Crown Prince or Regency

Luxor - Aswan / 4 Nights - 5 Days 


Day  Program
 
Day 1


Check in. Overnight in Luxor.

Day 2


Visit the west bank & East Bank Sail to Edfu maximum by 19h00  Overnight on board


Day 3


 Visit Horus Temple Sail to Kom Ombo & visit Sobek Temple  Sail to Aswan


Day 4


 A.M. Visit the high Dam and Philae Temple P.M. Felucca Trip  Overnight in Aswan


Day 5


 Optional visit to Abu Simbel  Check out

3 Nights / 4 Days - Aswan / Luxor
  
Day 1ASWAN


Embarkation before lunch. In the afternoon, you will discover the gigantic high Dam; the unfinished Obelisque. Dinner and overnight on board in Aswan.

Day 2 KOM OMBO / EDFU


In the early morning, your ship will sail to Kom Ombo where you will visit the unusual double temple dedicated to the crocodile god Sobek and the god Haroeris. Lunch on board. Admire the beautiful scenery of the Nile while sailing to Edfu where you will discover the huge temple dedicated to the God Horus by horse carriage and tour it with your guide. Visit the colorful local bazaars on your way where you can buy your souvenirs. Dinner and overnight.

Day 3 LUXOR


After breakfast it is time to focus on the West Bank of Luxor:(Valley of Kings, Queen Hatshepsut & Colossi of Memnon). Back to the ship for lunch. Dinner and overnight in Luxor.

Day 4 Luxor
Check out after breakfast.

M/S Iberotel Crown Emperor

4 Nights / 5 Days - Luxor / Aswan


Day 1 Luxor


Check in before lunch and lunch on board visit the East Bank of Luxor (Karnak & Luxor Temples), the West Bank of Luxor (Valley of Kings, Queen Hatshepsut & Colossi of Memnon). Dinner on board and overnight in Luxor.


Day 2 Luxor / Esna, Enjoy your time free while sailing to Edfu via Esna. Overnight on board.

Day 3 Edfu / Kom Ombo / Aswan


Enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Nile while having breakfast on your way to Edfu. In Edfu you will discover the huge temple dedicated to the god Horus by horse carriage and tour it with your guide. Enjoy your lunch while sailing to Kom Ombo where you will visit the magnificent unusual double temple dedicated to the god Sobek and the god Haroeris. Dinner and overnight in Kom Ombo.


Day 4 Aswan


Early sail to Aswan, after breakfast you will visit the high dam, the unfinished Obelisque and the beautiful Philae Temple. Back to the ship for lunch. Overnight in Aswan.

Day 5 Aswan 


Check out after breakfast.

M/S Iberotel Crown Emperor features

Cabins & Facilities


A River Nile cruise on the M/S Iberotel Crown Emperor is surely the most relaxing way to see the inspiring sights of Egypt. We offer highly personalized service on our resplendent River Nile cruise boat. It is hard to compete with the pleasure of leisurely sailing along the waters of the River Nile. Relax on the sun deck, sipping a cool drink whilst viewing the beauties of the riverside. The M/S Iberotel Crown Emperor is the first boat in Egypt to acquire the ISO14001 :2004, the internationally recognized Environmental Management Standard Certification. 


Nile Cruise Ship Cabins


118 cabins: 108 double, 2 single and 8 suites. 


All cabins and suites of the Nile Cruise ship are equipped with the following amenities and features: 


Large panoramic window that has a view on the River Nile 


Individually controlled air conditioning 


Private bathroom with W.C. and shower/bathtub 


TV with satellite channels, in-house video channels and music 
system 


International telephone 


Individual safety box 


Mini-fridge 


Luggage rack 


Shaver plug 


Hair dryer 


Nile Cruise Ship Suites 


The suites of the Nile cruise ship have an extra living room separated from the bedroom by a sliding door. The windows open leading into a balcony. Special upgraded guest amenities are available in the suites including bathrobes and slippers, stationary sets, and a departure souvenir. 


Nile Cruise Ship General Facilities 


Accommodation is on a full board basis with daily tea time service. Aboard the Nile cruise ship, you will find a large, luxurious bar and lounge where you can enjoy a variety of entertainment programs and folkloric shows in the evening. The spacious restaurant room can accommodate all passengers at one seating. 


On the large sun deck overlooking the River Nile, you will find a swimming pool and a pool bar, with plenty of comfortable deck chairs, sun loungers and fitness equipment. Body massage is available against charge. 


For your greater comfort, there is a 24- hour reception service, full laundry facilities, a gift shop, and a beauty salon which opens twice weekly in Luxor and Aswan (by request). A doctor is on call when the boat docks at Luxor, Esna, Edfu, Kom-Ombo and Aswan.


You can stay in touch with your home or business while cruising the river Nile via our international telephone, fax service, and Internet facilities (against charge). Please note that if the Nile cruise ship is fully chartered, we can arrange a meeting space.


American Express, MasterCard and Visa credit cards are accepted. The electric current is 220 volts, 50 Hz. The ship has its own piers.

Alternatives

One of the beauties of a holiday in Egypt is that it’s possible to enjoy a huge variety of experience within one great country. As well as your stay in the Red Sea and Sinai region, you can spend time in very contrasting areas like the Nile Valley, the Deserts and Oases region. In both areas, you can be sure of stunning scenery and a real feeling that history is all around you. Egypt’s excellent internal transport means that getting around is easy, whether you intend to add a full week to your Red Sea stay, or simply head off to a different region for a day or two from your main holiday base.

Many tour operators offer excellent packages, and you have the choice of booking a package before you leave home or simply choose anattractive option courtesy of your hotel or local operator at your resort. The choice is vast, but let’s take a look at some ideas.

Accommodation

Whether you plan a stay in a fabulous five-star or four-star hotel, a floating hotel on the River Nile or you are set to enjoy a backpacking experience with overnight stops along the way you can expect an increasingly high standard of facilities in Egypt. The country enjoys a high level of amenities and comfort at exceptional value-formoney.



With its history dating back to ancient civilisations, its world-class
archaeological sites, landmarks Visitors to Egypt have lots of choice when deciding where and in what type of accommodation to stay. In the luxury and historical sector of the market there’s the former hunting lodge the Mena House Oberoi overlooking the pyramids, or

the 19th century Cairo Marriott that opened at the same time as the Suez Canal, the five-star Sofitel Old Cataract, one of ‘Death on the Nile’ writer Agatha Christie’s favourite hotels and one of Egypt’s most famous. It is located on the banks of the Nile at Aswan. In Luxor, the Sofitel Winter Palace is a landmark five-star hotel next to
the Nile. You get a great view of the Valley of the Kings on the opposite of the river.


Or, El Salamlek in Alexandria, which used to be the residence of the Royal family. Many visitors to Egypt do so to enjoy a spa and wellbeing break or the chance to enjoy several rounds of golf. The lavish Intercontinental Citystars in Cairo, the Four Seasons Health Club and Spa in Alexandria, the Charm Life El Alamein, Luxor’s
Hilton Resort and Spa, and Sofitel Karnak, or the Mena Ville resort at like the Pyramids of Giza and the Valley of the Kings, its deserts,

diving waters and vibrant resorts along its coastline, Egypt attracts
visitors from every corner of the globe. Whether visitors opt for a
top class luxury hotel in Alexandria or along the Mediterranean Coast, the Nile Valley’s Cairo, Luxor or Aswan, at one of the fabulous resorts in the Red Sea and Sinai regions or choose a specialist venue like a spa centre, a boutique or historical hotel, an ecolodge, golf resort or a desert camp, the hotels in Egypt cater for all tastes and budgets, making visitors’ stays a memory that will last a lifetime. 



