Gabal Sha'ib El Banat: Highest Peak in Mainland Egypt

The tallest mountain on the mainland - Gabal Sha'ib El Banat is situated in the Eastern Desert adjacent to the Red Sea and is 2,187 meters tall. It is sometimes referred to as the ‘Everest of the Red Sea’ by adventure travelers and local guides and has amazing views, steep hiking routes and intimate experiences with neighbouring Bedouin tribes. It is a little-known destination that appeals to the adventure traveler who wants unspoiled nature, high drama, and a true off the beaten path experience in Egypt.

Uncover the beauty of Gabal Sha'ib El Banat

Overview of Gabal Sha'ib El Banat

Gabal Sha'ib El Banat is mainland Egypt’s highest peak, famed for its striking landscapes, rich culture, and adventurous hiking opportunities.

Location

Gabal Sha'ib El Banat is found in the Eastern Desert of Egypt in the Red Sea Mountain range.It is the tallest in the Eastern Desert at about 2,187 meters above sea level, and the highest mountain in mainland Egypt (excluding the Sinai Peninsula).

This notable mountain consists of huge igneous rocks and valleys running down its gnarled hillsides. The strange shape of its silhouette and the idyllic setting in the remote desert makes it a rather intriguing landmark, which attracts individuals who want to observe natural beauty, as well as a view of a faraway Egyptian desert.

Geographic details

Gabal Sha'ib El Banat boasts remarkable geographic features, making it a standout natural landmark in Egypt’s rugged Eastern Desert region.

• Located about 40 km from the Red Sea, between the cities of Hurghada and Safaga in Egypt’s Eastern Desert.
• Rising to approximately 2,185–2,187 m, it is the highest peak in the Eastern Desert and the tallest mountain in mainland Egypt (excluding the Sinai Peninsula).
• Part of a group of four major peaks: Gabal Abu Dukhan (1,705 m), Gabal Qattar (1,963 m), Gabal Sha'ib El Banat (2,187 m), and Gabal Umm Anab (1,782 m).
• Formed mainly of igneous rock, with a series of valleys descending from its slopes.

Reason to visit

Whether you are looking to explore nature, some adventure, or the unique culture, Gabal Shaib El Banat is a top secret destination to discover which has no equal when it comes to beauty and challenge.

• Greatest elevation on mainland Egypt: It boasts incomparable sightseeing of Red Sea coastal landscape and the Eastern Deserts at 2,187 m.
• Special natural beauty: Brutal igneous landscapes, possessions of the seasons and desert landscapes.
• Cultural connection: The possibility to encounter Bedouin tribes and get acquainted with their culture.
• Challenge and adventure: Best suited to those hikers who are already seasoned to high adventure in out-of-the-way excursions.
• Serene setting: It is not located in a busy tourist destination, which makes it ideal to spend time in loneliness and enjoy nature.

Why you should visit Gabal Sha'ib El Banat

Mountain range and topography

Gabal Sha, Banat is one of the most amazing characteristics in the Eastern Desert of Egypt, which are characterized by their steep mountains and steep landscapes.

• This mountain is part of the Red Sea Hills and it dominates the landscape of the nearby desert.
• It is found about 40 km away in the Red Sea between Hurghada and Safaga.
• It encompasses a grouping of four mountains covering Gabal Abu Dukhan (1,705 m), Gabal Qattar (1,963 m), Gabal Shaib El Banat (2,187 m) and Gabal Umm Anab (1,782 m).
• Its terrain consists of rugged igneous rocks, with seasonal valleys and gullies that may briefly collect rainwater during rare storms.

Top things to do on Gabal Sha'ib El Banat

Gabal Sha'ib El Banat offers a blend of epic scenery, cultural depth, and adventure—perfect for the bold traveler.

• Trek to the top: Conquer this hilly uphill to the super panoramic view of the Eastern Desert of Egypt, Red Sea and far away mountain scenery.
• Camp under the stars: Stretch your experience by hiding out on the top of the mountain to see the sunset, and the sunrise.
• Trek rough tracks: Take rough terrain tracks like gullies, exposed scrambles to your ways like Wadi Abu Abid or Abu Teen.
• Photograph the distinctive scenery: Dramatic profile of the mountain, valleys and unusual rock formations of the mountain make it a decent photographing location.
• Discover cultural ties: Get to know about folk tales, traditions of the Bedouin related to the impressive form of the mountain and discover myths.

Must-do adventures at Gabal Sha'ib El Banat

Tips to visit Gabal Sha'ib El Banat

Traveling to Gabal Sha ib el Banat is an experience of a lifetime and one needs to prepare well to enjoy its scenic beauty as well as go through its difficulties.

• Doing a multi-day hike: Many ascents need 2 -3 days (up and down).
• Overland by 4x4 to Hurghada: A 4x4 expedition over the Eastern Desert is the trail-head of choice.
• A panoramic view: To get a panoramic view especially on the Red Sea and the mountains around, start trekking at dawn.
• Train on steep ground: There is a lot of elevation gain and some of these scrambles are difficult on rough igneous rock.
• Take camping equipment: Overnight camping gives a chance to watch fantastic sunsets and sunrises all alone.
• Get a Bedouin local guide: You will have the best possible understanding of the terrain, the local culture, and the safest of paths.

Essential advice for visiting Gabal Sha'ib El Banat

How to get there

The journey to Gabal Sha'ib El Banat begins by reaching Egypt’s Red Sea region and then into the Eastern Desert.

• By bus: From Cairo, take a direct bus to Hurghada (approximately 8 hours), then continue by 4×4 to the mountain’s trailhead.
• In Cairo by air: Fly to Hurghada (approximately 1 hr), and drive to the base in the desert.
• Hurghada or Safaga: Take a 4 x 4 to drive a short off fore adventure into the Red Sea Hills.
• On a budget: Take part in an organized touring or safari group which includes transport, guides and camping facilities.

FAQs about Gabal Sha'ib El Banat

Here are common questions and clear answers to help you better understand and plan your visit to Gabal Sha'ib El Banat.

Which peaks form the mountain group of Gabal Sha'ib El Banat?

The mountain group of Gabal Sha'ib El Banat consists of four peaks: Gabal Abu Dukhan, Gabal Qattar, Gabal Sha'ib El Banat itself, and Gabal Umm Anab, each with distinct elevations.

What is the terrain like at Gabal Sha'ib El Banat?

Rugged igneous-based rock, with steep slopes and seasonal rainwater-filled valleys, Gabal Sha where cutting and daring are the order of the day in the remote Eastern Desert in Egypt.

Are there local communities around Gabal Sha'ib El Banat?

Yes, the region surrounding Gabal Sha'ib El Banat is home to the Ma'aza Bedouin tribe, a small nomadic community well versed with the harsh desert terrain.

In conclusion

To sum up, Gabal Shaib El Banat is a place every visitor interested in adventure, nature, and cultural travels should visit as the destination boasts beautiful sceneries and pure Bedouin culture. It is the tallest mountain on mainland Egypt and in the middle of the Eastern Desert it offers challenge and beauty. To foreign visitors, it is highly recommended that you obtain an Egypt e-visa before arriving in this marvellous destination because it would guarantee a carefree travel experience free of delays in foreign travel.