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THE Within the monastery’s towering walls, one of the world’s finest and THE RED SEA COAST Part quarry, part prison, Roman prisoners were brought there to Coptic Christians and consisted of some 200 buildings. Excursions The Red Sea Riviera is divided into two areas. The first is a stretch most unique collections of Christian artifacts has been made more extract its top-quality grey granite used for buildings such as the can be arranged from and EL Quseir. of land overlooking the and the Red Sea from Ain accessible to the public. A small, yet extraordinary, nine-room The Red Sea is one of the northernmost coral seas, offering an ideal Pantheon and Hadrian’s Villa. Among its attractive ruins are a Sukhna in the north to in the south. The second region museum referred to as “The Sacred Sacristy” has now been opened recreational area to Europeans in particular because of the short fortress, a small temple, cells, baths and a gigantic cracked pillar. WADI is made up of Southern Sinai, from Taba in the north to Ras to display many masterpieces. flying distance. In winter, as in summer, visitors can take part in Excursions can be organised from , Safaga and El Quseir. HAMMAMAT Mohamed in the south. diverse watersports, as well as enjoying excursions to classical Wadi Hammamat monuments on the or to the mysterious . BIR UMM FAWAKHIR is a fascinating This Byzantine gold quarry community was once inhabited by quarry settlement THE COAST OF situated south east ATTRACTIONS ON THE RED SEA of El Quseir in the SOUTHERN SINAI Eastern Desert , This attractive peninsula has a magic quality and is noted as a land MONASTERY OF ST PAUL which was once of history and sanctity. It is located east of the and St Paul is considered the very first Christian hermit and his remains celebrated for its borders the Red Sea, between the gulfs of and Suez. are buried in the Church of St Paul built around the cave where he production of bekheny, a green, semi-precious rock that was used for decoration. Overlooking the , the Egyptian Riviera in Sinai offers a lived for 85 years, and that is one of the three monuments that Its appeal lies in the many inscriptions to be found there from variety of tourist attractions from a dramatic mountain backdrop to comprise the monastery. St Paul’s is considered, (together with St Pharaonic times to the last century. In fact, the collection of stretches of golden beaches on Lazarus Waters. It is a paradise, not Anthony’s) one of the oldest Christian monasteries. It houses a fine Pharaonic graffiti is definitely a highlight of this most unusual site, only for divers and sun-worshipers, but for anyone looking for collection of manuscripts, altars and wall paintings, and is situated which is easily reached from El Quseir and Safaga. (More on Bir beautiful weather all year around, state-of-the-art tourist facilities, 90 km south of Ain Sukhna, in the cliffs of Gebel Al Galala Al Umm Fawakhir and Wadi Hammamat under the heading “El white sandy beaches and the most amazing and unmatched Qibliya. The monastery has two guesthouses and visitors are more Quseir”). underwater scenery in the world, with 250 different corals and than welcome to spend the night there (pre-arrangements are 1,000 species of fish as well as some world-famous wrecks. It also recommended). offers a unique opportunity to experience the colourful and hospitable Bedouin culture and visit a number of spectacular MONASTERY OF ST ANTHONY (Pictured) Among the tastefully-displayed exhibits are exquisite 6th century THE BLUE DESERT National Parks. Built at the foot of Gebel Al Galala Al Qibliya, the monastery is Byzantine icons, delicate 9th century manuscripts written in Syriac, About 10 kilometres from the Monastery of St. Katherine is a unique separated from St Paul’s by some 85 km. It dates back to the 4th rare Slavonic prayer books, and splendid objects of silver, gold, ivory place in Sinai - the remarkable Blue Desert or Blue Valley. It can be For the adventurous, there are diverse activities from desert safaris century AD and it is the largest Coptic monastery in . Legend and precious stones. Perhaps the most valued items on exhibit, reached by car (a four-wheel-drive is not necessary) along a track to mountaineering and the chance to go off-the-beaten-track to visit says that St Anthony lived in retreat in a nearby cave and died at the presented in a special glass case, are pages from the Codex starting at the tomb of Sheikh Nabi Saleh (a Muslim cleric) near the a number of key historical sites. grand age of 105. Today, the monastery is inhabited by some 70 Sinaiticus, a 4th century version of the Bible that now rests in the crossing between the road leading to the monastery and that monks and it is open to visitors. The monastery has several British Museum. leading to the Wadi Feiran. churches, chapels, a vegetable garden, a spring, and a small ST KATHERINE’S MONASTERY museum that houses its fine collection of manuscripts and crosses. In 330 AD, the mother of Emperor Constantine, Empress Helena, The Blue Desert owes its name to the numerous rocks scattered It also has splendid wall paintings in the Church of St Anthony’s, ordered the construction of a small church near Moses’ Burning across an area of nearly 15 square kilometres. A good 10 tons of which contains the saint’s tomb. Travellers can stay for the night at Bush. It was called the Church of the Transfiguration. The fortified Mount Sinai, just south of the Monastery of St Katherine, is of great paint were needed to complete the work. the monastery’s guesthouse (pre-arrangements are recommended). Monastery of St Katherine seen today was built around the church religious importance to Jews, Christians and Muslims alike. during the reign of Emperor Justinian (527-565 AD). In the 11th According to the Old Testament, this is where Moses received the The asphalt road that goes down into the Wadi Feiran which is the century, the monastery was dedicated to St Katherine of Alexandria, Ten Commandments. Throughout the centuries, the mountain has largest and most magnificent wadi (“valley”) in the . MONS PORPHYRITIS who died in 310 AD. Her remains, reportedly found by monks on a drawn thousands of pilgrims from all over the world. Visitors can After a long stretch, it opens out onto the coast of the Gulf of Suez, This was once an important mine during Roman times because of mountain peak next to Mount Sinai, are buried in the monastery’s ascend to the summit (7497 ft) either by climbing the “ancient and was the ancient route covered by pilgrims on their way to Saint its porphyry, a beautiful purple and crystal gemstone not found Basilica. route” - some 4000 steps built by monks - or by following an easier Katherine. anywhere else. It was used mainly in decorative work and became but longer path. Both lead to an open area known as Elija’s Basin, a symbol of royalty. There are remains at the site of buildings that Fronted by gardens and cypress tress, the monastery is owned and where it is necessary to walk up the remaining 750 steps to the top. The Wadi Feiran is home to the largest palm grove in the Sinai used to comprise a complex of temples, shrines and fortresses. run by the Greek Orthodox Church. Its rich library houses the world’s At the summit, is the Chapel of the Holy Trinity built in 1934 on the Peninsula. And excavations in the area have revealed the ruins of MYOS HORMOS second largest collection of illuminated manuscripts after the site of a much earlier chapel built in 363 AD. The climb takes about several churches, which date back to the 4th-7th centuries AD, MONS CLAUDIANUS This ancient port lies just a few km north of El Quseir, and was once Vatican, and also contains invaluable icons, beautifully-carved doors, three hours but the view from the top is truly breathtaking, and which demonstrate the importance of the Wadi in ancient Located deep in the Eastern Desert, between Safaga and the Nile, a thriving haven for trading ships departing to India. Remains of the exquisite wall paintings and other fine religious ornaments. especially at sunrise. times. this amazing Roman settlement was the largest of its kind in Egypt. old port can still be seen today.

