The Sinai Peninsula: A Guide to Egypt’s Red Sea & Holy Land

Top Attractions: The Best of Sinai

Sinai’s southern peninsula is a world-renowned tourist destination. Here are the must-see highlights.

1. Sharm El Sheikh: The City of Peace

Sharm el-Sheikh is the luxurious heart of the Red Sea Riviera. This world-famous resort city is packed with 5-star hotels, lively cafes, bustling markets, and fine-dining restaurants. It’s the perfect base for:

• Relaxing on pristine sandy beaches.
• Enjoying the vibrant nightlife of Na’ama Bay.
• Diving and snorkeling in the Red Sea’s crystal-clear waters.

2. Ras Mohammed National Park

Located at the southernmost tip of Sinai, Ras Mohammed is a protected marine park and one of the best diving destinations on Earth.

• A Diver’s Paradise: This underwater haven features over 220 species of coral reefs and more than 1,000 species of fish.
• Famous Wrecks: It’s home to legendary dive sites, including the SS Thistlegorm shipwreck, a must-see for advanced divers.

3. Dahab: The Bohemian Paradise

Just north of Sharm, Dahab offers a more laid-back, bohemian vibe. It’s a world center for daring water sports and desert adventures.

• The Blue Hole: Dahab is famous for the legendary Blue Hole, a challenging and world-famous (for advanced divers) dive site.
• Wind & Water: It’s a top global spot for kitesurfing and windsurfing.
• Bedouin Safaris: Dahab is a fantastic starting point for camel or 4×4 safaris into the stunning canyons and oases of the Sahara.

4. St. Catherine’s Monastery & Mount Sinai

This is the spiritual heart of the peninsula.

• St. Catherine’s Monastery: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this is the oldest continuously operating Christian monastery in the world. Built in the 6th century, it sits at the foot of Mount Sinai at an elevation of 1,586 meters.
• Mount Sinai (Jebel Musa): For many, the main event is the pilgrimage climb to the summit. Tradition holds this is the sacred peak where Moses received the Ten Commandments. Most visitors climb overnight to witness a sunrise so breathtaking it has been described as a life-changing experience.