Located at the north east tip of Africa, with the Mediterranean Sea to its north and the Red Sea to its east, The Arab Republic of Egypt is one of the most fascinating countries in the world for a visit.
The country’s heritage and history are a wonder that never cease to amaze. Along the Nile river, its ancient source of life, are some of the most iconic monuments. Abu Simbel at the south, through Aswan and Luxor temples, the Giza Pyramids and Sphinx. A visit to the Cairo Egyptian museum is a must along with its colorful streets and markets.
Egypt is an amazing location for fun and leisure as well. Some beautiful resorts lie along the Sinai and Red Sea coasts. Snorkeling, Scuba Diving and liveaboard cruises take place on daily or weekly basis to some of the world’s most amazing Red Sea underwater wonders of nature.
Cairo
Built on the banks of the Nile River, near the Nile Delta, Cairo, also known as “the city of a thousand minarets”, is the largest city in the Arab world and Egypt’s capital. It is also an important political, cultural and historical center where the fascinating contrast between antediluvian and modern landmarks, monuments and architecture can be seen throughout the city. The magnificent ancient city of Memphis and the renowned Giza pyramid complex, including the great Sphinx of Giza, are located in Cairo’s geographical area, associating Cairo with ancient Egypt.
Buzzing with life, culture and middle eastern cuisine and hospitality, visitors can choose from a vast variety of activities and attractions. Among the many recommendations is the Egyptian Museum which boasts over 100,000 antiquities as well as a unique presentation of the entire history of the Egyptian civilization. Don’t miss out on the El Khalili Bazaar, a major tourist attraction where local merchants and craftsmen sell their ware. Take a break from shopping and haggling and enjoy some famous Arabic coffee, delicious food and delectable sweet delights from one of the many coffee houses, restaurants and street food vendors. Then, escape the hustle and bustle of this intense city and relax on board a traditional felucca, an Egyptian wooden boat with a canvas sail, as you cruise down the River Nile, enjoying the gentle breeze and taking in the unforgettable beauty of Cairo’s skyline.
Luxor Temples
The modern city of Luxor, on the east bank of the Nile River, extends to and incorporates the ancient city of Thebes, also known as Waset. Famous for its numerous monuments, tombs and temple ruins, which lie on the east and west banks, this fascinating city has earned the description of the “world’s greatest open-air museum” making it a haven for history lovers. The Luxor and Karnak Temple Complexes, on the east bank, were a place of worship and commemoration for the pharaohs of ancient Egypt. Karnak, the most visited Egyptian historical site after the Giza Pyramids, comprises four main parts, only one of which is open to the general public and includes many ruins such as those of temples, chapels and pylons. Across the Nile, on the west bank, is the Theban Necropolis. Used mainly for ritual burials during most of the Pharaonic period, with the Valley of the Kings at its heart, the Necropolis includes many memorial temples as well as the Valley of the Queens.
Aswan
Situated on the east bank of the Nile River, in the south of Egypt, just north of the Aswan Dam, the beautiful city of Aswan is a popular tourist destination with its serene atmosphere, authentic market, many monuments and attractions, and stunning landscape. The Nile in this area is renowned for its exceptional beauty as it flows through granite rocks and around islands bejeweled with tropical vegetation and palm trees. It is therefore not surprising that visitors choose to indulge in delicious cuisine, tour amazing historical monuments, relax and observe the spectacular scenery as they cruise down the Nile from Aswan to Luxor.
Abu Simbel Temples
After being entirely relocated in 1968 to prevent them from being submerged due to the creation of Lake Nasser, the two colossal Abu Simbel temples are now situated on an artificial hill on the western bank of Lake Nasser. These iconic twin rock temples, originally carved out of the mountainside during the reign of King Ramesses II, are now part of the “Nubian Monuments”, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and serve as eternal monuments to Ramesses II and his queen Nefertari.
