Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt Day Trips

Best Day Trips in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt

1. Ras Mohammed National Park

  • Location: Approximately 90 km south of Sharm El Sheikh
  • Description: Ras Mohammed National Park is a paradise for snorkelers and divers due to its rich marine life, coral reefs, and clear waters. The park offers numerous diving sites such as Shark and Yolanda Reef, Anemone City, and Shark Observatory.
  • Highlights:
    • Snorkeling and scuba diving
    • Dolphin watching
    • Birdwatching (over 100 bird species)

2. St. Catherine’s Monastery

  • Location: Approximately 3 hours drive from Sharm El Sheikh
  • Description: Located at the foot of Mount Sinai, St. Catherine’s Monastery is one of the oldest working Christian monasteries in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The monastery houses an extensive collection of religious icons, manuscripts, and artifacts.
  • Highlights:
    • Exploring the monastery’s history and architecture
    • Climbing Mount Sinai to watch sunrise (optional)
    • Visiting the burning bush site

3. Colored Canyon

  • Location: Approximately 50 km south of Dahab (can be combined with a trip to Dahab)
  • Description: The Colored Canyon is a narrow valley filled with various colors created by layers of sandstone and limestone. The canyon offers breathtaking views, unique rock formations, and diverse wildlife.
  • Highlights:
    • Hiking through the colorful canyon
    • Spotting rare desert animals such as hyenas, foxes, and jackals
    • Exploring the nearby Na’ama Bay for relaxation and watersports

4. Nabq Protected Area

  • Location: Approximately 35 km south of Sharm El Sheikh
  • Description: Nabq Protected Area is a large coastal reserve featuring diverse ecosystems, including mangrove forests, coral reefs, and sand dunes. The area is home to various wildlife, such as gazelles, hyenas, and over 180 bird species.
  • Highlights:
    • Guided jeep safaris through the desert and along the coast
    • Snorkeling at Ras Abu Galum bay
    • Birdwatching at the mangrove forest

5. Thistlegorm Wreck

  • Location: Approximately 33 km north of Sharm El Sheikh (best as a diving trip)
  • Description: The SS Thistlegorm is a British cargo ship that was sunk by German bombers during World War II and now serves as an underwater museum. Divers can explore the wreckage while admiring its diverse marine life.
  • Highlights:
    • Scuba diving at the Thistlegorm Wreck
    • Exploring the cargo remains, including trucks, motorcycles, and ammunition boxes
    • Observing various fish species and corals around the wreckage