lady travel sharm el sheikh

The Truth About Solo Female Travel in Egypt

By: Author Lora Pope

Posted on Published: September 26, 2022  - Last updated: December 6, 2023

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Having visited almost 70 countries, most of them by myself, I consider myself a pretty confident solo traveler. But admittedly, I was nervous about solo female travel in Egypt.

As I prepared for my trip, most people responded to me with shock that I would even consider going to Egypt as a woman alone. Boarding the plane, I was full of feelings of both excitement and fear.

However, my safety concerns were quickly put to rest once I arrived in the country and discovered how kind the people are.

That said, there are places better suited for solo travel than others, as I discovered after six weeks of traveling alone in Egypt. I’ll be sharing those with you in this comprehensive guide to solo travel in Egypt, plus tips for staying safe.

And to ensure it’s not a one-off experience, I’ve asked some fellow solo female travelers to share their travel experiences in Egypt – and it seems they loved it too!

Is it safe to travel to Egypt alone?

After six weeks of traveling around the country by myself, I can confidently say that YES, the short answer is Egypt is safe for solo travel (at least at the time of writing).

Is it the safest place in the world? Of course not (but hey, you can even have your stuff stolen in the safest country in the world) . Egypt is FAR safer than the media makes it out to be. And it’s one of the safer places you can visit alone in the middle east.

Yes, you will likely be hassled at the markets in larger cities as you do in many other countries, but there are also plenty of places to visit in Egypt where that doesn’t happen.

I found Egypt one of the most welcoming countries I’ve ever visited, especially in the smaller towns like Dahab and Siwa.

I didn’t have any major negative experiences during my time in Egypt, nor did the other solo women travelers I asked to share their experiences.

That said, would I recommend it as your first time solo experience? Probably not. I was glad I had some solo travel experience before coming to Egypt, as it gave me more confidence.

Always protect yourself with travel insurance! Accidents can happen anywhere, and travel insurance will protect you against unexpected medical bills. I use and love SafetyWing , which is insurance built for digital nomads.

Tours for solo travelers in Egypt

If you’re nervous about traveling to Egypt alone, there are many great options for Egypt tours – and there is no shame in that!

If I’m nervous about a country, sometimes I’ll start with a group tour and go from there, as you often end up meeting fellow travelers to continue the journey with.

I did a mix of solo travel and tours on my trip to Egypt, mainly with this local company Egylust. They helped me organize a trip to Siwa and the White Desert, and both trips were highlights of my time in Egypt. They are small group tour operators with fantastic guides.

Egylust can organize any tour for you in Egypt; just fill out this form with where you want to go. If you mention my name as a brand ambassador, they will give you a discount.

There are also many day tours you can take, which is a great way to meet other travelers and avoid any hassling.

Best places for solo female travel in Egypt

The best places for solo female tourists in Egypt are the smaller towns around the Red Sea and deserts. The cities can be quite overwhelming as a solo traveler, so I spent most of my time away from them.

If you’re a diver, Egypt is a great place for solo travel as it’s home to some of the most amazing dive sites in the world, and the activity is conducive to meeting others.

Egypt’s dive sites take you through the most colorful coral reefs in the world, and further down the south; you can see incredible wildlife like dolphins, dugongs, and sharks.

Solo diving in Egypt

Dahab is where I started my first day in Egypt and one of the best places for solo travelers, especially if you’re a diver. Once just a dusty road, this town has grown into a wonderful community of international divers and locals and is one of the cheapest places for digital nomads.

Just walking down the main road, you’re bound to meet people. The vibe is so friendly, and everyone bikes to get around. If you’re having trouble meeting people, joining a dive course or excursion is a great way to meet others, as there’s nothing like sharing a bucket list experience to bond you.

Dahab is home to some of Egypt’s most famous dive sites , such as the blue hole. It’s also a popular place to learn to go freediving. If diving’s not your thing, there are also endless opportunities for outdoor adventure, including kitesurfing, rock climbing, and hiking in the nearby mountains.

Don’t miss the hike up Mount Sinai at sunrise, where they say Moses received the ten commandments.

Suggested hotel : Sukoon guesthouse is a great spot to meet like-minded travelers in a beautiful setting. It’s just a couple minutes’ walk to the main road in Dahab, where there are restaurants and shops, and the owner is lovely.

Marsa Alam is hands down not only the best place for diving in Egypt for large animals but also for solo ladies to visit. I felt incredibly safe here and met wonderful people at my dive resort – Marsa Shagra Village. I ended up extending my stay in Marsa Alam because it was so wonderful!

During the dives, I saw dolphins, a dugong, sea turtles, eagle rays, and more! Plus, the setting of being able to camp right on the beach is perfection. Check it out in this video!

@explorewithlora Would you live in a tent here? #marsashagra #marsaalam2022 #placestovisitinegypt #placestostay #divingresort #divetheworld #divelife ♬ Aesthetic – Devonte Mayo

Sharm El Sheikh 

Sharm El Sheikh is an hour from Dahab, where the international airport is. I didn’t stay here, but it’s another popular destination for solo travelers with many safe resorts to choose from.

I did diving in Ros Mohamed Marine Park as a day trip from Dahab, which was incredible. The boat left from Sharm, so it’s a good day trip if you’re staying there – you can also go snorkeling there!

Arabela from The Spicy Travel Girl traveled there along with some other destinations and Egypt and said this:

I solo traveled in Egypt in February 2021 and my experience was fun, smooth, and safe. I started out by joining group excursions to various destinations out of Sharm El Sheikh, including popular Red Sea diving spots, the biblical site of Mount Sinai, and the breathtaking pyramids and egyptian museums of Cairo, which are an essential part of the itinerary of every solo female traveler in Egypt. I also spent time roaming across markets by myself and held many long conversations over countless cups of tea with the vendors. While their initial approaches may have been motivated by sales pitches, many vendors ended up giving me gifts at the end of our conversation. The highlight of my two-week solo trip to Egypt  however was when the owner of a local tour company invited me to his hometown Alexandria, where I got to live with his family for a couple of days, explore this ancient metropolis, sample various Egyptian delicacies, and even pick up some Arabic.

I only spent two days in Hurgada and didn’t get the chance to go diving, so I’ve asked Giorgy of  G-Extreme Travel to share what her personal experience was like diving in Hurgada as a solo female traveler.

What to do before the Covid situation started to get out of control? Of course, let’s go solo traveling to Egypt. Although the COVID situation was giving all general panic, once I landed in Hurgada, I felt in another world. It was indeed so peaceful and full of kind people ready to help you. Indeed, they helped me go through the visa process and even call me the taxi driver who was supposed to pick me up but apparently forgot about me. None of them tried to screw me over. Once at the hotel, I left my stuff in the room and right away checked the hotel’s diving center. I actually came here to immerse myself underwater and explore the beauty of marine life. If I have to be honest, I also wanted to literally escape the panic that was creating around me. What would happen to a solo woman diving alone with a man instructor? Absolutely nothing, it all went well. I started the advanced diving course but I couldn’t finish it. Not that something happened to me, not even the fish wanted to eat me. But I was almost about to be stuck in Hurgada for longer than I could imagine. In fact, three days after my arrival I had to return home. Although it was a short experience, I really loved Hurgada, especially for the lovely people around and the beautiful marine life it has to offer. I would for sure come back to this little piece of paradise! Maybe thinking wisely before another pandemic is on its way.

Best deserts for solo female travelers

Visiting the deserts has to be on your Egypt itinerary. They are home to some of Egypt’s most spectacular natural landscapes, and I felt very safe on all my desert tours.

When it comes to safe places to visit in Egypt, Siwa is what comes to my mind first. It’s not the easiest place to visit, but it’s so worth the journey. Not only is Siwa safe, but it’s home to some of the most unique natural wonders of Egypt.

The main highlights of Siwa are visiting the salt flats and going on a jeep safari through the sand dunes. Since it’s a long way to get there (8 hours from Cairo), I recommend spending at least three days.

The locals are incredibly kind here, and there is zero hassling in shops which is pretty rare for Egypt. They are very fair with prices here! You could buy salt lamps for just 2 USD – I was so sad I didn’t have the space to bring them back with me.

Suggested hotel: I stayed at Mountain Camp Ali Khaled, , a fantastic place to meet other travelers. They have fires at night and an incredible natural hot tub you can soak in.

I organized my trip through Egylust. To book a tour with them, fill out this form. If you mention my name as a brand ambassador, they will give you a discount!

White Desert

The White Desert is one of the most unique places I have ever been to. It’s about a four-hour drive from Cairo, and I’m not sure how you would do it without going on a tour. I booked mine through Egylust, which included transport from Cairo.

@explorewithlora Wow this country continues to amaze me! #whitedesert #egyptdesert #egyptexplore #desertdreams #incredibleplaces ♬ lost ballad version – elijah woods

I met the driver in Cairo and we headed out with three other solo female travellers towards the desert for an overnight camping experience. It’s such an incredible trip, as you spend the night camping under the stars surrounded by these remarkable rock formations. And they will take you on a jeep to see some other-worldly landscapes around the desert.

After the sunset, the Bedouins prepared us an incredible meal over the campfire. It was my second last night in Egypt and one of the most memorable. The white desert is a magical place.

To book a tour of the white desert with Egylust, fill out this form . If you mention my name as a brand ambassador, they will give you a discount!

Cities in Egypt for solo travelers

I can’t tell you how many people I’ve met who only go to Cairo and Luxor and say they didn’t like Egypt. I don’t blame them; I wouldn’t like Egypt much if they had been my only experiences.

Those two cities are places I felt most unsafe as a solo female traveler in Egypt. But at the same time, they are the base for exploring iconic landmarks such as the great pyramids of Giza and kings’ tombs – so they aren’t to be missed.

Cairo and Giza

I was in Cairo several times throughout my trip to Egypt as it serves as a central transport hub. Unfortunately, I spent much of that time in traffic and often felt that people were trying to scam me. That said, I did enjoy going to restaurants by the river Nile, visiting the museums, and hanging out with some local friends I knew from Instagram.

And, of course, there are the pyramids!

The pyramids are in Giza, but it’s only a 40-minute drive from Cairo, so many people visit on a day trip. I went twice, once on a tour and another with a local friend.

I don’t recommend going to the pyramids alone, not because it’s dangerous, just because you’ll be relentlessly hassled. If you pay a tour guide to take you around, no one will bother you. Plus they can tell you historical information!

If you want to stay in Giza overnight, check out this Instagram-worthy apartment with a hot tub that overlooks the pyramids.

Luxor was my least favorite place regarding safety in Egypt, mainly because of the local markets. It was the place I felt the most harassed by locals trying to sell me things. That said, it’s also home to some of the best historic sites like Karnak temple and the Valley of the Tombs, so you’ll want to spend some time there. Two days is enough.

Do the hot air balloon ride over the valley, it’s breathtaking. I got mine for 40 USD, which is one of the best value hot air balloon experiences in the world.

Aswan was among my favorite cities in Egypt for solo travelers. Being so close to Sudan, you can see the influence. Aswan had some of the most hospitable locals I met in Egypt, and I felt safe walking through the markets.

I even got invited to a graduation party there, one of the most random but memorable things that happened to me in Egypt! You can see the story in the video below.

@explorewithlora Honestly way better then my grad 😂 #travelingegypt #aswanegypt #egyptcheck #egyptlife #egyptlifestyle #egyptlove ♬ оригинальный звук – Vahagn Avagyan

Aswan is the gateway to Abu Simbel, which is the most impressive temple I saw in Egypt. It’s still a few hour’s drive to Abu Simbel, so you’ll have to wake up early to get there, but it’s worth it. Afterward, take a felucca around the river in Awan. It’s a beautiful way to spend an afternoon.

Taking a solo Nile river cruise

I didn’t have the chance to take a Nile cruise while in Egypt, but it’s one of the most iconic things to do. Below, Joanna from The World in My Pocket shares her experience about what that was like.

I didn’t know if I wanted to book a cruise on my own, on my trip to Egypt. I researched quite a lot before deciding to go ahead and  book a cruise on the Nile  on my own.

After finishing my trip to Egypt, I can say that it was a great decision to go on the cruise. As a solo female traveling in Egypt, I never felt unsafe. I started the cruise in Aswan, where I arrived a few days before to explore the city and Abu Simbel.

On the day of the cruise, I was picked up by the guide, and the driver at 8 am. We drove outside of Aswan, where we picked up another traveler, and found out that this was our group: only two solo travelers.

At the beginning, I felt that the guide was quite unfriendly, but as soon as we got to know each other, things changed by the end of the day. I had a great time on the cruise, and our three person group bonded so well that we are still in touch on Instagram.

I would highly advise you to book a cruise with all the tickets included – otherwise, you will have to pay quite a bit t of pocket. As a foreigner, the tickets to monuments are much more expensive than what the locals are paying.

The only place we had to pay extra was Tutankhamun’s tomb in the Valley of the Kings. There are also additional excursions that you can book through your guide, but I’ve done them beforehand, on my own, in Aswan.

I liked that on the last day of the cruise, we were still allowed to spend the day on the ship even if we had to check out in the morning. Our train didn’t leave Luxor until 8 PM, which was an excellent plus.

The food on the ship was plentiful and varied. For every meal, there was a chef cooking food to order: in the morning, eggs, while the afternoon and evening two different courses. We had an Egyptian food night, as well as entertainment each evening.

Taking public transportation in Egypt alone

You may be wondering if it’s safe to take public transportation in Egypt alone, and in my experience – yes, it is! I took public buses all over the country, including a long day bus from Dahab to Cairo, a bus from Hurgada to Marsa Alarm, and two-night busses from Alexandria to Siwa and Siwa back to Cairo.

In all these experiences, I never had any issues – just some long police checkpoints, which brings me to my next point.

Police checkpoints in Egypt

One thing that surprised me when arriving in Egypt was the number of police security checks, especially in the Sinai region.

Since Egypt is under military rule, there’s a lot of police enforcement. It was frightening to see men with guns at first, but over time, I just got used to it. The last thing they want is something negative to happen to a tourist, as Egypt is still building up tourism since the terrorist attacks.

I only passed through checkpoints while on buses or tours, but I did meet some other travelers who said they rented a car and had no issues going through them on their own.

Tips for traveling alone in Egypt

Use Uber in Egyptian cities. It’s very cheap (I was once in an Uber in Cairo for two hours, and it was $12) It’s the safest way to get around – especially at night. By using Uber, there is a record of who picked you up and where you went, and you don’t have to haggle with taxi drivers. Avoid going anywhere during rush hour; the traffic is horrible.

Listen to your gut! This is the number one tip I give any solo female traveler. If you don’t feel comfortable, there’s probably a reason for it. Avoid any conversation that’s making you feel uncomfortable, even at the risk of being impolite.

Some Egyptian men will ask you where your husband is, so wearing a wedding ring and or inventing a husband/children is a good idea to avoid unwanted attention. My fake husband is AMAZING.

People are very friendly and will invite you to join them for meals or to be shown around, but only go if you feel 100% safe. Most people in the country are well-intentioned, so don’t miss the opportunity to have a cultural immersion experience while using your common sense.

Hire a guide if you’re visiting popular tourist sites like the pyramids; it will help you avoid getting hassled. There are tour agencies in all the cities, or you can book online.

Get a sim card on arrival at the airport. Data is very affordable in Egypt, and this means you’ll be able to call emergency numbers. Plus, having data is convenient for getting around using Google maps and looking up information as needed.

As with anywhere, be careful walking alone at night and use common sense to avoid putting yourself in any dangerous situation. If something feels too good to be true, it probably is.

Wear modest clothing while away from the resort areas to avoid unwanted attention. There’s no strict dress code, but it’s a Muslim country, so most people dress conservatively. Clothes in Egypt are cheap to buy, and they are fabulous! At some religious sites, you may need to wear a hijab.

Keep an open mind before you come – most stereotypes you’ve heard aren’t true.

Register yourself with the U.S. state department before coming to let them know your travel plans.

Not particular about solo travel in Egypt, but avoid coming in the summer months as it’s just too hot, and you won’t be able to visit half of these attractions. The best time to visit Egypt is in the shoulder spring season from March to May. I was there from February to March, and it was lovely.

Have local currency on you – many places only take cash. The currency is the Egyptian pound (EGP)

Arabela from The Spicy Travel Girl shares some more tips below:

Dress modestly – coming from Pakistan; I used to wear long clothes and a hijab most of the time. While a headscarf is not necessary, I strongly advise women to wear long, loose clothes in Egypt, even in summer.

Stay in a Red Sea inclusive resort – Red Sea resorts like Sharm El Sheikh are generally safer and more relaxed than the major cities and an ideal starting point for a solo trip to Egypt.

Join group excursions from your hotel – they are an easy, safe, and cost-effective way to get to all places of interest.

Stay with locals – the best way to immerse yourself in Egyptian culture. However, do use caution and only accept invitations from families with women.

Still not convinced? Check out this video about I’m in about solo female travel in Egypt.

FAQ: Solo Female Travel in Egypt

Can i tour egypt on my own.

Yes, you can tour Egypt on your own, and many travelers find it a rewarding experience, especially with proper planning and awareness of local customs.

Is Egypt good for solo female travellers?

Egypt is a fascinating destination for solo female travelers, offering rich cultural experiences and historical sites, though it’s advisable to stay vigilant and respect local customs for a safe trip.

How much money do you need for 10 days in Egypt?

For 10 days in Egypt, budget around $400-$800, depending on your travel style, with costs varying for accommodation, food, transportation, and activities.

What are the best months to visit Egypt?

The best months to visit Egypt are from October to April, when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for exploring.

What not to do in Egypt as a woman?

As a woman in Egypt, it’s advisable to avoid wearing revealing clothing, traveling alone at night in less populated areas, and engaging in public displays of affection.

Is Cairo safe for solo female tourists?

Cairo can be safe for solo female tourists, especially when staying in well-known tourist areas, using reputable transportation, and being cautious in crowded places.

Can you wear shorts in Egypt?

While you can wear shorts in Egypt, especially in resort areas, it’s more culturally appropriate to wear longer, loose-fitting clothing, particularly when visiting religious sites or traditional neighborhoods.

Can you drink alcohol in Egypt?

Alcohol is available in Egypt, mainly in hotels, bars, and licensed shops, but public consumption is frowned upon, and it’s respectful to drink discreetly.

What should a woman know before traveling to Egypt?

Before traveling to Egypt, a woman should know about the conservative dress code, cultural norms, and the importance of staying vigilant in public spaces for personal safety.

What are the rules for tourists in Egypt?

