The Red Sea is a great place to scuba dive any time of year but water temperature varies quite a lot depending on the time of the year. In August the water temperature in Egypt can reach a bath warm 30°C but drops as low as 22°C in February. Sudan is generally a couple of degrees celsius warmer than Egypt. So you need to be sure your exposure suit is appropriate for the conditions.

August sees air temperatures in Egypt reach 40°C while in the winter (December to February) it can fall to 20°C. Again, Sudan's air temperatures are a degree or two higher than Egypt throughout the year.

The Sinai Peninsula and Hurghada areas in the northern Red Sea are great for wreck diving, with sites such as the SS Thistlegorm, Abu Nuhas wrecks (Giannis D, Carnatic, Kimon M, Chrisoula K) and Rosalie Moller. Plus it also holds the Ras Mohammed National Park and the Straits of Tiran.

The southern Red Sea offers breathtaking reefs at Brothers Islands, Daedalus, Rocky Island and St. John's reefs. Liveaboard itineraries tend to be either in the north or the south, although you can find those that take in some dive sites in both areas.

Sudan offers the adventurous diver some world class wrecks, glorious coral reefs, the opportunity of encounters with sharks, and large schools of fish, all in remote waters where few have ventured.

The Sinai Peninsula tends to be where most people visit on their first diving holiday in Egypt, progressing to the Southern Red Sea of Egypt, and Sudan later, in search of more remote diving.

The norm on Red Sea diving safaris is to make 4 dives per day, including 1 night dive. However, on the first and last diving days of the cruise, you'll make 2 or 3 dives, depending on the season - summer time has longer days and so 3 dives is normal whereas the shorter daylight hours in the winter can mean later starts and only 2 dives are possible.

Note also that night diving in marine parks is forbidden under Egyptian law. This means that a maximum of 3 dives per day is to be expected when visiting the southern marine parks of Brothers, Daedalus, Zabargad and Rocky Island.

Dive conditions in the Red Sea can range from flat calm seas and great visibility to strong currents. There are a variety of different types of site, from flat shallow reefs to deep walls, so check out our Red Sea dive site descriptions to see what might, or might not suit you. Generally the Sinai area is more appropriate for beginner divers than the Southern Red Sea (Sudan and Egypt).

Important note: many liveaboards impose a conditional minimum number of dives, and Egyptian law requires scuba divers to have a minimum of 50 logged dives for the 4 offshore island marine parks: The Brothers, Zabargad, Daedalus and Rocky Island.

Safety is a serious matter in Egypt. The high numbers of scuba holiday makers visiting the Red Sea has meant that the Egyptian government must satisfy travel industry leaders demands in terms of facilities for handling diving emergencies.

There are several re-compression chambers on the Sinai Peninsula in Sharm El Sheikh and Dahab. Then on Egypt's eastern seaboard there are chambers in El Gouna (north of Hurghada), Safaga and Marsa Alam, as well as 2 chambers in Hurghada itself - one near the new marina in the down town area, and one Hypermed chamber out by the airport. There is also one hyperbaric chamber in Port Sudan that can be used for diver emergencies.

Additionally, the Red Sea Association for Diving and Water Sports (RSDASS) has introduced a series of rules aimed at improving diver safety in the Red Sea. These include:

• All dive guides must carry ID cards that state they are professionally certified divemasters (at least);
• All dive boats must have at least 1 dive guide onboard;
• Divers with less than 25 logged dives must be accompanied underwater by a guide in a ratio of no more than 6 divers per guide;
• Maximum depth for an introductory dive is 8m;
• When visiting the marine parks on Red Sea diving cruises, 1 guide must be provided for every 8 divers;
• When diving within the marine parks, visitors must show at least 50 logged dives;
• When diving outside of marine parks, 1 guide must be provided for every 12 scuba divers;
• All divers must carry a surface marker buoy.

These safety regulations go way beyond the rather light standards laid down by PADI, and are welcome initiatives to ensure your safety.

If you are staying in a hotel in Egypt and taking some scuba daytrips then you will be paying for the room and there is no option to share with another guest.

