Nabq National Protectorate
Nabq protectorate in Egypt is located just 25 km from the city of Sharm El Sheikh and it takes just 10 minutes to get there from the city. The protectorate covers an area of 600 square km. It is located on the Gulf of Aqaba and is the largest coastal protectorate in Egypt.
Despite this, Nabq is not so popular among tourists and can be a relaxing place for those looking for a time out.
Why Visit Nabq
Visiting Nabq is a rendezvous with Mother Nature at its best, and the place is bestowed with exotic and varied terrain. While one area has high chain mountains, there is a coast that has a stretch of mangroves. These mangrove trees play an important part in conserving the surrounding ecology. They're a natural nursery for crustaceans and small fishes and a nesting ground for birds. They also form a natural wave breaker. For all nature lovers, Nabq is the ideal place to take a stroll or wade amidst the mangrove trees. You can walk in the waist-deep waters while also enjoying some bird watching.
Many species of birds can be found here some of which are migratory while others stay here as their natural habitat. There are also many other animals like herons, plovers, gulls, terns, and the Red Sea-specific White-Eyed Gull with its vibrant yellow legs, blood-red bill, and a crescent-like white ring around the eyes.
Divers are also able to go snorkeling at Nabq and have a spectacular experience. You have ample choice to explore underwater life without even diving too deep into the waters. For those who are still not feeling that rush of adrenaline, quad biking or four wheels, off-roading is also available. Nabq is a place where you can enjoy the thrill of nature, adventure, and serenity at the same time.
Major Attractions At Nabq
The mangrove forest is the major attraction of this protectorate. It runs along the shoreline and is believed to be the most northerly mangrove stand on the planet. The root system of mangroves helps filter salt from the seawater, thus stabilizing the seashores.
Also, the important habitat for birds and fish at Nabq cannot be overlooked. Inside the mangrove forest are the dunes of the Wadi Kid where you can find the largest stands of Arak bushes in the whole of the Middle East. There are also many interesting animals including rock hyraxes, gazelles, and Nubian Ibexes. Two villages of the Bedouin Mizena tribe also form a part of the Protectorate. There are major reefs around Nabq but visibility is poor due to mangrove sedimentation.
How To Reach Nabq
Nabq can be visited by your own vehicle or by joining a tour group. Most resorts and hotels in Sharm El Sheikh and Dahab offer safaris and tour programs to the protectorate both via land and water.
