Taba sits at the top of the Gulf of Aqaba, but behind it lies some of the most spectacular desert in Sinai. A day trip from Taba to the White Canyon and the oasis of Ain Khudra takes you through narrow sandstone gorges, across open desert plateaus and into a palm-shaded oasis that Bedouin families have lived in for centuries. Here is how the day works and what to expect.
The Day Trip at a Glance
| Details | |
|---|---|
| Start | 08:00 — pick-up from your hotel in Taba or at the Taba border |
| Duration | About 8 hours |
| Runs | Daily |
| Transport | Air-conditioned 4×4 jeep |
| Stops | White Canyon, Ain Khudra Oasis, Mushroom Rock, Small Coloured Canyon |
| Included | English-speaking guide, lunch, Bedouin tea, bottled water |
| Price | From $70 per person (6 people) to $220 for one person, private tour |
Book the private Small Coloured Canyon and White Canyon day trip from Taba.
The White Canyon
The White Canyon is a splendid example of eroded sandstone, its floor covered in fine white sand and its walls carved into smooth curves by wind and ancient water. The path winds through narrow passages, opens onto plateaus of open desert and then narrows again before it brings you down to the oasis.
You walk for about one hour. The descent is not technical, but there are a few steep or sandy sections where your guide will help — sturdy shoes make all the difference.
Ain Khudra Oasis
At the end of the canyon lies Ain Khudra, a green pocket of date palms and freshwater springs that has been home to Bedouin tribes for over a thousand years. Tradition identifies it with Hazeroth, one of the places where the Israelites are said to have camped during the Exodus. Here you rest in the shade and drink sweet Bedouin tea before continuing.
Mushroom Rock and the Small Coloured Canyon
Back in the jeep, you stop at Mushroom Rock, a sandstone pillar shaped by the wind into a giant mushroom, and then visit the Small Coloured Canyon — also known as Salama Canyon — where the rock walls glow in bands of red, yellow and purple. The canyon is shorter and gentler than the big Coloured Canyon, which makes it a relaxed end to the day.
What to Bring
- Trainers or walking shoes with good grip.
- Sunglasses, a hat and sunscreen.
- A light jacket in winter — mornings in the desert are cool.
- A small backpack for your camera and personal water bottle.
- Cash for tips and any extra drinks.
Tip: Morning light is softer and the canyon cooler, which is why the tour leaves at 08:00.
More Day Trips from Taba
From Taba you can also combine the Coloured Canyon with snorkeling and quad biking in Dahab on the Coloured Canyon, Three Pools and Quad Bikes trip, or visit St. Catherine’s Monastery. Compare every canyon tour in our Coloured Canyon and White Canyon guide, and see what else to do nearby in tourist attractions in Taba.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the walk through the White Canyon?
About one hour, from the top of the canyon down to Ain Khudra Oasis.
Is the White Canyon hike difficult?
It is suitable for most reasonably fit travellers. There are some sandy and steep sections but no climbing; your guide helps where needed.
Is lunch included?
Yes. Lunch, Bedouin tea, bottled water, the guide and the 4×4 jeep are all included.
Can I join from Taba Heights or the border?
Yes. We pick you up from hotels in Taba or at the Taba border.