Liveaboards in Egypt and Sudan expect the single traveller to share a cabin. If you don't want to share and want a cabin to yourself, you must pay a single supplement on top of the published price. On average these supplements are around 70%, although there is a large range from 25% to 100% so please check with us for the best deals. In Sudan the range is 30% to 65%.

Yes, you do. You need to submit a copy of your passport in advance on your tour. It is a requirement of the Egyptian coastguard. Your Red Sea liveaboard diving operator must receive it no later than 4 days prior to sailing or they may not be able to obtain permission to depart. You must also provide dive insurance details to your liveaboard operator prior to the trip. Failure to provide this information could result in you being prevented from joining the trip. We will, of course, send you details of who to provide these details to once you make a booking with us.

Please ensure that once on board you are able to provide the following details and documentation: last name, first name, nationality, passport number, flight number, time of arrival and departure, copy of your passport (another one) and diving insurance details. Please make sure that the passport is valid for at least 6 months at the commencement of your trip.

Sometimes when you look out across the water and lay your eyes on the luxury dream cruiser speeding past you, it can be difficult to believe that underneath those sleek lines and all that glamour, the hull is wooden, just like the most basic diving boats in the Red Sea. Steel hull boats have a much better record when it comes to safety at sea, so why is it that all the boats in the Red Sea are wooden?

The answer is very simple: there are no steel dive boat builders in Egypt. This is a Muslim country with a high degree of state control and interference. Entrepreneurial spirit is often stifled and old traditions and beliefs are not readily cast aside. What was good enough for generations past is often just accepted to be good enough for the future too. We think we might have identified a great new niche business start-up opportunity here. Any takers?

We recommend liveaboard diving in the Red Sea as the best way to experience the destination. The shore line of the Red Sea is sometimes overwhelmingly built-up. Non-diving tourists as well as scuba divers are sometimes present in huge numbers in some of the biggest destinations. Sometimes the harbours are exceptionally busy with daytrip boats all battling to get out to the dive sites.

Liveaboards are more relaxed and will be taking you to less busy sites. However you can expect other liveaboard boats to be with you on the more popular spots, especially in the north. If you really want to give yourself every chance to be on a liveaboard in a quiet part of the Red Sea then the southern section is your best bet.

All visitors to Egypt must obtain a tourist visa unless they are from Malta or an Arab country, and they must have a passport valid for at least 6 months, proof of sufficient funds, and an onward or return ticket. Travellers can obtain a 30-day single-entry visa from their local Egyptian consulate, while citizens of the UK, EU, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the United States also have the option to get a visa on arrival at Egyptian airports, though this may cause delays and must be paid in US dollars or British pounds. It is strongly recommended to secure visas in advance whenever possible, as airlines may deny boarding without one, and requirements can change, so checking with the nearest Egyptian consulate for updated entry rules is essential. Some nationalities face stricter visa application processes, so applying well ahead of time is crucial to avoid complications.

For diving trips, travellers should also email a copy of their passport’s photo page to their tour operator to secure necessary dive permits. For further details, visit the Egyptian Tourism Authority website.

You will obtain 2 Egypt entry visas: 1 upon arrival at the airport and another when arriving back at Port Ghalib from your Sudan trip. You only need 1 Sudan visa which should be obtained in advance. For Egypt and Sudan trips, normally the operator includes this is the package. You will need 4 empty pages on your passport: 2 for each country.

For Sudan you will need to obtain a visa in advance of your travel. Normally the operator will include this service and the process is as straight forward as anywhere else. However, please note that they will not issue the visa for any passport that has an Israeli stamp on it. If you do have an Israeli stamp on your passport you may be denied boarding on any boat bound for Sudan. You will need 2 free pages in your passport for this visa.

The Red Sea is a fabulous diving destination but combine a vaction here with the historical and cultural sights of Egypt, and you have a vacation of a lifetime. The great pyramids, the comfort of a Nile cruise through the Valley of the Kings, or the city of Cairo, are just too good to pass up on. We have therefore teamed up with local experts the National Travel Service. They specialise in Egypt overland tours and activities. They offer a number of different packages and options to choose from. For more details on these historical tours:



For some other great ideas on what you can see and do in Egypt and the Red Sea region, other than scuba diving, visit: Egypt Tourism.

