Overview of Egypt Sharm El Sheikh

Planning a getaway beyond Cairo? Egypt Sharm El Sheikh is your ideal choice, a vibrant tourist destination offering unforgettable experiences.

In this article, we’ll explore a wide range of activities you can enjoy in Egypt Sharm El Sheikh, from thrilling water adventures and exciting desert safaris to visits to some of the area’s historical landmarks.

We’ll also dive into the differences between snorkeling and scuba diving, highlighting the best spots for each activity. 

Plus, we’ll explain why hiring one of the local guides in Sharm El-Sheikh is a great idea and provide you with a comparison of the various hotels available in Egypt Sharm El Sheikh; as follows:

1. How to Get from Cairo to Sharm El Sheikh?
2. Top Things to Do in Egypt Sharm El Sheikh
3. Egypt Sharm El-Sheikh Diving: Snorkeling and Scuba Diving in Sharm El-Sheikh
4. Why You Should Book Local Guides in Sharm El Sheikh?
5. Some FAQ About Egypt Sharm El Sheikh Hotels

Get ready to embark on a journey through time and join a journey to Sharm El-Sheikh like never before with Simsem App.

How to Get from Cairo to Sharm El Sheikh?

If you’ve enjoyed exploring Egypt’s capital and have now decided to head from Cairo to Sharm El Sheikh, you have two main options for getting there:

1. Traveling by Air: Quick and Comfortable Domestic Flights

Book a domestic flight from Cairo to Sharm El-Sheikh by comparing local airline companies for the best options.

Flights take about an hour, with prices ranging from \$76 to \$226 based on airline, booking time, and seat availability.

2. Traveling by Bus or Car: An Enjoyable Road Trip

If you prefer to travel by bus or car, you have two choices:

• Private Bus Companies: You can book with well-known transportation companies such as Go Bus or Blue Bus. 

Go Bus ticket prices typically range from 380 EGP to 600 EGP, depending on the bus class and travel time. 

The bus journey takes between 6 to 8 hours, and you’ll find multiple rest stops along the way to take a break for 10 minutes or less.

• Renting a Car: If you decide to rent a car and drive yourself from Cairo to Sharm El Sheikh, make sure you are familiar with the route or have a local tour guide with you for assistance. 

This option also gives you greater flexibility for getting around within Sharm El Sheikh.

Important Tips for Your Trip to Egypt Sharm El Sheikh:

So now let me give you some essential tips to know before coming to the Southern Sinai city, whether you’re coming from outside Egypt or traveling from Cairo to Sharm El-Sheikh:

• Book Early: To get the best prices and seats for domestic flights or bus services like Go Bus and Blue Bus, it’s always best to book as early as possible.
• Compare Prices: Don’t just go with the first company you find, rather compare prices offered by different airlines or transportation companies and choose what best suits your budget.
• Upon Arrival in Sharm El Sheikh: If you arrive in Sharm El Sheikh by plane or bus, contact your hotel in advance to arrange for a pick-up from your arrival point. Alternatively, you can use ride-hailing apps like Uber or take a taxi to your place of accommodation.

Discover the easiest ways to get from Cairo to Sharm El-Sheikh without stress and see our local guide’s full itinerary for the city.

Still thinking that getting from Cairo to Sharm El-Sheikh is hard? Think again and consider hiring a local guide from Simsem app.

Top Things to Do in Egypt Sharm El Sheikh

You have just arrived in Sharm El Sheikh and now wondering what to do or where to go? Don’t worry! 

This section categorizes activities by preference: culture, adventure, entertainment and shopping, or water-based experiences.

For Culture & History Enthusiasts

If you have a passion for history and culture, here are must-visit places:

• St. Catherine’s Monastery & Mount Sinai: St. Catherine’s Monastery dates back to the 4th century AD and is one of the most important UNESCO World Heritage Sites, still in operation today. 

The monastery houses a museum and a remarkable library that you can enjoy visiting. Mount Sinai is located near the monastery and is considered a significant religious pilgrimage site. 