Safaga, the Stella Di Mare Ain Sokhna on the Red Sea coast or the Savoy and Grand Rotana at Sharm el- Sheikh are all among the hotels specialising in spa breaks.


The JW Marriott in Cairo, the Porto Marina in El Alamein, the Steigenberger Al Dau in Hurghada and the Cascades in Soma Bay are just four of Egypt’s top hotels with golf courses.



If you are planning to go ‘off the beaten track’ with a tour you may have the enviable opportunity to stay in one of the country’s ecolodge hotels. At the amazingly beautiful Bahariya Oasis you can stay at the Qasr El-Bawity ecolodge hotel, while at Dakhla the Al Tarfa Desert Sanctuary Luxury Lodge and Spa. Both are located in the Western Desert. In the town of Siwa, one of the western desert’s largest communities, the Adrere Amellal is an ecolodge hotel that has amenities such as its own swimming pool and guestrooms full of
character. A similar experience can be enjoyed in the Sinai region at Basata ecolodge in Nuweiba. Whatever type of hotel you choose you can have the peace of mind in knowing that we are passionate that you should have a wonderful stay in Egypt.

MONEY

The national currency is the Egyptian Pound – often shown on price lists as LE., divided into 100 piasters

BUSINESS HOURS & PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

Banks and government offices are usually open from 9 am to 2 pm except for fridays, saturdays and public holidays. Shops usually open from about 10am till 10pm. Most people enjoy the sun and water during the day and go shopping after sunset.


Main (fixed) public holidays – January 7 (Coptic Christmas Day); April 25 (Sinai Liberation Day); May 1 (Labour Day); July 23 (Revolution Day, marking the start of the Arab Republic of Egypt); October 6 (Armed Forces Day). There are also some variable dates which change each year because of the Muslim calendar and the phases of the moon. Check current information for dates of Ramadan (when Muslims fast during daylight hours) and Eid – the big family party and feast when Ramadan ends.

TIME & ELECTRICITY

Egypt is GMT + 2 hours (3 in summer time). Voltage is usually 220 volts with adapters readily available if you’ve forgotten yours.

COMMUNICATIONS

It’s very easy to keep in touch in the region – but remember to switch your phone off and enjoy where you are! Mobile reception is good in main tourist areas and hotels or call boxes will provide good service if you haven’t brought your own phone.


Internet facilities are very common with many hotels now providing high quality connections in guest rooms.


Alternatively, hotel kiosks or cyber cafes are plentiful to let you keep in touch with home – and make the office jealous! There is now very good wi-fi provision in Sharm el-Sheikh). You can buy stamps and send your mail at post offices – remember that, like most public buildings, they will be closed on fridays.


Most hotel receptions will also sell stamps and send off your mail.

CHILDREN

Egyptian people place a high value on family life, and you will find that children are given a particularly warm welcome. As you will have seen in this guide, many hotels and resorts pride themselves on having top class children’s facilities and attractions. Youngsters love the freedom to enjoy the sunshine and water but, even on holiday, remember to keep your children safe just as you would at home.

SPORTS

Diving and water activities are the big draw, but there’s plenty more to do in the region. As you’ll have seen in the guide, there is a very wide range, including high quality golf courses, riding and tennis to name a few.

SHOPPING

You’ll find some very good value in the shops and markets – especially in cotton, leather, spices and local handicrafts

PHOTOGRAPHY

Taking photos or video of tourist locations is fine, but you will sometimes see signs in holy places or near military bases advising against it. Some museums bar photography too, so watch for the signs or just ask to be added here.ATMs are easily available at banks or in many larger hotels. Banks and bureaux de change are readily available for changing currency. Shops, hotels and restaurants readily accept the usual credit cards and travellers’ cheques, although cash payments are usual in markets and smaller establishments. There is no limit to the amount of foreign currency you can take in or out of Egypt. 

EATING OUT

In the tourist areas of the Red Sea and Sinai, you’ll find a very wide selection of international restaurants and cafes. Be adventurous though and enjoy a taste of Egypt. Local dishes make excellent use of spices and make great use of local fresh fish, meat and vegetables.


Try great Egyptian dishes like falafel and koshari (lentils, rice and tomato sauce). Then there’s ful madammas (a dried fava bean stew) and ta’amiyya (mashed broad beans and spices). A particular favourite is koshary – a mouth-watering blend of pasta, fried onions, lentils, chick peas, chilli and garlic! And don’t miss a real Arabic coffee – it’s a million miles from the weak instant substitute you might get at home! Remember the heat, though, and drink plenty of bottled water.

HEALTH

You won’t need specific vaccination requirements to visit the area, although if you come from a high risk area, the usual certificates will be required. Doctors and hospitals are of a high standard, and the pharmacies (often open long hours) are valuable. Egyptian pharmacists are qualified to high medical standards and are able to give advice as well as prescribe medication.

LANGUAGE

Arabic is the main language, but English and other major world languages are commonly spoken in tourist areas 

CLIMATE

The best news is that the region really is a year round destination with sunshine always there to enjoy. Daytime temperatures will range from low 20°C in January to around 37°C in the summer months. It is not a humid heat, and the gentle sea breezes from the Red Sea are one of the many attractions. Rainfall is unusual, al-though you may see a little in January and February

TRANSPORT

Egypt Air, the national Carrier, has very effective international and domestic flights network, and links Egypt with most countries and most of the tourist cities in Egypt. Wherever your home base is, you will find many airline operators offering services to the tourist airports of Red Sea and Sinai. Taxis are plentiful in the area and are very good value. Air conditioned buses and coaches offer a good way to enjoy the scenery while travelling. It is possible to hire a car with valid driving licence documentation.

ENTERING EGYPT

A valid passport is required to enter the country and a visa is often required. This may be obtained in advance in your home country, or purchased for a nominal sum at your entry airport. If you are staying in the main South Sinai region during your stay, a visa will not be required. If you are aiming to visit the Gulf of Aqaba or St Catherine’s by entering overland, you will be granted a 14 days residency permit so will not require a visa.

Practical Info

INFORMATION & BOOKING



Booking your trip is simple, with many operators in your home country offering very attractive packages.


The internet will also guide you through what’s available, and offer superb tailored packages. You will find that top value is available whether you choose simple budget accommodation or treat yourself to world class 5 star hotels. 

Mount Sinai & St Catherine’s Monastery

These two attractions, and their surrounding majestic mountains, sum up the magic and diversity of the Sinai region. There are few places in the world where, a short trip away from diving and glorious beaches, you can be in such a stunning and awe-inspiring area. Even before written history, oral traditions strongly favour this as the real site, and that spoken history has been handed down to us today.




The traditional Mount Sinai is actually the name of a collection of peaks, sometimes called the Holy Mountains. At its southern end is Mount Musa (the mountain of Moses), traditionally believed
to be the place where Moses communicated with God and received the Ten Commandments.


Mount Musa is not actually the highest peak in Sinai. That honour belongs to nearby Mount Catherine which, at over 2500 metres high, is also the highest mountain in Egypt. If you wish to climb to these lofty positions, there are several routes available. If you are planning to do this, be sure that you are in a reasonable state of fitness – the climbs are long and tiring  The shortest route (but the steepest), known as Siket Syidna Musa, is a stairway consisting of 3,750 steps, known as the Steps of Penitence. These were cut out of the rock by the monks of St Catherine’s Monastery, located at the north-eastern foot of the mountain. Many people prefer to climb during darkness; it’s partly to avoid the heat of the day, but mainly to be at the summit in time to see the glorious sunrise beneath them.
The longer route (El Bashait) may be climbed at night, either on foot or on the back of a camel.