Nile Cruise
Sailing along the Nile River, Egypt’s economic, financial and recreative lifeline, is one of the best attractions Egypt has to offer. Cruise between Luxor and Aswan on board luxurious vessels, some of which are so large they resemble a floating hotel, hop on and off to visit historical sites where the voices of ancient Egypt tell their tales, and revel in the beauty of the stark contrasts of Egypt’s scenery. In order to ensure an unforgettable experience, it is highly recommended to go on a Nile cruise after October and before the summer months, when the river locks are open and the weather pleasant.
Sharm El Sheikh
Located at the south of the Sinai Peninsula, on the shores of the Red Sea, the city of Sharm El Sheikh has been a prominent diving hub for more than 40 years, and is our main diving base on the Red Sea. The warm desert climate, modern city and crystal-clear blue waters, abundant with colorful coral reefs teeming with exotic marine flora and fauna, make Sharm El Sheik the perfect destination for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts as well as leasure lovers.
Our stunning Shark’s Bay seaside resort, built from local stone, offers comfortable rooms, all with amazing views of the Tiran Island. The fully equiped dive center and wonderful restaurant are situated a few meters from the sea shore, providing our guests with fantastic service, welcoming middle eastern hospitality and all the comforts required for a perfect vacation. Every morning our boat departs to the most breathtakingly beautiful reefs in the Straits of Tiran and Ras Muhammed, where our guests are invited to join our local team of professional snorkeling and SCUBA diving instructors, who will reveal the enchanting wonders of the underwater world that awaits just below with surface of the astounding Red Sea.
Dahab
Its idyllic location, the Sinai desert flowing into the sapphire blue of the Red Sea, not to mention some of the most stunning dive and snorkeling sites in the region, are what make the small town of Dahab one of the most desired vacation destinations on the southeast coast of the Sinai Peninsula. Our tourist center in Dahab is located on the main promenade, flanking the exquisite beach, and offers a variety of services including SCUBA diving, snorkeling, desert tours and packages comprising liveaboard cruises or daily dives with accommodation at a local dive resort.
Taba Heights
Situated only 15 minutes from the Israeli-Egyptian border, on a beautifully natural beach with bronze flushed mountians in the background, the Taba Heights resort comprises a picturesque complex of charming hotels that cater to your every desire, and offer suitable accommodation and activites for families, groups, couples and individuals. Sailing, diving, snorkeling and watersports are available from the Marine Center, only a short distance from the hotels, and accessible by a reliable shuttle service that runs every hour. Daily cruises to Coral Island, guided snorkeling tours along the reputable reefs and windsurfing in the blue lagoon of Ras Abu Galum are just some of the wonderful water attractions offered. Guests who wish to complement their vacation with land based trips, are welcome to partake in our day tours to Mount Sinai and St. Catherine’s Monastery, delight in the secluded desert oasis of Ein Khudra, trek through the Coloured Canyon, tour Wadi Malcha on camel back, and stroll around the laid-back, friendly town of Dahab.
For more information on water activities, click on the “Underwater Activities” bar below.
Mount Moses and St. Catherine’s Monastery
One of the most famous and inspiring places in the Sinai desert is Mount Moses or Mt. Sinai, where, it is believed, Moses received the Ten Commandments. The mountain is part of the Sinai High Range reaching a height of 2600 meters above sea level, with dramatic scenery, cool weather, and fresh running water.
At the foot of Mount Sinai, at the site of the Burning Bush, is Saint Catherine’s Monastery. Dating back to the 6th century, and named in honor of Catherine of Alexandria, a Christian martyr, in the 11th century, this is one of the oldest working Christian monasteries in the world, and a UNESCO World Heritage site. In addition to several monuments, the monastery contains the world’s oldest continually operating library, and is home to a priceless collection of many unique books. The Monastery can be visited during visiting hours, and is usually combined with a climb to the top of the mountain for an unforgettable, breathtaking view of the area washed in the golden-red colours of sunrise or sunset.
