tribes and a sanctuary for rare desert wildlife. For the modern hiker, it represents a rare opportunity to step away from the coastal resorts of Hurghada and experience the stark, spiritual beauty of the Egyptian wilderness.
The Red Cliffs Trail is a masterclass in desert topography, showcasing the dramatic transition from the low-lying coastal plains to the jagged peaks of the Red Sea Hills. The trail's name is derived from the high concentration of iron oxide in the local granite, which glows with an intense, almost supernatural crimson hue during the "golden hours" of sunrise and sunset. This geological phenomenon creates a landscape that many hikers describe as "Mars-like," where the deep reds of the rock contrast sharply against the brilliant turquoise of the distant Red Sea and the pale gold of the desert sands.
The route is strategically designed to provide a comprehensive experience of the Eastern Desert's diverse ecosystems. It begins in a wide, sandy wadi (a dry riverbed) where the vegetation is surprisingly resilient, featuring hardy acacia trees and desert scrub that have adapted to survive on minimal rainfall. As the trail progresses, the valley walls narrow into dramatic slot canyons, where the temperature drops noticeably and the echoes of your footsteps become your only companion. The middle section of the hike involves a steady 600-metre ascent onto a high plateau. This is the most physically demanding portion of the trek, requiring steady footing on loose scree and occasional light scrambling over granite boulders. However, the reward at the summit is unparalleled: a 360-degree view that encompasses the jagged peaks of the Sinai Peninsula to the north and the vast, shimmering expanse of the Red Sea to the east.
What sets the Red Cliffs Trail apart is its sense of profound isolation. Despite its proximity to the bustling tourist hub of Hurghada, the trail feels worlds away from civilisation. There are no permanent structures, no power lines, and no cellular signal for much of the route. This is a self-supported adventure that demands respect for the environment and careful preparation. The trail is not just a physical challenge; it is a sensory experience—the smell of sun-baked stone, the sight of a soaring Egyptian vulture, and the humbling scale of the ancient mountains. It is a journey that reminds walkers of the enduring power of the natural world in one of the most arid environments on Earth.
The mountains of the Eastern Desert, through which the Red Cliffs Trail winds, hold a history that spans from the dawn of geological time to the modern era of Bedouin stewardship. Geologically, these mountains are part of the Arabian-Nubian Shield, a massive crystalline basement complex formed over 600 million years ago during the Pan-African orogeny. The red granite that defines the trail was forged deep within the Earth's crust and exposed through millions of years of uplift and erosion. This stone is not merely beautiful; it is incredibly durable, a fact recognised by the Ancient Egyptians and later the Romans, who established massive quarrying operations in nearby regions like Mons Porphyrites and Mons Claudianus to extract stone for the temples and palaces of the Mediterranean world.
For thousands of years, this landscape has been the ancestral home of the Ma'aza and Ababda Bedouin tribes. These "people of the desert" have developed an intimate knowledge of the terrain, the hidden water sources, and the medicinal properties of the desert flora. The Red Cliffs Trail follows sections of ancient routes used by Bedouin herders to move their goats and camels between seasonal grazing grounds. To the Bedouin, these mountains are not a "wilderness" to be conquered, but a home to be respected. Hikers may still encounter stone cairns (marks) or small, abandoned shelters that tell the story of a nomadic way of life that persists to this day. The Bedouin's deep spiritual connection to the land is reflected in the names they give to the peaks and valleys, often based on the shapes of the rocks or the legends of their ancestors.
In more recent history, the Red Sea Hills served as a vital corridor for trade and pilgrimage. Routes through these mountains connected the Nile Valley to the Red Sea ports, facilitating the exchange of spices, incense, and gold. Walking the Red Cliffs Trail today is a way of connecting with this long lineage of travellers. While the trail is now a destination for recreation, it remains a place of cultural significance. Respecting the local customs, understanding the history of the land, and acknowledging the traditional owners of these routes is an essential part of the hiking experience in Egypt.
Want more background? Read extended notes on history and cultural context → Learn more
Timing is the most critical factor when planning a hike on the Red Cliffs Trail. The Egyptian desert is an environment of extremes, and attempting this trail during the wrong season can be life-threatening. The primary window for hiking is from October to April, when the daytime temperatures are manageable and the air is crisp and clear.
Winter (December to February): This is arguably the best time to visit. Daytime temperatures typically hover between 18°C and 24°C, providing ideal conditions for the 600-metre ascent. However, hikers must be prepared for the "desert effect"—as soon as the sun sets, temperatures can plummet to near freezing (2°C to 5°C). If you are starting early or finishing late, multiple warm layers are essential. Winter also brings the highest clarity for photography, with the distant mountains of Sinai often visible across the gulf.
Shoulder Seasons (October–November and March–April): These months offer warmer days (25°C to 30°C) and milder nights. This is the time when you are most likely to see desert flora in bloom after the rare autumn or spring rains. However, these periods also coincide with the "Khamsin"—a hot, sand-laden wind that can blow from the south, reducing visibility to near zero and making physical exertion difficult. Always check the wind forecast before heading out.
Summer (May to September): Hiking the Red Cliffs Trail during the summer is strongly discouraged and often prohibited by local guides. Temperatures regularly exceed 40°C, and the heat radiating off the granite cliffs can make the "real feel" temperature much higher. There is virtually no shade on the trail, and the risk of heatstroke and severe dehydration is extreme. During these months, the desert is best left to the nocturnal wildlife.
