Sharm el-Sheikh is a Red Sea resort destination at the southern end of Egypt's Sinai Peninsula. It is best known for coral reefs, clear water, diving and desert scenery. You come for marine life, sunshine and a holiday built around the sea.
The resort areas are spread across several bays rather than one compact centre. Naama Bay is relatively lively, while other parts of the coast feel quieter and more self-contained. The surrounding desert creates a striking contrast with the vivid colours of the Red Sea.
How many days: 5
Spend your first day exploring your beach and nearby area. Set aside two days for snorkelling, diving or boat excursions, including Ras Mohammed National Park if conditions allow. Use another day for the desert or a visit to the Old Market.
Keep the final day flexible for relaxation or a second marine excursion. Five days is enough to enjoy the main attractions without rushing. A longer stay suits keen divers or anyone wanting a slower beach holiday.
What to do in Sharm el-Sheikh
- Explore Ras Mohammed National Park
- Visit this protected coastal and marine area for reef scenery and striking desert landscapes. Follow conservation rules and use suitable guidance.
- Snorkel at suitable reef sites
- Discover colourful fish and coral in clear Red Sea water. Choose sites appropriate for your ability and current conditions.
- Try scuba diving
- Explore the region's underwater landscapes with a qualified dive centre. Both introductory experiences and advanced dives may be available.
- Visit the Old Market
- Walk through a shopping area with stalls, shops and local-style food. It is a useful change from the resort beaches.
- Explore Naama Bay
- Enjoy the promenade, beach area and evening atmosphere. It is one of the more accessible places for a relaxed walk.
- Take a boat excursion
- Travel to suitable offshore snorkelling or diving locations. Choose an operator that follows marine protection and safety guidance.
- See the desert landscape
- Join a guided excursion into the surrounding mountains and desert. The scenery is particularly atmospheric in softer morning or evening light.
- Visit Al Sahaba Mosque
- Admire the mosque's architecture in the Old Market area. Respect worshippers and check locally whether visitor access is permitted.
- Relax at a sheltered bay
- Spend time beside the water in one of Sharm's coastal areas. Some beaches have jetties over reefs rather than sandy swimming entries.
- Consider a Mount Sinai excursion
- Visit the mountain associated with important religious traditions on a demanding inland trip. Check access, safety conditions and official travel advice before planning.
What to eat and drink
- Try grilled Red Sea fish
- Choose fish cooked with lemon, herbs and spices. Simple preparation works well after a day on the water.
- Eat Egyptian kofta
- Enjoy seasoned grilled minced meat with bread, salad and dips. It is a familiar and filling option.
- Sample koshari
- Try the Egyptian combination of pasta, rice, lentils and chickpeas with tomato sauce. It offers a taste of everyday national cooking.
- Enjoy mezze
- Share small dishes such as hummus, baba ghanoush and salads with flatbread. It is an easy way to try several flavours.
- Try Egyptian falafel
- Taste taameya, commonly made with fava beans and herbs. It is especially good with bread and fresh vegetables.
- Drink hibiscus tea
- Try karkade, a tart hibiscus drink served hot or cold. It is a refreshing alternative to soft drinks.
Getting around
Sharm el-Sheikh is spread across several resort districts, making transport necessary for most journeys beyond your immediate area. Naama Bay and parts of the Old Market are suitable for walking, but distances between bays are too great for comfortable pedestrian travel, particularly in the heat.
Taxis and arranged transfers are the main options for visitors. Agree the fare beforehand or use a clearly quoted booking arrangement. Some local minibuses operate, but routes may not be straightforward for tourists. Boat excursions require organised departures, while desert and mountain trips should use experienced local transport.
Good to know
- Many coastal areas have coral close to shore. Use designated entries and never stand on the reef.
- Sea currents can be strong at exposed dive sites, so follow professional guidance.
- Desert temperatures vary sharply between day and night, particularly in cooler months.
- Check official travel advice for Sinai before arranging journeys outside established resort areas.
- Dress respectfully when visiting mosques and local neighbourhoods.
- Confirm excursion inclusions, equipment and transport arrangements before booking.