Sharm El Sheikh Snorkeling
Easy access from shore, the nearby, endless reefs that reach the sea’s surface, and the wonderfully clear, cool water allow snorkelers to take their time as they pleasurably gaze at the glorious wonderland of marine nature that never ceases to amaze. So, just choose from one of the many snorkeling spots and dive sites, which are also suitable for snorkelers, grab your mask, fins and snorkel, and jump right in to the magnificent blue waters of the Red Sea.
Sharm El Sheikh Scuba Diving
The crystal-clear blue waters of the Red Sea, abundant with exhilarating marine life, is what makes Sharm el Sheikh a scuba diver’s paradise and one of the world’s best diving destinations. Discover some of the area’s most dazzling dive sites such as the Ras Muhammed reservation, the WWII wreck of the S.S. Thistlegorm, as well as Jackson and Thomas reefs, while enjoying the comforts and diving from highly recommended liveaboard diving cruises, or daily boat cruises.
Sharm El Sheikh Learn to Dive
One of the best activities is joining our Learn to Dive program that is suitable for the whole family from the age of 10 years old. You can get your Open Water Diver certificate in just 3 days, using full dive gear, with the guidance of our professional team of instructors.
Dahab Snorkeling
Easy access from shore, with nearby, endless reefs that reach the sea’s surface, and the wonderfully clear, cool water allow snorkelers to take their time as they pleasurably gaze at the glorious wonderland of marine nature that never ceases to amaze. So, just choose from one of Dahab’s many snorkeling spots and dive sites, which are also suitable for snorkelers, grab your mask, fins and snorkel, and jump right in to the magnificent blue waters of the Red Sea.
Dahab Scuba Diving
Extreme walls falling vertically down to hundreds of meters below the sea’s surface, caves and overhangs covered in corals and overflowing with marine life are just some of the reasons that make Dahab famous for its amazing dive sites. A typical dive begins at the deepest point and slowly ascends towards the surface where shallow coral gardens reveal their treasures of colorful schools of fish, eels, sea slugs, crabs, starfish and other wonderfully exotic sea creatures.
Dahab Learn to Dive
One of the best activities is joining our Learn to Dive program that is suitable for the whole family from the age of 10 years old. You can get your Open Water Diver certificate in just 3 days, using full dive gear, with the guidance of our professional team of instructors.
Taba Heights Learn to Dive
One of the best activities is joining our Learn to Dive program that is suitable for the whole family from the age of 10 years old. You can get your Open Water Diver certificate in just 3 days, using full dive gear, with the guidance of our professional team of instructors.
International Time
GMT + 2 hours.
The difference in hours may change according to summer and winter clocks, we recommend you check the exact time for your planned trip.
Entry Visa
Make sure your passport is valid for at least an additional six months. Make sure there are no torn pages and that your passport photo is clear and affixed properly. Trips to this destenation must be accompanied by a valid Egyptian visa. The most convenient, insured and cheap way is to issue the visa in advance online. click here for more info. This is also possible at the airport or land border.
Without a visa, you cannot join the trip. make sure you stamp your visa on arrival to the country. for more information please contact the nearest embassy in your country. Additionally, please check for updates prior to your departure, as this information, as in the past, may be modified by the Egypitian government without prior notice.
* If you cross the border from Israel and planning to visit only at the north part of Sinai, please check according to your nationality if you need a visa. Trips to Suez and farther south must be accompanied by a visa.
Personal Documents
Make sure to keep it in a separate file from the original documents.
Border Crossing from Israel
If you are crossing the border from Israel, our representative on the Egyptian side of the border will assist in crossing the border and showing you to the transport vehicle waiting for you. On group tours, the meeting point with the rest of the group and with the tour guide is right before entering the border crossing area. If you arrive before the group, please do not enter the border crossing area, wait patiently for the rest of the group.
The Taba border crossing is carried out in an orderly manner in order to pass the border efficiently and quickly and without any issues that can cause problems during the trip (such as an Egyptian visa that has not been signed).
