Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt
Sharm El-Sheikh occupies the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula where the Red Sea offers some of the world's finest diving and snorkeling. The resort city transformed from a small fishing village to an international destination famous for coral reefs teeming with tropical fish, year-round sunshine, and proximity to desert landscapes of biblical significance. Ras Mohammed National Park protects spectacular underwater environments, while day trips reach Mount Sinai and St. Catherine's Monastery. Sharm delivers affordable luxury—all-inclusive resorts, water sports, and nightlife—in a setting where the desert meets azure waters.
Top Attractions in Sharm El-Sheikh
- Ras Mohammed National Park — Egypt's first marine park protects some of the Red Sea's most spectacular coral reefs. Shark Reef and Yolanda Reef offer world-class diving with dramatic drop-offs, coral gardens, and abundant marine life. Snorkelers can explore shallower areas, while the park's desert sections harbor foxes, gazelles, and migratory birds.
- Naama Bay — Sharm's original tourist area remains its most vibrant, with a pedestrianized promenade lined with restaurants, cafes, and shops. The bay offers calm waters for swimming, while nearby reefs provide easy snorkeling. After dark, the strip comes alive with shisha lounges and nightclubs catering to international visitors.
- Diving & Snorkeling — The Red Sea's warm, clear waters host over 200 coral species and 1,000 fish species. Sites like Tiran Island, the Thistlegorm wreck (a WWII cargo ship), and countless reef systems offer everything from beginner snorkeling to advanced technical diving. Dozens of dive centers cater to all experience levels.
- Mount Sinai & St. Catherine's — The mountain where Moses received the Ten Commandments rises from the Sinai desert, a 2.5-hour drive from Sharm. Climbers ascend overnight to witness sunrise from the 2,285-meter summit. At the mountain's base, St. Catherine's Monastery—one of Christianity's oldest—houses the legendary Burning Bush and ancient manuscripts.
- Desert Excursions — The Sinai interior offers quad biking, camel rides, and Bedouin camp experiences. Colored Canyon's sandstone formations create otherworldly landscapes, while stargazing in the unpolluted desert reveals brilliant night skies. Traditional Bedouin dinners under the stars provide cultural context for the desert environment.
Travel Info
- Best time to visit: March to May, September to November
- Average temperature: 25°C (77°F) annual average
- Currency: EGP (Pound)
Typical Costs
- Quick Lunch (Falafel/Kofta): EGP 80 – EGP 150
- Dinner (Resort Restaurant): EGP 400 – EGP 800
- Coffee (Shisha Café): EGP 50 – EGP 100
- Taxi (Local Ride): EGP 50 – EGP 150
- Airport Transfer (Taxi to Resort): EGP 300 – EGP 500