Flash Flood Warning: While rain is rare, it usually occurs in short, violent bursts. Because the desert ground is hard-baked and cannot absorb water quickly, even a small amount of rain can cause a "flash flood" in the wadis. If clouds begin to gather over the mountains, hikers should immediately move to higher ground and avoid the valley floors.
Early Morning: 06:30 – 08:00
Morning: 08:00 – 10:30
Midday: 10:30 – 13:00
Afternoon: 13:00 – 16:00
Important Notes:
The Red Cliffs Trail requires a higher level of logistical planning than a standard coastal walk. Because the trailhead is located 30 kilometres from Hurghada in a remote desert area, transport must be organised in advance. Most hikers hire a private taxi for the day or book a 4x4 transfer through a local adventure tour operator. It is crucial to arrange a specific pickup time for your return, as you will not be able to call for a ride from the trailhead.
Physical fitness is another key consideration. While 15 kilometres may seem modest, the combination of 600 metres of elevation gain, uneven rocky terrain, and the dehydrating desert sun makes this a "Moderate to Strenuous" undertaking. Walkers should be comfortable with sustained uphill climbing and have experience navigating on loose surfaces. Before leaving Hurghada, ensure you have downloaded offline maps (such as Gaia GPS or AllTrails) and that your power bank is fully charged.
This is a day hike requiring no overnight accommodation. Camping is generally not permitted within the immediate vicinity of the trail without special permits from the Egyptian military or local authorities, as the area is subject to border and security regulations. Most hikers base themselves in Hurghada, which offers a vast range of accommodation from luxury resorts to budget hostels. For those seeking a more authentic experience, some Bedouin-run camps located further inland offer overnight stays in traditional tents, which can be combined with a guided hike the following morning.
As of the current season, no formal hiking permit is required for individual walkers to access the Red Cliffs Trail. However, the Eastern Desert is a sensitive area managed by various government and military entities. It is standard practice—and often a legal requirement for foreigners—to carry a copy of your passport and Egyptian visa at all times. You may encounter a police or military checkpoint on the road leading away from the coast; simply state your destination and purpose (hiking) and show your documents.
Important Considerations:
Detailed route notes, maps, logistics & tips for the Red Cliffs Trail (PDF).
Precisely traced GPX for the Red Cliffs Trail, ready for your GPS or favourite mapping app.
The Red Sea coast is a world-class destination for adventure and relaxation. After completing the Red Cliffs Trail, consider these nearby experiences:
Heat and Hydration: The single greatest danger on the Red Cliffs Trail is heat exhaustion. The desert air is extremely dry, meaning sweat evaporates almost instantly. You may not feel "wet," but you are losing fluids rapidly. Drink small amounts of water frequently, rather than large amounts occasionally. If you begin to feel dizzy, nauseous, or develop a headache, stop immediately in whatever shade you can find and focus on rehydration.
Navigation Hazards: The desert landscape can be disorienting. Many wadis and ridges look identical, and it is easy to take a wrong turn. Always keep your GPS active and check your position against your map every 30 minutes. If you become lost, do not wander aimlessly. Find a high point to regain your bearings, or if it is late in the day, stay put and use your whistle or mirror to signal for help.
Wildlife: While most desert animals are shy, you should be aware of your surroundings. Scorpions and horned vipers exist in this region but are rarely seen during the day. Never stick your hands into dark crevices or under rocks. If you encounter a snake, give it a wide berth; they are not aggressive unless provoked. The most common "wildlife" encounter is the feral camel; while usually harmless, they should be treated with respect and given plenty of space.
Flash Floods: As mentioned, flash floods are a rare but catastrophic risk. If you see dark clouds over the mountains—even if it is sunny where you are—exit the wadi immediately. Water can travel kilometres from a rain site and arrive as a wall of mud and debris with very little warning.
Emergency Contacts: Ensure you have the number for the Hurghada Tourist Police (126) and the general emergency services (122) saved in your phone, though be aware that signal is unlikely on the trail itself.
The Hidden Grotto: Approximately 4 kilometres into the hike, a small, inconspicuous opening in the canyon wall leads to a hidden grotto. This natural chamber remains cool even in the midday heat and often contains a small "tin" (a natural rock pool) that may hold water for weeks after a rain. It is a peaceful, cathedral-like space that offers a moment of quiet reflection.
The Roman Lookout: Near the highest point of the plateau, there is a small circular arrangement of stones that is believed to have been used as a lookout point by Roman soldiers or ancient scouts. From this vantage point, you can see the ancient tracks that once led toward the Nile. It is a powerful place to sit and contemplate the thousands of years of human history that have passed through these mountains.
Acacia Grove: In the lower section of the return wadi, there is a unusually dense stand of ancient Acacia tortilis trees. These trees are the "supermarkets" of the desert, providing shade, food for camels, and wood for Bedouin fires. Their twisted, wind-sculpted shapes make for excellent photography, especially in the late afternoon light.
The Quartz Vein: At the 12-kilometre mark, the trail crosses a massive vein of white quartz that cuts directly through the red granite. The contrast between the milky white crystal and the deep crimson rock is stunning and serves as a clear landmark for the final leg of the journey.
The Egyptian desert is a fragile ecosystem where the marks of human presence can last for decades. Because there is so little biological activity to break down waste, "Leave No Trace" principles are even more critical here than in forest environments. We have a collective responsibility to preserve the pristine nature of the Red Cliffs for future generations and to respect the Bedouin who call this land home.
Your responsibility as a walker:
Walk with humility. The desert does not belong to us; we are merely temporary guests in its ancient halls. Leave only footprints, and take only photographs and memories.