The dive bags do not need to be carried, there are free trolleys available. The dive bags will be x-rayed on entering Egypt (and on your return to Israel), so be sure thoroughly. X-raying the bags on both sides may take time and patience is needed, impatience creates additional delays.
check your bags and ensure:
Flights
Cairo, Hurghada or Sharem El Shekh can be reached by international flight, or by a domestic flight from another main international airport in Egypt. When you receive your flight ticket, please ensure that your name is spelled exactly as in your passport! You must arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before departure. The number of bags and their weight should comply with airline restrictions to avoid overweight charges. Weight regulations are strict on domestic flights and entail a nominal fee for every extra kilo.
What NOT To Bring
Transportation, Arrival and Pick Up
A representative on our behalf will be waiting for you at the airport to coordinate a transfer to the boat or hotel, according to the itinerary. In the itinerary that you receive from us, you will find details of the trip and the phone number of the contact person who will await you.
When coming from Israel- Dive safari tours in Sinai depart from the port located at Shark Bay in Sharm El Sheikh, located approximately a three-hour drive from the Taba border crossing. Driving to Dahab would take about 2 hours. On the way, there is a stop where you can buy coffee and use the toilet. The journey is in a comfortable and modern, air-conditioned tourist vehicle.
Insurance
Our company is insured with all necessary insurances needed for the professional
responsibilities required of a tourism company. We recommend that you purchase
personal travel insurance when traveling abroad. Diving insurance valid for all
days of diving is mandatory. Travel insurance and diving insurance can be purchased on this site.
Forms
The ship requires signatures on various documents according to Egyptian regulations:
Photography
This is certainly a destination to document. The Red Sea is a spectacular destination to photograph above and below water, some say it is an photographer’s paradise! You do not have to be an expert photographer in order to take fantastic photos to capture some amazing, unique and unforgettable moments. Diving packages are available for most kinds of cameras, for photography above and under water. Easy-to-use extreme cameras are also a popular choice.
Underwater Photography
Crossing the border with large cameras (DSLR) is not an easy task. We recommend you use Point and Shot or Go Pro cameras. The boats provide buckets with fresh water for washing the equipment after dives. You can bring a laptop to download pictures.
Clothing
It is unnecessary to pack a lot of clothing on a summer-beach holiday. A light garment to wear in the day between dives is recommended. One or two buttoned shirts for the evening can be useful. It is recommended to wear warm sports cloths and a pair of socks during your flights. You can avoid bringing shoes.
If you planning your visit on winter time, it is recommended to bring warm clothing.
and in most cases, a sport sandal is sufficient. Towels and bedding are provided by hotels and on the boats.
Egypt is a Muslim country and it is advisable to consider the sensitivities in terms of clothing, especially in public places, markets and restaurants.
Medication and First Aid
All boats are equipped with first aid equipment, however, Pre-equip yourself with enough personal medication; the chance of obtaining specific drugs is small. Do not forget to stock up on seasickness pills if necessary. Pack a high factor sunscreen to protect you from prolonged sun exposure.
In extreme cases during diving trip in Sinai, evacuations are possible to the hospital in Sharm El Sheikh. Despite the reputation of medical services in Sinai, the hospital in Sharm, it is equippedwith a state-of-the-art decompression cabinet and experienced diving doctors.
Vaccines
It is recommended to keep up to date with your Ministry of Health website regarding vaccines for Egypt.
Alcohol
For safety reasons, drinking alcohol between dives is prohibited. However, at the end of the day you can enjoy a glass of wine or beer. Other alcoholic beverages (whiskey, liqueurs etc.) are prohibited according to Sharm El Sheikh safety regulations and also due to the fact that there are early and relatively deep morning dives. It is recommended to purchase one bottle of alcohol per person at the duty-free shop at the border crossing.
Communication
The resorts and boats offer internet access, however please take into account that access maybe limited and not at the level you are accustomed to. If you need to stay connected, we recommend you purchase a local SIM card at the airport\ border on arrival. The Sim cards are relatively cheap and ensure internet access. Please install the SIM in the store and check that it is in working order.
