GEOTOURISTIC POTENTIALITY OF HAMMAM FARAUN GEOTHERMAL AREA, SOUTH SINAI GOVERNORATE, EGYPT

Abstract

Hammam Faraun area is considered as one of the main geothermal areas in Egypt, as such its geotouristic attractions are inventoried and assessed in the present study. These attractions are represented essentially in Gebel Hammam Faraun, the coastal area facing it, thermal springs, karstic caves, travertine, and volcanic occurrences. Gebel Hammam Faraun represents an outstanding geomorphosite in West Sinai and together with the Gulf of Suez it forms an interesting mountainous-shore landscape. Thermal springs which represent the hottest ones in Egypt recognize this area and have important benefits in balneotherapy and are under investigation for the use in power production. Together with the thermal springs, the karstic caves that are used as natural saunas in the area represent the main geotouristic attractions. Travertine is an important yet not known geologic feature in Hammam Faraun area however, being found in small patches lowers its geotouristic potentiality. Diverse volcanic bodies in the form of sills, dykes and flows are remarkable features that add to the geotouristic potentiality of the study area. It is demonstrated that this area is remarkable for its diverse landscape, active geothermal phenomenon, and outstanding geological, and geomorphological features. Thus, the area has a geotouristic and geoheritage potentiality that can attract both geologists and public. The geotouristic potentiality of Hammam Faraun can be attributed to both scenic and educational values of its geologic features. Moreover, the study gives some recommendations for geotourism development at the area. Furthermore, a coupling between geothermal energy use and geotourism development in the area could support environmental conservation and sustainable development goals in Sinai Peninsula.