English is very widely spoken in the Egyptian tourist destinations of the Red Sea and many tourists enjoy a great diving holiday here without knowing a word of Arabic. Many local people speak a little Italian, French, German and Russian too.

Sharm El Sheikh perfectly blends Red Sea marine adventures, desert experiences and vibrant nightlife, all set against breathtaking Sinai landscapes. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, this resort has something for everyone.

Sightseeing & Activities

* What are the top activities besides scuba diving?
- Sharm offers thrilling go-kart racing (visited by Michael Schumacher) with night sessions available.
- For marine enthusiasts, scenic boat cruises reveal stunning reefs without getting wet. Don't miss Ras Mohammed National Park's pristine beaches and exceptional snorkelling, or Tiran Island's shallow reef treasures.

* What cultural experiences are available?
Experience authentic Bedouin culture with a desert feast at sunset, complete with traditional storytelling. For historical sites, visit Mt. Sinai (where Moses received the Ten Commandments) and St. Catherine's Monastery - the world's oldest continually inhabited monastery with priceless religious artefacts.

Beaches

* Which beaches are best?
• Na'ama Bay: The social hub with vibrant nightlife, ideal for sunbathing (though poor for snorkelling)
• Shark's Bay: Family-friendly with protected coral reefs teeming with fish
• Terrazina Beach: Lively atmosphere with music and dining options in Sharm el Maya

Dining & Nightlife

* What's the food and nightlife like?
Sharm boasts incredible culinary diversity, from Egyptian street food to international cuisine, with chefs often accommodating special dietary requests. Nightlife thrives in Na'ama Bay, where clubs like Pacha stay open until dawn for all-night partying.

Shopping

* Where should I shop?
Na'ama Bay offers Western-style malls, but the Sharm Old Market provides an authentic Egyptian experience. Look for:
- Gold/silver jewellery with semi-precious stones
- Bedouin handicrafts and embroidery
- Egyptian cotton products
- Traditional spices and Turkish delights

Transportation

* How do I get around?
• Tuk-tuks: Cheap, plentiful blue-and-white vehicles - simply hail one
• Taxis: More expensive; always negotiate fares before your journey
• Walking: Na'ama Bay is easily navigable on foot

Pro Tips

• Visit Ras Mohammed early to avoid crowds
• Bargain aggressively at markets (start at 30% of asking price)
• Carry small change for tuk-tuks and tips
• Book desert experiences for cooler evening times
• Try koshari (Egypt's national dish) from street vendors

Port Ghalib is located 65 km north of Marsa Alam along Egypt's Red Sea coast. This purpose-built resort town was transformed from uninhabited coastline into the region's largest marina complex over the past 2 decades. Unlike Egypt's busier resorts, Port Ghalib offers a more tranquil atmosphere while still providing access to world-class diving and ancient historical sites. The modern marina development blends luxury amenities with authentic Egyptian charm.

Sightseeing & Activities

* What are the must-see attractions near Port Ghalib?
- Port Ghalib offers exceptional scuba diving opportunities, particularly at Samadai Reef (Dolphin House) where you can swim with a large pod of resident spinner dolphins just a few hundred metres offshore.
- Wadi Gimal National Park - The desert region is home to a surprising variety of wildlife that can be observed on walking tours. Spot wild camels, sand cats and scorpions galore. Watch out for the poisonous saw-scaled viper and the helpful sand boa that keeps the rat population in check.

* What historical sites are worth visiting?
- Cleopatra's Emerald Mines - Ancient Egyptians prized emeralds highly and regarded them as symbols of eternity and power. The emerald mines of Marsa Alam are therefore of significant historical value and well worth a visit, more so in light of recently having been identified as the legendary Mons Smargdus, or Cleopatra Mines. Several interesting ruins are also to be found at the site. - Mons Claudianus - This well preserved Roman site, located in the desert between the Nile River and the Red Sea, features remains of a fortress, stables, dwellings and workshops of what once was a Roman quarry. Granite slabs from the nearby mountain were produced by this settlement to construct the buildings of Rome.
- The 5th-6th century gold mines at Bir Umm Fashwir and the Queseir Fortress showcase the region's rich history. Karnak Temple in Luxor (a day trip) is the largest ancient religious site ever built, while the emerald mines highlight Marsa Alam's importance in antiquity.

