Sharm el-Sheikh Travel Guide: Things to Do & Best Time to Visit

Sharm el-Sheikh combines spectacular underwater life with desert and mountain landscapes.

• Ras Mohammed National Park — Dive or snorkel at Egypt’s best-known marine park, with dramatic reef walls and abundant fish.
• Tiran Island reefs — Take a boat trip to the reefs of the Strait of Tiran, famous among divers.
• Naama Bay — Enjoy the resort’s lively centre, with a sandy bay, promenade, restaurants and nightlife.
• Old Market (Sharm El Maya) — Browse spices, crafts and souvenirs and visit the striking Al Sahaba Mosque nearby.
• Mount Sinai — Join an organised night hike to watch sunrise from the summit.
• St Catherine’s Monastery — Visit one of the world’s oldest working Christian monasteries, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Nabq Protected Area — Explore mangroves, dunes and quiet coastline north of the resort.

Sharm el-Sheikh has a hot desert climate with almost constant sunshine and very little rain. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the best times to visit, with warm days, pleasant evenings and excellent underwater visibility for diving and snorkelling.

Summer, from June to August, is very hot, and it is best to plan activities for early morning or late afternoon. Winter, from December to February, is mild and sunny, making it a popular escape, though nights can be cool, especially in the mountains around Mount Sinai, where temperatures drop sharply.

Sharm El Sheikh International Airport is located north of the resort, about 10 kilometres from Naama Bay. The drive to most hotels takes around 15 to 30 minutes depending on their location along the coast.

Most visitors arrive with a pre-booked hotel or tour transfer, which is the most convenient option. Taxis are available outside the terminal; agree on the fare before setting off. Some hotels also run their own shuttle services.

Resorts line the coast, and each bay offers a different atmosphere.

• Naama Bay — Best for travellers who want restaurants, shops and nightlife within walking distance.
• Sharks Bay — Suits divers and snorkellers, with good reefs close to shore.
• Nabq Bay — A quieter area of large resorts, popular with families.
• Hadaba and Ras Um Sid — Close to the Old Market and the promenade, with reefs and cliff-top views.

• Travel advice: Check your government’s latest travel advice for the Sinai region before you travel, as guidance can differ between areas.
• Money: Cards are accepted in hotels and larger shops; carry Egyptian pounds for taxis, markets and tips.
• Sun and sea: Use reef-friendly sunscreen, stay hydrated and never touch or stand on coral.
• Dress: Swimwear is fine at the beach, but dress modestly in town and when visiting mosques and monasteries.
• Excursions: Book trips to Mount Sinai and Ras Mohammed through licensed operators or your hotel.