It takes about two and a half hours to make the climb, and there are little stalls along the way where climbers can buy food and water. A typical trip would ivolve leaving Sharm- It is certainly true that the sheer magnificence of these mountains, and their isolation from everyday life, has inspired people of all religions.45 el-Sheikh in the evening and driving for about 2 hours to the foot of Mount Sinai. After the climb and a rest to watch that beautiful daybreak, it’s time to descend and take the chance to visit St Catherine’s Monastery.


This stunning holy place was constructed by order of the Roman Emperor Justinian between 527 and 565 CE. It is built around the site believed to be the place where Moses saw the Burning Bush in the famous Biblical passage. 


The works of art contained within the monastery are amazing – and priceless. They include Arab mosaics, Greek and Russian icons, European oil paintings and many other religious artefacts. Famously, it also has one of the greatest collections of illuminated manuscripts in the world, second only to the Vatican. There are almost 5,000 volumes in a huge range of the world’s languages. It is still a working monastery and, of course, visitors are expected to respect this during their time there.


The monastery’s spiritual heart is the Chapel of the Burning Bush, an unassuming structure of tremendous religious significance. A few feet away from the Chapel is the reputed bush itself, a rare species of the rose family called Rubus Sanctus. It is also essentially a fortress; its huge granite walls built to protect the monks and the treasures in more dangerous times. The most striking thing about the monastery’s history is that, despite the often turbulent events around it, both military and religious leaders have always offered it special protection.

Always check opening times before a visit to St Catherine’s as it does have some days when it is closed. Around the monastery, the St Catherine’s National Park is a fascinating area which supports an amazing diversity of plant and animal life, some of which are found nowhere else in the world.


The mountains are home to Sinai rose finch from Asia, the ibex and wolf from Europe, and the striped hyena and Tristram’s grackle which came from Africa. Several species are unique to the National Park including two species of snakes and about twenty plant species, such as a beautiful native primrose. Through clever management, the Park is able to keep its unique character while allowing visitors to see its wonders.

DID YOU KNOW for taba

The west south of Taba (along 3590 km2) declared as a National park stretches for each abandon natural and typographical features.The clownfish (made famous in recent years as the star of the hit film Finding Nemo) is, despite its name, one of the cleverer fish around. You’ll see many of them in the clear waters around Taba, but you might not know of the unusual relationship they have with sea anemones.

Taba Heights Golf Course

The Taba Heights Golf Course has the longest championship hole in Egypt. The 14th is 640 yards and is a challenge to the very best golfers in the world – and perhaps you too! On the northern tip of the Gulf of Aqaba, you can enjoy a round against a backdrop of the dramatic Sinai Mountains and the sparkling Red Sea.


Even if you are not up to championship standard yet, the club offers driving ranges and high quality coaching whether you are a total beginner or more experienced.

EASY TRAVEL to taba

Several airlines fly directly in to Taba, but if you’d like to really absorb the scale and beauty of the surrounding country, consider flying in to Sharm and driving the 200 km. Whether you hire a car or a professional driver, you can look forward to stunning mountains and dazzling rock formations as you speed along the (mainly) straight roads which seem to slice through the terrain. Expect the journey to take just under two hours – and you won’t forget it!

deep canyons

Even though the deep canyons look dry, they owe their existence to great rainstorms, rivers and floods. In the past, the region boasted much more rain and standing water and it’s easy to see the tracks of old torrents. Even today, the downpours in the short rainy season see water racing through these wadis (old valleys or dry river beds). Even in the dry summer, there’s more water around than you might think. The bushes (often brooms) you’ll see in rocky outcrops have root systems which have developed to find – and store – precious water

don’t miss in taba

Talking of travel and mountains, get inside the rocky grandeur instead of just admiring it from the pool or beach! Driving a quad bike through the stunning canyons is an experience you’ll always remember. You’ll be picked up from your hotel and taken on the short trip from Taba to your starting point.

Pharaoh’s Island

A few miles south of Taba, and just off the coast, is Pharaoh’s Island – for good reason, one of the most photographed sites in the regions. After a safety briefing and some gentle tuition, you’ll be at the controls of your own quad with the throaty engine note road buncing off the canyon walls. When you stop for a break and a refreshing drink halfway round your trip, the silence is stunning. To complete a perfect day, head back for a refreshing shower to rinse the canyon dust off, laze by the pool, and then look forward to a meal of a lifetime. For a truly world class dining experience, make time to book a table at Castle Zaman, a little north of Nuweiba near Basata Camp. This amazing place boasts “slow castle food” where high quality fresh meat and fish is slow cooked in a style perfected over centuries.It’s worth allowing some extra time to absorb the special atmosphere of the place, including a bit of shopping time to see their “dungeon” which offers souvenirs and gifts well away from the usual run of things! Be sure to book ahead, as the place is deservedly popular, and they’ll fix everything including a pick-up from your hotel.

Taba and Taba Heights

The Taba region really came to worldwide attention in the 1970s when it became a magnet for backpackers looking to enjoy the simple hippy lifestyle. There has been considerable expansion since those days, but the laid-back approach to life is still very evident, especially when compared to the more bouncy feel of Sharm el-Sheikh further south. The feeling of relaxation and being close to nature is one of the main reasons why the Taba region is so popular and there is no doubt that everyday routine will suddenly seem a long way off when you are enjoying life here. The small (and modern) downtown area of Taba Heights is worth a visit for an evening stroll around a few restaurants and shops, with live outdoor entertainment often available. Most of the larger hotels run a free shuttle service. Many people see Taba as the ideal family destination.

don’t miss in Nuweiba

For a truly world class dining experience, make time to book a table at Castle Zaman, a little north of Nuweiba near Basata Camp – more in the Taba section. The Bedouin charm of this area, combined with new, modern resort hotels, makes this a unique place to visit, where visitors can experience the culture and traditions of
Egyptian life and architecture as well as the luxury of a first-class holiday, all surrounded by some of the most beautiful scenery and dive sites in the world. The sunrise in the east over the Gulf of Aqaba and the distant mountains of Saudi Arabia, which is a sight you will never forget.

Easy Travel in Nuweiba

As you would expect from a top resort destination, Nuweiba offers a wealth of activity for visitors to enjoy, whatever their age. From Nuweiba, excursions can be easily arranged to places of interest in the area. A camel trek or jeep safari to the unspoiled protected area of Ras Abu Gallum, where the only permanent residents are the
Bedouin, and no hotels, shops, or restaurants have been built, making it feel like a journey back through time to simpler days. It is from this area that traditional Bedouin fishermen, the only people allowed to fish in this area, supply Nuweiba restaurants with

freshly-caught local fish and seafood. Probably one of the most popular excursions form Nuweiba it to St Catherine’s monastery, which often includes side trips to Nawamis with its early Bronze Age burial chambers. Other stops include the Stone of Inscriptions, with its ancient writings from many different civilizations from many eras.