You can access the monastery and the two mountains for a symbolic entrance fee of just $5.

• Al-Sahaba Mosque & Heavenly Cathedral: Enjoy an astonishing architectural tour! Witness the artistic paintings and murals inside the Heavenly Cathedral, then explore the unique Mamluk and Ottoman design of Al-Sahaba Mosque. 

Don’t forget to wear appropriate clothes when entering these religious sites.

• Sharm El Sheikh Museums: Features a collection of Egyptian artifacts spanning various historical periods. Entrance is $5.
• Tutankhamun Museum: Displays numerous invaluable artifacts from the tomb of King Tutankhamun.

For Safari & Desert Adventure Lovers

Sharm El Sheikh is your ideal destination for safari trips and desert adventures. You can explore places like the Colored Canyon, Ras Mohammed National Park, and the White Island through:

• Jeep Safaris: You can embark on an adventure to discover colorful wadis and breathtaking natural landscapes.
• Quad Biking: An exciting and fun experience across the sand dunes.
• Camel Riding: Enjoy an authentic Bedouin experience as you ride through the desert.
• Bedouin Dinners & BBQs: Savor delicious food accompanied by entertainment shows under the starry desert sky.
• Stargazing: The clear desert sky offers a fantastic opportunity to observe the stars and the cosmos.

For Entertainment & Shopping Enthusiasts

If you’re looking for fun and shopping, Sharm El Sheikh offers a variety of great options:

• SOHO Square: A vibrant hub filled with restaurants, cafes, a dancing fountain, shops, and entertainment events.
• Naama Bay: The lively heart of Sharm El Sheikh’s nightlife, featuring numerous restaurants, cafes, and entertainment venues.
• Water Parks: For a day full of fun and water games, you can visit Albatros Aqua Park Sharm El Sheikh (entry fee is approximately $35 USD).
• Alf Leila Wa Leila Show: A magical experience that makes you feel as though you’ve stepped into a fairy tale. 

Enjoy entertainment shows in this uniquely designed Arabic venue, with an approximate cost of $25.

From ancient wonders to desert thrills and vibrant nights — Sharm El-Sheikh has it all. Explore our guide to culture, adventure & entertainment experiences

You feel that you are still missing activities that you can do in Sharm El-Sheikh? Then, consider hiring a local tour guide from Simsem app.

Egypt Sharm El-Sheikh Diving: Snorkeling and Scuba Diving in Sharm El-Sheikh

If you’ve arrived in Sharm El Sheikh and are eager to explore its enchanting underwater world, this section is for you! 

In this part, you will know the difference between snorkeling and scuba diving in Sharm El-Sheikh and discover the best spots and centers that will give you a unique experience.

Key Difference Between Snorkeling and Scuba Diving in Sharm El-Sheikh

Many people confuse scuba diving with snorkeling, but there are clear distinctions between the two:

• Snorkeling: This is a simpler activity, more suitable for beginners. It involves using a mask and a snorkel tube, and it’s practiced on the water’s surface or in shallow depths. 

Snorkeling doesn’t require certification or an escort, and its equipment is lightweight. You can wear a life jacket if you prefer to stay on the surface.

Half-day snorkeling trips on a yacht, including equipment and a guide, typically range from $35 to $60.

• Scuba Diving: Scuba diving requires full equipment, including an oxygen tank, and allows you to descend to much greater depths to explore marine life up close. 

While it offers a more immersive and thrilling experience, it necessitates an accredited escort or obtaining a certified training course.

Diving prices vary by level:

1. Beginner dives start from approximately $105.
2. To obtain a certified diving license like PADI, the cost is around $452.
3. Higher levels of certification are available, costing approximately $350 per level.

If you are a beginner, then I recommend that you start with snorkeling trips in Sharm El Sheikh. These trips will help you gradually get accustomed to the marine environment before undertaking a full diving experience. 

Best Sharm El Sheikh Diving Spots

Egypt Sharm El Sheikh is world-renowned for its stunning diving sites that will mesmerize you with their beauty:

Ras Mohammed National Park: This park is considered one of the most popular diving sites globally, it boasts rare biodiversity and massive coral reefs. 

