Things to do — Sinai Peninsula

The Sinai Peninsula offers an experience that combines seaside activities, world-class diving, religious ascent and immersion in Bedouin culture.

Diving and snorkelling are the flagship activities. Three world reference zones. 1) Ras Mohammed (national park since 1983, 30 km south of Sharm el-Sheikh) is one of the most beautiful diving sites in the world. Emblematic dives: Shark Reef (vertical wall, big pelagics, reef sharks), Yolanda Reef (SS Yolanda wreck, sanitary fixtures scattered on the reef — surreal vision), Anemone City (forest of anemones and clownfish), Jackfish Alley (passage of barracudas). Boat access from Sharm el-Sheikh (45 min sailing). 2) Strait of Tiran (between Sharm el-Sheikh and Saudi Arabia): four aligned reefs (Jackson, Woodhouse, Thomas, Gordon) known for their vertical walls to 100 m depth and their hammerhead sharks in autumn. Boat access from Sharm el-Sheikh (1h sailing). 3) Blue Hole and Dahab Canyon: coastal sites accessible on foot from Dahab (taxi 10-15 min). The Blue Hole for its vertiginous setting (vertical gulf of 130 m), the Canyon for its passages through a unique coral formation. For expert divers, do not miss the Thistlegorm wreck (British cargo sunk in 1941 by the Luftwaffe, accessible by 2-3 day cruise from Sharm el-Sheikh).

The ascent of Mount Sinai is the emblematic spiritual experience. Classic departure: 2am from Saint Catherine's Monastery (1,570 m altitude) to reach the summit (2,285 m) before sunrise (5.30-6am depending on the season). Two paths: the pilgrims' path (Sikket Sayidna Musa, 3,750-step staircase carved into the rock by the Orthodox monks, 2h30 ascent) or the camel track (Sikket El Bashait, 7 km, 3h, possibility to ride a camel up to 300 m from the summit — the last 750 steps are mandatory on foot). At the summit: Orthodox chapel, mosque, 360° view over the mountains. Sunrise from the summit is one of the most moving experiences of a trip to Egypt. Water, headlamp, warm fleece and walking shoes essential.

The visit to Saint Catherine's Monastery (6th century, UNESCO-listed) is complementary to the ascent. The Orthodox monastery — founded in 548 by the Byzantine emperor Justinian around the Burning Bush — houses a library of 3,300 ancient manuscripts (the second largest in the world after that of the Vatican, including Hebrew, Greek, Arabic, Syriac, Georgian manuscripts), a Basilica of the Transfiguration with exceptional Byzantine mosaics (6th century), the Chapel of the Burning Bush (place where according to tradition Moses saw the divine apparition), and the oldest icon of Christ Pantocrator (6th century). Visit limited to a few hours (the monastery remains a place of monastic life). Important: restricted access since 2024, mandatory escort via accredited operator.

Kitesurfing at Dahab Lagoon (5 km south of Dahab) is world-class — constant thermal winds 250 days a year, protected shallow lagoon, Harry Nass Kite Center school (one of the most renowned in the world). 4-day beginner course: €350-450. Nuweiba also offers excellent conditions.

Bedouin immersion at Dahab and Nuweiba: nights in Bedouin camps by the sea (stone huts or traditional tents, meals around the fire, starry sky), hikes in wadis with Bedouin guide (Wadi Gnai, Colored Canyon of Nuweiba), Bedouin cooking classes (zaalouk, mansaf, sage tea). Count €15-40/night in an authentic Bedouin camp (Castle Beach Camp in Nuweiba, Bedouin Moon Camp in Dahab).