Sinai Travel Guide 2026

Getting There

Flights

• Cairo to Sharm El Sheikh: 90-140 USD one-way.
• Early departures reduce stress.
• Book online to secure lower rates.

Domestic Flights from Hurghada

• Sharm El Sheikh: 60-100 USD one-way.
• Check baggage allowance.

Private Car Transfers

• Cairo to Sinai 120 to 180 USD.
• Use licensed drivers.
• Confirm route and total cost before departure.

Buses

• Local companies charge 15 to 25 USD per seat.
• Slower but cheaper.
• Depart early to avoid heat and traffic.

Local Transport

Taxis

• Negotiate fare before entering.
• Rates 2 to 6 USD within resort towns.
• Keep small bills ready.

Ride Apps

• Price fixed in app.
• Safer than street taxis.

Hotel Shuttles

• Some resorts provide free or paid transfers.
• Useful for beaches and main attractions.

Check Egypt Transportation Guide

Accommodation

Budget

• Hostels and guesthouses cost 15-40 USD per night.
• Shared rooms are common.
• Book in advance during peak season.

Mid Range

• 3 to 4 star hotels 50 to 100 USD per night.
• Breakfast included.
• Check the location for beach or tour access.

High Comfort

• 4 to 5-star resorts, 120 to 300 USD per night.
• Pools, private beaches, and additional services are included.
• Resort staff help with tour bookings and transfers.

Sightseeing: Beaches and Snorkeling

Public Beaches

• Free entry at most locations.
• Early morning visits reduce crowding.
• Bring water, sun protection, and a towel.

Private Beach Clubs

• Entry 10 to 25 USD.
• Loungers, umbrellas, and showers included.
• Snacks and drinks extra.

Snorkeling

• Gear rental 10 to 20 USD per day.
• Guided snorkeling 50 to 80 USD per person.
• Check coral health and marine life before booking.

Diving

• Day dives cost 50 to 90 USD, including pickup and equipment.
• Confirm certification requirements.

Water Safety

• Check currents and tides.
• Avoid venturing far from shore without a guide.

Desert and Adventure Trips

Quad Biking

• 30 to 50 USD per person.
• Morning trips avoid midday heat.
• Wear a helmet and protective gear.

Jeep Tours

• 40 to 70 USD per vehicle.
• Include driver and guide.
• Plan route and timing before departure.

Bedouin Village Visits

• 15 to 25 USD per guided visit.
• Observe local life respectfully.
• Small purchases support the community.

Hiking Mount Sinai

• Start before sunrise to reach the summit.
• Guide 50 USD per group.
• Visit official trails only.
• Bring water, snacks, and a torch.

Shopping

Local Markets

• Souvenirs, textiles, spices, oils.
• Inspect items carefully before paying.
• Bargain 20 to 50 percent off the initial price.

Jewelry

• Silver and gold shops in central towns.
• Check karat and weight.
• Request a receipt for all purchases.

Textiles and Handicrafts

• Scarves, carpets, decorative items.
• Examine weave, color consistency, and finishing.

Spices and Oils

• Freshly packed for travel.
• Compare prices across shops.

Food and Drink

Local Meals

• Street food costs 2-6 USD.
• Try falafel, grilled fish, and fresh juice.
• Check the hygiene of the preparation area.

Mid-Range Restaurants

• 8 to 15 USD per meal.
• Moderate portions.
• Ask for local specialties of the day.

Hotel Restaurants

• 15 to 30 USD per meal.
• Room service adds cost.
• Check menus for seasonal availability.

Water Safety

• Drink bottled water only.
• Refill at trusted hotels or shops.
• Check Food and drinks guide in Egypt

Tours and Guides

Private Guide

• 50 to 80 USD per day.
• Reduces waiting and navigation errors.
• Guides provide local knowledge and tips.

Day Tours

• 70 to 120 USD excluding entry fees.
• Cover beaches, mountains, and markets efficiently.

Multi-Day Tours

• 120 to 220 USD per day, including transport.
• Hotels and meals optional.

Tips for Staff

• Drivers earn 3 to 5 USD per day.
• Guides charge 5-10 USD per day.
• Boat or desert staff 2 to 5 USD per person.

Safety

Crowds

• Watch personal belongings.
• Avoid dense areas during peak hours.

Transport

• Use licensed taxis or ride apps.
• Confirm the route before entering.

Tourist Scams

• Fake guides approach near attractions.
• Overpriced services without receipts.
• Inspect souvenirs, textiles, and jewelry for authenticity.

Itineraries

Three-Day Itinerary

Day one

• Arrive in Sharm El Sheikh.
• Check into the hotel.
• Walk to the marina or the beach.
• Dinner at a local restaurant, grilled seafood.