Currency The unit of currency is the Health Regulations A vaccination document is not Practical Hints (LE) divided into 100 piasters (PT). required unless someone is arriving from infected areas in which case they will require a certificate proving that they Foreign Exchange Regulations You are allowed to have been vaccinated against yellow fever or cholera. enter Egypt with a maximum of 5,000 LE. There are no There is no special insurance agreement with Egypt. restrictions or limitations for foreign currencies. However, Physicians’ bills must be paid immediately. from US$10,000 onwards, the amount should be declared. Photography Ideal exposure conditions. In some cases, it is prohibited to take photographs of places such as Travellers’ cheques, Visacards Euro cheques and bridges, military installations and ports. travellers’ cheques can be cashed in banks and hotels. Visa, American Express and Eurocard can be used for Antiques Both the trade and export of antiques are purchases in a wide range of stores or for cash advances prohibited. Copies and replicas can be bought at in the at many banks. Egyptian Museum. Car Rentals Cars can be rented through international Voltage 220 Volt A/C. An adapter for European-plugs car hire agencies or some hotels, but only by those who is needed. are at least 21-years-old and have an international driving licence. Some Important Contacts: Regulations for Private Vehicles For the entry of Tourist Friends Ass. Entry Travellers from the UK and Republic of Ireland private vehicles, the following documents are required: 33. Kasr El Nil Street, entering Egypt need a passport valid for at least six Tel: 00202 2417 3036 months after departure from Egypt and must obtain visas Carnet de Passage from Egyptian consulates overseas or at the airport upon International driving licence Tourist Offices in Egypt: arrival. International registration document Cairo Airport 02- 2269 5475 Cairo Pyramids 02-2383 8823 Some nationalities must obtain a visa from the Egyptian A third party insurance must be concluded directly upon Alex. Raml Station 03- 484 3380 Consulate prior to travel. It is necessary to fill in an entering the country. Luxor Nile St. 095- 237 3274 application form and attach one passport-size photo. Automobile et Touring Club 097- 230 3297 d´Egypte, 10, Kasr el Nil St., Cairo New Valley 092-7821686 Tel: 00202 2574 3355 069- 366 4721 Egyptian Embassies & Consulates Hurghada 065- 3463221 Youth Hostels There are 15 youth hostels in Egypt. Tourist Police 02- 2531 9088 Egyptian Consulate Minimum age: six years. Hostels are generally open from 2 Lowndes Street, London SW1X 9ET 8.00 – 10.00am and from 17.00 – 21.00pm Tel: 020 7235 9777 or 020 7235 9719 With the compliments of: Fax: 020 7235 5684 Business Hours Weekly day of rest is Friday Bank open from 9.30 am – 12.30 pm Egyptian State Tourist Office E-mail: [email protected] Egyptian House, Third Floor Most shops are open from 9.00 am – 18.00 pm Website: www.egyptianconsulate.co.uk 170 Piccadilly, London W1J 9EJ Museums: in winter, 9.00 am – 15.00 pm Republic of Ireland – Egyptian Embassy Tel: 020 7493 5283 Fax: 020 7408 0295 12 Clyde Road, Dublin 4, Ireland Egyptian Museum: 9.00 am – 17.00 pm Email: [email protected] Tel: 003531 660 6566 Fax: 003531 668 3745 (Special opening hours in the month of Ramadan Website: www.egypt.travel Email: [email protected] and on Fridays). Website: www.embegyptireland.ie