Weather
The Red Sea and its northern extensions are located at a relatively far distance from the equator, therefore there is a big difference in temperatures between the summer and winter seasons. Although July and August are very hot, requiring visitors to drink plenty of fluids, cover their heads and avoid direct exposure to the sun, the months of January to March are cold and may be less pleasant when coming out of the water, after a dive. There is no dramatic change in the water temperature that stays at approximately 25c degrees throughout the year. The best time to take a diving trip and visit southern Egypt is during April to December.
Sea Conditions
Sea conditions in the Southern Egypt are variable. Winds change according to season and sea conditions can change within hours due to strong northern winds
that are common throughout the year causing small waves that travel fast against the ocean swells. In most cases, the sea conditions require mooring on the protected side of the reefs and boats exit and sail against the waves to the open areas where the most beautiful sites are usually located. Site-to-site cruises can be challenging. It should be noted that there are long interludes where the Red Sea is quiet and pleasant.
Diving Equipment
It is recommended to bring your own equipment with which you are accustomed to using, especially a mask and a dive computer. Check your diving equipment prior to your departure. Rented scuba diving equipment must be booked in advance and entails an additional fee. The thickness of your wetsuit should be according to your personal comfort. We recommend a thick 2 piece 5 mm wetsuit. Important items for diving trips: an inflatable buoy to mark the location connected to the roller and a reef anchor rope against strong currents, a whistle attached to your BCD and simple gloves to grip the reef if necessary.
Diving
check dive- This dive is performed on a nearby site and its objectives are to revise basic diving exercises, make sure the equipment is in proper working condition under water at shallow depth, allow the instructors to get acquainted with the divers in the group before diving in complex sites. Here the group is also divided according to their level of diving. Most dives are carried out to depths of 20 meters. The maximum depth is 30 meters.
Some dive sites may have significant currents. We use these currents to our advantage
and dive in the direction of them. However, diving in Sinai may surprise even the most experienced guides and there may be situations in which it is necessary to dive against the current for a short section. The instructors will do their best to plan the dives optimally to ensure easy diving and increase the likelihood of seeing marine creatures and fish typical for each site.
Diving Routes
The great advantage of safari tours is their flexibility and ability to change route according to weather conditions, group safety, the attempt to maximize chances of viewing certain fish and marine creatures, decisions made by the team leaders, etc. Each day we will perform three daily dives. On Sinai trips, a night dive can be done almost on any night during the trip except in cases where safety reasons restrict.
Electrical Supply
230V, we recommend to bring a universal adapter to avoid problems. There are different types of sockets and you should prepare for this in advance. On most boats, you will find charging stations that suit a variety of electronical devices.
Money
The local currency is the Egyptian Pound. Most of tourist service providers accept Dollars and Euros, price lists are usually in these currencies. We recommend
you stock up on small notes to but souvenirs at the local bazaars Tourist service providers, boats and hotels accept credit cards.
Local Taxes
Apart from border tax, all taxes are included in Egyptian prices. This law may change without prior notice.
Tips
Tips are commonly paid to tourist service providers. In restaurants, a 10 percent tip is the normal going rate. For a few days stay at a resort or on a boat, it is usual to leave $10 per person, according to the level of service. It is recommended to give the tip openly before departure when the local team assembles to say goodbye.
Emergency Numbers and Decompression Chambers
Check with your tour guide and local operator about the local evacuation procedure and essential phone numbers.
Land Activities FAQ
When you choose to book a Red Sea Triangle tour, you can sit back and relax while we design your all-in-one package deal tailored especially for you. After years of experience and personal familiarity with the people and places, we can guarantee that your 3-country trip (or 2, or 1..) is planned using the best local operators and tour guides. We will take care of all your logistics, sparing you the time and hassle of coordinating things in languages and places you are less familiar with. In addition, we are happy to book your international flights and accommodations, so all you will have left to do is pack, arrive and enjoy!
We are more than happy to book everything for you from A to Z 🙂
You are most welcome to book everything with us, from A to Z! You are also very welcome to book some parts of your vacation with us and book the rest on your own. Our menu is flexible – you can plan a trip tailored specifically for your exact needs and desires. We believe every trip is like a personal puzzle which we are happy to build for you piece by piece. You can also complete any missing pieces on your own.
