Sharm El Sheikh is a popular holiday destination where desert dunes meet the crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea. This Egyptian gem offers plenty of things to do, with a perfect mix of beach chilling, culture-focused excursions and desert adventures. From vibrant coral reefs to endless sandy desert landscapes, every experience in Sharm El Sheikh shows off a different side to this slice of Egypt.
The six best excursions to do in Sharm El Sheikh
1. Swim alongside underwater life in Ras Mohammed National Park
During a holiday to Sharm El Sheikh, this wow-worthy marine park is a must-visit. Dive into the crystal-clear waters and admire over 1,000 species of tropical fish, an extensive coral reef and historic wrecks. The Shark & Yolanda Reef dive site is particularly famous for its extraordinary biodiversity.
2. Go on a safari in the Sinai Desert
Set off on an adventure into the desert with a quad bike or 4x4 tour. The experiences offered often include a visit to a Bedouin camp, where you can taste traditional tea and learn about the ancient desert culture from the people who live and breathe it. The sunset among the golden dunes is a spectacle you don’t want to miss, either, and the day ends beautifully with a dinner under the stars alongside a folklore-focused show.
3. Explore the wonders of the Strait of Tiran
One of the most popular excursions from Sharm El Sheikh is a cruise to the coral reefs of the Strait of Tiran. The strait area is an ideal natural habitat for dolphins, sea turtles and colourful tropical fish. During a lot of the excursions here, lunch is served directly on board while you enjoy the beautiful natural scenery around you.
4. Visit the Monastery of Saint Catherine
Book a tour from Sharm El Sheikh to one of the oldest Christian monasteries in the world, the Monastery of Saint Catherine. Located at the foot of Mount Sinai, this UNESCO World Heritage Site preserves an interesting collection of Byzantine icons and ancient manuscripts. To make the day even more exciting, climb Mount Sinai at dawn and you’ll be treated to one of the region’s best views of sunrise.
5. Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the Old Market
Get lost among the scents of spices and the vibrant colours of the old Sharm Souk. Here, you can buy handcrafted souvenirs, fragrant essences and regional spice sets. In the evening, the market comes alive with street musicians and traditional venues, where you can sip on an authentic Arabic coffee or mint tea.
6. Relax in Naama Bay
Spend some time in this splendid bay, the heart of Sharm El Sheikh’s tourist district. This place isn’t just a great pick for sweeping sandy beaches, you'll also find high-level restaurants, trendy clubs, and a bunch of shops here. Plus, it's the perfect place to end the day with a sunset drink, or a walk along the promenade.