Tourists in Egypt should respect local customs and religious practices, dress modestly, avoid public displays of affection, and be aware of restrictions on photography, especially in sacred or military areas.

Don’t skip Egypt because of being alone. It pushed me out of my comfort zone but ended up becoming one of my favorite solo travel experiences to date.

Rich history, delicious food, fascinating culture, historical sites, natural landscapes, and amazing people – Egypt offers so many unforgettable experiences and is sure to make the top of your list quickly.

Traveling to Egypt? Check out these posts!

• Living in Dahab Egypt as a Digital Nomad in 2023
• Top Diving and Snorkeling in Egypt

Lora is a full-time digital nomad on a quest to visit every country in the world and pet as many dogs as she can along the way. Over the last 15 years, she has traveled to 70+ countries and six continents solo. She currently calls Puerto Vallarta, Mexico home and enjoys ending each day with sunset and tacos on the beach.

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Hi! I’m a female solo traveler (age 43) wanting to go to egypt after I finish a visit to Tanzania. I’m a diver, too, so I’m loving your site, thank you! Did you fly into Cairo and then head straight to Dahab by bus?

Forgot to ask you about Egylust company…are they still in operation as I’m having trouble locating them online.

Hi! Yes they are still in business. You can find them through the Instagram or get more info by filling out the Google doc I have linked in the post.

The Spicy Travel Girl

Adventure & solo female travel blog

The Best 2 Weeks Egypt Itinerary For Solo Female Travelers

Sunny beaches by the turquoise sea covering colorful coral reefs and ancient world wonders that date back to ver 4,000 years – there’s no doubt that Egypt is one of the countries that everyone should have visited at least once in their lifetime. But while there’s usually nothing but praise coming from the couples and families that toured the country together, it’s a mixed bag for solo female travelers. Some women had the times of their lives while others’ experiences weren’t as rosy. This prompts many women to think:

“Is Egypt safe for solo female travelers?”

I decided to take the risk and embarked on a trip to Egypt all by myself for two weeks. Spoiler alert: it was amazing! But although everything went well for me, I couldn’t stop thinking about whether it was my personal choices that helped me avoid all the unpleasant situations that other women have gone through and I realized that there are certain ways of travel that will make a trip both safer and more enjoyable for solo female travelers.

And that’s when I decided to share this 2 weeks Egypt itinerary with you ladies. It’s almost the exact same itinerary I followed on my own trip where I had lots of fun and stayed 100% safe at all times. It’s specifically tailored for the needs of women traveling alone, so it’s pretty safe to say that this is the best 2 weeks Egypt itinerary for solo female travelers out there – I hope!

*DISCLAIMER: This post contains affiliate links. This means that from every purchase made through this website, I’ll earn a small commission with no additional cost to you.*

Read more: Is Pakistan Safe For Women Travelers? – Here’s What It’s REALLY Like

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Is Egypt Safe For Solo Female Travelers?

First of all, let me try to get into this highly subjective question: Is Egypt safe for solo female travelers?

Based solely on my personal experience, I’d say YES! During my two weeks of independent and organized travel in the country, there isn’t one instance of harassment I can recall. I never felt unsafe walking around by myself, be it in empty streets or busy market areas, during the daytime or at night. Every single one of my interactions with local men was deeply respectful (well, despite a few pushy vendors here and there, but they all revealed their friendly personalities after a cup of tea). I made lots of good friends during my trip who wanted to make sure I was staying safe and I even got invited to stay with a local family for a few days. So overall, my solo female travel experience in Egypt was amazing and I felt a lot safer than in many other parts of the world.

However, in no way do I want to dismiss the negative experiences of other solo female travelers in Egypt. I’ve heard a lot of women talk about the tremendous amount of sexual harassment they faced by simply walking through the streets and I once even saw a woman getting harassed in front of my eyes for wearing slightly differently cut clothes compared to mine. Every woman might answer this question differently and everyone’s opinions are equally valid. And of course, I’m only talking about the experiences of short-term travelers here, among whom even personal characteristics such as age, skin color, and body type may influence their treatment by the outside world.

Tips For Solo Female Travel In Egypt

That being said, however, I do believe there are a few things that we as women can do for a safer and more enjoyable solo female travel experience in Egypt. Here are some of my personal tips to stay safe during this 2 weeks Egypt itinerary:

• Dress modestly – This was a very easy one for me because my beautiful Pakistani wardrobe makes dressing modestly so fun! And no, you don’t need to wear an abaya, just long trousers and loose long shirts that cover your chest, back, and shoulders will do the job. Hijab is of course optional but I found that this additional layer of modesty can bring a lot of respect. You can find more inspiration for modest clothing in this Pakistan packing list .
• Know your boundaries – I had a great time chatting for hours with shop owners over a cup of tea in Egypt and made plenty of friends this way but of course, not everyone’s intentions are this innocent. It’s great to be friendly but don’t be too friendly to men, especially since some men tend to interpret small gestures such as smiles as open invitations. Remain assertive and know your boundaries. Is he trying to touch you in any way or asking a little too much about your love life? Run, you don’t owe him anything.
• Join tours – Probably the safest way to travel around Egypt is by joining tours for day excursions. Group travel may not be the preferred method for every traveler, but it’s a great option to get to places you might otherwise feel uncomfortable visiting by yourself. You’ll be with experienced guides at all times and might even have some new friends at the end of the day.
• Choose your transportation wisely – Lastly, choosing the right transportation is crucial when traveling alone in Egypt as a woman. In resort areas like Sharm El-Sheikh, there’s barely any public transportation, so I recommend arranging a taxi with your hotel. Remember the car and have the same taxi pick you up later. For big cities like Cairo and Alexandria, I recommend choosing ride-share services like Uber and Careem over taxis on the street. Stay extra vigilant in crowded public transportation.

Read more: 10 Essential Taxi Safety Tips For Solo Female Travelers

Best Time To Visit Egypt

The best time to visit Egypt highly depends on what you’re looking for. Egypt can be a nice getaway to catch some winter sun if you’re coming from cold climates but it’ll likely be too cold to enjoy water activities such as swimming and diving and climbing Mount Sinai may be impossible. Whereas, if you visit in summer, the temperatures may be perfect for water activities but too hot to enjoy other parts of the country. If you’re looking for a balance, spring or autumn may be the best time to visit Egypt and follow this epic 2 weeks Egypt itinerary.

Now it’s time to reveal my special 2 weeks Egypt itinerary for solo female travelers. I spent a lot of time thinking of the best places to visit in Egypt in two weeks and ways to make the experience smooth for solo female travelers. I decided to start and end the journey in Sharm El-Sheikh since it’s a beautiful area with excellent flight connections and most importantly, it’s very safe for women. Depending on what’s best for you, you may fly out of different airports, but I strongly recommend spending a good amount of time in Sharm El-Sheikh.

Keep in mind that this 2 weeks Egypt itinerary should only be a rough guideline for you and I strongly encourage you to be flexible and spend some more or less time at a place, skip places or add an extra stop if you feel like it.

So are you ready? Let’s check out this awesome 2 weeks Egypt itinerary for solo female travelers!

Day 1: Arrive in Sharm El-Sheikh

On the first day of this epic 2 weeks Egypt itinerary, fly into Sharm El-Sheikh and head straight to your hotel by taxi or shuttle service. I personally had a great experience staying at Dive Inn Resort. It’s very budget-friendly and has everything one might need.

Book your stay at Dive Inn Resort here

Depending on what time you arrive, you may rest, enjoy the hotel’s amenities, or check out a nearby beach.

Book your personal airport transfer here!

Day 2: Explore Sharm El-Sheikh

Time to explore Sharm on the second day of this 2 weeks Egypt itinerary! Head to the Old Market to indulge in delicious Egyptian cuisine at El Masrien restaurant, marvel at the stunning Al Sahaba Mosque, and shop for souvenirs in one of the many shops. If you’re interested in shopping malls, check out Genena Mall and Soho Square, and lastly, don’t forget to hang out in one of the many bustling bars and shops at Nama Bay at night.

PRO TIP: Don’t forget that haggling is a must in souvenir shops. It’s okay to get friendly with vendors but keep the above-mentioned tips in mind.

Don’t feel like roaming around Sharm alone? Book a city tour!

Day 3: Jeep Safari, Horse Riding, Bedouin Villages

Next, it’s time to explore the gorgeous desert surrounding Sharm. There are plenty of excursions that will let you participate in jeep safaris, horse riding, and explore the traditional way of life of the local Bedouin people. It’s best to leave for the Bedouin village in the morning, whereas horse riding and jeep safaris are best done in the afternoon and evening before sunset.

Pro tip: This is the perfect day in this 2 weeks Egypt itinerary to flaunt all your long dresses and scarves! Not only do they look absolutely gorgeous in the desert, but they’re also a great way to protect you from the elements and pay respect to the local Bedouins.

Book your excursions here!

Day 4: Scuba Diving Or Snorkeling In Ras Mohammed

To be honest, I’m not a great fan of water activities, but when I came to Sharm, I realized that witnessing the colorful coral reefs of the Red Sea is a must! Ras Mohammed is a national park at the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula and the most popular spot for snorkeling and scuba diving. Book a full-day tour that will take you to the best underwater spots by boat. I was scared shitless before my first ever dive, but the professional instructors made my experience as smooth as it could get.

Pro tip: Make sure your sunscreen is reef-friendly, meaning it doesn’t contain oxybenzone, butylparaben, octinoxate, or 4-methyl benzylidene camphor, before you enter the water!

Day 5: Day Trip To Dahab

Dahab was undoubtedly one of my favorite places in all of Egypt. Book a full-day excursion that will take you to the stunning Colored Canyon for trekking, as well as to the beautiful blue coast for snorkeling. It would be a sin to skip Dahab in this 2 weeks Egypt itinerary!

Pro tip: Make sure to dress appropriately for this trip! You should wear closed shoes with a good grip and durable leggings or jeans for the canyon, as well as bring a swimsuit for the water activities.

Book your day trip here!

Day 6-7: Climbing Mount Sinai

It’s easy to believe that Egypt is all about beaches and mosques, but did you know that the biblical Mount Sinai, where Moses is believed to have received the Ten Commandments, and St. Catherine’s Monastery, one of the oldest Christian monasteries in the world lie in Egypt as well? Whether you’re Christian or not, climbing Mount Sinai and paying a visit to St. Catherine’s Monastery are some of the best things to do in Sharm and shouldn’t be missed in this 2 weeks Egypt itinerary.

Most tours leave for St. Catherine late at night and start the trek at around midnight to enjoy the sunrise around five hours later. The trek is around 7 km long and the last part consists of 750 stairs. It’s considered a beginner-friendly trek but nonetheless, you must be accompanied by a local Bedouin guide at all times.

Pro tip: Warm clothes are a must because it gets very cold and windy on top. Make sure to stay hydrated and caffeinated during the night hike. Remember that you can always rent a camel if you get too exhausted.

Book your excursion here!

Day 8: Day Trip To Cairo

Many of you will probably think I’m crazy for recommending only a day in Cairo, however, I strongly believe that a guided day trip from Sharm El-Sheikh is the best option for solo female travelers to avoid uncomfortable experiences of roaming around alone. Cairo day trip tours from Sharm typically leave in the middle of the night and come back the following night. The tours will take you to the major sights that shouldn’t be missed in any 2 weeks Egypt itinerary, such as the Egyptian Museum, the Pyramids of Giza, and the Nile River.

Pro tip: The drive from Sharm El-Sheikh to Cairo takes about 6 hours each way, so make sure to wear comfortable clothing that is also appropriate for the weather in Cairo. Don’t buy from pushy street vendors or worse, in any overpriced shops you might visit with your tour, such as the Papyrus Factory.

ALTERNATIVE: Spend 3-4 Days In Cairo

Of course, a day trip to Cairo can only offer you a tiny glimpse into what this huge city has to offer, so if you feel comfortable exploring Cairo on your own, consider spending 3-4 days in the city. You won’t run out of sights to visit and this stay will fit perfectly into a 2 weeks Egypt itinerary. After all, Cairo is home to some of the most iconic mosques in the world !

Pro tip: Too afraid to walk around Cairo alone? You can always book a guided city tour of Cairo!

Book your city tours here!

Day 9-13: Alexandria

Alexandria may not be the first place most people think of when they hear about Egypt, but boy did I have an amazing time in this historic city that dates back all the way to Alexander the Great! Consider visiting for around three days and exploring Qaitbay Citadel, Bibliotheca Alexandrina, Roman ruins, and most importantly, taste all of the delicious food in the city, such as fresh fish, Egyptian pizza, and the local specialty, grilled liver as part of this 2 weeks Egypt itinerary. On top of that, Alexandria felt very safe to me and I never got into an uncomfortable situation as a solo female traveler.

Pro tip: Take a business class Blue Bus from Sharm El-Sheikh to Alexandria for around 400 EGP (~ $25 USD). The drive is super comfortable but takes around nine hours each way, so make sure to plan enough time for the trip.

Not quite convinced to explore Alexandria by yourself? Book a city tour here!

ALTERNATIVE: Day Trip To Alexandria From Cairo

If you decide to spend more time in Cairo, there might only be time for a day trip to Alexandria from Cairo in this 2 weeks Egypt itinerary. Luckily, there are plenty of organized tours that will have you covered!

Book your day trip to Alexandria from Cairo here!

Return To Sharm El-Sheikh

Sadly, after 14 exciting days, this is the end of this 2 weeks Egypt itinerary for solo female travelers. Make sure you plan in at least a day for your return to Sharm El-Sheikh from Alexandria or Cairo. Enjoy your last day of this epic 2 weeks Egypt itinerary by indulging in some delicious seafood at Fares restaurant and strolling by the sun-kissed beach. Relax to some Bedouin tea and stock up on some souvenirs and take some super instagrammable photos at Farsha cafe.

Pro tip: Although Sharm El-Sheikh airport may seem relatively small, you should nonetheless plan to arrive three hours before your flight. I arrived 2.5 hours before my flight but the lines at immigration and security for so long that I almost missed my flight!

If You Have More Time…

I know you were probably just looking for a 2 weeks Egypt itinerary for solo female travelers, but what if you ended up loving Egypt so much that you decided to stay longer? (or you really aren’t interested in one or two of the activities in this 2 weeks Egypt itinerary and are looking for something else to do?)

Below are some places across Egypt that I would have loved to include in my own 2 weeks Egypt itinerary but unfortunately had to skip because time was too short:

• Luxor: As the site of Thebes, the ancient Egyptian capital at the height of the empire’s power, Luxor is home to one of the most breathtaking archeological sites in the world and a must-visit place for history buffs. Depending on your budget, you can get to Luxor from Sharm El-Sheikh by airplane, ferry, or an excruciatingly long bus journey.
• Siwa Oasis: Siwa Oasis is a very beautiful but isolated oasis in the northwest of Egypt. Main attractions include the natural beauty, unique culture of the local inhabitants, and crystal clear salt lagoons where one can float like in the Dead Sea! There are buses to Siwa Oasis, but it’s best to go with a tour.
• Hurghada: Hurghada is another pretty resort town by the Red Sea similar to Sharm El-Sheikh but with a slightly more modern vibe. It’s relatively close to ancient sites like Luxor and like Sharm, easily reachable by bus or airplane from many domestic and international destinations.
• Jerusalem and Petra: Who would’ve thought of visiting three different countries in one day as part of a 2 weeks Egypt itinerary? Turns out that thanks to the geographic proximity, there are plenty of guided day trip tours from Sharm El-Sheikh to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Petra in Jordan, with a stop in the equally stunning (and religiously significant) city of Jerusalem in Israel/Palestine. Make sure your passport allows you to enter both Israel and Jordan easily and keep in mind that due to covid-related entry restrictions, all tours are currently suspended.

Read more: A Brief Reminder Of Passport Privilege

I hope this 2 weeks Egypt itinerary for solo female travelers helped you get an idea of what a perfect two weeks in Egypt as a woman traveling alone could look like. As always, you should be flexible and adjust your plans according to your own interest, but I sincerely believe that this 2 weeks Egypt itinerary is one of the safest and most comfortable ways to explore the country alone as a woman. In combination with the Egypt solo female safety tips listed in this post, your solo trip to Egypt should go very smooth!

Have you ever traveled to Egypt alone as a woman? What’s your opinion about this 2 weeks Egypt itinerary for solo female travelers? Let me know in the comments below!

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Seriously? You went to Egypt for 2 weeks and didn’t go to aswan or luxor or valley of the kings or edfu or kom ombo? The beach and dessert around Sharm can be replicated in ANY of the middle eastern countries . The temples are most certainly positively unique to Egypt. You kind of missed almost everything!

Definitely I wish I had an extra week to travel south but my flights didn’t allow. But that’s a good reason to come back!

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September 01, 2022

The complete guide to solo travel in sharm el-sheikh.

Sharm El-Sheikh is a city in South Sinai, Egypt. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world for solo travelers and offers plenty of things to do and see.

Transportation within the City and From Airport

In order to get from the airport to the city, you will need to take a taxi or a bus. The bus is cheaper and takes about 45 minutes. You can also take a taxi for about 20 minutes, but it will be more expensive.

In order to get from the airport to the beach, you'll need to take a taxi or an Uber. The trip will be about 30 minutes in either case and will cost around $25-$30 USD.

Best Places to Explore in Sharm El-Sheikh

The Red Sea resort town of Sharm El-Sheikh is a popular destination for tourists. The city has so much to offer and it is not surprising that it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.

The best places to explore in Sharm El-Sheikh are:

1. Ras Mohamed National Park 

Located on the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula, Ras Mohamed National Park is a protected area that spans about 850 square kilometers. With a diverse ecosystem, this park attracts tourists and researchers alike for its coral reefs, desert, mangroves and underwater caves.

2. Nabq Bay

Nabq bay is one of the most beautiful bays in Egypt. The water is crystal clear and it has a great amount of marine life, which is perfect for snorkeling. Due to the shallow depth of the water, it's also a great place to relax on the beach.

3. Dahab City

Dahab City is a new project in the popular tourist destination of Sharm El-Sheikh. This community will be one of the most luxurious urban developments in Egypt. It will offer several amenities to attract tourists and residents to live here.

Best Activities for Solo Travelers

1. Diving : The Red Sea offers some of the best diving in the world.

2. Snorkeling : The reef which runs along Sharm El-Sheikh’s coastline is home to a huge variety of marine life that can be seen on snorkeling tours.

3. Scuba diving : This activity requires some level of experience but it’s worth it for those who want to explore the depths of the Red Sea’s coral

Sharm El-Sheik Nightlife - Bars & Clubs For The Solo Traveler

Sharm El-Sheik is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Egypt. There are plenty of bars and clubs for the solo traveler. The city’s nightlife is not as vibrant as Cairo’s, but it has a few hidden gems. The best bars in Sharm El-Sheikh are located on the Corniche.