THE RESORTS IN renowned for activities for children, including the PADI Bubble ospreys. Thousands of white storks pass through Ras Mohammed Temp Jan Feb March April May June SOUTHERN SINAI Maker Experience for little divers, go-karting, the “Fun Town” and a each year, heading south during September/October and back Degrees C Min/Max Min/Max Min/Max Min/Max Min/Max Min/Max number of playgrounds. Glass-bottom boats and banana boats north during April/May. There are about 85 different types of SHARM EL SHEIKH complete the amusement! flowers and plants in the park, including magnificent mangroves. Sharm El Sheikh 13.4 23.8 13.9 25.7 13.7 25.0 17.7 28.9 24.1 32.8 26.1 37.0 Overlooking the Gulf of Aqaba, in Southern Sinai, lies one of the In glaring contrast to the seemingly desolate landscape, the St. Katherine 1.9 16.1 4.2 18.1 5.3 17.3 8.3 23.1 14.0 29.1 16.3 31.3 most outstanding marine environments in the world, with its varied Sharm El Sheikh, declared by UNESCO to be “City of Peace 2002”, ecosystem underwater at Ras is a magnificent eruption of life: 200 Hurghada 9.6 20.6 9.9 20.9 12.3 23.0 16.1 26.0 20.7 29.6 23.5 31.4 coral reefs, and diverse aquatic life, in crystal clear waters. There are has hosted numerous international events and it is rapidly emerging types of coral (125 of which are soft corals), 1000 different fish, 40 direct flights from Europe to Sharm El Sheikh airport, which is about as a glamorous and must-see worldwide destination, providing a starfish, 25 sea urchin, 100 mollusk, 150 species of crustacean, as July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec 14 km from Sharm EL Maya and 8 km from Na’ama Bay. sparkling nightlife, a diversity of accommodation and tremendous well as the Green Turtle and the Hawksbill Turtle. Min/Max Min/Max Min/Max Min/Max Min/Max Min/Max nearby attractions. Sharm El Sheikh 26.7 38.3 26.6 38.0 26.9/34.1 22.8 30.1 18.7 27.6 15.9 22.7 NABQ PROTECTORATE St. Katherine 18.2 32.4 20.2 32.7 17.7/30.5 12.8 24.8 9.5 21.9 6.1 15.1 Spread across 600 sq km, Nabq contains a variety of ecosystems Hurghada 24.8 32.6 25.0 33.0 23.2/30.6 19.7 28.5 15.5 25.7 11.9 22.4 that provide for nature unique in the Sinai Peninsula. The Egyptian Environmental Affairs Agency (EEAA) agreed to protect Nabq on the

CYPRUS EUROPE basis of its rich natural resource base. These include:

ASIA M e d e a ▲ i t e r r a n e a n S EGYPT The most northerly mangrove trees in the Red Sea/Indian AFRICA Ocean complex

Beaches ▲ One of the largest single of Arak Bushes in the Middle East, i Diving Sites Marsa Rosetta Damietta Golf Courses covering the higher dunes of the Wadi Kid Matruh Alexandria El Arish Rafah Bardawil