It includes distinctive diving spots such as:

1. Shark & Yolanda Reefs
2. Jackfish Alley
3. Ras Ghozlani
4. Ras Za’atar
5. Anemone City
6. Shark Observatory

Tiran Island: You can find this island easily on map near the Gulf of Aqaba and it features four of the Red Sea‘s most famous diving sites: Jackson, Woodhouse, Thomas, and Gordon Reef.

Um Sid Reef: Accessible from the shore or by yacht, it is characterized by stunning coral gardens and diverse marine life.

Shark’s Bay: Known for its numerous diving centers and a variety of dive sites, including vibrant coral reefs and colorful fish.

The Blue Hole: A famous dive site located near Dahab, offering a unique and world-renowned deep blue hole diving experience.

For an unforgettable diving experience, here are some of the most reliable diving centers in Sharm El Sheikh such as Divers United and Diving & Discovery

The underwater world of this wonderful city is waiting for you to discover Sharm El-Sheikh diving and snorkeling spots.

You think that you planned everything for your scuba diving in Sharm El-Sheikh? Think again and consider the possibility of hiring a local tour guide from Simsem app.

Why You Should Book Local Guides in Sharm El Sheikh?

When you choose to hire one of the local guides in Sharm El Sheikh, you’ll gain an exceptional chance to delve deep into the city’s rich history and culture, experiencing daily life in a way no guidebook can offer.

Your tour will transform from a traditional visit into a truly different and authentic experience, allowing you to live the spirit of the place, even if only for a few days.

And now let me tell you why choosing one of local guides in Sharm El-Sheikh is more of a necessity more than a luxury:

• Provide Authentic Perspective: Local guides possess an intimate knowledge of Sharm El Sheikh, from its ancient history to the nuances of daily life that aren’t typically found in books. 

They’ll share with you stories and anecdotes that bring historical and natural sites to life, offering you a much deeper and richer understanding.

• Uncover Hidden Gems: Local guides in Sharm El-Sheikh don’t just know the popular attractions; they’re also familiar with the city’s secret spots, quieter beaches, and authentic restaurants. 

They can accompany you on a Bedouin tour or even guide you to get the best deals while you are buying gifts and souvenirs.

• Direct Support for Local Communities: By opting for a local guide, you directly contribute to Sharm El Sheikh’s local economy, supporting the families and communities who live and work in this beautiful city.
• Enhanced Safety and Avoiding Pitfalls: Local tour guides are fully knowledgeable about the terrain and local customs, ensuring easy and safe navigation throughout the city. 

They’ll also help you avoid common tourist mistakes that visitors often encounter, leading to a smoother and more comfortable journey.

See the real Sharm through the eyes of a local and Meet our expert guides and book your authentic experience

With knowing the reasons behind hiring  one of the local guides in Sharm El-Sheikh, you need to start contacting one for your next trip to the city from Simsem App.

FAQ About Egypt Sharm El Sheikh Hotels

• Which area is best to stay in Sharm El Sheikh?

Naama Bay is ideal for nightlife and shopping, while Sharks Bay and Nabq Bay offer more tranquility and luxury resorts, and Soho Square is perfect for entertainment activities

• Are all-inclusive resorts in Sharm El Sheikh really all-inclusive?

Most all-inclusive resorts cover food, drinks, and activities — but premium services like à la carte dining or imported alcohol may cost extra.

• What’s the difference between Rixos Sharm and Rixos Premium?

Rixos Premium offers a more upscale, adults-oriented experience with luxury dining, while Rixos Sharm is family-friendly with more activities for kids

• Is Four Seasons Sharm El Sheikh worth the money?

Yes, if you’re looking for exceptional service, stunning private beaches, and world-class dining — it’s one of Sharm’s top luxury choices.

• Is it better to stay in Naama Bay or Sharks Bay?

Naama Bay is livelier and central, while Sharks Bay is quieter, more upscale, and closer to top diving spots.

• Are there budget-friendly hotels in Sharm El Sheikh with beach access?