If you want to experience more than just drinking, head to Red Square bar or New York bar and enjoy their live music. If you prefer dancing, then go to Club Seven or Hollywood nightclub where you will find a DJ spinning all night long.

The Best Sharm El-Sheikh All Inclusive Resorts for Solo Travelers 

Sharm el-Sheikh is the perfect place for solo travellers. It offers a wide range of accommodation, from luxury hotels to budget accommodations. The resort town is also the perfect place for those who want to enjoy the sun and relax on beaches.

There are many all inclusive resorts in Sharm El-Sheikh, but some of them stand out from the rest. These resorts provide everything that solo travelers need and want at an affordable price. They have lots of activities for solo travelers and have restaurants with delicious food for everyone.

1. The Royal Beach Resort 

The Royal Beach Resort is a luxurious, 5-star hotel in Sharm El Sheikh. The resort features one of the finest selections of accommodation in Sharm El Sheikh, with 102 rooms and suites including the Presidential Suite.

2. The Coral Beach Resort

The Coral Beach Resort in Sharm El Sheikh is an all-inclusive resort with a variety of accommodation options. The resort offers a full day and night entertainment program, children's club, and water sports.

3. The Safir Hotel 

The Safir Hotel is a five-star hotel located in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt. It is one of the most luxurious hotels in this area and has a total of 258 rooms and suites. The hotel not only offers top-notch accommodation but also has a variety of restaurants and bars that cater to all tastes.

If you are looking for an unforgettable solo travel experience in Sharm El Sheikh, then there is no better time to book than now with Solo Adventures .

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Egypt solo travel tips, advice, trips

Many solo travelling females want to know if it is safe to go to Egypt all by yourself. Here we have some tips, pros and cons for solo female travellers to Egypt which will help them discover the country hassle and stress free.

Is it safe to go to Egypt all by yourself?

Women travel independently around the world every day. It may be a little challenging to travel solo but it is definitely not because women are more vulnerable. Female travelers might feel a little insecure about going to Egypt alone. Yes, going to a Muslim country all by yourself may sound scary, but when you are asking yourself if you should travel to Egypt solo, the answer is “yes”! Women travel alone to Egypt for many reasons and one of them is a search for spiritual experience. No matter the reason of your travel to Egypt solo, you are welcome to the country with rich scenery and history, warm climate and people.

Solo travels pluses and minuses

If you are new to solo travel and are choosing a safe country to get your first experience here are the pluses of choosing Egypt as a solo traveller destination: - People welcome tourists - in Egypt English is widely spoken and understood even by children so there will be no language barrier - Political situation in the country is finally stable and security of the tourists is ensured - Egypt is not so expensive destination - There are many places of interest to visit - Egypt is one of the best spiritual destination for spiritual seekers - Travelling as a solo be prepare to pay twice for hotel accommodation and individual tours if you do not want to join in a group.

What are the pros and cons of discovering an Islamic country as a solo female traveler?

Get a good health insurance as medical services in Egypt are very expensive especially for foreigners. Travel light. Do not bring many clothes and leave space for all the souvenirs you might want to purchase. Light cotton shirts with sleeves, pants, jumpsuits and maxi dresses are your top priority. Dress conservatively. Open dresses, mini skirts and above the knee shorts are out of question in Cairo, Alexandria, streets of Luxor and Aswan, but acceptable in resort cities, hotels and cruise boats. Carry a headscarf with you to cover up in mosques and other religious places you may like to enter. Swimwear or shorts above the knee are not acceptable in restaurants even at Red sea resorts like Hurghada or Sharm el Sheikh. Wear comfortable shoes because you will be walking long distances. Heels are a bad idea as pavements are rocky and sandy and you can easily break the shoes. We highly recommend socks and closed sporty shoes. Bring your own sanitary products as tampons and pads are hard to impossible to find and quality and price are questionable. Bring along your medicine as you may not find or find it hard to locate similar in the Egyptian pharmacies. Be careful with new acquaintances. Do not share your accommodation details. Carry the hotel business card with you in case you lost your way. Make a copy of your documents and keep both secure. Separate the money. Never keep all cash in one place. Do not reveal your card details to anyone. Always sit in the back of the taxis or private vehicles it is a common tradition in Egypt for women. Otherwise you may be considered to be in relations with your driver. It is recommended to hire a driver from a known company, your hotel or your travel agency. When taking a metro, look out for women only carriages, usually the first 2 wagons, but can be in the middle as well. It is very safe to use metro in Cairo. In other public transportation do not sit next to men. Do not rent a car unless you have driving experience in Egypt or India. Otherwise it is safer to enjoy the chaos from a passenger seat. The way Egyptians drive may seem suicidal to most foreigners, traffic lights are hard to locate and streets are very busy. Ask locals for help crossing the streets as it can be challenging to cross busy streets of Cairo without any traffic light or zebra crossing available. Always ask at least three different people for directions no matter how confident they sound. Some people will direct you even if they never heard about a place only to seem friendly. Do not drink alcohol in public, outside of well known bars, restaurants or a private residence. Be rude if someone bothers you. Even a friendly conversation can be interpreted as flirtation. Decline selfie requests if they make you feel uncomfortable. Do not hesitate to ask people next to you for help. Refuse strangers’ offers to show you around as they will be expecting a tip. Looking out of that Cairo window might seem scary on your first day. That’s why we would recommend to join a group tour on your first day in the country or hire a private female guide in Cairo to show you around. Prepare to be stared at on the streets if you are blond, beeping cars and locals saying “hello” in all languages known. As frustrating as it may seem ignore these people and keep walking. Single female travelers or residents should keep in mind that public display of affection towards the opposite sex is looked down upon in the Middle East. Strict Muslims do not shake hands with the opposite sex. Solo female travelers in Egypt are being observed by hotels security more than others. You cannot bring a man to the room with you unless you are married to him and can provide a legal marriage certificate.

Where can I travel alone in Egypt?

Egypt is a friendly country and an ultimate travel destination to escape from daily life. It must be on top of your list as a solo traveler. Best places to visit as a solo female are Sharm el Sheikh, Hurghada, Luxor, Cairo, Aswan and Alexandria. You should definitely take a solo Nile cruise.

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Any questions feel free to contact us.

Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt: The Ultimate Guide

Sharm El-Sheikh is one of Egypt’s most popular tourist destinations – with good reason – offering visitors a unique combination of relaxation, adventure, and luxury. Sharm is located on the Sinai Peninsula’s southern tip, renowned for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life. The city has numerous ancient landmarks, including the 12th-century Monastery of Saint Catherine and the historic Old Town of Sharm El-Maya. 

Sharm is one of the best places to stay in Egypt if you are looking for a base from where you can easily explore the rest of Egypt. Whether you’re looking to explore Egypt’s rich history, enjoy the sun and sea, or relax in style, use this guide to plan your next Sharm El-Sheikh vacation.

Best Known For: Enjoying the Red Sea

Sharm El-Sheikh is world-renowned for its stunning coastline along the Red Sea. The warm waters of the Red Sea are home to a diverse range of marine life, including over a thousand species of fish and hundreds of coral varieties. This makes it a paradise for divers, who can explore the vibrant underwater world and see everything from tiny seahorses to massive whale sharks.

There are plenty of other ways to enjoy the Red Sea in Sharm El-Sheikh. Why not go snorkeling with our by take a glass-bottomed boat excursion, or relax on one of the many beaches, relishing the breathtaking vistas?

Sharm El-Sheikh: Essential Travel Information

Interactive map of sharm el-sheikh.

More Things to See in Sharm El-Sheikh

What else is there to do in Sharm El-Sheikh, you ask?

Mount Sinai: Visiting Mount Sinai is an unforgettable experience that should be at the top of any traveler’s list when exploring Sharm El-Sheikh. One of the most popular ways to experience Mount Sinai is by taking a sunrise tour. This guided excursion will have you hiking to the mountain’s summit in the early morning hours, arriving just in time to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the surrounding desert landscape.

Discover the Desert: The rugged desert expanse is just waiting to be explored. We offer an unforgettable two-day camel tour and desert camping experience departing from Sharm El-Sheikh – perfect for exploring the stunning desert landscape.

Saint Catherine Monastery : This ancient relic – dating back to the 6th century – will leave you amazed. Visit the UNESCO site that draws travelers and pilgrims alike.

Where to Stay

Sharm El-Sheikh is filled with luxurious resorts boasting private beaches and top-class amenities. When considering where to stay in Sharm El-Sheikh, there are many popular areas to consider.

Old Town: Sharm El-Maya, also known as the Old Town, is perfect for travelers who want to immerse themselves in the local culture and experience the traditional way of life in the city.

Na’ama Bay: Located just 3 miles up the coast from Sharm El Maya, Na’ama Bay is known for its beautiful beach. It boasts some of the city’s best hotels, nightlife venues, and restaurants.

Shark’s Bay: Shark’s Bay is known for its many resort hotels and beautiful beaches with views of Tiran Island. Perfect for a relaxing beach vacation with plenty of amenities and activities.

If you’re still feeling spoiled for choice, our Egypt package tours offer an unforgettable experience with expert local tour guides to renowned destinations and attractions, taking care of all the details for you.

Sheikh El-Sharm’s Restaurants & Markets

Sharm El-Sheikh is a culinary paradise, offering many food options and vibrant markets. The Old Market is a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts, with its narrow alleyways filled with eclectic shops and bustling stalls. Here, you can immerse yourself in the riveting culture, rub shoulders with the locals, and explore a variety of traditional Egyptian goods and wares.

The market is a treasure trove for food lovers, with enticing aromas filling the air as vendors serve mouth-watering delicacies such as morish koftas, succulent kebabs, and fresh seafood. Sharm El-Sheikh’s diverse culinary scene offers street food to sit-down restaurants, satisfying every palate.

If you want to explore more of the delicious food in Sharm, consider booking one of our Egypt Food Tours .

Our Recommendation: Things to Book Ahead 

When traveling anywhere, there is always a list of things you should book beforehand. We recommend ensuring that your accommodation and your airport transportation are arranged before you arrive in Sharm.

Sharm El-Sheikh is a popular choice for travelers looking for a base to explore the rest of Egypt. One of our most popular tours, the Cairo and Highlights of Egypt 4-Day Tour departing from Sharm, books up quickly, so we always recommend booking this one in advance.  Our Tours Leaving from Sharm El-Sheikh are also highly recommended to check out. Additionally, this range of Package Tours is best for adventurous travelers who want to see the best of Egypt.

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Sharm El Sheikh

The southern coast of the Gulf of Aqaba, between Tiran Island and Ras Mohammed National Park, features some of the world’s most amazing underwater scenery. The crystal-clear waters and incredible variety of exotic fish darting in and out of the colourful coral reefs have made this a scuba-diving paradise. Purpose-built Sharm El Sheikh occupies a prime position here, devoting itself solely to sun-and-sea holidays offering a family-friendly vibe and resort comforts, with world-class diving thrown in.

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Experience the real Sharm El Sheikh. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Thistlegorm

One of the top five wreck dives in the world, the Thistlegorm is a 129m-long cargo ship built in Sunderland, England, which was sunk during World War II…

One of the best dive sites in the area, Ras Um Sid features a spectacular gorgonian forest along a dramatic drop-off that hosts a great variety of reef…

Thomas Reef

The smallest, but easily the most spectacular, of the Tiran reefs, Thomas is home to steeply plunging walls that are lined with soft coral, schooling fish…

The Dunraven sank in 1876 on its way from Bombay to Newcastle. Today the wreck, found at the southeast tip of Sha’ab Mahmud, is encrusted in coral and…

At the perennially popular Gardens there are actually three sites in one. Near Garden is home to a lovely chain of pinnacles; Middle Garden features a…

A good choice for a drift dive, this dive site gets its name from an Ottoman shipwreck found here which was carrying a cargo of amphoras. Not much remains…

Al Sahaba Mosque

Designed by Fouad Tawfik, Sharm El Sheikh's new mosque fuses Fatimid, Mamluk and Ottoman style elements into its architecture and interior design. Whether…

Gordon Reef

This large reef is fantastic for sealife spotting with banner fish, parrot fish, cornet fish and blue-spotted sting rays all flitting through the hard…

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Latest stories from Sharm El Sheikh

Mar 2, 2020 • 2 min read

EgyptAir has unveiled a new route between two of the country’s biggest tourist destinations: the Red Sea resorts of Sharm El Sheikh and Luxor, the modern…

Oct 22, 2019 • 1 min read

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Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt: A Travel Guide For First-Timers

Sharm El Sheikh has been THE international beach destination darling of Europeans, Middle Easterners and domestic Egyptian tourists for decades now, and for very good reason. It has year-round warm weather, azure water, soft sand beaches, a plethora of hotels and resorts and some of the most spectacular diving in the world (according to international divers, we’re not being biased!).

Recently other Red Sea beach towns like Hurghada , El Gouna and Marsa Alam have been giving Sharm El Sheikh (or Sharm as we locals call it) a run for their money in popularity, but Sharm remains the OG of the Red Sea beach resort scene.

Read more: Egypt’s Red Sea Riviera - Where To Stay

Go to Sharm if you want: affordable resort luxury. Sharm El Sheikh is very much an all-inclusive hotel package destination – this is where to go if you want to stay at affordable but still 5 star luxury beach resorts, with everything you need for a great beach vacation all within your hotel.

Don’t go to Sharm if you want: a backpacker’s type of beach holiday or anything off the beaten track. Up the Sinai coast of Sharm El Sheikh is the bohemian beach town of Dahab, which is far more suited for that kind of trip. Nuweiba and Ras Shitan also are home to dozens of camps right on the beach.

Quick Facts About Sharm El Sheikh

Sharm is on the tip of Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula where the waters of the Gulf of Aqaba meet the waters of the Gulf of Suez in the Red Sea, leading to its wildly diverse marine life

Sharm El Sheikh used to be a fishing village before it was turned into a port due to its strategic naval positioning. Israel invaded and occupied the Sinai Peninsula, including Sharm, from 1967 to 1982. When Egypt reclaimed it in 1982, it was deemed the ‘City of Peace’ and development ensued to make it an international tourist destination

Best Time To Go To Sharm

Sharm El Sheikh is a year-round destination, but its ‘high season’ is the spring and fall, with average daily temperatures of 25-30 degrees Celsius and cloudless skies – aka, ideal beach weather.

From June to August it’s significantly hotter, with temperatures reaching the mid to high 30s Celsius. If you love the sun and heat, then summer is a good time to go because you’ll find more affordable deals and less crowds than the high season.

Even in the winter, Europeans and Brits still escape to Sharm to enjoy the sun and warmth. From December to February, the daytime temperature averages around the early 20s Celsius, and even if the sea might be too cold for you, lots of resorts have heated pools, so you can still enjoy swimming.

How To Get There

1. Flying (recommended): Sharm El Sheikh has an international airport which receives dozens of international and domestic flights a day. Sharm is around a 4.5 hour flight from many European cities and around 5.5 hours from British cities, and there are tons of budget flights with really cheap airfare or combo airfare/hotel packages.

If you want to fly domestically, most flights within Egypt going to Sharm el Sheikh will originate from Cairo or at least transit there. There’s only a weekly direct flight between Sharm and Luxor, and there are no direct flights between Hurghada/Sharm or Aswan/Sharm. You’ll have to transit in Cairo. A direct flight between Cairo and Sharm is around an hour.

2. By Car: No matter where you are in Egypt, your hotel or anyone in the know can arrange to hire a private car and driver to take you to Sharm El Sheikh. The drive from Cairo is around 6 hours.

3. By Bus: Several different bus companies serve Sharm, most originating from Cairo. The most popular are Go Bus, Superjet and East Delta. They’re air-conditioned buses and the trip averages around 8 hours.

Important local tip: if you’re entering Sharm (or the Sinai peninsula as a whole) via car or bus, then make sure you have proper ID on you because there are A LOT of security checks on the road. They’ll ask to look at your passport and ask where you’re going, and might search your car and bags. Make sure that any alcohol bottles you have are unopened and that you have a receipt for them (to prove they’re not bought from the Egyptian black market).

In general, flying into Sharm is much easier just because you skip the hassle of the Sinai road security checks which can take a long time, adding hours to your overall journey. Once you’re actually in the city of Sharm (where the airport is), getting around is much easier.

Is there a ferry between Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh?

No, there’s currently no ferry available for travelers between Hurghada and Sharm, even if you find confusingly vague information online.

Do You Need A Visa For Sharm El Sheikh?

If you’re flying directly into Sharm El Sheikh (ie., Sharm is your entry point into Egypt), and if you're not staying in the Sinai peninsula for more than 15 days, then you don’t need to buy an entry visa at the airport. You'll get something called a 'Sinai Stamp' for free on your passport -- emphasis on the 'free' part, don't believe anyone at the airport who says they'll get you a stamp for the "low price" of a couple of euro - this is a scam, just ignore them and go straight to an airport official.

If you plan to go to Cairo, Luxor, Hurghada, or any other Egyptian destination outside of the Sinai peninsula, or plan to stay longer than 15 days, you’ll need to get the visa. It’s $25 upon arrival.

Where To Stay In Sharm El Sheikh

Which hotel in sharm should i choose.

Sharm has really boomed as a beach destination since 1982 – there are now over 350 hotels! Choosing a hotel out of so many can feel overwhelming, but it’s really just about your personal preferences. There’s everything from adult-only hotels to hotels created specifically for families with kids; all-inclusive hotels (all meals and drinks included), to more budget stays; hotels right on the beach, and others that need a shuttle to bring you to the beach, etc. You get the idea – there’s everything lol.

Lots of people come to Sharm via preset flight/hotel packages provided by different travel agencies, whether in Egypt or their home country. But if you’re more of an independent traveler, then we recommend making a list of things that are important for you during your Sharm trip and then searching for hotels that match your criteria on the usual online hotel booking sites. Example: heated pools, in-house diving centers, or specific facilities/amenities. A little research goes a long way and can really make a difference – and of course, make sure to read guest reviews and the fine print!

You can also find cheap flights on sites like Skyscanner and the likes, so you don’t need to depend on a travel agency.

Which area in Sharm is best to stay in?

For the most part, Sharm is divided into 3 main areas: Nabq, Naama Bay and Hadaba (also known as Ras Um El Sid or Old Sharm).

Nabq is northeast of Sharm Airport and is the quietest, with long stretches of beachfront luxury resorts (not to be confused with the Nabq Protectorate, which is next to the neighborhood of Nabq in Sharm but protected from development).

