In the Sinai Peninsula, a refreshing coastal paradise prospers beside a desert. The resort town of Sharm el-Sheikh affords everything from snorkelling to thrilling hikes, attracting visitors from across the globe. Journey here and uncover a showcase of the wonders of the Egyptian coast.
Sharm el-Sheikh is replete with opportunities for a marine adventure. Naama Bay is the gateway to the Red Sea, and is popular among snorkelers and beachgoers. Approximately 40 minutes away is the Ras Mohammed National Park, characterised by the geometric sculptures of the Gates of Allah. The park offers spectacular snorkelling, as well as activities including diving with whale sharks and exploring the mangrove forest. Over 1 000 species of fish live in shallow waters, and swimmers can get up close and personal with barracudas, sea turtles, and starfish. Inland, the region is just as captivating.
The ancient Mount Sinai is an important site in Christianity, Judaism, and Islam, making it a major destination for pilgrims. Follow the Camel Trail to the peak 2 285 metres above sea level. The climb is five kilometres one-way, and is said to follow the footsteps of the prophet Moses. For the endurance hiker, the Sinai Trail spans approximately 52 days and 550 kilometres. Regarded as one of the world’s best hikes, encounter Bedouin tribes along the way and learn about the heritage of the area from local guides.
Back in the centre of Sharm el-Sheikh, the Al Sahaba Mosque welcomes visitors of every religion. With a mix of styles and opulent minarets and domes, the mosque is unlike other architecture in the area. Opened in 2017, it reflects the modernisation and expansion of Sharm el-Sheikh in the last decades.
With the growth of the city, nightlife is booming. Visitors can relax with some shisha or dine out on traditional cuisine, while vendors offer a wide variety of produce in bazaars that illuminate the streets. As one of the most inviting tourist spots in Egypt, Sharm el-Sheikh highlights the unique beauty of the Sinai Peninsula.