Other excursions include camel trips, some of three or five days to take in some of the wonders of the desert. However, the same tours can usually be arranged for one day by jeep for those who would prefer to sleep in the comfort of their hotel each night. The Coloured Canyon and Oasis Ain Hudra (biblical Hazeroth) treks take you to palm gardens and great landscape while the oasis of Ain Um Ahmad is the most beautiful and biggest oasis in South Sinai. Bedouins there grow fruits such as oranges, almonds, peaches, figs and dates, and also cultivate the land, farming corn, wheat and vegetables. Divers will find that the central location of Nuweiba means that they can enjoy dives in a variety of sites, each with their own uniqueness and variety of coral and marine life. Whatever your experience level with diving, there will be a site ideal for you, with many able to accommodate everyone from beginners to experts simply because of the natural variety of the area. 

DID YOU KNOW

The Town area of Nuweiba marks the tribal boundary between the Bedouin Tarabin and Muzeina tribes. Even today, Bedouin tribes respect one another’s territories. Nuweiba Port offers duty-free shopping, an unmissable opportunity for bargain hunters!

Nuweiba

Nuweiba is a resort on the coast of South Sinai, around 180 km north of Sharm el-Sheikh. It boasts an ideal central location and natural beauty both underwater and on dry land.


Nuweiba is surrounded by National Parks, other popular destinations to visit, and a  seemingly endless list of natural and historical places of interest. Not only that, but every day can be as energetic or relaxing as you desire, and no two days need be the same, or indeed even similar, such is the range of activity and sights here. 


If you are seeking a destination where the ultimate in hotel luxury can be easily combined with local charm, culture and character, Nuweiba should certainly be high on your list. Tarabin, to the north of Nuweiba, consists of a thick grove of palms, a shallow bay and the ruins of a Turkish fort. The well inside these ruins has served as a fresh water source for the Bedouin people who live here for many centuries. Tarabin has a wonderful and exciting atmosphere, with restaurants and bazaars clustered together for a lively and

colourful, Bedouin flavoured, experience. 



Restaurants here are furnished in Bedouin style, with carpets and cushions giving comfort and authenticity.


The Town area lies between Tarabin and The Dunes, and visitors can expect to find a bustling centre, complete with traditional bakeries serving warm pitta bread, bazaars and restaurants. The Dunes connect Nuweiba Town and Nuweiba Port. Along the shore, many camps and family owned hotels sit by the beautiful
sandy beaches with their spectacular coral reefs. The Dunes are further divided in Duna, where beach bungalows and smaller hotels and restaurants make the perfect romantic getaway, and Small Duna, where many of the larger hotels have been built. Nuweiba Port, also known as Nuweiba Muzeina, was originally the summer location for the Bedouin Muzeina tribe, until the construction of the port in 1985 attracted business and workers from all over the country. This boom encouraged the Muzeina clan to settle here, and today they are still the landlords to many shops and other businesses.

For this reason, Abu Gallum

For this reason, Abu Gallum is perfect for many different levels of diving expertise, and is among the best places to experience scuba diving and snorkelling away from the busier touristareas. Once underwater here, visitors may find turtles, eagle rays and giant barracuda which come in from the open sea.

DID YOU KNOW in Abu Gallum

On camel treks to Ras Abu Gallum, your diving equipment, as well as food, drink and baggage will be carried by your camel. A welcome bit of help from the Ship of the Desert!


As well as experienced dive leaders, treks to Ras Abu Gallum are also accompanied by experienced and very knowledgeable Bedouin guides, who will ensure that you take the best route.

EASY TRAVEL to Abu Gallum

Abu Gallum is reached from Dahab (about 15 km) on a characterful trek from the Blue Hole dive site along the coast. Visitors can take the journey on foot if they wish, or take the traditional form of transport by riding on camelback. Because of Abu Gallum’s protected status, travel must be on marked tracks, but
the views and experiences available are second to none.


From here, safaris can easily reach St Catherine’s monastery (one of the oldest in existence), Mount Sinai, where many believe Moses received the Ten Commandments in The Bible, turquoise mines, and the geological wonders at Gebel Fuga. Abu Gallum is a popular spot for mountain biking, with the trails and tracks making
a fascinating and exhilarating ride.

don’t miss in nabq

The unique diving experience offered here. The shoreline at Abu Gallum displays just how rich the marine life is here, with shells of a huge variety of molluscs washed onto the beach. These are just an indication of the diversity of sea-life here in the protected waters among the living coral. The area is suitable for many levels of diver, from snorkelling in the shallows to the awesome 90-metre coral wall, where Napoleon fish are just one of many species you will encounter.


Gebel Fuga is a large desert plateau surrounded by the desert mountains, reachable by safari from the Abu Gallum area or from resorts in Dahab. On a sloping hillside here lies one of the most interesting geological oddities to be seen in Sinai. This area has been named the Forest of Pillars, because it is covered with black lava-like columns of rock which appear to grow out of the mountain. The rocks range in size reaching to a metre or more in height, and many are crowded together as if they were supporting one another.
A perfect and unique exploration and photographic opportunity.

Abu Gallum National Park

To the north of Dahab, Ras Abu Gallum is a protected National Park area, making it one of the areas of Sinai where visitors will be the most awestruck by the unspoiled beauty of the Egyptian coast. With no hotels,


shops, loud music or big crowds, this four-hundred square kilometre protected area is a place where one can imagine stepping back in time and being the first to discover the beauty of both the land and sea here. The Park is home to a Bedouin settlement, and is a wonderful site for diving and snorkelling, and can only be reached from Dahab as part of a camel safari. The best area for diving is at the northern end of the Bedouin village. Divers enter at a split in the reef and head out towards incredible coral formations teeming with marine life. Experienced divers can head out to the deeper reef wall, although some would say that the most fascinating sights are
to be found in the shallows.

DID YOU KNOW in nabq

Nabq contains the largest mangrove forest in Sinai. These plants are remarkable for the way they purify salt water using their root system. The wreck of the Maria Schroeder, a vessel which sank on the coral reefs in 1965, is still plainly visible at Nabq, with much of the ship still above the water’s surface. The portion beneath the sea has become a new habitat for a rich array of coral and other marine life.

don’t miss in nabq

The incredible view across the desert, with Mount Sinai rising majestically out of its foothills. Visitors can go on safari excursions in to the desert, in four wheel drive jeeps, riding quad bikes, or on the back of a real desert camel. Bedouin hospitality awaits, with barbecue food under the stars before returning across the desert to the coast.

Nabq

A little closer to Sharm el-Sheikh, around 30km to the north of the bustling resort, is Nabq, where the coral reefs stretch along the length of the coast where the desert meets the sea. A protected marine reserve has been established here since 1992, in order to protect the coral reefs and the mangrove fringe which extends along the shoreline. The reserve also serves to preserve the way of life of the native Bedouin people, who are also responsible for much of the tourist services here.



Scuba diving is popular and well-served in Nabq, with unique and varied underwater landscapes, offering sandy slopes leading to the rich and amazingly well-preserved coral reefs, which boast a very rich and diverse variety of fish. The beaches are beautiful, as one would expect in a protected area, and activities such as beach volleyball, beach football and basketball are available all day, so visitors can enjoy some energetic exercise.

EASY TRAVEL to Nabq

Nabq is easily reached from the larger resort of Sharm el-Sheikh. Only around 15 minutes from Sharm by car, this beautiful area offers a change of pace and scenery for those wishing to relax in tranquil surroundings.