Between Nabq and Naama Bay are Knights Bay, Sharks Bay, and Coral Bay, also home to lots of 5 star resorts like the Four Seasons. Between Coral Bay and Naama Bay is Soho Square, a nightlife spot run by Savoy Hotels.

Naama Bay used to be known as ‘central Sharm’ because of its myriad hotels and promenade of shisha cafes, shops, restaurants and bars. While the hotels are still beautiful and act as an oasis from the hustle and bustle outside, and the beaches are very easy to wade into with minimal coral, the promenade itself has seen better days and the shopkeepers and touts can be obnoxious.

Hadaba (Ras Um El Sid) is what’s considered Old Sharm (the first part of the city to be developed), and is home to the Old Market and Al Sahaba Mosque.

Local tip: Honestly, it doesn’t really matter which area of Sharm you stay in, considering as they all have beachfront hotels where you’ll be spending the majority of your time. Your choice of hotel is more important than your choice of area.

How To Get Around Sharm

Unfortunately there’s no Uber (or Careem, the Middle East version), so you’re stuck with taxis. Most of the cabs in Sharm won’t have a running meter, so it’s important you tell the driver where you’re going and negotiate a price before climbing in. They can easily ask for astronomical prices, so make sure to haggle (unless you feel comfortable paying what they’re asking for).

You can also arrange with your hotel to get you a private car & driver, but that’s obviously more expensive than a cab.

Is Sharm safe? And is Sharm safe for solo women travelers?

Yes, it’s safe! So much so that extremely important international conferences (like the recent COP27) are held there, with politicians, dignitaries and VIPs all staying in the city. Sharm had a rough few years after the 2011 revolution because it’s such a tourist hub, but the good news is that Sharm is now one of the safest cities in Egypt because of all the ensuing security measures.

Like we mentioned above, driving to Sharm from Cairo is a hassle because of all the security checkpoints on the roads, where they search everything from cars to bags. So while annoying, it’s a good problem to have.

Sharm itself is a walled city, with heavily monitored entrance and exit points – so basically anyone who’s in Sharm has to have a reason to be! All hotels and resorts have their own security as well obviously, and all public areas are under tight surveillance by the Tourist Police (both in uniform and plainclothes).

If you’re a solo woman, you’ll hopefully feel 100% safe enjoying your resort – everyone there wears normal swim and beachwear, so don’t feel like you have to cover up at your hotel. Even when you’re in public places, the attire is much more relaxed than in cities like Cairo or Alexandria.

What COULD possibly be annoying to women travelers (well, to everyone really but especially women) is how pushy and annoying the shopkeepers and touts can be about selling you their wares or ushering you into their cafes/restaurants. Just say no firmly and politely and keep it moving; they’re obnoxious but harmless.

Things To Do In Sharm El Sheikh

We wrote a long article about the 12 best things to do in Sharm El Sheikh , so all the meaty info is there.

But if you want a quick spoiler of the top things people love: scuba diving, snorkeling, boat trips and relaxing on serviced beaches.

Where To Go Out In Sharm El Sheikh

If you decided to take a break from your hotel and see what else is going in Sharm, then the main places you’ll probably be heading are the following:

1. Soho Square

Soho Square has restaurants, bars, cafes, shisha, ice skating, kids’ arcade, bowling, culturama, tennis and squash. It’s clean and organized and run by the Savoy Hotel group, so not chaotic like Naama Bay or the Old Market.

Soho Square’s restaurants: L’Entrecote (steakhouse), Zen (Chinese), Akuna Matata (international fusion), Teppanyaki (Japanese), Luxor (Egyptian), Bombay (Indian), Mai Thai, Sushi Lounge, Koutouki (Greek) and Mandarin Bistro.

Soho Square’s bars: Ice Bar, Crystal Lounge, Oxygen Bar, Queen Vic British Pub, Mandarin Bar, El Kahwa and Kitano Top Bar.

Local tip: some of the restaurants/bars have a dress code of no shorts and flip-flops for men.

2. Naama Bay

Naama Bay has restaurants, bars, clubs, cafes, shisha, fast food, shops and casinos. It’s a bit chaotic and shopkeepers can be pushy, but it can still be fun.

If you’re looking for quick fast food on the go, here you’ll find McDonald’s, KFC and Pizza Hut.

Some of Naama Bay’s restaurants: Peking (Chinese), Abou El Sid (Egyptian), TGI Friday’s, Pomodoro, Tandoori, Hard Rock Cafe

Some of Naama Bay’s bars: Camel Bar & Rooftop, Tavern Bar, Bus Stop, Pirates Bar, Blue Stone Pub

Some of Naama Bay’s clubs: Pacha, Little Buddha, Space

3. Hadaba/Old Sharm

Besides souvenir shopping (and haggling) in the Old Market, if you want to go to a beach bar for the day, then Old Sharm has El Fanar Beach (with Farsha Lounge overlooking it, which happens to be one of the most beautiful spots in Sharm and home to one of the best views in all of Egypt !). El Fanar Beach and Terrazzina Beach also have frequent beach parties.

If you’re looking for some great old school restaurants, there’s Sinai Star (best seafood in Sharm), El Masrien (Egyptian classics) and Fares (also seafood). These places aren’t exactly ambient but the food is great.

Read more: 12 Local Egyptian Foods You Have To Try At Least Once

Egypt has a strong tipping culture, especially in the service industry. There’s no set percentage or number that works across the board, it’s really up to you and what you feel comfortable with (knowing that tips are always greatly appreciated because wages are so low in Egypt!)

A couple of local tips about tips (heh heh):

It’s always best to tip in the local currency of EGP

If you have to tip in foreign currency, please make sure it’s dollars/euros/sterling because it’s harder to exchange lesser-used currencies

If tipping in foreign currency, please give actual bills and not coins because foreign exchange bureaus won’t accept coins – so it’s like you tipped them nothing in the end

Usual people to tip: servers, hotel staff (especially cleaning crew – if you don’t see them before you check out, leaving some money in your room for them is appreciated), tour guides or boat crew (anyone who took you on an excursion of sorts)

Who you don’t need to tip: taxi drivers (they’re probably ripping you off to begin with), anyone who demands a tip but has provided no service (while this sounds illogical, it does happen)

Basically the same way you came, lol. Your hotel can arrange an airport transfer for you or you can take a taxi (to the airport or bus terminal, whichever way you’re leaving).

We hope this first-timers guide to Sharm El Sheikh was useful – and that it’ll lead to your second, third and tenth trip to Sharm!

For more city guides:

Hurghada city guide, el gouna city guide, aswan city guide.

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Travel Guide To Sharm El Sheikh

The resort of Sharm el Sheikh, with its string of luxury resorts, is heaven for winter-sun seekers, and, it's only a five-and-a-half hour flight from the UK. Here, the sun burns brightly and rain is a rarity. The temperature is tailor-made for languid swimming, sitting by a pool or lying in the shade. But it is also a world-class diving destination and a great place to soak up some history.

Where to stay in Sharm el Sheikh

FOUR SEASONS RESORT SHARM EL SHEIKH (00 20 69 360 3555; www.fourseasons.com/sharmelsheikh ). Designed to resemble a traditional Arabian village, this five-star hotel is one of Sharm's most tranquil hideaways. The 200 rooms and suites are scattered down the hill between reception and the tiny beach like a cascade of elegant sugar-lumps. In the lush gardens there are pools, water features and well-positioned cabanas with proper sunbeds. The dive shop runs daily trips to local sites, including the highly rated Straits of Tiran. Nightlife is laid-back: drinks and shisha in an Arabian lounge; ambient music by the shore. ££ HILTON SHARM EL SHEIKH FAYROUZ RESORT (00 20 69 360 0136; www.hilton.com ). This 210-room hotel is one of the oldest hotels in Sharm el Sheikh, on a prime site in the curve of the bay, with a hearty chunk of sandy beach for its guests. £ THE HYATT REGENCY SHARM EL SHEIKH RESORT (00 20 69 360 1234; www.sharm.hyatt.com ). This is another recent five-star arrival north of Na'ama Bay, on its own headland. Beyond the palm-lined avenue and pink-and-white marble lobby, the rooms are just as spacious and well-equipped as those at the Four Seasons, although with 439 of them around the grounds there isn't quite the same sense of privacy and there is less room for greenery, flowers and fountains. However there are pools, three beaches and a house reef. Na'ama Bay is just a dusty and not very pretty 10-minute walk away, if you are after nightlife. ££ THE RITZ-CARLTON SHARM EL SHEIKH (00 20 69 366 1919; www.ritzcarlton.com ). This luxurious hotel is on the coast just south of Na'ama Bay. Everything from the gold-topped pillars in reception to the pharaonic wall hangings above the beds says Ancient Egypt, although all the facilities are thoroughly 21st century. The 321 rooms are in two-storey blocks around the site, interspersed with the usual array of pools, palms and places to eat and drink. ££ THE SONESTA BEACH RESORT & CASINO (00 20 69 360 0725; www.sonesta.com ). The Sonesta Beach Resort & Casino is at the quiet end of the bay and has plenty of charm, though some of the rooms are a bit cheek-by-jowl. There are 520 rooms inspired by Arabian village architecture. £

Where to eat out in Sharm el Sheikh

Four Seasons Resort Sharm el Sheikh ( www.fourseasons.com/sharmelsheikh ). This open-concept restaurant offers indoor and alfresco dining with Mediterranean, Moroccan and Lebanese specialities. The restaurant seats 90 indoors and 75 outdoors. Opt for the Middle Eastern mezze and fresh seafood. There is also a wood-fired oven for pizzas.

STARLIGHT DINNER RESTAURANT

Hilton Sharm el Sheikh Fayrouz Resort ( www.hilton.com ). Dine alfresco in the desert against a mountain backdrop lit by firelight and candles. Food includes an Egyptian buffet and mezze. Book at least 24 hours in advance.

(00 20 69 360 0150; www.ghazala.com ). If you want to watch the evening passeggiata of Na'ama Bay while you dine on grilled lamb, head for the roof terrace of this charming restaurant, part of the Ghazala Hotel halfway along the bay. There's also a collection of low benches and cushions on the ground-floor terrace for elegant sprawling.

THE SOUK AT THE HYATT

The Hyatt Regency Sharm El Sheikh resort ( www.sharm.hyatt.com ). The Souk at the Hyatt is built to resemble a Moroccan market with Bedouin music, Middle Eastern cooking and boutiques selling local artefacts, fashion and jewellery. Among the many foods on offer are spiced falafels in pita bread at Roti Roti (which specializes in flatbreads wrapped around traditional Middle Eastern curried and spiced meats, and served with traditional chutneys), noodle and rice dishes at Wok's and an array of Lebanese and Arabic specialities at Tahina's, including babaganoush, labneh with walnuts, tabouleh and fatoush.

What to see in Sharm el Sheikh

NA'AMA BAY

Once you have done the 'sights', the great sweep of golden sand at Na'ama Bay is the original home of Sharm el Sheikh's tourist industry, and has rows of sunbeds as well as plenty of activities, including shopping in 'Old' Sharm. There are also endless trips into the desert to dine under the stars with the Bedouin.

ST CATHERINE'S MONASTERY

In the shadow of Mount Sinai, stands the fortress-like St Catherine's Monastery, established by Emperor Justinian in 527 at the spot where Moses supposedly encountered the burning bush. Inside its high walls is an architectural mishmash of libraries, kitchens and living quarters, and an exquisite church hung with gold lamps and ancient icons and soaked in the scent of incense. Outside in the gardens is the ossuary where they keep the bones of all the monks who have lived there. Popular as a day trip, it is the only chance most visitors get to experience the Sinai Peninsula's curiously moving starkness, with only the odd oasis of date palms breaking up the endless pinky-brown hues of the jagged, crumbling mountains. You may baulk at the thought of hiking to the top of Mount Sinai but the ancient buildings at its foot are definitely worth a few hours away from the hotel poolside.

THE COLOURED CANYON

About 80km to the north-east of the monastery is a sight that wouldn't look out of place in an Indiana Jones film. The Coloured Canyon is a geographical oddity. A gorge carved by water through layers of sandstone and limestone over the past 1.5 million years and rediscovered rather more recently by a Bedouin looking for his lost daughter. The result is spectacular, especially at the narrowest section, where the towering rock walls, rosy pink and gold, with streaks and swirls of burgundy, green and yellow, are barely three feet apart and the sky is just a sliver of blue.

Things to do in Sharm el Sheikh

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Magnificent coral reefs lurk just below the azure surface of the Red Sea. Many visitors come here to admire the marine life at unspoiled sites stretching from the Straits of Tiran in the north to the southern tip of Sinai. There are corals of every hue and shape, from flame-red, branching alcyonarians to intricate yellow fans waving in the current. Fish are everywhere: delicately-striped angelfish, garishly spotted coral groupers and carelessly daubed parrotfish. Those who prefer snorkelling can still catch a glimpse of the underwater marvels with a mask and snorkel, thanks to close-to-shore shallow reefs such as White Knight and Middle Garden. Many of the best dive sites, such as Gordon and Jackson Reefs in the Straits of Tiran and those at Ras Mohammed National Park, are also perfect for snorkelling. (Ras Mohammed is considered one of the best diving spots in the world). And they are all accessible by boat on trips organised by any of Sharm el Sheikh's many dive shops. The Sinai peninsula is surrounded by terraces of coral up to 100 metres deep, providing food and shelter for a dazzling array of marine life, from tiny clownfish to chunky humphead wrasse, and sea eels to blacktip reef sharks.

The best way to get around Sharm el Sheikh

The transfer time from the airport to the majority of hotels is 30 minutes at most; many new resorts are only 10 minutes away. Car hire is possible but there are so many taxis and organised trips that it's not really necessary and, with security checkpoints and erratic driving, not much fun either.

Tourist information for Sharm el Sheikh

Visit www.touregypt.net/sharm

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Sharm el-Sheikh

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Section in Sharm el-Sheikh Do & See Even if you do not want to spend your entire holiday on stunning Red Sea beaches, there are still plenty of reasons to come here. Sharm gives you a taste of real Egyptian life and culture, and serves as a base to visit some of the historic sites that surround it. Its crystal-clear water and unique sea life have also made Sharm one of the finest diving spots in the world. Read more

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North of Ras Muhammad, on a beautiful natural harbour much damaged by the ill-planned building of successive occupants, is the town of Sharm El Sheikh, international gateway to the region and the hub of a series of resorts that merge into one another – Ras Muhammad (see above), Na’ama Bay, Coral Bay, Shark’s Bay (a good family resort) and Ras Nasrani. Peace Road, running a little way inland, links all the bays together (taxis and minibuses ply the route).

The best travel tips for visiting Sharm El Sheikh

Best things to do in sharm el sheikh, best areas to stay in sharm el sheikh, best restaurants and bars, how to get around, when is the best time to visit sharm el sheikh, how many days do you need here, how to get here, tailor-made travel itineraries for egypt, created by local experts.

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The Best of Egypt

Explore the history and culture of Egypt and its ancient rulers on this trip throughout the country. Start and end in Cairo and make your way down to Luxor, Aswan and Abu Simbel. Instead of domestic flights, you will hop on luxurious sleeper trains for your journey.

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Experience Cairo with the pyramids of Giza and the Egyptian museum before flying to Luxor to board your Nile cruise. Highlights include Karnak temple, Valley of Kings, Hatshepsut temple and an optional visit to Abu Simbel. Spend your last night in fascinating Cairo.

Tailor-made trips for   Egypt

Old Sharm lies a little way inland, as authentic a piece of Egypt as you will see on this part of the Sinai coast, with small shops on backstreets and an unhurried atmosphere: it is well worth a visit.

Eight kilometres (5 miles) farther on, Na’ama Bay is the centre of Sinai’s tourist boom, with hotels, restaurants, camping grounds and diving shops. It is over-developed but it makes a good base for visiting local beaches.

Some of the best for diving and snorkelling are The Tower, Ras Umm Sid, Ras Nasrani and Nabq. Equipment can be rented at one of many diving centres, where boat trips to Gazirat Tiran, an island in the middle of the straits with superb corals, can also be arranged.

Shipwrecks dot the shoreline, testifying to the difficulty of navigation between the reefs.

Looking for inspiration for your trip? Talk to our Egyptian travel experts .

Sharm el Sheikh © Shutterstock

From great resorts and the lofty Mt Sinai to the Oasis of Feiran and charming Old Sharm, these are the best things to do in Sharm El Sheikh.

#1 Check out Al-Tur

Al-Tur, the capital and largest town in South Sinai, is reached after 75km (45 miles) of hot driving through a wide valley. Settled in ancient times because of its good water supply and excellent harbour, it was the chief quarantine station for pilgrims returning to Egypt from Mecca.

Modern Al-Tur, despite scattered palm groves and a beautiful beach, retains this way-station atmosphere. The town’s population is a broad ethnic mix, many of them descended from Berber and African immigrants.

#2 Discover Old Sharm

#3 go diving at na’ama bay.

Na’ama Bay is the centre of Sinai’s tourist boom, with hotels, restaurants, camping grounds and diving shops. It is over-developed but it makes a good base for visiting local beaches.

Some of the best for diving and snorkelling are The Tower, Ras Umm Sid, Ras Nasrani and Nabq. Equipment can be rented at one of many diving centres, where boat trips to Gazirat Tiran, an island in the middle of the straits with superb corals, can also be arranged. Shipwrecks dot the shoreline, testifying to the difficulty of navigation between the reefs.

Naama Bay in Sharm el Sheikh, Egypt © Shutterstock

#4 Find peace at the Oasis of Feiran

The Oasis of Feiran is the largest and most fertile patch of cultivation on the peninsula. Parched for most of the year, winter rains and melting snow send down short-lived torrents to water the valley. Peppered throughout the palm groves are clusters of Bedu huts.

The wadi may have been the site of the biblical battle between the Amalakites and the Israelites. Within the mountain are the scattered remains of monasteries, chapels and hermit cells of early Christian monks who believed this to be the Elim of the Bible. Tranquil and serene, it is difficult to imagine that Feiran was a cathedral city in the Middle Ages.

Today it is spread with the ruins of dozens of ancient churches, some dating back to the 4th century AD, and you can often visit the small operating convent here with permission.

#5 Seek solace at St Catherine’s Monastery

From Feiran the road climbs into an open plain and after 32km (20 miles) reaches the settlement of St Catherine. The St Catherine’s Monastery is in a wadi between Jebel Musa – most popular candidate for the site of the delivery of the Ten Commandments – and the Jebel al-Dayr just up the hill to the south.

