Dahab
Overview
Dahab, at the southeastern tip of Sinai, with its blissed out vibe, golden sands and swaying palms, is arguably Egypt’s most idyllic coastal town. Combined with the beckoning turquoise waters of the Red Sea and dramatic desert and mountain backdrop, a fascinating holiday destination unfolds, capturing the hearts of day-trippers and long-term travellers.
Starting life as a simple Bedouin fishing village before being discovered as a hippy retreat in the 1980s, Dahab’s action is split into two main areas, Dahab City, the administrative centre, and the village of Assalah. It is here in Assalah, along the long stretch of sandy beach, where most backpackers find refuge, with a plethora of budget lodgings, cafés and restaurants lining the waterfront.
Wandering around the beach town it is not difficult to appreciate its lure, with visitors taking time to kick back and unwind amidst the carefree atmosphere. Other than doing as little as possible, two activities spring to mind in Dahab, water sports and dining. The Red Sea provides the perfect spot to engage in any number of water based activities and the local reefs are particularly famous for their diving and snorkelling qualities. After the action, an abundance of hippy and Bedouin influenced restaurants, complete with low-rise tables and big comfortable cushions, serve up the finest local fish, picked and cooked to the diners liking.
Dahabs’ continuing popularity means that it is served with excellent transport links to the rest of the country. From the bus terminal in Dahab City, buses depart both short distance, to Hurghada, Nuweiba, Sharm el-Sheikh, St Catherine’s Monastery and Taba, and long haul, to Cairo and Luxor. Most arrive into town after flying into Sharm el-Sheikh,; however do not be put off by taxi driver claims that bus services to Dahab have been cancelled. Hiring a car is also a great way of exploring the town and surrounding regions.
Although subject to the slight beginnings of overcrowding and big resort development, the traveller life still prevails in Dahab and the town clings with pride to its genuine roots. A must on the Egyptian circuit, be warned, especially should you have a tight schedule, day trippers often become long term residents at this enchanting beachside village.
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Dahab
Destination Reviews
Things to do in
Dahab
Scuba Diving in Dahab - Besides doing absolutely nothing, a popular activity in town is exploring the warm water reefs and colourful sea life of the Red Sea. Dahab is home to numerous dive sites, including the famous Blue Hole, Coral Garden, Eel Garden and Three Pool, amongst others. Travellers are often overwhelmed by the amount of hotels and companies offering day trips and PADI Open Water courses. Desert Divers and Poseidon Divers are two of many good companies.
Water sports in Dahab - For those preferring something above the warm turquoise water then snorkelling, kayaking, windsurfing and kitesurfing activities are all available. Ask around at hostels/hotels or just take a walk along the beachfront to seek out an operator.
St Catherine Monastery and Mount Sinai - Visit one of the world’s most popular religious pilgrimage sites, constructed by Emperor Justinian between 527 and 565. The monastery houses an incredible set of ancient artwork and ornaments as well as one of the largest collections (outside the Vatican) of illuminated manuscripts. The monastery lies at the foot of Mount Sinai (or Moses Mountain), the place where Moses was believed to have received the 10 Commandments. Hotels arrange tours to the monastery combined with a sunrise climb to the top of the mountain.
Bedouin Safari - Jump on a camel and head into the spectacular desert, visiting ancient sites and Bedouin villages, learning about the skills required to survive within in the desert. Get lost in the silence and the changing colours of the striking landscapes.
Coloured Canyon - North of Dahab, in the town of Nuweiba, the Coloured Canyon is a dried out riverbed that, over the years, has cut through the rock creating the fascinating cliffs and colourful formations that stand today.
Jerusalem (Israel) & Petra (Jordan) - Jump on a boat or travel overland on a day trip to two of the worlds most fascinating and historical cities. Remember to bring the passport. Most hotels arrange day tours.
Dahab Nightlife - With a huge long-term backpacker community there a few good spots to enjoy a relaxing beer along the beachfront or a late night drink. Shipwreck Bar, with great sea views, draws in a classy clientele, Crazy House is good for a cheap beer, Elzar Bar is the place for late night boozing, and Tota Dance Bar is the most vibrant joint in town, with sunset views and regular happy hours.
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Dahab
Activity Reviews
Hotels in
Dahab
Budget Hotels Dahab
Auski Camp - Great value backpackers with excellent staff and right on the beach. Tel (20) (69) 640474.
Dolphin Camp - Cheap lodgings on the beach. Good for desert and mountain trips. Tel (20) (69) 3640258.
Sindbad Camp - Family run backpackers, laidback vibe and good restaurant. Tel (20) (69) 3641005.
Midrange Hotels Dahab
Ali Baba Hotel - In the heart of town with all rooms overlooking the sea. Tel (20) (69) 3640504.
Sheikh Salem House - Excellent value rooms in an old traditional house. Great panoramic views. Tel (20) (69) 3641820.
Luxury Hotels Dahab
Seaview Resort- Classy looking resort although with a full package tour feel. Tel (20) (69)
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Dahab
Hotel Reviews
Dahab
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Dahab
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