Marsa Alam occupied an important place in the economy of ancient Egypt, thanks mostly to its rich mineral deposits. Gold, emeralds, semi-precious stones, copper and lead where all richly deposited in the soil of the surrounding coastal areas. The region was the sole supplier of emeralds to the Roman empire and it is believed to be the site of the first emerald mines in the world. Additionally, the surrounding mountains were an important granite source and helped build many of the important buildings of the Roman Empire. Some of the gold mines and marble and granite quarries were recently reopened to provide a source of employment for the local populace, although the tourist trade is becoming an ever-growing employer.

Beaches

* Which beaches are best?
• Abu Dabbab Bay: One of the best beaches Marsa Alam has to offer. Excellent snorkelling opportunities lie in wait directly from the beach with 2 good coral reefs housing plenty of fish, guitar sharks, blue spotted rays, turtles and
• Coraya Bay: Perfect for a romantic stroll down a white sandy beach lapped by azure waters, Coraya Bay is completely gorgeous. Dotted with the odd deserted spot and hidden cove, the beach is tranquillity in waiting.
• Kahramana Beach: The beach for palm fringed, white-sand beach post cards, Kahramana is surprisingly uncrowded. Snorkelling straight from the pier is excellent, with a surprisingly diverse array of exotic marine life to be found. For those who do not care to snorkel, the fish are visible even with just a few steps into the Red Sea shallow waters.

Dining & Entertainment

* What's the food and nightlife like?
Port Ghalib offers authentic Egyptian cuisine, mainly at hotels, with no international chains. Nightlife is low-key so enjoy hotel bars, beach parties at Abu Dabbab, or traditional Bedouin tents at Planet Bedouin offering shisha and oriental drinks.

Shopping

* Where can I buy souvenirs?
Shopping options are limited but look for:
- Authentic Bedouin handicrafts and clothing
- Egyptian jewellery and leather goods
- Local spices and perfumes
- High-quality Egyptian cotton products
- Cash is preferred / traveller's cheques are rarely accepted.

Transportation

* How do I get around?
• Minibuses: Cheapest option running set routes
• Taxis: More private but require fare negotiation beforehand
• Walking: The marina area is very pleasant and walkable

Pro Tips

• Book dolphin encounters early (best morning visits)
• Carry small change for transport and tips
• Haggle firmly but politely for taxis and souvenirs
• Respect wildlife distances in Wadi Gimal
• Visit emerald mines with a guide for historical context

Hurghada offers a great mix of Red Sea scuba diving, desert adventures, and vibrant nightlife - all at very affordable prices compared to other Mediterranean destinations.

The town is a fusion of 3 centres - New Hurghada, El Dahar and Sigala. As they expand, these 3 centres are growing into one conurbation and it must be said that Hurghada is a town seemingly under constant development. Downtown Hurghada, or Dahar, is the oldest district of the city. As in all of Egypt, the proprietors of the busy bazaars and shops will relentlessly hassle you for business. Sigala towards the south is right in the middle of the tourist section. Here you will find a treasure trove of hotels, bars, cafés, beach discos, hotel discos and shops. As you go even further south, you will encounter New Hurghada, which sports a walkway with cafés, a shopping mall, shops and even a bowling alley. As a whole, the area is regarded as a bit of a party town and discos and bars are easy to come by.

Sightseeing & Activities

* What are the must-do activities in Hurghada?
- Hurghada offers incredible diving and snorkelling at nearby islands like Giftun Island with its healthy coral reefs.
- No trip to Egypt would be complete without at least one desert safari. Options vary greatly in format, duration, vehicles and prices, but most trips will take you off the beaten track and as far into the desert as 40 to 80 km. Trips vary in length from 3 hours to a whole day, but it's a great thrill to explore the sand dunes on either quad bikes or in a Jeep.
- For culture, visit the St. Anthony and St. Paul monasteries or enjoy the Fantasia 1001 show featuring belly-dancing and Arabian horses.