Day two

• Early morning snorkeling at Ras Mohammed.
• Gear rentalis  10 to 20 USD.
• Guided snorkeling 50 to 80 USD.
• Afternoon visit to local markets.
• Dinner 8 to 15 USD.

Day three

• Desert quad bike tour 30 to 50 USD.
• Visit the Bedouin village for 15-25 USD.
• Return to the hotel.
• Departure preparation.

Five-Day Itinerary

Day one

• Arrival, hotel check-in.
• Marina or local beach walk.
• Dinner at the hotel.

Day two

• Snorkeling or diving at Tiran Island.
• Guided dive 50 to 90 USD.
• Afternoon relaxation.

Day three

• Jeep desert tour 40 to 70 USD.
• A visit to a Bedouin village costs 15 to 25 USD.
• Sunset photography.

Day four

• Mount Sinai sunrise hike.
• The entry to Saint Catherine Monastery is 5 USD.
• Afternoon rest.

Day five

• Morning beach or spa.
• Shopping at local markets.
• Departure arrangements.

Seven-Day Itinerary

Day one

• Arrival and hotel check-in.
• Light beach walk.

Day two

• Snorkeling or diving trip.
• Afternoon visit to Ras Mohammed or Nabq Park.

Day three

• Jeep desert tour.
• Bedouin village visit.

Day four

• Mount Sinai sunrise hike.
• Saint Catherine Monastery.

Day five

• Boat tour on the Red Sea lagoons.

Day six

• Relax on private beaches.
• Hotel water sports.

Day seven

• Free morning.
• Departure transport.

Local Customs

Dress Code

• Light cotton clothing for heat.
• Modest attire in villages and religious sites.
• Cover your shoulders and knees at mosques.

Behavior

• Respect traditions and prayer times.
• Ask permission before photographing locals.
• Tipping 5 to 10 USD per day for guides.

Language

• Arabic is widely spoken.
• English is understood in hotels, resorts, and tourist areas.

Festivals and Events

Sinai Festival of Culture

• Held annually in Sharm El Sheikh.
• Music, dance, local crafts.
• Entry 5 to 10 USD.

Religious Holidays

• Ramadan: shops open later, fasting observed.
• Eid: large celebrations, crowded streets, markets.

International Diving Events

• Dates vary.
• Book tours early.
• Competition zones may restrict snorkeling.

Extended Beach Activities

Kite Surfing

• Rental 25 to 50 USD per hour.
• Lessons 50 to 80 USD per hour.
• Afternoon wind ideal.

Parasailing

• 20 to 40 USD per flight.
• Morning calm water recommended.

Boat Trips

• Short trips 10 to 20 USD.
• Full day trips 50 to 80 USD.

Sunset Cruises

• 25 to 40 USD.
• Light refreshments included.

Advanced Diving and Snorkeling

Ras Mohammed National Park

• Coral reefs protected.
• Entry 10 USD.
• Guided tours reduce risk of currents.

Tiran Island

• North of Sharm El Sheikh.
• Guided dives 50 to 90 USD.
• Observe fish species and reef conditions.

Nabq Protected Area

• Entry 5 USD.
• Snorkeling and shallow diving.
• Avoid touching coral.

Emergency Contacts

Local Hospitals

• Sharm El Sheikh International Hospital, 24/7, Tel 069 3600000.

Police

• Dial 122 for emergencies.
• Tourist police are available at the main resorts.

Ambulance

• 123 emergency line.
• Private services cost 100 to 200 USD per transport.

Embassy

• Keep the embassy number for nationality.
• Request guidance in emergencies.

Seasonal Travel Advice

Winter (Nov-Feb)

• 18 to 26 Celsius.
• Comfortable for outdoor activities.
• Early morning snorkeling.

Summer (Jun-Sep)

• 35 to 40 Celsius.
• Limit hiking to early morning.
• Stay hydrated.

Spring and Autumn

• 25 to 32 Celsius.
• Best for desert and mountain activities.
• Moderate crowds.

Practical Tips

Currency

• The Egyptian pound is used locally.
• Exchange at banks or an official exchange.
• Keep small bills for taxis and tips.

Connectivity

• SIM cards cost 10-20 USD with data.
• Hotels provide Wi-Fi in the lobby and rooms.

Health

• Drink bottled water only.
• Sunscreen and a hat are essential.
• A first aid kit is recommended for desert and mountain trips.

Packing List

• Light cotton clothing, sunglasses, sunscreen, swimsuit.
• Walking shoes for desert and mountain hikes.
• Small backpack for water, snacks, and a camera.