The Roman emperor Justinian ordered the building of a fortress-monastery on the site in AD 537 in order to protect the Sinai passes against invasion. Originally dedicated to the Transfiguration of Christ, the church built within the fortress was renamed after St Catherine (a 4th-century Alexandrian martyred for her derision of Roman idol-worship), after her body miraculously appeared atop Sinai’s highest peak, apparently looking none the worse for wear.

This miracle, coupled with the Crusaders’ occupation of nearby Palestine, ensured the support of Christian rulers. The monastery’s fame spread, so that by the 14th century up to 400 monks lived there.

St. Catherine Monastery, Sinai© Shutterstock

#6 Climb Jebal Musa (Mt Sinai)

Just behind the monastery, a path leads ultimately to the summit of 2,285-metre (7,497ft) -high Jebel Musa, popularly known as Mount Sinai. There are two principal routes to the top and it takes about two-and-a-half hours each way.

The longer and less steep route, Siket El Bashait, can also be negotiated by camel (for hire in the village). The steeper, more direct route, Siket Sayidna Musa, is up the 3,750 “steps of penitence” – rough stone steps that were likely constructed in the 6th or 7th century. The climb is fairly easy, but coming down is trickier, and care should be taken.

The view from the top is magnificent, particularly at dawn or sunset. In fact, many visitors book tours that arrive at approximately 1am at the foot of the mountain in order to climb to the top to watch sunrise.

#7 Go kite-surfing in Dahab

Sediments washed down from the mountains have created a broad sandy plain hereat Dahab. An Israeli-built town on a sandy cove, it has hotels, restaurants, camping and diving facilities and a reputation as the “Ibiza of Egypt”.

It is world-renowned for its wind- and kite-surfing as reliable winds provide superb flat-water conditions inside Dahab’s sand spit. The scuba diving is also excellent thanks to coral reefs just offshore, and there are several dive schools.

Kite-surfing in Dahab © Shutterstock

#8 Try snorkelling at Ras Muhammad National Park

Ras Muhammad is a coral peninsula thrusting its head into the Red Sea at the southernmost tip of the Sinai. It is a national park and one of the outstanding snorkelling and diving areas in the world.

At the Shark’s Observatory, a coral ridge falls over 80 metres (262ft) into the open sea and the wary diver or snorkeller can float along its edge (under 1 metre/3ft deep at high tide) and look out into an underwater paradise.

Most of the best accommodations in Sharm El Sheikh are lined along the coastline. Here are some of the best areas to stay in the resort.

From luxurious hotels and resorts to individual villas, beach houses, and budget apartments, Ras Um Sid caters to families, honeymooners, and groups alike. Right at the tip of the peninsula, this area offers stunning views of the Red Sea and the reefs, making it the perfect location to unwind and enjoy the tranquillity of the area.

As the bustling tourist hub of Sharm El Sheikh, Naama Bay offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. From budget hotels to high-end resorts, the bay has something for everyone.

Shark's Bay

With some of the best diving and snorkelling spots in Sharm El Sheikh. Shark’s Bay has a number of luxury hotels with great views over the Red Sea.

This charming historic area is more relaxed and traditional than the rest of Sharm El Sheikh and the hotels and guesthouses reflect that.

Browse the best hotels in Sharm El Sheikh.

Divers passing over soft coral. Ras Muhammad National Park, Red Sea -Sinai Penninsula © Shutterstock

Get out of your resort and you’ll find that Sharm El Sheikh is a food lover's paradise, offering a range of cuisines from traditional Egyptian street food to high-end fine dining options. Here’s where to eat.

Naama Bay is a bustling area that is home to numerous restaurants and cafes. Visitors can find a range of cuisines, including Italian, Indian, and Lebanese at Naama Bay. Most restaurants offer beautiful sea views, too.

The Old Market is a charming area and filled with street vendors selling traditional Egyptian street food. Visitors can sample authentic dishes such as shawarma, kofta, and falafel.

If you are looking for fine dining options, Soho Square is the perfect place for you. It is a trendy area that is home to many high-end restaurants, including Japanese, Italian, and French.

Sharm El-Sheikh is a popular tourist destination for exploring the Sinai Peninsula. Getting around this coastal city can be a bit overwhelming for first-time visitors, but with the right information and planning, it can be a breeze.

Taxis are readily available in Sharm El Sheikh and can be hailed on the street or arranged through your hotel. Always negotiate the fare before getting in the taxi. Bargain hard.

By microbus

Microbuses are an inexpensive way to shoot around Sharm El Sheikh. They run from the resort to Na’ama Bay early morning until late at night and are marked with the destination in Arabic. Flag down on the street.

It is possible to hire a car and private driver for smaller trips in and around Sharm El Sheikh, including tours.

Many hotels and rental shops offer bicycles for rent. Cycling is a great way to explore the resort, allowing riders to take in the sights at a leisurely pace.

Mount Sinai, Egypt © Anton Kozlovsky/Shutterstock

The best time to visit Sharm El Sheikh is between October and April when the weather is mild and pleasant. During these months, temperatures range from around 20-30°C, making it ideal for outdoor activities like swimming, snorkelling, and diving.

Additionally, this period is the peak tourist season, so you can expect most activities and events to be happening during this time.

However, if you are looking for a cheaper time to visit, you can consider traveling during the shoulder season from May to September. During this time, the weather is hotter with temperatures often reaching above 35°C.

While it might be too hot for some activities, you can still enjoy the beautiful beaches and resort facilities. Additionally, prices for accommodations and flights are often cheaper during this period.

It's worth noting that during the months of November to March, the water temperatures in the Red Sea can be quite cool, so if you're planning on swimming or snorkelling, you may want to bring a wetsuit.

Find out more about the best time to visit Egypt .

Street market in Egypt. Old Market. Sharm el-Sheikh © Shutterstock

The number of days to spend in Sharm El Sheikh depends on what you want to do and see.

If you just want to relax on the beach and enjoy the resort amenities, 3-4 days may be enough.

However, if you want to explore the surrounding area and go on excursions, you may want to stay for a week or more, especially if you wish to hike to the summit of Mt Sinai.

With its own international airport, it’s easy to fly into Sharm El-Sheikh but there are plenty of other ways to get here as well.

Sharm El-Sheikh International Airport is the nearest airport to the resort, around a 20-minute drive to the resort centre.

There are regular bus services from Cairo and other major cities in Egypt to Sharm El-Sheikh, including Alexandria, Dahab, Luxor and Nuweiba. Note that the bus station is around 7km northwest of the resort near the ring road.

If you are driving from Cairo, take the Suez Road and then the Sharm El-Sheikh Road until you reach the resort.

There is a high-speed ferry that links Sharm El-Sheikh and Hurghada which takes two-and-a-half-hours and runs twice weekly.

Find out the best ways to get to Egypt .

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updated 12.10.2023

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Is Sharm el-Sheikh Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Safety rating.

Based on 3 travel experiences

Based on our research and crime data

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Safety index

Safety at night: Moderate

Public transportation: Moderate

Street harassment: Moderate

Petty crimes: Low

Tap water: Unsafe

Is sharm el-sheikh safe to travel.

Based on 3 experiences

Solo travel experience

Sharm is a great place but it takes some time to adjust to the plethora of men. One thing I noticed is that there are no Egyptian natives that are female and mainly men. So just get used to a bit of light harassment if that makes sense. Also haggle! Honestly though as an Arab/African British Woman my radar was probably much higher as I have been dealing with this for much of my life. One thing I can say was using get your guide and going on the ATV/star gazing tour was absolutely phenomenal and I would highly recommend. I came here purely for diving and that’s like what you’ll be doing here. Night life isn’t exactly something I would partake in alone. As it’s off season it’s been quite hard to meet people so be ok with being alone most of the time when not doing a tour. I felt safe just a little bit more hyper vigilant than usual.

I felt safer alone in Sharm El Sheikh than in my hometown (London). I've been there 3 times. The aggressive trade annoyed me, but I simply ignored it. I dressed conservatively there because it was just easier and I wore a ring.

Is Sharm el-Sheikh safe to live in?

Is sharm el-sheikh safe right now, united states travel advisory reconsider your need to travel, canada's travel advisory exercise a high degree of caution, australia's travel advisory reconsider your need to travel, is sharm el-sheikh worth visiting, overall rating.

based on 3 experiences

Rating summary

Things to do, budget-friendly, family travel experience.

In all honesty, Sharm-El-Sheikh was a interesting spin. The people were lovely ver welcoming and friendly, most of the time.. although some if the other tourists behaviour was.. questionable. Despite the stares me and my family got it was a decent experience.

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How safe is Sharm el Sheikh?

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Is it safe to holiday in Sharm el Sheikh right now?

• The Travel Mum

We have just returned from a lovely holiday in Egypt. Naturally a lot of you are asking “How safe is Sharm el Sheik?”. We had the exact same worries before we went and therefore I want to take you through the current travel advice, as well as some practical tips for visiting Sharm el Sheikh in 2024.

Why Travel to Sharm el Sheikh?

Sharm el Sheikh is a beautiful tourist destination with year round sun and lots to explore. Whether you want to lounge by the pool in a luxury resort, explore beaches, visit some world famous historic sights or snorkel/dive at some of the best coral reefs in the world – Sharm el Sheikh has something for everyone.

With many budget friendly packages and DIY deals to be had, theres no doubt many of us are eyeing it up for our next trip.

Need help planning a trip to Sharm el Sheikh? Try our search feature by signing up for free! Alternatively check out our premium membership , for £30 per year we can help you plan the perfect budget trip.

When considering the safety of travel to any destination, it’s important to check the current FCDO advice on the government website . This information will be updated often and help you make an informed decision. (The information in this post is true as of 4th March 2024.)

With the ongoing conflict in Gaza and issues on the Red Sea, many people are naturally concerned about travelling to Egypt. The FCDO currently don’t have any warnings against travel to the popular tourist regions of Sharm el Sheikh, Hurghada and Marsa Alam. This extract was taken from the gov website:

“Additional security measures are in place to protect the resorts of Sharm el Sheikh, Hurghada and Marsa Alam and other tourist areas on the Red Sea. Security forces carry out routine security checks on vehicles and at airports. These are in the southern part of the Sinai Peninsula and further south. These areas do not have a travel advice warning.”

There are however travel advisories against visiting other areas of Egypt, these are summarised in the below map. More details can be found here .

How close is the Gaza conflict?

Although Egypt borders Israel on its northeastern side, many of the popular tourist hot spots are a significant distance away meaning they have avoided any conflict. Sharm el Sheikh is the nearest popular tourist region, but it is still over 5 hours by road to the closest bordering town with Israel. Uk flights are operating as usual to Sharm el Sheikh and do not cross into Israel airspace.

Is it safe to walk outside of your resort?

Sharm el Sheikh is predominantly a tourist town. People are there on their holidays or because they work in the tourist sector. Few people live there, mainly due to it being insanely expensive for them to do so.

When travelling anywhere it is important to be aware of local laws and customs. Egypt is mainly an Islamic country and it is against the law to encourage conversion to other religions including Christianity. Ensure you dress modestly in certain situations, particularly when visiting religious sites, during Ramadan (which is likely to take place March/April in 2024) and when visiting markets. Whilst in your resort there is a lot more leniency on dress code. We happily walked around in typical western summer wear.

Is there a lot of crime in Sharm el Sheikh?

Crime rates in Sharm el Sheikh are generally low but like most destinations there are reports of muggings, sexual assault and robbery. It is always important to remain cautious, especially when travelling alone. Try not to walk around by yourself at night time and ideally don’t get into taxis alone. Update family or friends on where you are planning to go before setting off on any journeys, and let them know when you get there.

Make sure children are always accompanied by someone they know and trust, and not left alone with excursion or hotel staff. Sexual assaults have been reported against minors.

You can report crimes to the local tourist police, make sure you do this before leaving the country. Contact the British Embassy on +20 2 27916000 for advice should you be involved in a crime.

Is it safe to scuba dive in Sharm el Sheikh?

The below guidance has been pulled from the government website:

“Safety standards of diving operators in Red Sea resorts vary considerably. Never dive or snorkel unaccompanied. Where possible make bookings through your tour representative. Very cheap operators may not provide adequate safety and insurance standards. Diving beyond the depth limit of your insurance policy will invalidate your cover. Shark attacks are rare, but there have been a small number involving tourists in the Red Sea region. Monitor any updates from local authorities or your tour operator.”

Can I drink alcohol?

Yes you can. It is however important to be aware that it is illegal to drink alcohol outside of a licensed restaurant or bar. So no drinking out of the streets.

Is the food safe to eat in Sharm el Sheikh?

You’ve probably heard stories of friends or family visiting Sharm el Sheikh and falling sick. This usually happens when bacteria is ingested from a variety of sources. Understanding where these infections can come from will help in best preventing illness.

• Poorly maintained swimming pools can contain bacteria that if ingested, resulting in diarrhoea and sickness.
• Tap water can contain bacteria. Only drink bottled water and brush your teeth with this too. Avoid ice cubes as these may be made with tap water.
• Money can be covered in bacteria. Wash your hands regularly before eating, especially after handling money.
• Avoid salads and uncooked foods. These may have been washed with tap water or handled with dirty hands.
• Ensure food is hot when consumed.
• Avoid street food and anything that looks like it may have been sat around for a while.

Have some emergency meds for the worst case scenario. Rehydration sachets will be really helpful if you do fall sick. Keep really well hydrated and maintain good hand washing as to not infect anyone else in your group.

Is Sharm el Sheikh safe for LGBTQ+ travellers?

Although homosexuality isn’t explicitly illegal in Egypt, couples have been prosecuted under the charge of ‘debauchery’ and even given prison sentences, therefore discretion is advised for gay travellers in Egypt. Public displays of affection are frowned upon for all travellers in Egypt, not just those in same sex relationships. It’s worth being aware that holding hands, arm linking and kissing on the cheek are all very normal between men (and women) in Egypt and aren’t in themselves linked with being in a same sex relationship.

I don’t fancy this. Can I cancel my package holiday?

Tour operators are unlikely to refund trips unless the FCDO advice changes to say “avoid all non-essential travel”. Whilst travel is still deemed as safe, companies have no obligation to offer refunds. It is worth getting in touch to see if they can offer any flexibility and change the holiday to a later date. If the advice does change, you are eligible for a full refund.

Our overall experience

We really enjoyed our stay in Sharm el Sheikh. As I was in the third trimester of pregnancy it was a really chilled holiday. We only left the resort a handful of times and felt safe during these trips. We didn’t encounter any hostility or speak to anyone who had. When questioning the staff about the safety in Sharm el Sheikh, they would laugh and say it is very very safe here. We followed the food hygiene tips above and none of us fell sick.

Ordinarily we would explore far and wide when visiting a new country, we were keen to see the pyramids, visit Cairo and Luxor. Ultimately we decided it was best to enjoy a relaxing holiday in Sharm and save that adventure for a few years time!

I hoped this helped answer your question of “How safe is Sharm el Sheikh?”

Please let us know if you have any further questions!

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The Ultimate Women’s Packing List for Egypt with Culturally Appropriate Things to Pack!

By: Author Sophie Pearce

Posted on Last updated: August 18, 2023

Categories EGYPT , PACKING GUIDES

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure policy for details.

If you’re a woman planning a trip and need a detailed, culturally appropriate, packing list for Egypt – this will be it!

A lot of the packing lists I read before my travels were about safety with female travel and not the important items I needed to pack in my suitcase (although don’t worry, I will go through safety too!).

So, I decided to create one of my own and let you guys in on everything that I packed for Egypt and what I wouldn’t pack again so you don’t have to.

Recently in October, I went to Egypt for a total of 5 weeks, completely solo . I didn’t opt for a tour, or a guide, I was on my own. So, I knew I needed to be savvy with my luggage and be wary of what I wore to be culturally sensitive.

So, I’ll go through the following with you in this packing guide:

• Things to know and you need before you go including an understanding of the culture
• If Egypt is safe to travel for a woman
• Clothes, shoes, toiletries, electronics and medical things to pack

Other items to consider

• What not to pack for Egypt

Okay, so let’s get this packing list for Egypt on the road. Yalla Habibi!

Climate in Egypt, seasons and the different regions

It’s probably obvious, but Egypt is a desert country. That means the climate will be dry, sandy and hot!

I started my travels in Egypt at the beginning of October and it was scorching in the day but nice and cool in the evenings. By mid-November, it was warm in the day (around 20 degrees celsius, I’m talking warm for a Brit!) and then freezing at night. So, come prepared!

There are two seasons in Egypt:

• Hot Summer: May – October  the temperatures will be unbearable, especially near Aswan in the south. Most tour groups will visit temples latest 5 am to beat the heat. But, you’ll still need to cover up, so bring lots of light cotton clothing.
• Mild Winter: November – April  the temperatures drop significantly and it’s pleasantly warm. These are also the most popular months of travel, so expect lots of tourists. Bring a warm jacket as evening temperatures are really cold. I regretted not bringing one.

Popular tourist places in Egypt and the climate for them:

• Alexandria – A business hub and famous port based on the coast of Egypt, this is a windy city! So, expect to be blown away. The temperatures are much cooler here, especially in winter, so bring some warm clothing.
• Cairo – Overly polluted and Egypt’s bustling capital city. Although it’s cooler in the north, the heat seems so much hotter here and almost muggy. By November, it was very cold in the evenings, so bring a jacket!

The South East

• Aswan – as you head further south to Nubia, things start to heat up. Aswan is close to the border of Sudan. But the breeze from the Nile and High Dam is refreshing. Temple hopping with the crowds can be sweltering, but luckily most provide shade.
• Abu Simbel  – the furthest south you’ll probably go. It’s a three or four hour stretch from Aswan along a desert road. Most tourists go by air conditioned bus or car. You’ll be roasting at the temple however!
• Luxor –   Still hot, especially on the West bank. I felt like I was cooking at the Valley of the kings and the temple of Hatshepsut! Karnak and Luxor temples aren’t so bad due to shade on the East side. A cooling falucca ride on the Nile is a must.
• Hurghada –  a resort town on the coast of the stunningly blue Red Sea. Great as a treat after all that sight seeing. The breeze here is amazing and so you can tolerate the heat a lot more. Unlike the rest of Egypt, the dress code is quite relaxed.

The Far East

• Sinai Peninsula (Sharm El Sheikh/Dahab) – Lot’s of security this way due to political turmoil, but is for the most part safe if you want to head to the tourist areas. I was stopped 8 times on my way down by bus for checks. But, the views are so worth it when you’re here! Similar to Hurghada; it’s a beautiful breeze, cocktails and palm trees! Again, dress code here is quite relaxed and in the resorts, anything goes.
• Bahariya Oasis, West Desert, Siwa – Not somewhere you’d attempt without a guide, the West desert is an incredible part of Egypt to explore and one I’d urge you to see if you have more time. As it’s in the open, it’s blistering hot in the day and freezing at night in Winter. sand storms are common, so come prepared!