DID YOU KNOW about dahab

Dahab has retained its youthful, alternative atmosphere in perfect balance with the arrival of tourism to the area, creating a relaxed and laid-back environment, but with facilities on hand that one would hope for in a top-class tourist resort.

don’t miss

Private dive guides will take individuals and groups to dive sites which are off the beaten track, giving a truly unique experience to those who choose to take this option. Standards of teaching and safety are very high here, but always check that your guide is part of a well established diving centre. Bicycles are available for hire, so visitors can take a leisurely ride along the beach or take to the backstreets of Dahab for exploration of Egyptian life.

Easy Travel

Dahab serves as an excellent starting point for visits to Mount Sinai, where many believe that Moses received the Ten Commandments in the Bible, and St Catherine’s Monastery, one of the oldest in the world.


Excursions into the desert are available, and are an unforgettable experience, culminating in a visit to a Bedouin settlement where guests will receive a warm welcome and enjoy a barbecue under the stars. Also on dry land, Wadi Gnai is a perfect spot for rock climbing enthusiasts, or simply a beautiful oasis in which to enjoy a
spot of tea

Dahab and Nabq

Dahab is a small Bedouin town, located approximately 100km to the north of Sharm el-Sheikh’s luxurious tourist resorts. Dahab, which means “Gold” in Arabic, is named for the town’s beautiful beaches, and the atmosphere here is relaxed and peaceful. Popular with backpackers because of its affordable prices, the area also boasts some unique diving sites, making it a tranquil paradise for peace loving souls to relax and explore. The Dahab area is protected and resource managed to ensure that the rich natural environment remains unspoiled.



As with many other areas of the Red Sea and Sinai coast of Egypt, Dahab has some famous dive sites and snorkelling opportunities.
The famous Blue Hole, literally a deep hole in the coral reef, is located around 30 minutes from Dahab by jeep, and is suitable
for more experienced divers. Around 150m wide, and up to 110m deep, the Blue Hole is one of nature’s oddities, and is in fact a
sort of cave or pothole, giving it the appearance of an eerie gap in the coral reefs which surround it.



On land, Dahab offers a wealth of relaxing activities. There are restaurants here right on the beach itself, where delicious meals
can be followed by a relaxing walk on the beach, or something a little more physical, such as horse and camelback riding, or
riding the water’s surface with some windsurfing or kite surfing.
The breeze blowing from the Red Sea onto the coast makes Dahab a centre for windsurfers, and the Laguna (lagoon) seems almost
tailor-made for wind and kite surfers to enjoy their sport. Some hotels here specialize in wind and kite surfing in the same way
that many others specialize in scuba diving and snorkelling, and there are areas of the lagoon dedicated for these pursuits.

DID YOU KNOW Sunset in Sinai

Sharm has built a reputation as one of the most popular conference venues in the world. Its easy access from major capitals, along with great facilities and high service standards, mean that it has become a firm favourite.


Some describe Sharm as the “city of peace” because of the many conferences here which have led to harmony for nations previously in conflict. The business world has also been quick to understand its big advantages, and many companies choose to hold conferences here with some time off in the sunshine for hard working staff afterwards! Even if you are never likely to attend a business event or conference yourself, this market means that Sharm el-Sheikh’s offer is getting better every year. The airport’s facilities are getting better each year, and barely a week goes by without a major hotel or travel operator announcing new plans for the area. One thing which is clear is that Sharm has achieved the very difficult trick of offering a huge range of visitor goodies without spoiling the reason why the resort sprang up in the first place. By a very clever programme of management, the Egyptian Government has protected the stunning beauty of land and sea, while still making space for the quality hotels and facilities which the modern visitor expects.


Someone once said that travelers are never really sure of what they are looking for – but they know what it is when they find it! Whatever your inner needs are as a traveler, Sharm el-Sheikh has it waiting for you – and you’ll become one of the many repeat visitors who see this place as a second home.The Sharm area has also become a real magnet for golfers. Fine golf courses up to international standards at Maritim Jolie Ville and, of course, guaranteed sunshine every day.

DID YOU KNOW in Ras Mohammed

The Visitor Centre at Ras Mohammed is of very high quality, and some time spent there will greatly enhance your visit to the area – as well as being a great source of information.


The coral reefs at Ras Mohammed are recognized internationally as being among the best in the world, thanks to the National Park’s protected status, which has forbidden development of the area in order to protect the ecosystem of the reefs and the desert of the Ras Mohammed peninsula. Although very different, the desert areas and undersea world are part of a single ecosystem, dependent on each other in order to survive and flourish. You can see the full regulations at the Park, but most of it is common sense – respect your natural surroundings, and don’t take anything or leave anything behind. Ras Mohammed offers the closest tropical waters to Europe, only a few hours flying time from anywhere on the continent. Despite what many people think of when they imagine a desert as a barren wilderness, the desert areas of Ras Mohammed are rich with a wide variety of mammals, birds, reptiles and insects. Vegetation is also rich in some parts, including a mangrove forest, and exotic and interesting plants which have evolved over millions of years to live in the harsh desert conditions. Excursions with experienced guides will let you discover the hidden wonder of the desert. International marine biologists, seasoned scuba divers, and even Egyptians
themselves consider Ras Mohammed a place which must be seen to be believed.


* For your own security, you are required to carry your passport while in this area.

DID YOU KNOW

In ancient times, this area was part of the major trade routes between the Nile and the Red Sea and the world beyond, when there was no choice other than to transport goods south on the Nile and then overland to the Red Sea coast. It is for this reason that there are many archeological discoveries to be made here, including the remains of Roman guard towers placed along the route to protect trade convoys from attack. 

Energetic & fun

Port Ghalib has been created with an energetic and fun loving visitor in mind, with a long list of watersports, including kayaking, windsurfing, parasailing, wakeboarding, sailing boats and catamarans, jet boats and jetskiing, waterskiing, scuba diving, underwater photography, snorkelling, and dolphin safaris, as well as deep sea fishing, and fun boat-drawn banana and donut rides. Taking part in such activities on the clear blue waters of the Red Sea is like a dream of paradise. Other active pursuits out of the water are also available including horse and camel-riding, motocross and quad bikes, go-carting, paintballing, rock climbing, and abseiling. Tennis, swimming, kiting, cycling and archery are also available from the resort hotels.

Children’s club

For the youngsters, Port Ghalib has an exciting children’s club. Lulee Kids Camp offers supervised activity programmes for children (ages 4-12 in low season, 2-12 in high season), and operates every day of the year offering a range of activities to keep kids interested, involved and stimulated while adults get to enjoy the freedom of Port Ghalib. Kids can expect to find treasure hunts, jungle gyms, mini golf, trampolines, bumper boats, ten-pin bowling, a games arcade, bubble diving, inflatables, and much more. If you have ever wondered how to keep the children occupied on holiday, Port Ghalib has more answers than you would believe.

Day trips into the desert

Day trips away from the sea can take adventurous types out into the desert, where it is possible to travel by four-wheel drive or to ride your own quad bike out into the Eastern Desert and its spectacular landscape of sand, rocks, oases and mountains. After a thrilling and awe-inspiring journey, the safari visits a Bedouin village where guests will be welcomed with traditional hospitality, and be offered the chance to ride in the desert on a camel, sure to make an interesting story to tell when you return home. Guests enjoy a barbecue dinner as the sun sets over the mountains, and traditional Bedouin music and entertainment captures their hearts, before setting off back by quad bike or jeep to the resort. These tours can be half day or full day trips. Of course, in between all of this activity, guests will wish to find time to relax, and Port Ghalib has that covered, too. With spas and steam baths for both men and women to be pampered in, and sunset and moonlight cruises, Port Ghalib can offer a romantic and relaxing experience, as well as a vibrant and energetic one.