Yes, several 3-star and boutique hotels offer direct beach access, especially in the Hadaba, Naama Bay and Ras Um Sid areas.

• Which is better: Sunrise or Jaz resorts in Sharm El Sheikh?

Both are excellent, but Sunrise tends to focus more on modern amenities and entertainment, while Jaz resorts are known for its family-friendly atmosphere, consistent service and cleanliness.

• What’s the most luxurious hotel in Sharm El Sheikh?

Four Seasons, White Hills Resort, Meraki Resort Sharm El Sheikh, Rixos Radamis Sharm El Sheikh, and The Royal Savoy are among the most luxurious, offering private beaches, fine dining, and personalized service.

• Are family-friendly resorts available in Egypt Sharm El Sheikh?

Absolutely. Many resorts like Rixos, Jaz Belvedere, Rehana Royal Beach Resort and Pickalbatros have kids’ clubs, family pools, and child-friendly activities.

• Do hotels in Sharm offer free airport transfers?

Some hotels do offer free transfers, especially if you book directly. Always check with the hotel before booking either by phone or email. 

But you should know that there are companies like Airports Taxi Transfers that offer private transfer services from Sharm airport to your hotel and it can be booked in advance.

• Is it safe to stay in Sharm El Sheikh resorts?

Yes, Sharm is considered one of the safest tourist destinations in Egypt, with high security around resorts and airports.

• Can you go out at night in Sharm el-Sheikh?

Yes, Sharm El Sheikh is known for its vibrant and safe nightlife. You can enjoy beach bars, open-air lounges, nightclubs, and night markets — especially in Naama Bay and Soho Square.

• Do hotels in Egypt Sharm El Sheikh allow late check-out?

Some hotels offer late check-out upon request, especially during low season or for an extra fee,  but it is always subject to availability.

• Are there hotels in Sharm that offer diving packages?

Yes, many hotels partner with dive centers and offer inclusive diving packages or on-site dive facilities.

• Which Egypt Sharm El Sheikh hotels are best for honeymooners?

Romantic options include Royal Savoy, Sierra Sharm El Sheikh, and Meraki Resort Sharm El Sheikh — all known for private suites, sea views, and couple-friendly amenities.

More FAQ About Egypt Sharm El Sheikh Answered

• Is the Four Seasons considered luxury? Yes, Four Seasons Sharm El Sheikh is a luxury resort offering world-class service, fine dining, and exclusive beachfront experiences.
• Is a Four Seasons hotel expensive? Yes, it’s one of the priciest options in Egypt Sharm El Sheikh, but guests say the quality of service, comfort, and location justifies the cost.
• Is it worth going to Sharm el Sheikh? Definitely. Egypt Sharm El Sheikh offers a unique mix of stunning beaches, coral reefs, desert adventures, and luxury resorts — all in one destination.
• What is the difference between Rixos Radamis Blue Planet and Tirana? Rixos Radamis Blue Planet is a new high-end, eco-conscious luxury resort that focuses on diving activities, while Tirana Hotel is more mid-range, ideal for casual travelers looking for comfort and value and provide child-friendly activities and entertainment.
• Where to stay in Sharm El Sheikh all-inclusive? Popular all-inclusive options include Sunrise Arabian Beach, Baron Resort Sharm, Stella Di Mare Beach Hotel & Spa, and Jaz Fanara resort— offering full-board services and activities for all types of travelers.
• Where to stay in Egypt Sharm El Sheikh for diving? For diving, Sharks Bay and Ras Nasrani are ideal. Resorts like Four Seasons, Sunrise Arabian Beach, and Baron Resort offer direct access to top dive sites and nearby dive centers.
• Is it safe to leave the hotel in Sharm El Sheikh? Yes, it’s generally safe to leave the hotel. Tourist areas like Naama Bay, Soho Square, and the Marina are well-patrolled and welcoming, even at night.

Still wondering where to stay? Compare our recommended hotels in Sharm El-Sheikh to know what is the best for your budget and consider hiring a tour guide from Simsem app.