Essential things to know and prepare before you visit Egypt

• Visa process – You will need a VISA for Egypt. This can be acquired beforehand or at the border for $25USD for single trip. I’ve written out a lengthy post about how to get a VISA for UK citizens here , but it applies for most countries on Visa2Egypt.
• Get Travel Insurance – In Egypt it’s very easy to get sick (I got a severe chest infection) and I was so happy I was covered or it would have been costly. I always choose World Nomad’s as they have good offers and policies.
• Islamic culture –  Over 90% of the Egyptian population practice Islam, making it a conservative country. Women should cover up their shoulders and knees where possible and men should avoid wearing shorts.

• Transport – There are many ways to get around Egypt. Internal flights with Egypt Air are pretty reasonable. You can get the overnight trains from Cairo to Luxor/Aswan but these are usually the same price as a flight. I had a nightmare with the online booking site. Most backpackers use buses as they’re safe and cheap, I recommend GoBus. They have an excellent app to book bus places online.
• Tour companies – You will be a minority in Egypt if you’re not travelling in a tour group. But I recommend companies like Memphis Tours who customise tours for you. I went with them for four days on my Nile cruise and it made sure all my activities were included, it can be costly otherwise.
• Currency – Egypt uses the Egyptian Pound. As a Brit this would constantly confuse and shock me, especially when they told me it cost £180 to get into the pyramids! Don’t worry one British pound equals around £22 Egyptian pounds.
• Tips – when budgeting for Egypt, always include lot’s of tip money. People expect a tip for everything here! For using the loo, for cleaning your hotel room, for helping with your cases, serving your food and even offering to take your photo! Sometimes I had no idea what I was tipping for lol. I’d also tip just for people to go away and leave me alone. Keep lots of small notes handy.

Frequently asked questions

Is it safe for women to travel to Egypt? I think the term safe can mean different things to different people. One person could find it safe and another could find it difficult. But, for the most part, YES! Egypt is safe for women to travel. But, expect a lot of hassle and catcalling.

Do I have to cover my head or wear a local dress? No. The people of Egypt are well aware that not all people travelling are Muslim, so you don’t have to cover your head. But being culturally sensitive by covering up is expected and respectful.

Is it better to go solo/as a couple or on a tour?  There are pros and cons to both. I personally wanted to go solo to experience it for myself.  I also wanted to take photos which meant beating the crowds. Travelling by yourself could prove more expensive due to arranging your own transport, but tours mean you’re on their schedule and you could feel rushed. So, you need to decide based on your preferences.

Personally, I went solo the whole time apart from about four days when I went with Mayfair Cruises and Memphis Tours for my Nile cruise. Arranging a Nile cruise through a tour company was cheaper and made sure all my sightseeing and transport was included.

You can just go on the train between Luxor and Aswan (First Class is about £4!) and there are stops for Kom Ombo and Edfu temples but cruising down the Nile was a dream of mine!

Essential items for Egypt – Don’t leave without packing these

Suncream  – Even the most sunkissed of us will suffer from the sun here. I always take Riemann factor 50 . It’s waterproof and lasts forever (10 hours). This suncream also comes in hand luggage size (100ml)

Hat and Sunglasses – Very important. The sun can be blinding most days, especially in the desert. These are some of my favourites:

Imodium – You never know! Food poisoning is the most common sickness tourists get in Egypt.

Scarf – A pashmina is an ultimate weapon in case of sand storms or if you need to cover your shoulders, enter mosques etc.

Adaptor  – The Power sockets are type C and F. Type C is two round pins and type F has Earth clips. The standard voltage is 220 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz. This global adapter is perfect .

US Dollars – I didn’t personally find it necessary but you can use these to buy a Visa at the border if you didn’t acquire one beforehand. You can pay in Egyptian Pounds all over but they also take USD.

Hand Sanitiser – Egypt is not the cleanest of places, hand sanitiser is a must to ensure you stop yourself from getting sick. Also handy when toilets don’t have soap (which is most of the time in public loos).

Tissues and  wipes – Always handy for toilet situations, most public toilets don’t provide toilet roll or you have to pay a ‘bucksheesh’ (tip) for it.

What luggage to use for Egypt

This depends, Egypt is not necessarily somewhere I would class a ‘backpacking country’ (unless you’re heading on elsewhere of course).

It’s perfectly fine to just bring a suitcase. You won’t really need to lug it around much and most hotels, taxis and even the train stations will have people on hand to help you in the hope of a ‘Bucksheesh’ (tip). A tip is always expected by the way, so keep hold of your five, ten and twenty EGP notes!

Backpack of choice – I used to take my Osprey Farpoint 40 Backpack with me on my travels if I was heading out long term. I don’t as much now. But, this is by far the best backpack I’ve used. I’m petite so I need a small frame and the small/medium size is perfect! I love it so much I wrote a post about it here. 

Luggage of choice – I used to just buy cheap luggage until my suitcase broke while I was travelling! Lesson learned; always invest in a good suitcase with a warranty. Recently, I splurged on a Samsonite which I’m in love with! It has a ten year, worldwide warranty so I can get it fixed wherever I am in the world.

Whether I’m travelling in a suitcase or backpack, I always use packing cubes to keep everything organised. eBags are my favourite brand and have never let me down.

I also packed a daypack by Osprey  as my carry on and a pretty over the shoulder bag for evenings out or dinners.

What clothes to pack for Egypt

As Egypt is a hot, conservative country, you’ll need lots of light and breathable clothing that can cover you up. Here are some packing suggestions based on what I took;

4 t-shirts – made of cotton, with sleeves and without these can be paired with a maxi skirt or trousers

4 jumpsuits – Jumpsuits were my ultimate conservative country weapon. Conservative but come in loads of colours!

3 maxi dresses – if they’re sleeveless bring shawls to cover, if low cleavage bring safety pins !

1 short dress – I wore this on it’s own Hurghada/Sharm El Shiekh but paired with leggings if not.

2 kominos  – these are like shawls to wear over strappy dresses or tops.

2 pairs of trousers – Make sure these are breathable, in winter a lot of people wear jeans but these are heavy and take up space!

2 pairs of leggings – I love to use these under short dresses to cover up my legs

14 pairs of knickers – lol I know, but I hate washing so often so I brought at lot

A couple of bralettes  – I hate wearing wired bras, especially in heat. I bought some from Urban Outfitters.

3 pairs of socks – I brought trainers but only wore them once the whole time so a waste of space lol. But a top tip is to tuck these into your shoes to save space.

1 nightie and 2 pairs of pyjamas – lol, I love my PJs haha. Even when travelling, so for me it’s a must. Hey, I was travelling for 6 weeks!

2 swimsuits – For hotel pools, the hot tub on the cruise and the resorts in Hurghada.

2 pashminas – I like to have a choice. One colourful, one black! These are a lifesaver.

1 cardigan/jacket – I brought one light cardigan with me to Egypt, what was I thinking?! I regretted it instantly with the cool breezes in the evening. I’d suggest packing a light fleece for winter months.

1 dirty clothes bag – to separate things needing a wash.

What shoes to wear in Egypt

Some people will suggest closed-toe shoes, but I was fine in my Birkenstocks the whole time. They’re comfy, breathable and I’d rather have dirty sandy feet over being sweaty and get blisters!

That being said, the floors in Egypt are really dirty, so if you would freak out about having dirty feet all day I’d go for light breathable trainers or closed-toe shoes.

Make sure these are comfy and easy to walk in, a lot of temples are thousands of years old and have stood the test of time. So, they have uneven surfaces.

Comfortable sandals – I always wear Birkenstocks when I travel. I just find them so comfy! They’re perfect for hot countries as they breathe but also have a thick sole around them to help protect your feet from dirt. They’re also stylish and go with any outfit.

Sports sandals – When I first went backpacking I brought a pair of Teva’s. These are washable and are secured on your feet with velcro straps. These are great sports sandals for travelling and have made a comeback with being fashionable!

Close toe shoes  – If you’re going to go with this option there’s plenty of choice. I hate the look of close toe sandals (sorry guys!). The Dr. Martens ones are pretty cool, pity they’ll take a decade to break in. Alternatively, Sketchers are a great choice, they’re super comfy and breathable.

What toiletries and beauty products to bring for Egypt

Your makeup – I always bring mine, plus my Double Wear foundation has SPF in it. But, I have to admit having waterproof mascara and eyeliner helps with the heat. You don’t want to be Alice Cooper!

Lip balm – it’s so dry and it’s easy to become dehydrated. I always like Burt’s Bees.

Hand Sanitiser   – A must. You really don’t know what you’re touching!

Tissues – For toilet situations, your brow etc.

Tampons  or Diva cup – Tampons are not widely sold here, so stock up. Bathrooms are quite dirty, so the diva cup may be a bit risky.

Toothbrush – I love my new Oral-B electronic toothbrush. It’s rose gold and has a nifty travel case. But I also have these Eco friendly Bamboo brushes.

Toothpaste  and Mouthwash – All the big brands can be found here too if you run out!

Suncream – It’s expensive in Egypt and you don’t want to be scammed. Buy some before.

Aftersun – it’s so easy to burn here!

Deodrant – you will not believe how much you sweat here! One word; dripping!

Moisturiser – your skin can get so easily dry from the climate.

Shampoo & conditioner – most hotels provide them but my hair is fussy. Also conditioner is a lifesaver for the dry heat.

Shaver    – I love Venus’ snap travel size one, it comes with a nifty case for travel!

Hair ties – Nice to let that neck breath

Brush – I love a detangler like Tangle Teezer , perfect travel size and great for keeping your mane at bay.

What should be in your medical kit for Egypt

I’ll only be touching on over the counter, non-prescription meds you can bring with you for your ‘first aid kit’ here. Of course, there are numerous pharmacies over Egypt, but it’s always worth bringing some of your own just in case.

Always have a doctors note from your GP for bringing prescribed medications into Egypt, check before you go as  some have restrictions  (i.e. Methadone) which could mean you face jail time.

Imodium – vital to have on hand in case of any unfortunate events!

Paracetamol/Ibuprofen – These are fine, but  codeine is not . Always check with your GP first.

Cough sweets – I always bring these on every trip now. In Egypt I had a terrible chest infection and coughed a lot due to the sand and dryness everywhere.

Plasters – For blisters, or for any cuts. It can be dirty and you don’t want them to become infected.

Mosquito repellent  – I was bitten A LOT in Egypt. Not just by mosquitos. Sandflies, ants and even a camel I rode had fleas! Bring mosquito spray or patches or bands and apply daily.

DO NOT forget travel insurance for Egypt

I always choose World Nomad’s as their standard plans cover most adventure activities (i.e. Camel rides)

Don’t forget your electronics

Camera – Pics or it didn’t happen!

iPhone with an Otterbox case for complete phone protection

Power bank –  My Anker powerbank can do up to four phone charges!

iPod – Perfect for travelling long distances

Headphones – I always go for over ear instead of in ear.

Adaptor – this global adapter works wonders and works in Egypt!

A Mummy Liner –  perfect for when travelling on the cheap, in hostels or on trains. Bed bugs are real guys! This makes me feel a little cleaner.

Sleeping Mask – Perfect for overnight travel and hostel situations.

Ear Plugs  – Most of the cities (especially Cairo/Giza) arenoisy.These are perfect and healthy for your ears.

TSA Luggage Locks – These aren’t always necessary but as I carry a lot of expensive electronics it gave me peace of mind. I keep one on my daypack.

Trtl Travel Pillow – Perfect for the plane journey, train travel and long bus journey’s. Weighs nothing and packs up small. This is my favourite travel pillow and I wrote a post about it here .

Microfibre towel – Most hotels will have towels but if you’re backpacking in budget places, I’d get one of these over a bulky fluffy towel!

What not to pack for Egypt

Shorts – If you’re only heading to Hurghada/Sharm El Sheikh take them. But, I wouldn’t for the rest of Egypt. Over the knee capri’s are fine however 

Short skirts/ dresses – will attract unwanted attention. Alternatively, pair these up with a shawl, scarf, or leggings

Jeans –  In summer it’s fatal. In winter these could be okay but they’re always so bulky.

A hairdryer – The air is as hot as a hairdryer and most hotels have them!

Your drone –  If you have one. They’re illegal in Egypt, will be confiscated at security and if you’re caught comes with a hefty fine. Although I did see one flying at a wedding in the Mena House in Cairo lol.

So, that ends the ultimate women’s packing list for Egypt!

Well done if you made it this far!

Now, depending on what type of traveller you are, you may think that it’s far too much or not enough. That’s cool, tailor it to the length of your trip and bring what you’re comfortable with.

Egypt is one of the most fascinating countries I’ve ever visited in my life and was happy I came prepared for all eventualities. You just never know when you may need something.

Make sure you get organised for your trip – it will be one wild ride!

So, over to you. Have I missed anything? What are the most important things you like to pack on your trips? Let me know in the comment below.

Read more of my Egypt articles

My perfect 2 week Egypt Itinerary

My top travel tips for Egypt

The most Instagrammable places in Egypt

My guide to the Valley of the Kings

Things to do in Luxor

The ultimate 4-day Nile Cruise

Things to do in Aswan

Top places to visit in Luxor at night

The perfect guide for Abu Simbel

My survival guide for the pyramids

Top things to do in Cairo

Why you NEED to visit Alexandria

Top tips for riding a hot air balloon in Luxor

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Wednesday 25th of January 2023

Sophie, Terrific guide. I have already purchased the adaptor you recommended! Also, using Memphis Tours for the bulk of stay in Egypt. Good hint about having physician send along a note about current prescriptions....thanks again....Jeff

Sunday 12th of February 2023

@Sophie Pearce, Thank you for all the tips heading to Cairo this week .

@Sophie Pearce,

Sophie Pearce

Hi Jeff, that's wonderful to hear! I hope you have an amazing time! Egypt is such an incredible country and Memphis Tours were great! Thanks, Sophie x

Tuesday 18th of October 2022

I'm off to Egypt this weekend and it'll be the trip of a lifetime for me as I've always wanted to go. This is a fantastic guide, Sophie. I've printed it out for reference. I'm going to check of your taking solo pictures guide. Dawn

Saturday 22nd of October 2022

Hi Dawn, oh I'm so happy for you! Have an incredible time in Egypt. It was an experience of a lifetime for me :) Sophie x

Wednesday 21st of September 2022

Thanks for this. We are planning to travel in 2024 to Egypt and Memphis Travel have been helping me with a tailor made tour. You have increased my confidence in what I have planned and I am grateful.

Monday 26th of September 2022

Hi Margaret, Memphis Travel were great and their guides are experts. You'll be in good hands :) Sophie x

Wednesday 12th of January 2022

I'm going to Egypt next month & I have been searching what to pack. I have to say I found your packing list to be the best because it includes quantity of items to pack.

Thursday 13th of January 2022

Ah amazing! You'll love Egypt. I'm glad my packing list could help you :) Have an amazing time! Sophie x

Catherine heaton

Thursday 28th of October 2021

Thanks for all your advice. I am thinking in going to Egypt in Jan 2022. The packing advice was detailed and exactly what I needed to know. Many thanks .

Wednesday 10th of November 2021

Hi Catherine, no worries at all - enjoy Egypt! Sophie x

Sharm el-Sheikh

• 1.1 Orientation
• 2.1.1 Airport cafes
• 2.1.2 Shops in the airport
• 2.2 By boat
• 2.3 By car or bus
• 3.1 By taxi
• 5.2 Horseback riding
• 5.3 Quad bikes
• 5.4 Para sailing
• 5.5 Camel trekking
• 7.2 Mid-range
• 9.2 Mid-range
• 9.3 Splurge
• 10 Stay safe

Sharm el-Sheikh (Arabic شرم الشيخ) is a large resort at the south tip of the Sinai Peninsula in Egypt . The main reasons to visit are for scuba-diving and other water and beach activities, and to explore the Sinai desert. Often abbreviated to "Sharm", in Arabic it's pronounced Sharm i-Shaykh : the "Sha" is a sun-letter that absorbs the preceding "el-". It's the most developed and most cosmopolitan of the Sinai resorts.

Understand [ edit ]

Sharm el-Sheikh is at the south tip of a desert peninsula backed by rugged mountains, with no historic trade or pilgrim routes through it, and no mineral wealth. So it remained an insignificant fishing village until the 20th century, when it developed as a naval base to control the shipping lanes east up the Gulf of Aqaba to Jordan and west up the Gulf of Suez to the canal. But that made it a target for military attack. World War II attacks were against the shipping convoys rather than town, Thistlegorm sunk in 1941 being one notable nearby casualty. In 1956 Sinai was occupied by Israel during the Suez conflict, returning to Egyptian control in 1957. The area was again occupied in 1967, this time for 15 years, during which the Israelis developed Sharm as a tourist resort (and to some extent the other small towns along the Sinai coast). A peace deal led to their gradual withdrawal between 1979 and 1982.

By the 1980s Egypt was becoming a mass-tourist destination and Sharm continued to develop. President Hosni Mubarak (in office 1981-2011, died 2020) was very supportive of this; he raked in a dubious fortune from it but it meant that Sharm initially saw little of the turmoil of the "Arab Spring". However, in 2005, 88 were killed by a series of bombs across town, 2006 saw bombings in Dahab, and the long-running Sinai insurgency began in 2011. In 2015 an Airbus was downed shortly after take-off from Sharm, killing all 224 aboard. This plus attacks elsewhere across Egypt utterly blighted tourist visits, as they were intended to do. Better security and a lull in attacks led to resumption of tourist flights in late 2019, and the city was just beginning to recover when in 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic again shut down trade.

The climate is very dry, with sometimes no rain all year. Summer days are blisteringly hot and the nights are warm to hot. In winter, the days are shirt-sleeve warm but the nights and the sea are cold: there's often a shimal , a cold wind blowing from the north.

Orientation [ edit ]

The Na'ama Bay part of the city is the center of nightlife and dining: most of Sharm's clubs, cafes, restaurants and shops are here. Na'ama Bay lies midway between Sharm Airport and Old City, nearly 10 minutes driving from each.

Microbuses can take you from downtown, but to reach Na’ama Bay from the airport, you will have to take a cab.

Sharm el Sheikh has grown into three distinct areas now, Nabq is a new area to the north of Na'ama, Old Market and Hadaba to the south of Na'amaa Bay.

