Coloured Canyon, Natural canyon in South Sinai Governorate, Egypt.
Coloured Canyon extends 800 meters through limestone formations with walls reaching 40 meters high, creating a maze of narrow passages through the Sinai desert. The rock layers display exposed mineral bands throughout, with numerous tight turns and openings that guide your path.
This canyon formed millions of years ago through water erosion when the area lay beneath the Red Sea, carving deep channels into the rock. After the waters receded, wind and occasional rains continued shaping these passages into the narrow corridors seen today.
Local Bedouin guides share their knowledge of the canyon's geology and natural features as they lead visitors through narrow passages. Their presence connects travelers to desert traditions and the way people have understood this landscape for generations.
You need physical fitness to navigate tight passages and several small climbing sections, so bring sturdy shoes and plenty of water. A local guide or organized tour is recommended since finding your way through the maze requires someone familiar with the route.
The rocks display bright reds, oranges, and purples from different mineral compositions that shift dramatically depending on time of day and sun angle. These color variations emerged through natural chemical weathering of various mineral layers over long periods, creating a shifting palette as you walk through.
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