World-Class Diving and Snorkeling
Sharm El Sheikh is internationally recognized for its diving and snorkeling, with an abundance of dive sites that offer stunning coral reefs and marine life. Its underwater treasures make it a top destination for divers, from beginners to seasoned professionals.
Ras Mohammed National Park: A highlight for divers and nature enthusiasts, Ras Mohammed National Park is a marine reserve at the southernmost point of the Sinai Peninsula. Known for its dramatic coral reefs, underwater caves, and incredible biodiversity, the park is home to vibrant schools of fish, sea turtles, manta rays, and even whale sharks during certain times of the year. The park’s shallow reefs make it a great spot for snorkeling as well.
Tiran Island: Located at the mouth of the Straits of Tiran, this island is surrounded by coral reefs that are teeming with marine life, including dolphins, barracuda, eagle rays, and colorful reef fish. Tiran Island is one of the most popular dive sites in the area, offering various dive experiences from shallow reef dives to challenging deep dives along the reef walls.
The SS Thistlegorm Wreck: For experienced divers, the SS Thistlegorm is one of the most famous shipwrecks in the world. A British ship sunk during World War II, the wreck now lies at the bottom of the Red Sea and is an underwater museum filled with war supplies, vehicles, and motorcycles. It’s a fascinating dive site, full of history and marine life.
Desert Adventures and Excursions
Beyond the beaches and resorts, Sharm El Sheikh is also a gateway to the vast Sinai Desert, offering exciting desert adventures and opportunities to explore Egypt’s rugged landscapes.
Quad Biking and Camel Safaris: One of the most thrilling ways to experience the desert is on a quad bike safari. Explore the sand dunes and rocky terrain of the Sinai Desert as you ride through the vast landscape. Camel safaris are also available for those who want a more traditional and leisurely way to experience the desert. These tours often include a visit to a Bedouin village, where travelers can enjoy a traditional meal and learn about Bedouin culture.
St. Catherine’s Monastery and Mount Sinai: For history and spirituality enthusiasts, a visit to St. Catherine’s Monastery and a trek up Mount Sinai are unforgettable experiences. St. Catherine’s is one of the oldest functioning Christian monasteries in the world, dating back to the 6th century, and is built on the site where Moses is believed to have seen the Burning Bush. The trek up Mount Sinai, where Moses is said to have received the Ten Commandments, is a popular pilgrimage for many and offers breathtaking sunrise views from the summit.
Colored Canyon: The Colored Canyon is a natural wonder located in the Sinai Desert, known for its towering rock formations and striking multicolored sandstone. Visitors can take guided hiking tours through the canyon to witness the vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow that make it one of the most unique geological formations in Egypt.
Family-Friendly Activities
Sharm El Sheikh is a fantastic destination for families, with a variety of activities that cater to children and adults alike.
Aqua Parks: Sharm El Sheikh boasts several water parks, such as Aqua Blu Sharm and Cleo Park, which offer fun for the whole family. With thrilling water slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools, these parks are perfect for a day of excitement and relaxation.
Dolphin Shows: Families can visit the Dolphina Park to watch dolphin shows and even swim with dolphins. This is a popular attraction for children and offers a memorable experience for animal lovers.