Best 10 Things to Do in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt in 2023
Egypt is a land of wonders and a tourist’s paradise. Sharm El Sheikh, located on the Red Sea coast, is one of Egypt’s most popular tourist destinations. From exploring ancient ruins to diving in the clear blue waters of the Red Sea, there’s never a dull moment in Sharm El Sheikh. So, get ready to explore the top 10 things to do in Sharm El Sheikh in 2023.
1. Scuba Diving in Sharm El Sheikh
Sharm El Sheikh is a popular destination for diving due to its location at the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula. The Red Sea splits into two gulfs, providing abundant nutrients for coral reefs and diverse marine life. Some of the best dive sites include Yolanda and Shark Reef, Straits of Tiran, Temple, and Ras Nasrani. Sharm el Sheikh is also home to top wreck dives like the SS. Thistlegorm and Dunraven wrecks.
2. Boat Trip to Ras Mohammad National Park
Ras Mohammad is a nature reserve and no-take zone, renowned for its diverse marine life and considered Egypt’s top dive location. Visitors can choose to explore the area through scuba diving or snorkelling boat trips. The Shark Observatory clifftop also provides stunning views of the Red Sea. Shark Reef and Yolanda are the best dive sites due to the convergence of waters from the Gulf of Aqaba and Suez Gulf. However, bad weather may prevent tour boats from visiting the park, and Tiran Island or the house reefs near Sharm el Sheikh can be alternatives.
3. Sunrise Hike to Mount Sinai
Mount Sinai is located in the South Sinai Desert and is believed to be the biblical site where God gave the Ten Commandments to Moses. It holds significance for Islam, Judaism, and Christianity. Climbing Mount Sinai on a sunrise hike is a highly recommended activity, even for non-religious visitors.
4. Saint Catherine’s Monastery
St. Catherine’s Monastery, located at the foot of Mount Sinai, is one of the oldest working monasteries in the world and a popular attraction in Sharm El Sheikh. The monastery houses ancient religious treasures such as pages from the Codex Sinaiticus and a collection of Christian icons. The courtyard also allegedly contains the descendant of the biblical Burning Bush. Visitors can conveniently visit the monastery after the Mount Sinai sunrise hike, making it a two-in-one attraction.
5. Tiran Island
Tiran Island, situated northeast of Sharm el Sheikh, boasts some of Egypt’s best coral reefs and fish species. Although the island itself is not accessible since it belongs to Saudi Arabia, the coral stretch is known as the Straits of Tiran and offers a fantastic opportunity for snorkelling or scuba diving.
6. Day Trip To The Great Pyramids Of Giza & Cairo
If you want to explore some of Egypt’s famous landmarks while visiting the Red Sea region, a day trip to Cairo from Sharm El Sheikh is a popular and convenient option. This allows you to see several attractions, including the Great Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, and the Egyptian Museum, without sacrificing too much time by the sea. There are various cost-effective Egypt tour packages available that cover transport and admission fees, making it hassle-free to plan your excursion.
7. Dive The SS Thistlegorm
One of the top dive sites in the world is the SS Thistlegorm, a huge World War II cargo steamship lying almost perfectly preserved at a comfortable recreational depth of around 30 meters. Inside, divers can see well-preserved military cargo, including light weaponry, an anti-aircraft gun, locomotives, vehicles, and motorbikes. If you plan to dive Thistlegorm, inform your dive shop early, as not many shops dive this wreck daily and there’s often a waiting list.
8. Sunset On A Rooftop Terrace In Naama Bay
To relax and enjoy a cold beer after a day of activities, head to Camel Bar & Rooftop in Naama Bay. From there, you can take in stunning views of the Red Sea shore and the Sinai Mountains during sunset.
9. Day Trip To Dahab & The Blue Hole
Dahab, located less than an hour’s drive from Sharm El Sheikh, is a quiet coastal city popular with kite surfers, scuba divers, and backpackers. Its main attractions are the Dahab Blue Hole, the Blue Lagoon, and unique canyons with rock formations. While it deserves at least a few days, it’s possible to visit Dahab on a day trip from Sharm El Sheikh.
10. Swim And Snorkel Off Sharm El Sheikh’s Beautiful Beaches
After all the trips to explore the Red Sea region, it’s time to unwind at one of Sharm El Sheikh’s stunning beaches. Some of the best beaches include Na’aama Bay, Sharm al-Maya, El Fanar, Ras Um Sid, Sharks Bay Beach, Terrazzina Beach, and Old Quay Beach. However, many beaches are owned by resorts or restaurants and may require a beach pass or purchase.
Other amazing things you can do in Sharm El Sheikh
- Snorkelling at Shark’s Bay
- Sinai Desert Dune Buggy Safari, Quad Biking Or Camel Ride
- Visit Old Market (Sharm El Sheikh Old Town)
- Eat at El Masrien Restaurant
- Water Sports: Parasailing, Banana Boat & Tubing
- Day Trip To Luxor
- Experience the Farsha Café
- Romantic Dinner Cruise
- Star Gazing In The Sinai Desert
Experience the Best!
Sharm El Sheikh is a stunning destination that offers a wealth of experiences for travellers. From soaking up the sun on the beautiful beaches to exploring the rich history and culture of the area, there is no shortage of things to do in this amazing city. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Sharm El Sheikh has something for everyone.