Uncrowded dive sites

While Egypt has become a popular destination for divers eager to experience the magic of the Red Sea at first hand, the spectacular dive sites of Marsa Alam still remain relatively uncrowded, allowing holiday makers to discover the area’s ship wrecks, coral walls and underwater gardens in peace.


Marsa Alam’s top diving spots are popular for their unspoilt beauty. Elphinstone, situated 6.5 nautical miles from the Marsa Alam coast, is teeming with life including sea turtles and reef fish, as well as larger pelagics. With a shallow northern plateau for snorkeling, and a far deeper southern plateau, this area is suitable for sea users of all skill levels, from snorkelers to experienced divers.


Shaab Samadai, or Dolphin House, a curved reef off of the southern Marsa Alam coast, is so named because of a the pod of 60 or so spinner dolphins who are often seen here. In addition to the dolphins, this shallow, turquoise lagoon is also populated by schools of reef fish including leopard groupers, lionfish and masked butterfly fish.



Adventurous undersea explorers will love the idea of diving to the underwater caves and pinnacles to the south. Fury Shoal is a diverse coral garden which makes a wondrous diving location. A network
of hard coral formations make up a complex reef inhabited by a variety of pelagic fish and dolphins, and even contains the wrecks of a tugboat and a sailing ship for your exploration. On dry land, Marsa Alam is the home of an increasing number of luxurious hotels, from three to five star.

EASY TRAVEL

Many visitors to the Red Sea Riviera like to combine a relaxing holiday by the Red Sea with the sights of Ancient Egypt and sights from the era of the Pharaohs.Excursions to Luxor from Marsa Alam are available by bus, with a relatively short trip (around 4 hours drive). The most popular excursion to Luxor is on a full day basis, with an early morning departure, but guests also have the opportunity to spend a night in Luxor, allowing more time to see the ancient temples and other artifacts over two days. The airport’s proximity also means that nowhere in Egypt is out of reach for guests in Marsa Alam, and flights to Cairo are inexpensive and easy to arrange for the complete Egyptian experience. 

Adventure in the desert

For those seeking adventure in the desert, there are tours and attractions aplenty near to Marsa Alam. Quad bike or jeep safaris into the desert, including a visit to a genuine Bedouin village, can be taken from the resort, and are available as full or half day excursions, which include a barbecue and entertainment at the Bedouin village, and the chance to ride a camel in the Egyptian desert. It is believed that the ancient Egyptian Pharaohs mined brilliant green emeralds in the mountainous areas of the Eastern Desert southwest of Marsa Alam. The Cleopatra Mines or Mons Smaragdus (Emerald Mountains) became the most famous mining complex in the ancient world, and at various times the mines at Wadi Gemal, Wadi Sikeit, Wadi Nuqrus and Gebel Zabara were in use during the Ptolemaic and Roman periods. Today the ruins of the Zabara and Sikeit mining settlements are still evident near Marsa Alam, as well as the remains of temples and ancient caves. Visitors looking for history will do well to visit the mines, which, like so many sites of natural resources in Egypt, bear evidence of several different civilizations who have made use of the precious stones over thousands of years. Also not far from Marsa Alam are the remains of the Roman port settlement, Myos Hormos, where visitors can see remarkably well-preserved Roman artefacts, and as many as 200 hierogylphic tablets adorning the cliffs at Wadi Hammamat. Many of these tablets are 4,000 years old, and depict traditional reed boats traveling to the Nile. Hammamat is also famous for Bekheny stone, a beautiful green ornamental rock which was considered sacred in ancient times. The stone was actively quarried until Roman times, and used to make bowls, statues and even sarcophagi. Many items made from Bekheny stone have been found in the Pyramid tombs of the Pharoahs. In later years, the Romans built watchtowers along the wadi, many of which can still be found still there today. 

Wadi Gemal, Berenice & Bir Shalatein

Wadi Gemal



It is a protected National Park in the Eastern Desert, and a perfect way to discover the famous Egyptian desert, and to meet the original tribes who have roamed the vast desert for centuries. Around 40km from Marsa Alam, the park covers nearly 100km of the coast with palm groves, mangrove bays, and pristine beaches with pure white sand, as well as the Wadi itself, a huge, deep, dried riverbed, the site of many interesting geological and natural wonders to explore, and the third largest wadi in the Eastern Desert. 

Bir Shalatein

Bir Shalatein is a small village located on the Egyptian border with Sudan. Once a major sea port, the area is now known for its proximity to some spectacular diving sites. Many resorts further north on the Red Sea coast travel to this area, such is the standard of natural beauty found beneath the sea here. These are all areas where the bustling world of international tourism is yet to shake up the natural order of life, and as they are further south than the large tourist resorts, visitors can find some of the Red Sea’s best diving sites.

Berenice

The ancient city of Berenice, named by Ptolemy II Philadelphos after his mother, became a trading port in 275 BC. A ruined Temple of Semiramis built by Trajan and Tiberius is near the modern town and, inland, there are the remains of the emerald mines of Wadi Sakait, which were worked from Pharaonic to Roman times. On the outer walls of the temple are representations of Emperor Tiberius before the god Min, and another depicts offerings to the deity of the Green Mines. The coast is lined with mangrove swamps and unspoiled bays and coves. Offshore, visit the tectonic island of Zabargad, a geological phenomenon which is also famous as the source of the semi-precious gem olivine, mined here from 1500 BC until the mid-20th century. From Peridot hill there are breathtaking views of the surrounding blue lagoons, rich in marine life and home to many dolphins. While Berenice is famous for its fishing, it also has some of Egypt’s best health spas.

If a team of holiday experts was asked to design a perfect holiday destination, it would probably be just like Sinai region.

It has everything – a superb climate, stunning views, friendly people, and excellent value for money.


You can add to that the historical and cultural qualities of the region which mean that it is held in high esteem by the major religions of the world. It is a huge area, stretching from Sharm el-Sheikh in the south to El Arish at its northern tip on the Mediterranean. Sinai has a fabulous diversity in landscapes and activities for the visitor to enjoy. In a comparatively short distance, it’s possible to see a huge range from beautiful coastline to stunning desert and mountain landscapes. The wildlife is abundant too – from warm sea teeming with brightly-coloured fish to the animals who make their homes in the interior. There’s an amazing choice in activities too – as well as diving of course, you can try, quad biking, horse and camel riding, and windsurfing, to name a few. Whatever kind of accommodation you are seeking, you will find it in Sinai – from simple budget accommodation to luxurious 5 star hotels, with everything in between. As you’ll see in the following pages, Sinai Region has something for everyone, whatever you are seeking on your visit. Whether it’s the vibrant night-life of Sharm el-Sheikh or the peace and tranquillity of the desert (or a bit of both!), there’s the very best here for you. For many people, it’s the diving in this area which first springs to mind – and for good reason. Many experts will tell you that it’s simply the best in the world – but also an ideal place to learn as a beginner too. Many of the experiences you can discover here will stay with you long after your return home. The dullest day in everyday routine will be brightened by memories of quad biking in the canyons, coming face to face with beautiful fish, or seeing some of the most beautiful sunrises and sunsets this world has to offer. 

DID YOU KNOW

Nearby are Hammamat Phara’oun, or “Pharaoh’s Bath”, a sulfuric spring with waters said to have healing properties, and Ein Abu Morir, a picturesque spring surrounded by palm trees.

