ย A Biodiversity Oasis Between Mountain and Sea
๐ Location and Area
Nabq Protectorate is located in South Sinai Governorate, between the cities of Sharm El-Sheikh and Dahab, specifically about 35 kilometers north of Sharm El-Sheikh.
It was declared a nature reserve by Prime Ministerial Decree No. 1511 in 1992 and later expanded by Decree No. 33 in 1996 to include additional marine areas.
The reserve covers an area of approximately 600 square kilometers, including 440 square kilometers of land and 130 square kilometers of marine environment.
๐ฟ Biodiversity and Ecosystems
Nabq is one of Egyptโs richest nature reserves in terms of biodiversity, hosting:
134 plant species, including 86 rare species not found elsewhere, such as the Avicennia marina mangrove tree โ one of the northernmost occurrences of this species in the Red Sea and Indian Ocean.
208 species of coral reefs, among the most diverse in the Red Sea, providing habitats for numerous marine species.
438 species of fish, as well as many marine invertebrates.
Over 20 globally threatened species, such as the green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas), dugong (Dugong dugon), Dorcas gazelle (Gazella dorcas), Nubian ibex (Capra nubiana), and osprey (Pandion haliaetus).
The protectorate includes a variety of ecosystems: deserts, mountains, valleys, sand dunes, beaches, mangrove forests, coral reefs, and seagrass meadows.
๐งญ Tourist and Eco-Activities
Nabq Protectorate is an ideal destination for nature and adventure lovers, offering:
Snorkeling and swimming: Known for its white sandy beaches and clear turquoise waters โ perfect for relaxing and enjoying the sun.
Bird watching: Home to many migratory and resident bird species, making it a great spot for bird enthusiasts.
Safari tours: Visitors can embark on exciting desert safaris to explore sand dunes, valleys, and rugged mountains.
Hiking and biking: The reserve features designated trails for hiking and biking through breathtaking landscapes.
Mangrove forest visits: The mangroves serve as important breeding grounds for fish and invertebrates, and offer shelter to many bird species.
Photography: The reserve presents countless opportunities for unique photography, from stunning landscapes to rare wildlife.
โ ๏ธ Challenges and Conservation Efforts
Despite ongoing conservation efforts, the reserve faces several challenges:
Human activities: Such as unregulated tourism, overfishing, and pollution, which negatively impact biodiversity.
Climate change: Affecting coral reefs and marine life.
Authorities are working on awareness programs and monitoring systems to preserve the reserve and ensure its sustainability for future generations.
๐จ Accommodation and Services
Nabq is located about 35 kilometers from Sharm El-Sheikh, making it easily accessible from many nearby hotels and resorts. Visitors can stay in Sharm El-Sheikh and enjoy day trips to the protectorate.