* What water activities are available?
Beyond diving, you can enjoy windsurfing, deep-sea fishing, and submarine tours (perfect for non-divers). The submarine reaches 22m depth, offering 50 minutes of underwater exploration.

Dining & Nightlife

* What's the food scene like in Hurghada?
Hurghada offers everything from authentic Egyptian cuisine (meaty dishes with subtle spices) to international fare. Marina Boulevard features 15 upmarket restaurants serving Thai, sushi, fish & chips, and more.

* How is the nightlife?
Hurghada's nightlife is legendary, ranging from international spots like Hard Rock Café to local favourites like Papa's Beach Club and Black Out Disco. Theme nights are common at various venues around town.

Shopping

* Where are the best places to shop?
For authentic Egyptian shopping:
- Sigala's bazaars offer the best prices (10-50% cheaper than downtown)
- Downtown bazaar has the widest selection of souvenirs
- Marc's Bazaar sells shoes, perfume, clothes,souvenirs and other popular tourist items
- Marina Boulevard offers fixed-price shopping
- Don't miss Alama and Papyrus shops for unique gifts

Beaches & Islands

* Which beaches are best? Most beaches are hotel-owned but accessible for a fee:
- Old Vic Tourist Village: Great for families
- Magawish Resort Village: Longest beach, conveniently located
- Shedwan Golden Beach: Affordable 2 km stretch with pool access

* What islands should I visit?
Giftun Island is the top choice for its beautiful reefs and beaches. Other great island options include Shaab El Erg, Shaab Abu Shiban, Umm Gammar, Sharm el Arab, Shaab Abu Hashish, and Abu Mingar for snorkelling and diving.

Transportation

* What's the best way to get around?
• Minibuses are the cheapest and most frequent option
• Taxis are available but always negotiate the fare before getting in
• Many hotels offer shuttle services to popular areas

Pro Tips

• Bargain hard at bazaars (start at 50% of asking price)
• Carry small bills for taxis and beach fees
• Book desert safaris and historical tours in advance
• Try karkade (hibiscus tea) and falafel from street vendors
• Respect local customs (dress modestly outside resort areas)

For more ideas visit: Leisure Travel Egypt.

Egypt's mobile operators use 4G and 5G networks with strong coverage in cities and tourist areas. While international roaming is available, purchasing a prepaid SIM card is more cost-effective. Ensure your phone is SIM-unlocked and supports the appropriate frequency. Internet cafés are widely available in tourist areas. Free Wi-Fi is common in coffee shops, restaurants, hotel lobbies, and even some liveaboard dive boats when in range.

Egypt has a modern telephone network, allowing direct dialling to all cities. For international calls, dial 00 + country code + area code + number, but avoid using hotel phones due to high surcharges. For international directory assistance, dial 120. For local calls within Egypt, dial 02 + phone number. For inbound international calls, the dialling code for Egypt is +20.

Egypt Post offers reliable domestic and international mail services, including express mail (EMS), with standards comparable to leading global postal companies. You can send letters and packages efficiently from post offices across major cities.

The urban and developed areas of Egypt use 220 volts AC, 50 Hz. However, much of the less developed rural areas of the country are still using 110 volts AC. Wall sockets are the round 2-pin European type. Adaptor plugs are easily found in city stores but if you need a transformer then bring one as these are difficult to find in Egypt. Most Red Sea liveaboard boats use 220V and European 2-pin style wall sockets.

Both Egypt and Sudan are 2 hours ahead of UTC. Egypt does have a daylight savings time adjustment from the last Friday in April to the last Thursday in September, during which it is UTC +3.

Travellers to Egypt should be aware of potential health risks, though most visitors only experience minor issues like temporary stomach upset from rich foods or dehydration. While no vaccinations are officially required for entry, proof of Yellow Fever immunisation is mandatory if arriving from an endemic area within the previous 6 days. Medical professionals strongly recommend getting vaccinated against Typhoid, Tetanus, Diphtheria and Hepatitis A at least 6 weeks before your trip.

