At the southernmost tip of Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula lies the coastal town of Sharm el-Sheikh, nestled between the Red Sea and the rocky desert mountains. Offering sun, sea, sand, water sports galore and countless hotel resorts, the former fishing port and village is a package tour haven, making it a pure delight for some and holiday nightmare for others, depending on the idea of enjoyment.
The town itself, spreading for 35km of undeniably picturesque coastline, is split into a number of distinct areas. From the south end, Sharm el-Maya, or Old Market, is the old, more traditional, town complete with small bay and fishing port. Next, Ras Um Sid is a cliff top area connecting the old town to Naama Bay, which is the centre for tourism and made up of hotels, flash resorts, restaurants, nightlife and tour operators. This area comes alive once the sunsets with a hive of high-spirited activity. Further north, Sharks Bay is where the towns’ budget accommodation can be found.
If the original plan was to seek out a tranquil desert oasis, then, fortunately, there is another side to Sharm el-Sheikh. Away from the bright lights and pushy salesmen, the town is a great base from where to explore dramatic desert landscapes, traditional Bedouin life and ancient historical sites. Moreover, with the, so far, unspoilt villages of Dahab and Nuweiba nearby, relaxation is never too far away.
Being an international destination, the town is blessed with sound transport links. The busy local airport, 10km from Naama Bay serves a host of European cities throughout the year as well as domestic flights to Cairo and Luxor. Buses depart from the terminal, just off Peace Road, to Alexandria, Cairo, St Catherine and Luxor. Most hotels provide shuttle services around town or a wealth of taxis and tuk-tuks, bargaining often required, wait eagerly for short journeys.
Boasting world-class dive sites, golden sandy beaches and stunning resorts amidst striking natural beauty, Sharm el-Sheikh, although leaning heavily towards package tourists, offers something for everyone. Those looking for an easy holiday destination have everything at their feet and the more exploratory have the adventure playground of the Sinai Desert waiting to be discovered.
Scuba Diving Sharm el-Sheikh - Big on the agenda in Sharm, when entering the enticing waters of the Red Sea divers uncover a whole new world of intoxicating colours, exotic reef and tropical fish in unimaginable numbers. The two main dive sites are Tiran and Ras Mohammed, both within easy reach by a pleasant boat ride from town. Dive operators are in abundance, with Camel Dive Club and Sinai Divers, both at Naama Bay, being reputable.
Quad Biking Sharm el-Sheikh - Escape the city crowds, jump on a quad bike and head to explore the Sinai Desert. Tours usually last for 2 hours, at either sunrise or sunset, allowing riders to experience the changing colours of the desert. Tours start from around US$25.
Camel Trek Sharm el-Sheikh - From 1 day to a week, camel treks are a great way to explore and appreciate the vastness of the Sinai Desert. Be part of the warm Bedouin hospitality, learn about their culture and traditions, and sleep beneath the desert stars.
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.
Dahab & Nuweiba - Spend the day relaxing at one, or both, of these laidback fishing villages, feasting on fresh fish or getting up close and personal with them at one of the many dive/snorkel sites. At Dahab, Blue Hole is one of the worlds most renowned dive sites and further up the coast, at Nuweiba, explore the natural beauty of Coloured Canyon. Both towns are accessible by bus from Sharm el-Sheikh.
Sharm el-Sheikh Nightlife - Sharm el-Sheikh is famed for its multi cuisine restaurants, ranging from fresh fish to Lebanese and Brazilian to Egyptian, the majority of which are concentrated in Naama Bay. Those up for a beer can head to any number of pubs and taverns scattered around town, including The Tavern Bar and Little Buddha, or, for late night revelling, to Pacha and Ministry of Sound Red Sea. Budget Hotels Sharm el-Sheikh
Sharks Bay Bedouin Home - Traditional Bedouin style rooms with great ocean views and cheaper than most hotels. Tel (20) (69) 3600942.
Midrange Hotels Sharm el-Sheikh
Sanafir Hotel - Funky looking hotel with comfortable rooms. Tel (20) (69) 3600197.
Luxury Hotels Sharm el-Sheikh
Hyatt Regency - Huge 5-star resort with all the luxury amenities. Tel (20) (69) 3601234.
Four Seasons - Hotel oozing elegance, luxury and expense. Tel (20) (69) 3603555.