Sinai, Egypt – a true haven for seekers of adventure! With its sprawling desert covering an impressive 23,500 square miles, the Sinai Peninsula is home to some of Egypt’s most stunning natural and historical wonders. From the sacred Mount Sinai, an important biblical heritage site, to the sparkling coastline of the Red Sea, the Sinai will leave you breathless.
In this ultimate Sinai guide, we’ll take you on a journey through Sinai, exploring the best tours, activities, hotels, and travel tips for your next adventure. So, pack your bags and get ready to discover the beauty of Sinai.
Best Known For: Mount Sinai
It would be impossible to talk about Sinai without mentioning one of the most significant landmarks in the Sinai Peninsula – Mount Sinai.
Mount Sinai, also known as Mount Horeb or Jabal Musa is a sacred mountain with important religious significance. Mount Sinai is believed by Christians, Jews, and Muslims to be where Moses received the Ten Commandments from God, and the mountain has been a popular pilgrimage site since the 4th Century.
Climbing to the top of Mount Sinai is a must, especially for those interested in religious history or even just the spectacular views from the summit, and our Mount Sinai Sunrise Tour lets you witness the breathtaking sunrise from the summit of Mount Sinai, one of the most iconic experiences in Egypt, and take in the incredible desert views.
Sinai: Essential Travel Information
| Money | The currency of Egypt is the Egyptian pound (EGP). ATMs are common, especially in tourist areas, so you can quickly get cash. Major hotels and businesses will usually accept payment by credit card. However, it is not uncommon for smaller hotels and businesses to expect cash payments. Tipping or “Baksheesh” is expected in Egypt. Tips are used to show appreciation for good service and are a living, breathing part of Egyptian culture. |
| Language | The main language spoken in Egypt is Arabic. Don’t worry, English is commonly taught in schools in Egypt with many of the population speaking at least some English. |
| Transportation | There are regular local buses operating throughout Sinai and Egypt as a whole. Another option is, of course, taxi travel. Taxi drivers in Egypt do not operate a standardized fare system, so you should always negotiate an upfront amount before beginning your journey. Another great way to explore the area is with one of our amazing Sinai tours. |
| Culture | We have a helpful Guide to Egyptian Culture and Customs that will help you to get a handle on local culture and customs. |
| Clothing | As an Islamic country, the clothing in Egypt is generally more conservative and traditional. Public modesty is valued very highly, so be sure to dress appropriately. For a more comprehensive overview, check out our Egypt clothing guide. |
Interactive Map of Sinai
More Things to See in Sinai
Ras Mohammed National Park
Located at the southernmost tip of the Sinai Peninsula, just a few miles from Sharm El Sheikh, Ras Mohammed National Park is one Egypt’s best hidden treasures. You will experience the stunning views of the Red Sea, see a vast array of marine life, and have the opportunity to explore the park’s diverse ecosystem.
Ras Mohammed National Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, and snorkeling and diving are popular activities there, with the stunning coral reefs and azure waters offering an underwater experience you will treasure for a lifetime.
For those who prefer to stay on land, Ras Mohammed National Park is home to several hiking trails, which lead to stunning viewpoints overlooking the Red Sea. One of the most beautiful trails is the Mangrove Trail, which will take you through the park’s mangrove forests, with the chance to do some exotic birdwatching.
The Desert Stars
Our Sinai Desert Stargazing & Camel Ride Tour lets you experience the awe-inspiring, crystal-clear skies above the Sinai Desert. Experience the best of the desert landscape and stargazing when you ride on camelback through the desert, immersing yourself in the stunning scenery and understanding how locals have traveled for thousands of years.
Spend the night under the stars and wake up to a delicious breakfast in the camp, leaving with a newfound appreciation for desert life and the vast universe. There is truly no shortage of things to do during your stay in Sinai.
Where to Stay
When thinking about Where to Stay in Sinai, it is easy to feel spoiled by choice. Steeped in history and blessed with stunning mountains and coastline views, Sinai hosts a wealth of gorgeous places to stay.
Our Recommendation: Sharm El Sheikh
Sharm El Sheikh is one of our favorite places to visit Sinai. With its stunning shores, endless beaches, and beautiful coral reefs, it is easy to see why Sharm El Sheikh has some of the best hotels in Sinai.
You will have an unforgettable stay with so much to see and do in Sinai, including our extensive range of Egypt Package Tours.
Sinai’s Restaurants & Delicacies
Sinai is famous for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and delicious cuisine. The region boasts a unique blend of Bedouin, Egyptian, and Middle Eastern flavors. One of the must-try dishes is shakshuka, a tasty egg dish cooked in tomato and pepper sauce with spices. Local restaurants in Sharm El Sheikh or Dahab serve this dish, along with other traditional foods. With Sinai’s big cities being located along the Red Sea, of course fish is another huge cuisine of the Sinai. Seafood lovers will also be delighted by the fresh and flavorful seafood. For more mouthwatering food inspiration, we offer a range of delectable food tours to experience during your trip to the Sinai.
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 Sinai.
To avoid disappointment, we recommend booking the top tours in the Sinai in advance so you can see everything this beautiful region offers. We also offer a range of tours and experiences that you should book ahead. Here’s two of our top sellers:
2 Day Mount Sinai and White Canyon Tour
Our 2 Day Mount Sinai and White Canyon Tour is an action-packed journey through the highlights of the Sinai desert, including hiking through the White Canyon, summiting Mount Sinai at sunrise, visiting Saint Catherine’s Monastery, exploring ancient tombs, and relaxing by the Red Sea.
2 Day Sinai Camel Tour & Desert Camping Experience
Experience the ultimate adventure in the Sinai desert with our Camel Tour and Desert Camping Experience. Explore ancient sites and canyons on camelback, camp in a natural oasis, and immerse yourself in local Bedouin culture.