The most common health problems can be avoided by drinking only properly sealed bottled water - aim for at least 3 litres daily - and avoiding tap water, fountain drinks, unpasteurised milk and ice cubes outside reputable hotels. Be cautious with food by only eating thoroughly cooked meals and fruits you've personally washed and peeled, while steering clear of street vendors and market food. Mosquitoes, though not typically malarial in Egypt, can be bothersome, especially at dusk, so insect repellent is advisable.

Quality medical care is available in major tourist areas, with most hotels offering on-call doctors who can provide immediate treatment or direct you to proper hospital facilities if needed. Pharmacists in Red Sea resort towns are generally well-trained to handle common traveller ailments. For added safety, pack a comprehensive travel medical kit including treatments for sunburn, insect bites, seasickness and stomach issues.

Tipping, known locally as 'baksheesh', is an expected practice in Egypt for anyone providing you with a service. It's advisable to carry plenty of small notes for this purpose, as hotel bellmen, doormen and tour guides all anticipate tips.

For other services, baksheesh typically represents a percentage of the bill. While most restaurant and hotel bills include a 7% tax and 12% service charge, it's still customary to give waiters an additional 5-10% tip directly. Taxi drivers normally receive about 10% tip on top of the metered fare, unless you've negotiated a fixed price in advance.

Haggling is an integral part of Egyptian culture that visitors should embrace. Once you've developed your bargaining skills, you'll often secure prices at half or two-thirds of the initial asking price. Maintain a friendly demeanour during negotiations, avoid showing too much interest, and be prepared to walk away if the price isn't right - you'll frequently be called back with a better offer. However, never make an offer unless you genuinely intend to purchase at that price, as withdrawing after agreement is considered poor form.

The Red Sea remains a safe destination for diving holidays, with risks comparable to most international tourist locations. While Egypt faces security challenges from terrorism, authorities maintain strong protective measures with visible armed security at airports and major tourist sites, particularly in key revenue-generating areas like the Sinai Peninsula where counter-terrorism operations are ongoing.

The Egyptian government prioritises tourist security, recognising its vital economic importance, resulting in substantial security presence throughout popular travel zones. Visitors typically encounter no anti-Western hostility from locals, though maintaining general vigilance and avoiding political demonstrations or large public gatherings is recommended.

Crime rates in tourist areas mirror those of comparable destinations worldwide, requiring the same prudent precautions travellers would exercise anywhere - assessing situations carefully and remaining aware of one's surroundings ensures a safe and enjoyable experience. The reality is that few global destinations remain untouched by security concerns, and Egypt's protective measures for its crucial tourism industry help maintain the Red Sea's reputation as a secure diving location.

Many first time visitors to Egypt are concerned about impressions they have formed of the country from unkind and often untrue media stories. Travellers are often surprised by the friendly, hospitable reception they receive from local people and take home good feelings about Egypt and its population. Egyptians are generally cheerful, friendly people who will welcome you to their country and go out of their way to help you and answer any questions you have.

The people of Sudan have a long history of conflict, no thanks to the straight border lines drawn by colonial cartographers. Some Sudanese feel more allied to the Muslim people to the north, others to the Christians and pagans to the south, hence the creation of South Sudan as an independent state in 2011. Beyond areas of conflict which tend to be in the west and south, it is considered safe for tourists and the people are friendly.

You will be visiting the waters off the north-east coast. The most annoyance you will get from locals could be the bureaucracy. On a dive trip in Sudan you rarely go ashore anyway and will probably only make land visits to the lighthouse and Sanganeb Reef.

Not much; only around the Port Sudan area and near the border. For much of the time in Sudan you will have no network coverage.

If you require hotel accommodation before or after your dive holiday, our affiliated hotel reservation agents hotelscombined.com have a variety of accommodations throughout Egypt and its Red Sea resort towns. Browse the choices on their website, use their live chat to ask your questions, and then simply use your credit card to make your reservation.



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