EASY TRAVEL

Dive sites at Ras Mohammed can be accessed from live-aboard or local cruises from Sharm el-Sheikh or Na’ama Bay. Some can even be reached by swimming out from the shore. It is important to choose guided dives, whose experienced dive leaders will not only ensure the safety of visitors in the water, but take care not to disturb the protected marine environment.

EASY TRAVEL in Ras Mohammed

Dive sites at Ras Mohammed can be accessed from live-aboard or local cruises from Sharm el-Sheikh or Na’ama Bay. Some can even be reached by swimming out from the shore. It is important to choose guided dives, whose experienced dive leaders will not only ensure the safety of visitors in the water, but take care not to disturb the protected marine environment.

in Na’ama Bay

The nightlife in Na’ama Bay is rightly famous, and is mainly located in the busy shopping and market area. There’s a great mix of traditional and modern – proper traditional coffee shops and stalls sit happily by newcomers like Starbucks, Hard Rock Café, and McDonalds. There’s a big choice for the clubbers, and Sharm won serious credibility in their eyes with the arrival of the famous Pacha venue. Don’t feel as though being over 20 stops you from being a clubber though! The morning after your big night out may well see you waking up over a leisurely breakfast before heading off to some real enjoyment in the fresh air of Sinai. Take the chance to see the country the natural way on the back of a horse – or a camel. This is much more than a tourist photo opportunity – skilled and knowledgeable trek leaders will lead you into beautiful places which seem a thousand miles (and years) away from the bustling hotels and nightlife. If motorized transport is more to your liking, you can bounce along dry valleys in a 4x4 or take the controls of a quad bike (see the Taba section for more on that). One very popular trip is a Jeep Safari to the Coloured Canyon. Whether it’s for the naked eye, or your still or video camera, there are some beautiful sights and colours here. You’ll travel through unforgettable desert scenery and steep-sided valleys of granite and sandstone. Time, wind, sun and geological shift have produced some quite surreal colours and patterns which leave quite an impression.It may look lifeless, but you’ll come across unexpected water springs, plant life you’ve probably never seen before – and, in the stillness, one of the animal residents might pop out to see you. If you’d like to get a longer taste of life in the desert, you’ll be able to fix a trip to take dinner the Bedouin way – or even stay overnight to really enjoy the peace. Even the overnight stays have a range of choices! You can do it the simple way in a genuine Bedouin tent – or sleep literally under the stars which you’ll see in all their glory without the competition of city lights. If luxury is your thing, you can enjoy the experience in effectively a 5 star tent! 

DID YOU KNOW

The Visitor Centre at Ras Mohammed is of very high quality, and some time spent there will greatly enhance your visit to the area – as well as being a great source of information. The coral reefs at Ras Mohammed are recognized internationally as being among the best in the world, thanks to the National Park’s protected status, which has forbidden development of the area in order to protect the ecosystem of the reefs and the desert of the Ras Mohammed peninsula. Although very different, the desert areas and undersea world are part of a single ecosystem, dependent on each other in order to survive and flourish. You can see the full regulations at the Park, but most of it is common sense – respect your natural surroundings, and don’t take anything or leave anything behind. Ras Mohammed offers the closest tropical waters to Europe, only a few hours flying time from anywhere on the continent. Despite what many people think of when they imagine a desert as a barren wilderness, the desert areas of Ras Mohammed are rich with a wide variety of mammals, birds, reptiles and insects. Vegetation is also rich in some parts, including a mangrove forest, and exotic and interesting plants which have evolved over millions of years to live in the harsh desert conditions. Excursions with experienced guides will let you discover  the hidden wonder of the desert. International marine biologists, seasoned scuba divers, and even Egyptians themselves consider Ras Mohammed a place which must be seen to be believed. 


* For your own security, you are required to carry your passport while in this area.

EASY TRAVEL in Sharm el-Sheikh & Na’ama Bay

Whether you are flying direct to Sharm or via a larger airport like Cairo, you will find that connections work really well for the large number of Sharm lovers from all over the world.


It would be a pity to miss the many attractions which lie so close at hand, and you will find that most hotels have a very efficient tour desk which can organize your trips on land and sea. A regular ferry service runs between Sharm and Hurghada and this gives you a great chance to see another great Red Sea resort – and perhaps continue further into Egypt. Be honest about your own fitness! Some trips involve long walking through rugged country and climbs to high altitudes. If that’s not your thing, there are many brilliant compromises where you can reach the wilderness along good roads in the comfort of an air-conditioned car – and then breathe in the magical scenery at your leisure. Many visitors include a trip to St Catherine’s


Monastery and Mount Sinai (Mount Moses) during their stay (see later section) and your local operator will be able to suggest a range of good value packages. 

don’t miss in Na’ama Bay beach

You can see many beautiful fish if you simply sit and dangle your feet in one of the many jetties built to protect the coral from human feet. For the more experienced diver, there’s world class snorkelling and scuba at the underwater national parks and fascinating wreck and natural sites. When the sun sets, Na’ama Bay is the place to be. It can’t be stressed too strongly that the pattern of the day best followed is that which has been part of the way of life in hot countries for centuries.When the sun’s up and strong, enjoy the sea, sand and scenery – when night falls, it’s time to socialize, party, and eat well at leisure.


The long promenade hugging the beach at Na’ama Bay is a hive of activity as visitors stroll – or take a seat and people watch. The cafes, restaurants and bars along the front are very aware that people have a choice, so they really work hard to offer good value and a great atmosphere. Early evening, many establishments offer a “happy hour” with two-for-one drinks and other goodies. Food and drinks prices already feel good compared to the pricy tourist places of the world, so reducing those to half price might be one of the reasons for the smiling faces you’ll see everywhere. 

don’t miss in Sharm el-Sheikh & Na’ama Bay

Even if you were visiting from another planet, you’d soon see that underwater life is very much part of Sharm’s attraction. There is a huge choice in good quality diving gear shops, boat trips, and fully qualified dive schools. There are over 250 coral reefs here and the estimate of fish species is well over 1000. It’s perhaps the range of possibilities which is the real magnet.

Sharm el-Sheikh & Na’ama Bay

For many thousands of its happy visitors, the area is known simply as “Sharm”, but it’s actually a collection of attractions with differing personalities. The town’s name first appears on maps as long ago as the eighteenth century, but, until two centuries later, it was a small fishing village which few people knew.


For language students (and people who like to win quiz nights) you might like to know that in Arabic the word sharm means “bay” and el sheikh means a wise old man.  It is now a hugely popular year-round resort which is hot and sunny in the summer, but still warm and very pleasant when European winters can be very depressing! The great thing is that, whatever you’re looking for on holiday, you’ll find it here; whether it’s the natural wonders of land and sea, sun and relaxation, or night-life with the energy of the world’s best! The area consists of downtown Sharm el-Maya, busy Na’ama Bay and Sharks’ Bay further up the coast. Sharm el-Sheikh is the most popular resort in South Sinai and a perfect base from which to explore the region’s stunning coastline and rugged interior. You can dive, snorkel or simply paddle in the waters of the Red Sea at Ras Um Sid, Turtle Bay and the Strait of Tiran. It is the superb diving which has given the waters around here their worldwide reputation, and it is frequently voted as the best diving site in the world by the experts who know these things. Because of this, the  range and quality of dive sites, boats and professional instructors are superb. Even if you have never tried it before, take the plunge (so to speak) and try snorkelling or scuba diving – you’ll be in very safe hands and, like many people, may find a hobby which lasts a life-time.Take a camel trek into the desert to visit Bedouin villages, mystical oases and the mangrove forests of Nabq. Or stay in Sharm, sample world-class international cuisine at one of the restaurants on the beach and dance the night away at the resort’s discos and nightclubs. Above all, it’s the value for money which attracts millions of happy visitors. 