Get in [ edit ]

See Sinai for information on the Sinai visit pass, which allows visa-free travel for up to 14 days.

By plane [ edit ]

You will need a visa only if you plan to go out of the Sharm area (such as Ras Mohammed bus or boat, Cairo, St Catherine's). It can be bought on arrival (price seems to vary day to day, make sure you have £25, US$25, or €25 handy.

For departures: timetable shows only nearest 1-2 hours, makes you watch over the row of check-in desks for your flight number.

Airport cafes [ edit ]

Cafes after security check are: Sbarro (overcrowded), Cafe Europa (on the back of the lounge, less crowded): sandwiches, coffee, Egyptian sweets; an outlet of the Caffè Ritazza international chain (also in Athens, Budapest, Madrid, Milan, London, Paris, New York, Stockholm, Zurich, Vienna) is coming soon.

Shops in the airport [ edit ]

After security check: Patisserie offers lukum, halva and other Egyptian sweets.

By boat [ edit ]

Ferry services between Hurghada on the mainland Red Sea Coast and Sharm were suspended in 2018. The high-speed catamarans used to be run by La Pespes [formerly dead link] .

27.857528 34.280205 2 Sharm El Sheikh Marine Port is along the southern entry road, about 1 km southeast of the old market.

By car or bus [ edit ]

Sharm el-Sheikh can be reached by driving down the eastern coast from Eilat ( Israel ) via Nuweiba and Dahab , or via the western coast from Cairo . There are daily buses for both routes. From Cairo, East Delta buses take approximately 8 hr (LE80) while Superjet buses take 6 hr. When taking the bus from Cairo, keep your bus ticket and passport handy, as you will pass through a number of checkpoints, which require passengers to present identification and ticket. The drive is interesting with beautiful scenery, throughout the route.

27.899099 34.287501 3 Sharm el-Sheikh bus station is about a kilometer from Peace Road. If you should arrive during the evening hours your only option may be to take a taxi, as micro-bus service can be spotty. Since Sharm is a tourist-driven economy, you should be prepared to do some bargaining. If you are of the hiking type, it is roughly 20 minutes' walk to the main road. Just ask anyone to point you in the direction of Peace Road. Once at Peace Road you should have no problem hailing down a micro-bus.

When heading to the bus station via micro-bus along Peace Road, tell the driver that you are going to the bus station, and want to be left off at the gas station. This may take some work, given the limited English skills of the drivers. Once at the gas station, you should see micro-buses, which will take you on the final leg. Remember, transfers are not issued, you must pay another fee for the final leg.

About micro-bus fees If your journey is within a kilometer or two, the cost should be about (LE3-5). If your stop is further out, or if you are traveling during the late night hours, be prepared to get a demand for more money, in some cases drivers may demand up to (LE10-20). Demands for higher fees can also take place, if the driver feels he you have money! So, be prepared to negotiate. If the driver's fee is unreasonable, get out — this will often bring down the cost. When arriving, ask a local how much the bus costs before hailing one down. The information provided will give you a base-line price, from which you can bargain with.

Get around [ edit ]

By taxi [ edit ]

In Sharm the taxis are generally modern models, either Hyundai or Chevrolet. Don't bother with the meter in the taxi: it probably does not work anymore. They soon break due to the dust, and would work out more than the "fixed" prices anyway. Always note the driver's ID number. The tourist police are very helpful if you have a problem, or quickly realise you left something inside, but only with the taxi number.

Don't assume they have meters. Locals tell you they don't. Make sure you have transportation waiting for you as Sharm el Sheikh airport is the worst part of Egypt for getting a reasonably priced taxi. They will ask for LE150-400 for the 10-minute ride to Nabq. It is easy to make it to the main road, hail a cab and pay LE50-100. Otherwise you will walk away from the experience feeling violated.Check with your hotel if they have a pick-up service.

Check sure you have small notes to pay the fare and never pay before you reach your destination, making sure you only pay the pre-arranged price. Make sure that the driver knows that you are paying in Egyptian pounds and not British pounds. Taxis do not like to take coins.

By bus [ edit ]

There are also a fleet of blue and white tuk-tuks, which are basically small buses, of varying roadworthiness, which are used to ferry the locals around the resort of Sharm el Sheikh. These are a most economical method of transport compared to taxis, which are comparatively expensive. They run on a fixed route from north to south with a diversion to the expat/locals area of Hadaba. To hail a tuk-tuk, wait next to the side of the main street and raise your hand to flag one down as it approaches. When you take the bus, go inside and find a seat and simply pass your money forward to the driver (with the help of other passengers if you sit in the back). The fare should never be more than LE3. If you start asking for the price the driver may very well try to make you pay much more than needed. Do not try to pay in foreign currency. When you arrive at your destination call 'hinna quiis' (here is good). The main tourist center, Naama Bay, is known as Marina (and there is no marina!).

Make sure you have a stash of small coins and notes to pay your fare.

See [ edit ]

Sightseeing and excursions in/from Sharm El Sheikh

• Sharm Old Town Hail a taxi or local bus to take you to the Sharm Old Town, ask the driver for the old market. This is a much different experience for tourists staying in the Na'ama Bay area. Most of Sharm was built after the Israeli invasion, so don't expect a Morrocan-style 'souk' experience! Ignoring the touts outside each shop make a better experience, unless you are serious about buying. Stay strong in you determination of what to pay.
• Na'ama Bay is the tourist center of Sharm el-Sheikh, an unusual sight and a bit exotic for a westerner are huge fans pumping fresh air and water to street cafes and terraces near hotels. Na’ama Bay is basically a formation of a large number of hotels and spas, sharing the same beach line.
• 27.88798 34.295383 3 El-Samaeyeen Cathedral . A Coptic church beautifully decorated with frescoes depicting bible verses. Most often, there will be a guide that can offer a tour. ( updated Jan 2017 )
• A visit to the desert is highly recommended. Various trips to the Bedouins, the beautiful Colored Canyon, White Canyon, quad bike and buggy safari tours.

The more adventurous should try to find a private guide, who takes them for a few days into the mountain desert with a camel. You will walk through hidden valleys, rest at secret oasis and during the night you sleep under a breathtaking firmament.

• Boat and snorkeling trips to the beautiful snorkeling sites in Ras Mohammed National Park and Tiran Island. For non-swimmers, the submarine or glass-bottom boat is an ideal alternative to discover the underwater world of the Red Sea.
• Cultural excursions in Sinai like Saint Catherine's Monastery and Mount Sinai, where, according to tradition, the God spoke to the prophet Moses. Excursions from Sharm el-Sheikh to Cairo, where the famous three pyramids, the Sphinx and the Egyptian National Museum, or to Luxor, the famous capital of ancient Egypt. Other sightseeing excursions include those to neighboring countries to visit sites such as Petra or Jerusalem.
• Day visit to Dahab Lovely relaxing trip - a totally different vibe to Sharm. One hour away through a mountainous road, best not attempted at night. Taxis should be LE150 each way or LE20 each way from the bus station then a Dahab 'taxi' (pick-up) for LE5-10 into town. Take the number of your driver if you want to leave at a different time. The bridge is in the centre of town with a promenade in each direction.
• Enjoy the sight and sound experience and the live show at Alf Lela w Lela (A Thousand and One Nights) everyday. the live show is amazing, with different shows featuring other belly dancers. Also some Egyptians weddings, tanourra dance and shows. A bit down at heel but worth a look around.
• Short trips to Aqua Park , the largest water park in Sharm el-Sheikh, Dolphinella where dolphin shows and dolphin swim takes place and crocodile show.

Do [ edit ]

Diving [ edit ].

Diving is the main activity in Sharm el-Sheikh. When you dive into the warm water of the Red Sea and leave the remote desert behind, you will enter a world full of life and colours. Divers, especially photographers, should be confident with their buoyancy to avoid damaging the fragile coral reef system. Some hotels in Na'ama Bay have cleared the coral reef from their section of beach for tourists to use the water.

• The reefs of Tiran and Ras Mohammed are known as two of the best diving spots in the world. They can be reached by boat from Sharm within two hours. Ras Mohammed is the southern most point of the Sinai peninsula. There, the current of the Gulf of Aqaba meets the Gulf of Suez. Due to the increase of plankton in the water the amount of fish is incredible. Huge schools of barracudas, sharks and murrays can be seen there every day.
• The wreck of the SS Thistlegorm is generally regarded as one of the finest wreck dives in the world. However, it can also become very crowded with divers and definitely is an advanced dive due to strong currents and part of the dive is usually in an overhead environment.
• Smarter divers book a diving safari . This way you avoid the crowds at the popular spots and have the possibility to dive beautiful reefs way beyond the reach of any daytripping boats. The overall costs of a diving safari does not exceed daily diving and it saves you a lot of stress. Check out your chosen boat online and make sure the photos are current!

Operators include

• Oonas Dive Center . A small, friendly dive centre at the quieter end of Na'ama Bay offering daily diving and all PADI courses - discounts for internet bookings.  
• Sinai Divers Naama Bay .  
• Camel Dive Club .  
• Colona Divers .  
• Emperor Divers .  
• Enigma Charters .  
• Ocean College .  
• RedSea Diving College .  
• Diving Ocean .  
• Ultimate Diving Holidays .  
• Sharks Bay Umbi Diving Village .  
• Dolphin Diving Center .  
• Divers International , Sofitel Hotel ( North end of Na'ama Bay ), ☏ +20 106770462 . 9AM-6PM . PADI five star diving centres offering daily diving trips, PADI courses, and liveaboard safaris.  

Horseback riding [ edit ]

• Stables at Sofitel Hotel . Helpful personnel. Require helmets (provided); several pairs of riding boots available. After the ride, offer you to give showers to your horse. Bambi and Kelly are declared as the fastest horses. Too far from the desert: in a 2-hour route, only 40 minutes is actual ride in desert, the remaining time is spent to get there and to return back. For 2 hours, it is better to choose stables at the edge of desert. €45 (2 hr) . ( updated Dec 2018 )

Quad bikes [ edit ]

There are dozens of operators who seem to use just the same route, length and sequence of stops: when you drive, you meet many groups who follow just the same route as yours. There are several really shaky pieces of the route, very much like a washboard.

Wear a long-sleeved shirt; shoes are safer than sandals. Always wear a helmet and make sure your travel insurance covers this activity. Expect all your wear (and skin) to be covered with gray dust.

2 hours of riding is just enough for a non-professional rider; expect several stops along the way. It's ideal to start your ride at 16:00 or later--to catch a sunset and ride back when air is not that hot.

At departure point, choose a bike in the beginning of the motorcade: being one of the first allows to drive faster, and results in less dust.

• Tiba Safari/Tiba Trip . Sold by many agencies. Groups are 10-15 bikes; two persons per bike is allowed (although bikes were designed for a single person). Tasting Berber tea is very risky for your stomach--proven several times. Group is accompanied by a car with camcorder--video is not worth buying, and the car generates much extra dust (you can't do much about it unless your whole group ask in advance to not make video at all). US$20 single person per bike for 2 hr; $25 for two people sharing the same bike for 2 hr . ( updated Dec 2018 )

Make sure you stay on the path and follow your guide, as Egypt has one quarter of the world's landmines buried in its deserts, some of them surprisingly close to Sharm el-Sheikh.

Para sailing [ edit ]

Para sailing is very enjoyable. But, for a ride that is less than 5 minutes, they charge LE260 for 2 persons and LE220 for one person.

Camel trekking [ edit ]

The best place to do this is in the Sinai desert on a tour on camels. After this you can look up at the desert stars at midnight after having a homemade meal cooked by the Sinai people.

Buy [ edit ]

Water in shops cost around LE3-5. Bring your sunscreen, because they cost LE80-200 anywhere in town, if you are without tan, shopkeeper will sell you one at very bad price - welcome to Egypt.

Na'ama Bay has very forceful sellers and caution should taken by the naive tourist who accepts a "free gift" (nothing in Egypt is free) or falls for the "come and sign my guest book" in a shop, only to be locked in. When shopping, it is best not to speak to any sellers who engage you unless you are sure that you are going to buy something. This allows you some degree of hassle-free walking (as they do not know what language you speak).

Opening hours are variable, but most shops are open in the early to late afternoon and in the evening. If you are looking for a reprieve from the hassle and haggling, there's a Carrefour Express supermarket with fixed prices. Coming from the bay, it's hidden behind one of the Malls, at Golden Pyramid Mall – on Peace Road. The selection is limited, but all the staples are available without hassle. You just have to make it through the crowds of vendor touts to get there.

• Carrefour Express , Marina, one street west of 'main disco street' ( one street off from the main shopping/nagging street in Marina part ). One of the classic European shops with price tags, option to pay with credit card without disadvantages, exchange machine and ATM inside. They do have a lot of local spices and even some souvenir items, like small papyrus just for LE2.  

Eat [ edit ]

If you need a break from resort food try one of the local places below. If you're looking for a taste of home, Il Mercato houses a McDonald's, KFC, Pizza Hut, Costa and a Starbucks. Manchow Wok has nice Chinese food and is opposite Stella, the only place to drink in El Mercato.

Na'ama Bay is amusing, especially at night, where lights of Bedouin-style and modern restaurants, café shops, and other 'bazaars' are glittering. Pork is not sold, even when it is advertised on a menu (it is actually a salted beef). A 10-15% service charge will be added to any bill.

Budget [ edit ]

• El Masrien , Old Market ( next to the market exit ), ☏ +20 69 366 2904 . 12:00-04:00 . Offering Egyptian barbeque cuisine including Kabab, Kofta, Reyash, Nefa, Tarab & liver, all types of oriental dishes including veal shank, stuffed pigeon & stuffed duck, all types of pasta & rice & different types of stuffed vegetables. Alcohol free. Enjoy all types of grills. Also worth is GAD a few more doors down, look for the big red sign. Both are full of locals.  

Mid-range [ edit ]

• 27.862997 34.304786 1 Fares Seafood ( In Horus Mall ), ☏ +20 115 933 3735 . All kinds of seafood fresh from the Red Sea.  
• Fawanes Cafe , Naama Bay . Lebanese cuisine. Good place for waterpipes; order a smaller one (Fawanes); apple one is ideal.  
• Onions ( In Iberotel IL Mercato ). Fusion food, good services and reasonable prices.  
• Safsafa , Naama Bay , ☏ +20 69 3660474 . Probably one of the best fish cafes in the town. A rare place where grilled calmaras are really good. However, the lobster included in the mixed seafood plate is dry.  
• Tempo Cafe . Features some percentage of locals. Waiters are uniformed in distinctive orange-and-green. Waterpipe is good, but when served for several people (with many hoses), the menu price may be multiplied by number of people--ask in advance; maybe it's just a scam.  
• Indian restaurants . There are 3 Indian restaurants in Sharm. One is Maharaja, on the beach pathway. Other two are India House Restaurants, of Thai Chain hotels. One is the old market and another one, opposite little Buddha, on the road near the taxi stand. Can get Indian menus.  

Drink [ edit ]

For nightlife, Na'ama Bay offers several clubs: The Pacha, Little Buddha and Hard Rock Cafe. (Yes, the latter is one of the chain.) There are countless bars and the pedestrian walkways offer many coffee houses where you may also enjoy a shisha along with some people watching.

Alcohol (including beer) is available in restaurants and street cafes. Travellers must be aware that taxes are now levied on alcoholic drinks that are purchased in cafes or bars that are not associated with the hotels. Drinks can be relatively expensive, compared to those in European destinations. Always ask to see a drinks menu before ordering a drink. Check in the Naama Bay cafes that you will not be charged 'entrance' and to watch the 'floor show' (bad dancing). Tea and coffee is around LE15-25, make sure you are paying sensible prices.

Fresh Guava juice is a must-try, excellent in any cafe, along with Bedouin or Mint tea.

• Black House . Second famous venue after Pacha club. Presumably owned by Russians and avoided by everyone.  
• Bus Stop , Nabq Bay . ( updated Dec 2018 )
• Hard Rock Cafe , El Soultan Qabous St., Nabq . Daily 12:00-04:00 . ( updated Dec 2018 )
• Little Buddha , Naama Bay Hotel , ☏ +20 69 350 1030 . Good music and cocktails. Not the cheapest place in town.  
• Ministry of Sound Red Sea , Pacha/Sanafir hotel , ☏ +20 31624930603 . 23:00-03:45 .  
• Pacha club , Sanafir hotel, Naama Bay , ☏ +20 69 360-0197-8 . One of the most famous dancing clubs.  
• TGI Fridays , Naama Bay .  

Sleep [ edit ]

Most hotels in Sharm, particularly in the Na'ama Bay area cater for package tourists. There are mostly 3-6 star all-inclusive hotels and there are very few (if any) budget options. Generally it is best to knock a star off the official rating to avoid disappointment. Renting privately owned apartments is economical, but they vary in facilities.

Nabq or Montaza area it is quite a distance to the north (12 km) from Na'ama Bay and Old Market, so you either are tied to their all-included ration, or need to pay for taxi for every dinner in Na'ama (although taxi is inexpensive from most of hotels, or take the hotel courtesy bus). You do have Soho Square and the 'Mall Strip' of Nabq area of all inclusive Hotels.

For hotels in Na'ama Bay, their territory is frequently crossed by a pedestrian street, so the beach may appear across the street from the hotel building--obviously affecting privacy even when using a hotel's pool. The zebra crossings on the main roads are best ignored as the drivers have no idea what they are for! Check your choice out on Google maps to see if it is really near a beach as some are set back from the water some distance, although they do have shuttle buses (some of which incur local fees).

• 27.863162 34.302676 1 Egyptian Youth Hostel Assosiation , Qesm Sharm Ash Sheikh , ☏ +20 693660317 . A government-run youth hostel. Very friendly English-speaking staff. Good location. It could use some remodeling. Foreigners: LE105 dorm, private room LE135 .  
• Oonas Dive Club , Na'ama Bay , ☏ +20693600581 . Small, independent hotel on the beach at the quieter end of Na'ama Bay. With integrated restaurant and bar facilities, roof bar and on-site Dive Centre. Friendly staff and personal service.  
• Savoy . Extremely spacious and modern rooms.  
• Sierra . Very small territory for its number of visitors. Airport is very close, and planes fly over the hotel's territory.  
• Sofitel . Large territory is isolated and private, but still within walking distance from Naama Bay--allowing pleasant promenades through a flower alley for a dinner in Naama. Moroccan-style interior and territory decoration; territory smothered in flowers. Very courteous staff--compared to many other resorts of this grade in Sharm. Built around late 1980s-early 1990s, as bathrooms equipment suggests; plastic chairs on most private terraces. Large swimming pool, tennis court (pay for electric light only?), gym, horse stables available. 3 private beaches, each with a private piece of a coral reef right near the beach. Breakfast is from 06:30-10:30; buffet is not refilled after 10:00. Good choice of traditional breakfast meals; custom-made omlettes and fried eggs; coffee is American only; cocoa is made of instant. Whole fruits are not served, but all components for fruit salad are. The Horizon Bar overlooks the sea; terraces next to the pool both serve dishes from the main restaurant where the breakfast is served. Caesar salad is fine; lentil soup is not spicy and pretty good (if you like lentil soup). Pizzas are quite rubbery. Cucumber soup cold and strange. There's also an Indian restaurant.  

