Things to do in Sharm El-Sheikh

Sharm el-Sheikh sits at the tip of Sinai, where the Gulf of Aqaba meets the Red Sea. The reef starts a few metres from shore and drops away steeply. That wall is the reason the town exists.

In the water

Diving and snorkelling are the whole point here. Two areas take most of the traffic. Both are reached by boat from the marina.

• Ras Mohammed. Egypt's first national park, on the headland south of town, with walls that fall into open blue.
• The Tiran reefs. Four reefs strung across the strait, exposed to current and better for confident swimmers.
• Softer options. Glass-bottom boats and a tourist submarine, for people who would rather stay dry.

On land

The town itself is modern and built for visitors. Naama Bay and Soho Square are the two centres. Neither is old.

• The desert. Quad bikes, horses and Bedouin camps in the hills behind the resorts, usually at sunset.
• Al Sahaba Mosque. The one piece of deliberate architecture in the old market, and the city tour stop.
• St Catherine. The sixth-century monastery and Mount Sinai, a few hours inland and climbed overnight.

Days out of Sinai

The airport makes long days possible. Cairo and the pyramids are sold as a day trip by plane. Petra runs across the gulf to Jordan and back.

Practical

• Season. It works all year. Winter is mild, summer is fierce, and the water stays warm throughout.
• Reef rules. Do not stand on coral and do not take shells. The park is enforced and fines are real.
• Currents. Tiran is not a beginner site. Be honest with the operator about your experience.
• Flying after diving. Leave a clear day between your last dive and your flight home.
• Jordan. Petra day trips need a passport and a visa arrangement. Confirm what the operator handles.