Sharm El Sheikh
Turquoise water, palm shade and barefoot dinners.
Perched on the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula, Sharm El Sheikh is a high-contrast blend of arid desert peaks and vibrant coral reefs. Mornings are defined by the sharp salt scent of the Red Sea and the sight of dive boats departing from Naama Bay’s jetties, heading toward the sheer walls of Ras Mohammed National Park. In the upscale enclave of Nabq, swaying date palms offer reprieve from the equatorial sun, while the Old Market comes alive after dusk with the aroma of charcoal-grilled kofta and hibiscus tea. Between October and April, the dry heat softens, making it ideal for barefoot dinners on the sand in Hadaba. From the neon pulse of Soho Square to the steady rhythm of waves against volcanic rock, the city serves as a sophisticated gateway to Africa’s most electric underwater wilderness.
Best time to visit Sharm El Sheikh
The best time to visit Sharm El Sheikh is generally late spring through early autumn for warm sea swims. Peak season pushes prices and crowds up; shoulder season is almost always the smarter trade-off — you'll find the same restaurants open, the same scenery, and noticeably better hotel value on Booking.com.
How to get to Sharm El Sheikh
Sharm El Sheikh is in Egypt, Africa. Connections typically route via Johannesburg, Nairobi, Addis Ababa, Cairo or Casablanca, with short onward flights to most destinations. Once you arrive, allow a day to settle in — most travellers underestimate jet lag and over-pack day one.
Things to do in Sharm El Sheikh
Plan your days around swimming, snorkelling, beach clubs and long sunset dinners. Build in at least one slow morning; the best memories rarely come from packed itineraries.
Where to stay in Sharm El Sheikh
On Booking.com, properties in Sharm El Sheikh start from around $100 per night. Filter by guest review score (8.5+), free cancellation, and your preferred neighbourhood. Booking close to the centre saves transit time and almost always pays for itself in extra hours actually enjoying Sharm El Sheikh.
Sharm El Sheikh travel FAQs
- When is the best time to visit for swimming and diving?
- Plan your trip between October and November or during April and May when the air temperature hovers in the low 80s Fahrenheit. These shoulder seasons avoid the oppressive 100-degree summer heat while ensuring the water remains warm enough for long snorkeling sessions without a heavy wetsuit.
- What is the most efficient way to get around the city?
- White and blue microbuses are the most affordable and frequent option for traveling between Naama Bay and the Old Market. For more comfort, use the InDrive or Careem apps to book licensed taxis with transparent, pre-negotiated pricing rather than flagging cars on the street.
- Which neighborhood should I choose for my stay?
- Naama Bay is the central hub for nightlife and walkability, whereas Nabq Bay offers newer luxury resorts with expansive private beaches and views of Tiran Island. For a quieter, cliffside atmosphere with some of the best house reefs accessible directly from shore, look for accommodations in Hadaba.
- Is it customary to tip in Sharm El Sheikh and what currency should I use?
- Tipping, or baksheesh, is an integral part of the local economy; keep small denominations of Egyptian Pounds ready for staff and guides. While many resorts quote prices in USD or Euros, using local currency at the Old Market typically yields better rates for street food and souvenirs.