Splurge [ edit ]

• Domina Oasis Hotel & Resort ( near Sharm El Sheikh Golf Resort ).  
• Grand Rotana Resort & Spa . About ten minutes from the airport.  
• Hilton Sharm Dreams Resort , Nabq ( near Nabq Bay ). Guestrooms have balconies, air conditioning, and sofa beds. Rooms also include minibars and handheld showers. ( updated Dec 2018 )
• Hilton Fayrouz Resort Sharm El Sheikh ( near Naama Bay Beach ).  
• Hilton Sharks Bay Sharm El Sheikh ( near Sharks Bay ).  
• Hyatt Regency Sharm El Sheikh , Gardens Bay, South Sinai , ☏ +20 69 360 1234 , [email protected] . 5-star resort-style hotel with 439 rooms and suites, a watersports centre and a spa.  
• Noria Resort ( near Naama Bay Beach ). It has been built in traditional Roman style. It is not on the beach but has a free shuttle bus. They charge €3 per hour for wifi.  
• 27.921352 34.367168 3 Sheraton Sharm Hotel, Resort, Villas & Spa ( near Sharm El Sheikh Golf Resort ), ☏ +20 69 3602070 .  

The super-luxury resorts:

• 27.956592 34.392243 4 Four Seasons Resort Sharm El Sheikh , 1 Four Seasons Boulevard , ☏ +20 69 3603555 .  
• Ritz Carlton . Spa, diving and snorkelling from the hotel.  
• 28.021725 34.43764 5 The Cleopatra Luxury Resort Collection , ☏ +20 69 37 10 850 , fax : +20 69 37 10 851 . Spa, diving and snorkelling from the hotel. LE444 half-board .  
• 27.981311 34.422725 6 [dead link] Jaz Belvedere Resort Hotel , El Montaza , ☏ +20 69 367 04 41 , [email protected] .  
• 28.057524 34.435658 7 [dead link] Jaz Mirabel Beach ( Sharm El Sheikh Hotel ), Nabq Bay , ☏ +20 69 371 03 71 , [email protected] . Jaz Mirabel Beach offers stunning views of the Red Sea in a luxurious but relaxed family-friendly setting for the perfect Egypt holidays package. Jaz Mirabel Beach lies on the shores of a lagoon in Nabq Bay, a ten-minute drive from Sharm El-Sheikh International Airport.  

Stay safe [ edit ]

As of 2023, Sharm El-Sheikh is generally considered the safest place to be in the Sinai Peninsula. Police and the Egyptian Miliary have installed a wall around the city and there are military/police checkpoints even on the main streets. Each vehicle is checked before entering the city.

Mild food poisoning, the so-called traveler's diarrhea and stomach-ache is common among the European travelers. Tap water is not drinkable, but considered safe for tooth-brushing and showering. Always drink bottled water. Avoid food that is not cooked in front of you or likely have been stored for days without proper refrigeration. Cheese, salads, vegetables, yoghurts, mushrooms, fresh fruit juices are potentially not stored properly and therefore would cause diarrhea/stomach-ache.

There have been several fatal shark attacks, however, if you keep in mind the following, there is little-to-no-chance that you would be exposed to danger:

• Always swim near the coastline and with more people.
• Do not go swimming during the night, early in the morning or after sunset as the animals in the sea get more active during these times and the sharks may confuse you for another animal.
• Do not go swimming near ports or places where the sea is unpredictable.

Go next [ edit ]

• Dahab is a small and relaxing resort 90 km north of Sharm, with snorkelling, diving and other sports. The signature dive is the "Blue Hole".
• Cairo and especially Giza has all the classical sights of ancient Egypt. Lots of day trips but it deserves several days to explore.
• Hurghada , if the ferry from Sharm resumes, puts you on the road to fabulous Luxor .

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Navigation menu

What to Wear in Egypt – Dress Code guide for tourists

Egypt is no stranger to foreign tourists with more than thirteen million people visiting in 2019. Whilst in popular resorts such as Sharm El Sheikh, you will see people wearing all sorts of skimpy outfits, as Egypt is a Muslim country we would suggest dressing conservatively when outside of your resort hotel to avoid getting unwanted attention and offending local sensibilities.

It’s also important to dress for the weather and the activities that you will be undertaking whilst on your trip, a glamorous gown might be suitable for a cocktail party on a Nile Cruise , but when visiting Egypt’s many archaeological sites more robust clothing will be needed.

We’ve put together this list of frequently asked questions to guide you in what to, and what not to wear in Egypt. 

You can see our complete guide to planning a family holiday in Egypt here along with our suggested Egypt packing list that you can download

What do people wear in Egypt? 

Whilst ninety per cent of Egypt’s population are Muslim, there are no specific laws on how Egyptian women should dress. Most women do, however, dress modestly and cover their hair with a hijab (headscarf).  

Some women do wear a full length over coat known as an abaya over their regular clothes – whether these are jeans and a blouse, or a more traditional kaftan dress. Even if women choose not to wear an abaya , they still tend to cover as much skin as possible and favour loose fitting clothes that hide their body shape.  

Most men, tend to wear western style clothing, opting for trousers and short sleeved shirts rather than shorts and t-shirts. Some men will, however, wear a traditional djellaba and or kaftan especially on special occasions.

Children can also pick and choose what they wear. In general, they tend to wear western style clothing but may wear traditional clothing at parties, family gatherings and on other special occasions.  

What should women wear when visiting Egypt? 

Egypt is a hot and dusty country. In general, it is a good idea to wear loose fitting clothing made of natural materials like cotton or linen to help keep you cool. You should take care to cover your shoulders and cleavage and avoid having your back exposed. 

Tight-fitting clothes can be as poorly received as bare skin so be careful not to pack anything too skimpy. Long loose blouses or kaftans over Capri pants or linen trousers are an ideal choice as are longer dresses with shorts or leggings underneath. 

Maxi dresses can look very elegant for an evening out but are not very practical at the archaeological sites, which are very dusty and uneven.  

Whilst white clothes do reflect the heat of the sun, they can quickly get dirty and may appear transparent in the bright sunlight revealing your body shape, which is considered immodest. 

Do female visitors need to wear a headscarf in Egypt? 

Female visitors to Egypt do not need to cover their heads unless they are visiting a religious building but having a scarf handy is always a good idea. Scarves can be used to protect your head and face from the sun, or as a wrap if you feel like you’re getting unwanted attention because of your outfit.  

If you do want to visit a religious building you will also need to ensure that you are covered from wrist to ankle in a loose fitting garment like an abaya, a jalabiya or a kaftan as well as wearing a headscarf. 

Can I wear a bikini in Egypt? 

You can wear a bikini at a hotel pool and at beaches in resorts. Once you leave the poolside, it is polite to cover up with a kaftan or wrap and you should avoid walking around in just your bikini anywhere indoors.

It is prudent to avoid bikinis on public beaches outside of popular tourist resorts. Many local women wear a burkini – an all in one swimsuit which covers the head and the body from wrist to ankle. You do not need to wear one but they are available to buy locally if you would feel more comfortable wearing one. 

What should men wear when visiting Egypt?  

In urban areas, especially Cairo, it is preferable for men to wear long trousers and a shirt or T-Shirt.  Social etiquette is a bit more flexible at the beach resorts, although we still would not recommend speedos and vests. 

Walking trousers with detachable legs are particularly useful if you have varied day of sight-seeing and kind sleeved collared shirts are great at protecting you from the sun. Even on cooler days, the sun is still very powerful and you can get easily burnt. 

All visitors to Egypt should avoid T-Shirts, bags and sweaters with political slogans, emblems or potentially offensive language.  

What should children wear when on holiday in Egypt? 

Boys can wear shorts and T-shirts as can very young girls.

Girls under 12 can also wear sundresses but older girls should follow the advice given above for women, or at least wear leggings under any short dresses or skirts.

We recommend packing several wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses as well as UV suits for the beach and pool in order to protect your child’s young skin from the powerful Egyptian sun.  

We have a complete Egypt packing list for families here

Be mindful, Egypt in the middle of winter can be cold! Make sure you are not only packing sun protection but warmer layers if you are visiting over the cooler months – we have a complete guide to Egypt’s seasons and what to expect here.

What sort of bag should I carry in Egypt?  

Petty theft can occur in Egypt and we suggest keeping your valuables in the hotel safe. Only carry as much cash as you think you will need and keep it, along with any ID in a bum bag (fanny pack) or another close-fitting bag or pouch.

If you need to carry a larger bag for maps/nappies/snacks etc, a rucksack is recommended, although you may be asked to leave these at reception desks/lockers in museums.  

What sort of footwear should I wear in Egypt?  

Flip-flops are useful at the beach and by the poolside but shouldn’t been worn in urban areas. Pavements are uneven and sometimes non-existent. For this reason, we’d also warn against heels when out and about. 

The whole family should wear sturdy, breathable footwear when visiting archaeological sites. Cotton socks help to keep your feet feeling fresh and protect them from the dust and insect bites.  

Top Tip! Whilst it might not be a fashionable combination, we really do recommend cotton socks with walking sandals!  

Will I need an umbrella in Egypt?  

Whilst rainfall from April to October is low, there is always the chance of an unseasonal downpour. Having a small, microscopic umbrella with you ensures that a sudden shower won’t spoil your trip. An umbrella can also be used as a parasol to provide shade from the hot sun.

Do I need to take a jacket to Egypt?  

Whilst Summer temperatures can reach as high as 50 degrees, night-time can be chilly and carrying a lightweight jacket or fleece is highly recommended. 

On the coldest nights of winter, the temperature can drop to freezing so if you’re traveling between October and April, it’s a good idea to have some warmer clothing with you. 

A cardigan is also useful when visiting shopping centres and hotels with vicious AC throughout the year. 

Further information for planning a family trip to Egypt

Now we have your packing sorted, here’s some more planning resources for your trip to Egypt:

• Baksheesh! Baksheesh! Understanding the tipping culture in Egypt
• Plan a 7-day highlights tour of Egypt
• Egypt Travel Safety: Understand the issues that really matter

Travelling further around the Middle East

You may also like to see how dress code guidance changes as you travel across the Middle East, there are small and subtle differences you will want to observe, particulalry as you head to the Gulf countries.

• What to wear in Abu Dhabi
• Dress code guidance for Doha, Qatar
• What to wear visiting Oman
• A tourist guide to dressing for Jordan

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The Family Travel in the Middle East team of travel writers are all parents based in the Middle East, sharing first hand experiences and reviews from across the region to help you plan your next family adventure.

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What to Wear for Red Sea Holidays in Sharm el Sheikh and Dahab, Egypt

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While many people visit the Red Sea on holiday from Europe, others might visit this region as part of a bigger trip around Egypt. My first visit was in 2008 with G Adventures and my Egypt and Jordan tour included a few nights in the Red Sea – it was magical! I was so happy I got the chance to spend 3 full weeks here in Dahab in 2013!

Dahab is a budget traveler’s scuba diving paradise just an hour north of Sharm El Sheik in Egypt. Unlike mainland Egypt, the Red Sea resort areas accept slightly different clothing guidelines for tourists.

What to Wear for Red Sea Holidays: Sharm el Sheikh and Dahab

As mentioned in other posts about how to dress in Egypt , the Red Sea resort towns are more laid-back in their attitude towards a foreigner’s way of dressing.

While it’s not required to cover your shoulders, collar bone, and knees as it may be encouraged in other parts of Egypt; the effort is always appreciated by locals and can also help you ward off unwanted attention.

In fact, one local gentleman saw me wearing my circle scarf wrapped around my shoulders over my maxi dress. He came up to me and said “Thank you. While you don’t have to dress like the local women I appreciate that you respect my culture enough to try.”

You may find that many other travelers in this area do not adhere to local customs and again, the clothing guidelines in the Red Sea Resort areas are more relaxed. Ultimately, it is up to you how you feel most comfortable.

A few ideas about what to wear in Dahab

Tunic + Bikini

Day time (on beach).

Short Sleeve

Sun Dress or Maxi Dress + Scarf

Sightseeing.

Lightweight Trousers +  Tank +  Scarf

TRAVEL FASHION TIP: Always carry a lightweight scarf that you can drape around your collar bone and shoulders as needed.

  What are your tips on dressing for Red Sea holidays?

For more Egypt packing tips and ideas, please read:

• 15 Expat Tips to Help you Plan your Egypt Packing List
• 5 Essential Packing Tips to Plan What to Wear in Egypt
• What to Wear in Egypt: Interview with LatinAbroad

Suggested Travel Resources:

• Lonely Planet Africa on a Shoestring
• Lonely Planet Egypt (Country Guide)

Hope you liked this post on what to wear on Red Sea holidays in Sharm el Sheikh and Dahab, Egypt. Please share it with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, or Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

I would love to go to Sinai, but what in the world made you think it was safe to go right about now?

I went last year when the revolution started. My travel plans were made before it happened of course. Either way, the Red Sea area was a very safe place to be at that time. I didn’t travel the mainland due to the situation but other travelers did and had a good time.

Dahab and Sharm also tend to not deal with the same issues the main portion of Egypt does. My husband and I were there in 2013 just day before the coup – we left on the ferry to Jordan the day before it happened.

I would like to add that it depends on the time of year – in Summer it gets very hot and the sun burns down. Which means that you should actually cover MORE of yourself for sun protection. And always wear sun blocking garments if you go snorkeling. I once got a sunburn through my normal cotton t-shirt… and that was in October. In Winter it gets quite cool in the evening (I was also there in December) because it’s in the desert. So you will need a jacket. A hat is recommended all year long.

Thanks for the tips! My trip was during the hottest time of the year in August but I would hide under a beach umbrella or spend the whole day diving or snorkeling 🙂

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Warnings and insurance

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Areas where FCDO advises against travel

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against FCDO advice. Consular support is also severely limited where FCDO advises against travel.

Egypt-Libya border

FCDO advises against all travel to within 20km of the Egypt-Libya border, except for the town of El Salloum (where we advise against all but essential travel).

North Sinai

FCDO advises against all travel to the Governorate of North Sinai.

Northern part of South Sinai

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The eastern part of Ismailiyah Governorate

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Western Desert

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the area west of the Nile Valley and Nile Delta regions, except for:

• Luxor, Qina, Aswan, Abu Simbel and the Valley of the Kings
• the Governorate of Faiyum
• the coastal areas between the Nile Delta and Marsa Matruh
• the Marsa Matruh-Siwa Road
• the oasis town of Siwa
• the Giza Governorate north-east of the Bahariya Oasis
• the road between Giza and Farafra (but we advise against all but essential travel on the road between Bahariya and Siwa)
• Bahariya Oasis, Farafra, the White Desert and Black Desert

Hala’ib Triangle and Bir Tawil Trapezoid

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the Hala’ib Triangle and the Bir Tawil Trapezoid.

Find out more about why FCDO advises against travel .

Conflict in neighbouring Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPTs)

The Israeli government has declared a state of emergency across the whole country. International borders in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPTs) could close at short notice. As a result, the land border into Israel from Egypt at Taba could close with little notice. Check with local authorities and consult the travel advice for  Israel  and the  Occupied Palestinian Territories  before trying to cross the border.

In response to events in Israel and the OPTs, a number of demonstrations have taken place in Egypt and protests have been planned, including after Friday prayers. Demonstrations could take place at short notice, with a heavy security presence in place. You should avoid large gatherings, demonstrations and protests. See  Safety and security

Iranian military activity against Israel 

On 13 April 2024 Iran carried out military action against Israel.

Monitor this travel advice and other media as the situation is changing fast. Follow and contact  FCDO  travel on  Twitter ,  Facebook  and  Instagram . You can also  get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.

Read  FCDO  advice on how to deal with a crisis overseas.

Entering Egypt from Gaza

The Rafah border crossing partially opened on 1 November. This is primarily to facilitate the evacuation of seriously wounded Palestinians and some foreign nationals. We understand that the crossing will continue to be open for controlled and time-limited periods to allow specific groups of foreign nationals, including British nationals, to cross. It is for the Egyptian and Israeli authorities to determine who is permitted to cross, and when. The Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs will contact Embassies to let them know when their foreign nationals can cross. Should we receive notification from the Israeli and Egyptian authorities that individuals are permitted to cross, we will notify those people individually.

Movement to the Rafah crossing and beyond is at your own risk. You should only travel if you judge it is safe to do so. Check the  Israel and The Occupied Palestinian Territories travel advice.

The Egyptian authorities have said all aid going into Gaza from Egypt must be channelled through the Egyptian Red Crescent:

• telephone: + 20 226 703 979, + 20 226 703 983
• fax: + 20 226 703 967

They are unlikely to consider requests for humanitarian access made in Egypt at short notice.

Concern for friends and family

If you are concerned about friends or family, or need consular assistance call:

• British Embassy Cairo on + 20 (0)2 2791 6000
• +44 1767 667 600  (UK number) if you experience technical difficulties with the above number

Incidents in South Sinai  

On 27 October, an Egyptian Armed Forces spokesperson confirmed that an unidentified drone fell near a medical facility in the Egyptian Red Sea resort town of Taba next to the Israeli border, injuring six people. An additional unidentified drone also struck outside the town of Nuweiba, though no casualties have been confirmed. The authorities are conducting ongoing investigations.

Incident in Alexandria

On 8 October 2023, an Egyptian police officer is reported to have shot and killed two Israeli tourists and an Egyptian tour guide in Alexandria. A third tourist was injured. Remain vigilant and exercise caution at tourist and religious sites, as well as public gatherings. Find out more information on current risks on the  Safety and security .

Border crossings from Sudan

There are still people trying to cross the border into Egypt at Argeen and Qustul. Our ability to provide consular assistance is very limited.

If you are a British national and have crossed the border without valid documentation, contact the British Embassy in Cairo for consular assistance on + 20 (0)2 2791 6000.

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide as well as support for British nationals abroad which includes:

• advice on preparing for travel abroad and reducing risks
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Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

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If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

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