Sinai Travel Guide

Explore the best of Sinai including culturally important attractions, outdoor adventures, food scene, accommodation options, safety, and more in this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Sinai

Sinai is a stunning desert region that forms a land bridge between Africa and Asia. It is located in Egypt’s north and is bordered by the Red Sea and the Mediterranean. Sinai is a historically rich land, with a diverse landscape, rich culture, and friendly people. It is home to some of the world’s most impressive natural wonders, including the mountains of St. Catherine, the stunning waters of Taba, and the coral reefs of Sharm El-Sheikh.

Sinai has a unique charm that attracts visitors with its adventure activities, natural beauty, and unforgettable sunsets. Here is a comprehensive guide to experiencing the best of Sinai.

List of Places to Visit in Sinai

Sinai is a vast desert region with a range of attractions to explore. Here are the top attractions in the region:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • St. Catherine’s Monastery - This UNESCO World Heritage-listed site is an important religious site for Christians, located at the foot of Mount Sinai.
  • Pharaoh’s Island - An historic site with a 12th-century fortress and mosque, accessible by boat.
  • The Colored Canyon - A spectacular natural site featuring towering walls of red, yellow, and purple hues.

Natural Attractions of Sinai: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mount Sinai - This is where the 10 Commandments were delivered to Moses. The hike to its summit takes between 2 and 4 hours.
  • Ras Mohammed National Park - A protected marine environment, Ras Mohammed is known for its sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters.
  • Dahab - A laidback coastal town that is popular for windsurfing and scuba diving.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sinai

Sinai has numerous hiking and biking trails that provide breathtaking views of the region.

  • St. Catherine’s Monastery - The hike to the summit takes about three hours and offers an impressive view of the valley.
  • Mount Sinai - The hike to its summit is challenging but worth the effort for the stunning view from the top.
  • Makhroum Mountain - This lesser-known trail is ideal for experienced hikers who are looking for a challenging climb.

Best Things to Do in Sinai: Activities and Tours

Sinai offers a wealth of activities for visitors to enjoy, from cultural tours to outdoor adventures. Here are some of the top things to do in Sinai:

  • Scuba diving and snorkeling at the world-famous Red Sea coral reefs.
  • Camel trekking through the desert.
  • Quad biking in the Sinai desert.
  • Visiting traditional Bedouin villages and markets.
  • Stargazing in the clear desert night sky.

Week-Long Itinerary for Sinai

To get the most out of your visit to Sinai, we recommend the following itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive in Sharm El-Sheikh, settle in, and explore the city. Day 2: Take a snorkeling or scuba diving trip to Ras Mohammed National Park. Spend the day in the sun and relax at one of the local beaches. Day 3: Trek to Mount Sinai and watch the sunrise over the desert. Day 4: Explore the historical sites of St. Catherine’s Monastery and the Colored Canyon. Day 5: Take a camel trek or quad biking excursion into the desert. Visit a traditional Bedouin market. Day 6: Visit Dahab, a lovely coastal town that is popular for windsurfing and other water sports. Day 7: Relax at your resort, swim in the Red Sea, and enjoy local cuisine before departing home.

Food and Drink Scene of Sinai

Sinai offers a range of delicious international and Egyptian cuisine. Here are the best dishes and local beverages to try:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Hawawshi - A popular Egyptian meal that consists of ground beef or lamb mixed with onions and peppers, stuffed inside bread and baked.
  • Kofta - Grilled minced meat, typically made from lamb or beef.
  • Baba Ghanoush - A delicious dip made from eggplants, tahini, and lemon juice.

Local Beverages

  • Sugar cane juice - This refreshing drink is made by juicing raw sugar cane.
  • Hibiscus tea - A popular drink made from roselle flowers.

Where to Stay in Sinai: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Sinai has a range of accommodation options to suit everyone, from luxury hotels to backpacker hostels and guesthouses. Some of the best places to stay in Sinai include:

  • Sandy Beach Hotel and Resort, Dahab
  • Movenpick Sharm El Sheikh Resort
  • Marina Lodge at Port Ghalib
  • Desert Fox Safari Camp

What to Buy in Sinai: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Sinai offers a range of unique souvenirs and local products to bring home. Some of the best items include:

  • Handmade Bedouin rugs and carpets
  • Traditional Bedouin jewelry
  • Local spices and herbs

Local Culture and Customs of Sinai

Sinai is home to the Bedouin people, a group of nomadic Arabs with a rich history and culture. When visiting Sinai, it’s important to respect their traditions and customs, such as dressing modestly and covering your head when entering a mosque.

Best Time to Visit Sinai

The best time to visit Sinai is from October to May, when temperatures are mild and pleasant. Avoid visiting during the summer months when the temperature is very high.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sinai

Do:

  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites
  • Try local cuisine and drinks
  • Respect the local culture and customs

Don’t:

  • Take photographs of people without their consent
  • Use drugs or drink in public places
  • Litter or damage the natural environment

Safety and Health

Safety in Sinai

Sinai is a safe place to visit, but it’s always important to exercise caution and keep your belongings safe. Avoid traveling alone at night and keep your valuables out of sight.

Health in Sinai

Ensure you drink bottled water and take precautions to avoid mosquito bites. Use sunscreen and wear appropriate clothing and hats to avoid sunburn.

Getting to Sinai: Transportation Options and Logistics

Sinai is easily accessible from other major cities in Egypt. Some options for getting to Sinai include:

Airports Near Sinai

  • Sharm El-Sheikh International Airport
  • Taba International Airport

Bus Stations Near Sinai

  • Taba Bus Station
  • Sharm El-Sheikh Bus Station

Other Options

  • Car rental
  • Private driver
  • Guided tours

How to Get Around in Sinai

The best way to get around Sinai is by car. You can rent a car or hire a private driver. Alternatively, some tours offer transportation options.

Where to Go Next from Sinai: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Sinai is surrounded by other fascinating destinations that are worth exploring. Here are some of the best nearby excursions to consider:

  • Cairo - The bustling capital city of Egypt. You can fly or take a bus to get there.
  • Luxor - Known as the world’s greatest open-air museum, Luxor is home to some of Egypt’s most impressive ancient sites.
  • Petra - Located across the border in Jordan, Petra is an ancient city carved into red sandstone.

Conclusion

Sinai is a unique and beautiful region that offers visitors a range of cultural, historical, and outdoor experiences. From exploring the historical sites of St. Catherine’s Monastery to camel trekking in the desert, there’s something for everyone in Sinai. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a cultural experience, you’re sure to find it in Sinai.

Monastery of St. Catherine, Mount Sinai Monastery of St. Catherine, Mount Sinai


    Nuweiba
    Ras Abu Galum