Ras Abu Galum Reserve – Where Desert Meets Reef
Ras Abu Galum: Egypt’s Hidden Paradise Where the Desert Meets the Sea
Located on the east coast of the Sinai Peninsula is what is perhaps one of Egypt's best-kept secrets — Ras Abu Galum. This protected nature reserve near Dahab is famous for its untarnished beauty: desert landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and a thriving marine biodiversity. A true Red Sea attraction, the escapist of Ras Abu Galum Egypt promises solitude from a crowd away from snorkeling, camel trails, camping, and simply lounging around.
Travelers flock to Ras Abu Galum to snorkel and peer at colorful coral reefs and to hike trails once trod by ancient Bedouin tribes. It's never a dull moment from the time of arrival, with this air of urgency to be preserved at all costs. Sadly, it is not a vacation; it is an initiation into one of Egypt's purest eco-destinations.
A Glimpse into the History of Ras Abu Galum
Ras Abu Galum is a toponym with Bedouin origin, which is often interpreted as meaning "Father of the Calm." For ages, various Bedouin groups have inhabited these shores, trying to hold onto their traditions and live in harmony with nature. The great seas served as a coastal trading route between Africa and Asia, depending on uses of the route and so it attracted many nomads and travelers.
In 1992, the area was protected as a reserve so as to protect its rarer wildlife, delicate coral reefs, and desert flora. Presently, the reserve is managed by the Department of Environmental Affairs of Egypt; this department cooperates with communities of local Bedouins in matters of eco-tourism, sustainable camping, and nature conservation public education.
📍 Where is Ras Abu Galum and How to Get There?
Ras Abu Galum Reserve is located about 15 kilometers north of Dahab, a popular diving town on the Red Sea coast. Getting there is part of the adventure! You can either:
Ride a camel along the rocky shoreline from the famous Blue Hole Dahab
Hike the scenic coastal trail for about 1.5 to 2 hours
Take a boat from Dahab directly to the Blue Lagoon in Ras Abu Galum
Once you arrive, you’ll find a quiet beach, simple Bedouin camps, and plenty of spots to swim, snorkel, or relax under a palm-frond shelter.
The water remains warm all year round, with the coral formation of Ras Abu Galum giving a magnificent prospect to colorful marine life, sea turtles, and if lucky, even dolphins! Mostly, the tourists enjoy a day trip. However, if camping overnight is your thing, then you may fall asleep under the starry sky with the sound of waves lapping at the shore just a few steps away.
Whether you are an adrenaline tourist, into an environmentally friendly kind of travel, or just searching for the pure beauty of Egypt, Ras Abu Galum Dahab is just hard to forget. The place has characteristics that put together sea, desert, and culture, making it a one-of-a-kind locale and one of the best desert safari in Egypt — waiting to be discovered by you.