DID YOU KNOW

The legend of Port Ghalib says that at the turn of the first millennium, a young man named Ghalib founded the port after a rival for the hand of his true love arranged for his trade ships to be barred from entering the port of Aidhab. After the port was established, or so the legend says, the rival tried to destroy it by sending a fleet of warships to attack the port, but a fleet of ancient ghost ships appeared and frightened the attackers away, leaving Port Ghalib free to become a thriving port for trade, and Ghalib himself free to marry the woman he loved. 

Port Ghalib

Port Ghalib, the finest new resort




Close to Marsa Alam International Airport, and so very easily reachable straight from the plane, is Port Ghalib, a beautiful port with its own legend, and now a thriving marina and tourist town. Port Ghalib is located five minutes from Marsa Alam International Airport and 2.5 hours, by road, from the Valley of the Kings. It unfurls along one of the finest marina and sweeps on the Red Sea 




Today, there are no ghost ships to be seen, but the area has grown into a luxurious marina and tourist resort, with excellent hotels by the beach serving as a haven for sunseekers and diving enthusiasts, spa and wellness lovers as well as those who would like to explore the wonders of Egypt. The marina itself is the nucleus of Port Ghalib. A modern and fully serviced port of entry into Egypt, the marina can accommodate up to a thousand large yachts. Acting as both a fully-functional marina and a leisure and tourism destination, there will always be plenty of activity in Port Ghalib, and in the crystal waters around its shores.


The Port Ghalib tourist resort stretches along some 3.8 km of beachy shoreline, and has a lively town centre, with busy promenades with shops, boutiques, restaurants, bistros, and cafes.The Corniche Peninsula looks out over the marina, and is a half mile stretch of high class shops, restaurants, bars and cafes, along with recognizable chain brands, behind which is a traditional Egyptian bazaar called The Khan, where visitors will enjoy haggling with sellers for semi-precious gems, ceramics and perfumes, all part of the Egyptian bazaar’s traditional character and charm. 

don’t miss in Ras Mohammed

Dive sites at excitingly named places such as Anemone City, Shark Observatory, Eel Garden, Jackfish Alley, and The Alternatives. Some areas are suitable for snorkelling and novice divers, with others being better suited for intermediate or experienced divers. Diving schools and cruise operators will advise visitors on the most suitable dives for their level of experience.


On land, exploration of the desert is possible, and can include visits to traditional Bedouin settlements to whom the area is an ancestral homeland.

Key Places in Ras Mohammed

Diving is of course a big attraction to Ras Mohammed, not least because of the unique nature of this peninsula. For those keen to concentrate on exploring the underwater world, dive cruises are ideal, and will take you to the best spots in Ras Mohammed and the surrounding area.


The principal Ras Mohammed dives are Shark Reef and Yolanda Reef, two twin coral reefs extending for hundreds of metres below the water’s surface. These are advanced dive sites, and recommended for experienced divers, who will be rewarded for the challenge with a simply amazing range of discoveries. Shark Reef, as the name suggests, is home to hammerheads, grey tipped and white tipped sharks, and many other open sea fish, including barracudas and huge tuna. There are also areas densely populated with anemones, along with the clownfish who dwell amongst them. Yolanda Reef was named after the shipwreck of freighter The Yolanda, part of which is still divable to this day. Scattered containers from the vessel have deposited interesting diving discoveries.

Ras Mohammed National Park

The 480km2 of Ras Mohammed sits on the tip of the Sinai Peninsula, about 20km from Sharm el-Sheikh.


It has stunning views across the Red Sea which gave the area huge strategic importance throughout history. Today, it is a beautiful National Park, set up to protect marine and land wildlife and maintain the natural beauty of the area. Not far south of the resort town of Sharm el –Sheikh, this protected area is a must-see for visitors interested in the vast array of natural beauty found in and around the Red Sea. With building of any kind prohibited, Ras Mohammed remains a timeless and pristine environment in which nature flourishes.


For divers and snorkellers, the area is a paradise. Over 220 species of coral exist in Ras Mohammed National Park, as well as 1000 species of fish, 40 species of starfish, 25 species of sea urchins, more than a 100 species of molluscs and 150 species of crustaceans. In addition to these natural wonders, many wrecks are scattered around the sea bed here from the days when strong naval presences patrolled the area, considered to be strategically important because of its proximity to the Suez Canal.

Ras Sudr, a major international beach resort

Ras Sidr is a destination on the Gulf of Suez coast, popular with Cairo residents, but rapidly growing into a major international beach resort. The area extends some 95km along Sinai Coast.The area is divided into North Ras Sidr, with its tourist centres at Ras Masalla, South Oyoun Moussa and Ras Dehaisah, and South Ras Sidr, including Ras Matarma, an-Nakhila and Ras Mal’ab. Ras Sidr as a resort began life as a quiet coastal town, known locally for windsurfing. Today, new year-round tourist facilities, as well as shopping and private villa developments, have been added. Most of the newer tourist development is in the South Ras Sidr area. One can still windsurf, or now kitesurf, but also enjoy a wealth of other activities associated with beach holidays, as well as taking in the flavour of Egypt through visits to nearby attractions. This unique area enjoys a number of varied natural assets not found in other regions, with areas of desert, mountains (including Pharaoh, at-Teeh and Om-Kathira), valleys with beautiful plant life, and untouched beaches. It is also well known for therapeutic natural springs, including the Springs of Moses. The area is particularly rich in desert plants and herbs, and it is also the habitat of many rare fish. Ras Sidr makes an excellent base for exploring, with attractions such as the 800-year-old Qalat El Guindi fortress.

Adventure in the desert

For those seeking adventure in the desert, there are tours and attractions aplenty near to Marsa Alam. Quad bike or jeep safaris into the desert, including a visit to a genuine Bedouin village, can be taken from the resort, and are available as full or half day excursions, which include a barbecue and entertainment at the Bedouin village, and the chance to ride a camel in the Egyptian desert.

It is believed that the ancient Egyptian Pharaohs mined brilliant green emeralds in the mountainous areas of the Eastern Desert southwest of Marsa Alam. The Cleopatra Mines or Mons Smaragdus (Emerald Mountains) became the most famous mining complex in the ancient world, and at various times the mines at Wadi Gemal, Wadi Sikeit, Wadi Nuqrus and Gebel Zabara were in use during the Ptolemaic and Roman periods. Today the ruins of the Zabara and Sikeit mining settlements are still evident near Marsa Alam, as well as the remains of temples and ancient caves. Visitors looking for history will do well to visit the mines, which, like so many sites of natural resources in Egypt, bear evidence of several different civilizations who have made use of theprecious stones over thousands of years.

Also not far from Marsa Alam are the remains of the Roman port settlement, Myos Hormos, where visitors can see remarkably well-preserved Roman artefacts, and as many as 200 hierogylphic tablets adorning the cliffs at Wadi Hammamat. Many of these tablets are 4,000 years old, and depict traditional reed boats traveling to the Nile. Hammamat is also famous for Bekheny stone, a beautiful green ornamental rock which was considered sacred in ancient times. The stone was actively quarried until Roman times, and used to make bowls,statues and even sarcophagi. Many items made from Bekheny stone have been found in the Pyramid tombs of the Pharoahs. In later years, the Romans built watchtowers along the wadi, many of which can still be found still there today.