6 Things to Do in Al Arish

Al Arish is a coastal city in North Sinai on the Mediterranean Sea. It is one of the largest cities in terms of population and area in Sinai and is 334 km away from Cairo. The city of Al Arish is distinguished by its clear blue waters and the spread of fruitful palm trees along the beach, which is the most beautiful natural thing you will see there.

The city is bordered by the city of Sheikh Zuweid from the eastern side and the Mediterranean Sea from the northern side. Its borders to the west come with Bir al-Abed, while the South Sinai Governorate borders it from the southern side. The city of El Arish is affected by a semi-desert climate, where the temperature is very high in the summer and warm in the winter.

Al Arish is an ancient city that was a strategic military location. During the Arab conquests of Egypt, the city was important as it was the location of the battle of Al Arish, which resulted in the restoration of Egypt from invaders. The city has a private airport that serves Egyptians and tourists visiting North Sinai and a port located on the Mediterranean Sea.

Things to do in Al Arish

As one of the most popular tourist destinations in Egypt, Al Arish offers a wide range of things to do and see.

Here are some of the highlights.

1. Zaraniq Reserve

Zaraniq Natural Reserve is 25 km west of Al Arish on Lake Bardawil and covers about 250 km. It has been an important place for migratory birds since the nineties and has become a famous natural reserve among tourists, researchers, and those interested in the environment.

Zaraniq Reserve was declared a nature reserve in 1985, and it is considered a resting station for migratory birds from Europe and Asia on their way to Africa. There are more than 260 species of migratory birds that pass through Zaraniq Reserve, and you will see many birds that are threatened with extinction inside the reserve, like the grasshopper, the black-winged eagle, the striped ferret, the locust falcon and the royal eagle. Also, you will see mammals, reptiles, and rare plants.

Not only will you find natural places to admire, but there are also archaeological sites like the Flossiya and Al-Khouniyat areas, which include an ancient Roman settlement called Ostrakin, two churches dating back to the Byzantine era, and some archaeological evidence belonging to the Islamic era.

Zaraniq is one of the most scenic locations in Egypt.

After that, you will find Zaraniq Lake, which has a depth of one to one and a half meters.

2. Al Bardawil Lake

Al Bardawil Lake, often called Bardawil Lagoon, is another remarkable natural feature near Al Arish. This coastal lagoon is one of the largest in Egypt, covering over 700 square kilometres. It lies between the Mediterranean Sea and the desert, creating a unique ecosystem that supports a variety of marine and bird life.

The lake is known for its crystal-clear waters, making it an ideal spot for fishing, a traditional livelihood for many residents. Fishing enthusiasts can explore the lake with local fishermen, learning about the time-honoured methods for catching species such as sea bream, mullet, and shrimp. The lake’s calm waters and surrounding beauty make it a perfect place for a peaceful day out, away from the hustle and bustle of urban life.

For the more adventurous, Bardawil Lake also offers opportunities for windsurfing and other water sports. The combination of steady winds and shallow waters provides ideal conditions for these activities. Bird watchers will also be pleased to know that the lake is a haven for various bird species, including migratory birds that pass through the nearby Zaraniq Reserve.

Whether you’re interested in fishing, bird watching, or simply enjoying the serene environment, Al Bardawil Lake is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Al Arish and its surrounding areas.

3. Al Ahrash Reserve

Al Ahrash Reserve is a lesser-known but equally captivating natural reserve located east of Al Arish, near the border with Gaza. Unlike the coastal reserves, Al Ahrash is a desert environment with dunes, arid landscapes, and a surprising array of plant life. The reserve spans approximately 30 square kilometres and is home to various species of desert flora, including acacia trees, tamarisk bushes, and several rare desert plants.

What makes Al Ahrash Reserve particularly interesting is its role in preserving the delicate balance of the desert ecosystem. The reserve is an important site for environmental studies and conservation efforts, as it provides a controlled environment for monitoring the impact of desertification and climate change.

Visitors to Al Ahrash Reserve can embark on guided tours to learn about the unique plant species that have adapted to survive in such a harsh climate. You’ll also have the chance to explore the dunes and enjoy the tranquillity of the desert. The reserve is a fantastic spot for stargazing at night, where the absence of light pollution reveals the night sky’s brilliance in all its glory.

For those looking for a different kind of nature experience, far removed from the coastal scenery, Al Ahrash Reserve offers a fascinating glimpse into the desert ecosystems of the Sinai Peninsula.

4. Al Arish Beach

It is famous for the palm trees along Al Arish beach, which has a length of 10 km, and that is why it is also named Palm Beach. When you visit the beach, you will find cafes, restaurants, and playgrounds for various sports activities.

The beach is characterized by the presence of the corniche and is overlooked by chalets and hotels. It has gained great fame due to its beauty of the views and picturesque nature.

5. Al Arish National Museum

The museum is one of the most important museums in Egypt. It presents the history of Egypt through the Sinai from the prehistoric era until the Islamic era and contains many rare artefacts. The museum was opened in 2008. It was built as a tourist attraction for the North Sinai region and to display the artefacts extracted from the North Sinai excavations.

Al Arish National Museum contains seven main exhibition halls. Doors separate the different eras, and these halls are the Pharaonic Hall, the Greco-Roman Hall, the Byzantine and Coptic Era Hall, the Islamic Art Hall, and the Sinai Heritage Hall.

The museum is one of the best-loved historical sites in Egypt.

6. Al Arish Castle

The castle is one of the most important castles in Egypt, located at its eastern gate. It is located on a high plateau southwest of Al-Arish, which the Pharaohs built.

Its walls contain inscriptions in the ancient Egyptian language, and they were renovated and restored during different historical periods. The castle had places for soldiers to be accommodated. Besides that, a tunnel that leads directly to the Mediterranean Sea is about 2 km away, and it was used for attacking ships invading the city from the sea.

The castle is surrounded by a square wall that is about 8 meters high. The length of each of its eastern and western sides is 75 meters, while the length of the northern and southern sides is 85 meters.

There is also something called Raziel at the top of the wall. It is a small opening that the castle’s garrison used to fire through. The wall was surrounded by a large trench, which prevented the invading forces from approaching it, but this trench has no trace left now after it was filled with sand.

The nave of the castle contained an ancient basin made of red granite. It has a pyramidal base and is engraved on its four walls with a hieroglyphic inscription, the subject of which is the god Shu.

There are 6 marble stones at the top of the castle door, placed above each other in a vertical line, and some Quranic verses and verses of poetry in Turkish dating back to 1214.

Conclusion

Al Arish is a city that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and culture, making it a perfect destination for travellers seeking an alternative to Egypt’s more famous tourist spots. From the serene landscapes of Zaraniq Reserve and Bardawil Lake to the historical intrigue of Al Arish Castle and the National Museum, there’s something for everyone in this coastal city.

Whether you’re drawn to the natural reserves teeming with wildlife, the quiet charm of Al Arish Beach, or the region’s rich history, Al Arish promises a memorable experience for those willing to explore its hidden treasures. So, pack your bags and embark on an adventure to this lesser-known part of Egypt, where history and nature come together in perfect harmony.

If you’re planning a trip, check out our fantastic itinerary for visiting Egypt.