South Sinai is Egypt's premier resort governorate, encompassing the tip of the Sinai Peninsula between the Gulf of Suez and the Gulf of Aqaba. Home to world-class diving at Sharm el-Sheikh, biblical pilgrimages to Mount Sinai, and the laid-back beach culture of Dahab, it offers one of the most diverse adventure and relaxation destinations in the Middle East.
Top attractions
The most popular and significant attractions in South Sinai.
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1
Ras Mohammed National Park
Egypt's first national park and one of the world's premier dive and snorkel destinations. Located at the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula where the Gulf of Suez meets the Gulf of Aqaba, Ras Mohammed protects magnificent coral reefs, shark reef, and diverse marine life including manta rays, sea turtles, and hundreds of fish species. The underwater wall dives are considered among the world's top ten.
Tip: Bring your own snorkeling gear or hire from operators in Sharm. Hire a boat from Sharm el-Sheikh marina for the best reef access. No fishing or coral touching.
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2
Mount Sinai (Gebel Musa)
One of the most significant mountains in the world's three major Abrahamic religions, believed to be the site where Moses received the Ten Commandments. Rising to 2,285 m above sea level, the summit offers extraordinary sunrise views over the jagged red granite landscape of the Sinai highlands. Two routes lead to the top: the Camel Path (Steps of Repentance at the top) or the direct 3,750 Steps of Repentance from the monastery.
Tip: Start at 2am to reach the summit for sunrise. Bring warm layers as the summit is cold even in summer. Hire a local Bedouin guide. Wear sturdy shoes.
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3
St. Catherine's Monastery
One of the oldest continuously inhabited Christian monasteries in the world, founded by Emperor Justinian I between 548 and 565 CE. The monastery is built at the foot of Mount Sinai and contains priceless religious artifacts including a remarkable icon collection, ancient manuscripts, and the Burning Bush—the biblical thorn bush where God is said to have appeared to Moses. A UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Tip: Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered). Arrive early as visitor numbers are limited. Photography is restricted inside. Combine with a Mount Sinai sunrise hike.
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4
Blue Hole Dahab
One of the most famous dive sites in the world, the Blue Hole is an 80-metre-deep underwater sinkhole just north of Dahab. The site has a legendary reputation in the diving world—the cathedral-like shaft of water and the nearby arch (at 56 metres) attract experienced divers from around the globe. The surrounding reef is also excellent for snorkeling and free diving.
Tip: The Arch is for advanced/technical divers only—this site has claimed many lives. Snorkelers can enjoy the shallower reef beautifully. Hire a certified local dive guide.
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5
Na'ama Bay
The main tourist hub of Sharm el-Sheikh, Na'ama Bay is a crescent-shaped bay lined with hotels, restaurants, dive centers, and shops. The calm, clear water is ideal for swimming and snorkeling, with colorful reef gardens just offshore. The beach promenade buzzes with activity day and night, making it the social heart of the resort.
Tip: Many beach clubs charge a day fee ($10-20) that includes sunbeds and a drinks voucher. Reef shoes recommended for entry. Most dive operators are based here.
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6
Colored Canyon
A stunning natural geological formation near Nuweiba, the Colored Canyon is a narrow sandstone canyon whose walls display extraordinary layers of red, yellow, purple, and brown mineral deposits. The slot canyon creates dramatic light effects in the morning and the walk through the winding passages and scrambles over boulders makes for an unforgettable adventure.
Tip: A 4x4 vehicle is required to reach the canyon. Most visitors join a day trip from Dahab or Nuweiba. Wear closed-toe shoes and bring water.
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7
Nabq Protected Area
A protected coastal area north of Sharm el-Sheikh and one of the northernmost mangrove forests in the world. Nabq shelters diverse wildlife including gazelles, foxes, sea turtles, and hundreds of bird species. The mangroves play a crucial ecological role and offer a peaceful contrast to the busy resort atmosphere.
Tip: Hire a 4x4 from Sharm. Bring binoculars for bird watching. The beaches here are wild and uncrowded.
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8
Tiran Island
A strategically located island at the entrance to the Gulf of Aqaba, Tiran Island is surrounded by four world-class dive sites: Jackson Reef, Woodhouse Reef, Thomas Reef, and Gordon Reef. The strong currents here feed the richest marine life in the Red Sea. The island itself is uninhabited and a protected nature reserve.
Tip: Book a liveaboard or day boat from Sharm el-Sheikh marina. Suitable for intermediate to advanced divers due to strong currents. Snorkelers can enjoy some areas.
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9
Canyon Dahab
A unique dive site on Dahab's shore, Canyon is a dramatic underwater canyon that cuts through the reef, creating a labyrinth of passages at depths from 15 to 50 metres. Unlike the Blue Hole, Canyon is considered suitable for recreational divers with Open Water certification and offers an extraordinary experience exploring its chambers and arches.
Tip: Book with a Dahab dive center. Open Water certification required. Often combined with Blue Hole trip.
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10
Pharaoh's Island (Coral Island / Geziret Faraoun)
A small island just off the coast near Taba, Pharaoh's Island features a Crusader fortress (Saladin's Castle) dating to the 12th century that offers panoramic views of four countries: Egypt, Israel, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia. The surrounding coral reefs make it an excellent snorkeling destination.
Tip: Take a short boat ride from Taba beach (EGP 50). Bring snorkeling gear. Spectacular sunset views from the fortress.
Tips for visiting attractions
Make the most of your sightseeing time.
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and harsh midday light.
Book tickets online in advance for major attractions to skip long queues and sometimes save money.
Many cities offer multi-attraction passes that include public transport. Calculate whether they save you money based on your itinerary.