Yes, all of our tours are accompanied by professional and experienced English-speaking guides. These also include our water-oriented tours – snorkeling and diving activities. In some cases, we can also provide guides who speak your own language – French, German, Spanish and more.
Accommodation is not included in our offered trips. However, you can book your accommodation with us either for all or some destinations according to your preferred personal standard.
Yes! Our offered tours include transfers, in comfortable a\c cars. Domestic flights (or any flight in between the 3 countries) are also included depending on your chosen plan.
Yes! A big part of what we offer is family oriented and definitely suitable for family with kids – youngsters and teenagers – including our water-oriented activities. Introductory dives can be done from the age of 8, and the Open Water Diver course is available for children from the age of 10.
There will always be an agent present at each of your pre-booked land border crossing. Our agents will assist you and ensure you cross safely and efficiently.
All three countries are hot year-round, it is advisable that you dress accordingly. The desert sun is strong, and it is advisable to use sun protectors (for more information please read the “Know before you go” section).
The capital cities – Jerusalem, Cairo and Amman – are mostly populated by a religious public and modesty is a very important value in their way of life. You are requested to respect the locals and avoid wearing tank tops revealing your shoulders and\or belly. In addition, short pants and dresses should not be worn unless covering below your knees. For us ladies, please note that it is considered culturally inappropriate and unacceptable to go topless at the beach, in any of these 3 countries, in any of the water sources.
The middle-eastern kitchen is well known for its richness and variety of fresh fruits and vegetables. Deliciously spiced veggie stews and a wide variety of legumes are traditional and street food. As part of our good service, we are aware of various types of diet preferences, in all 3 countries. While booking a trip with us, please let us know of any special food request you may have and remember to come with an open mind to try some special middle eastern delicious food!
Water Activities FAQ
Most of the reefs in the Red Sea reach sea level, and sometimes the sights seen whilst snorkeling are as just as beautiful and impressive as those seen whilst diving. The pleasant weather conditions are perfect for spending long and pleasurable hours in the water. However, if you are not a diver, you should make sure that this type of trip suits. Activities and the nature of the trip are suited for divers and it is important that you feel comfortable with the set itinerary. The trip is suitable for anyone who loves nature, spectacular views, tasty food and total relaxation.
Most of the reefs in the Red Sea reach sea level, therefore sometimes snorkeling offers beautiful and impressive views, just like dives. Pleasant weather conditions encourages staying in the water for a length of time during the day. Activities and the nature of the trip are suited for divers, therefore it is worth making sure that those who do not dive enjoy this kind of activity. Cruises are suitable for lovers of nature and anyone who enjoys spectacular views, delicious food and relaxation.
Most modern boats offer 32% enriched oxygen. During an intensive week of diving is highly recommended to use nitrox. Using the dive computer in regular air mode whilst breathing nitrox increases safety ranges. Moreover, there is no dramatic effect on the overall time spent in water that derives from the amount of air in the tank. Use of Nitrox is according to the diver’s personal preference.
Regarding liveaboards, in principle we do not leave the boat. However, sometimes there is an opportunity to visit a small island or isolated beach on the way.
In principle, the requirement for medical approval is international with a medical statement accepted by diving organizations. If the answers to all the questions in your health declaration are negative, then there is no problem. If there are positive answers, consult your diving doctor and get approval. If you are over 45, a medical certificate is required.
The answer to this question is according to the amount of dives. Naturally, when planning a scuba diving trip you can decide to purchase full or partial scuba equipment. We recommend to purchase your own mask and personal dive computer. We would be happy to be at your service and offer advice on purchasing equipment.
As a rule, you should dive as usual. If you have booties and compatible fins the answer is yes. Keep in mind that diving on dive cruises offer direct sea access without the need to access from the beach or cross reefs with sea urchins, so you can use fins that does not require diving boots