El Mansura Port SaidSUEZ CA Main Airports Porto Lake Zaranik Sidi Abd Marina TANIS ▲ el Rahman Borg Damanhur Main Roads Some 134 plant species of which six are found only in Nabq El Arab Tanta Ismailia NA Wadi el- L Marina El Alamein Natroun Zagazig Timsah Lake Monasteries ▲ Gazelle, Nubian Ibex, Hyrax and many varied small mammals Cairo Monuments PYRAMIDS Suez OF GIZA Museums a n Giza Oyoun Musa ▲ Rich coral reefs r io PYRAMIDS ta s Ain ara Oasis t s OF SAQQARA Memphis Ras Sidr Taba National Parks a e Sukhna Taba r Heights Q p Qaroun Qaroun PORTO Sinai PLE e Lake Pharaoh’s Island Lake EL SUKHNA Oases D SERABIT Taba ta Fayoum EL KHADIM El Fayoum The city of Sharm El Sheikh comprises three centres: Sharm El Oasis Za’farana Ports Wadi Abu ST CATHERINE’S El Rayan Beni Suef ST ANTHONY’S Ras Abu Siwa Rudeis MONASTERY a Pyramids Maya, Om El Seed Hill and Na’ama Bay. The resort offers the very MONASTERY Gallum b Areg t a r St Catherine q ST PAUL’S Area A Sound & E e f best tourist facilities, including restaurants, varied entertainment, MONASTERY G MOUNT MOSES o Light Shows s Ras u l f e a f l Bawiti D Gharib o El Tur u Tourist D f G Excursions out of Sharm El Sheikh: s Su Nabq and numerous activities such as underwater photography, horse ALEXANDER MONS ez Information THE GREAT TEMPLE El Minya e t PORPHYRITES n Bahariyya Offices r Oasis s e Sharm el-Sheikh BANI HASAN and camel riding, quad-biking, snorkelling, desert safaris, e TOMBS e r White TONA EL GABAL RUINS t Desert r n t Mallawi Ras Mohammed windsurfing and sailing to mention just a few. s ser t RAS MOHAMED NATIONAL PARK White De TEL EL AMARNA e Hurghada This 480-square kilometre protected area lies where the Gulf of W Farafra Oasis Asyut Qasr Farafra MONS CLAUDIANUS One of the most popular activities is diving. ‘Easy’ sites include The Suez meets the Gulf of Aqaba at Sinai’s southern extremity. Nile Safaga Abu minqar River Temple and Middle-to-Near Garden. Intermediate sites are White

G Sohag The arid desert terrain – elf WADI Ke Knights, Tower and Paradise, while most experienced divers delight bi HAMMAMAT r ABYDOS El Quseir DANDARA to find themselves among the amazing Jackson and Thomas Reefs consisting of sand VALLEY OF THE KINGS Qus R El Qasr Ain Umm dunes, gravel plains, Dakhla Dabadib KARNAK off and the Shark and Yolanda reefs in the Ras Oasis e AL BAGAWAT Luxor NECROPOLIS Al Kharga d fossilised corals and Mut Mohamed National Park. The richness of their fauna and flora and Esna Port Ghalib Bulaq TEMPLE Marsa Alam S granite mountains - Ne Kharga OF KHNOUM the beauty of their reefs is simply overwhelming. And a dive into w Oasis Edfu e V TEMPLE al a le OF HORUS is home to a number of y Kom Ombo the Thistlegorm - one of the most famous wrecks in the world - will Baris TEMPLE OF SOBEK Dush & HAREORIS Wadi El Gemal rare species, including Saluga fulfil any diver’s dream. & Ghazale Aswan EZBET DUSH SAAD EL-ALI, Berenice THE HIGH DAM Dorcas gazelle, Nubian PHILAE KALABSHA For those who enjoy golf, there is the Jolie Ville Golf Course, which ibex and red fox. Easier The Red Sea Riviera hosted the 2004 European Golf Challenge Tournament. to spot, though, are its Lake Nasser Shalatin resident birds such as WADI EL-SUBUA AMADA As Sharm El Sheikh’s reputation blooms, the resort is also becoming terns, herons, gulls and

NATIONAL PARKS IN SINAI ST KATHERINE’S PROTECTORATE Bedouins have traditionally occupied Sinai Peninsula. Within the This comprises the mountain network in South Sinai. Home to limits of declared Protected Areas, they retain their traditional rites In addition to Ras Mohamed and Nabq Protectorates, there are also many plants - many of which are not found anywhere else in the and continue to occupy their settlements; women graze their sheep Sharm El Sheikh the following protected areas: world - it is also inhabited by some interesting mammals, reptiles, and goats and men fish. Activities likely to damage habitats or Dive Sites ABU GALUM PROTECTORATE birds and insects. reduce their biodiversity are now regulated by the Egyptian Characterised by its spectacular granite mountains ending abruptly Environmental Affairs Agency (EEAA) staff, in co-operation with the on a narrow coastal plain fronted by rich coral reefs, Abu Galum Bedouin leaders. Bedouin staff have been contracted by the EEAA (located between Dahab and Nuweiba) owes its protected status to to act as Park Rangers or to provide other services within the its varied ecosystems, unique back reef communities and excellent Protectorates. coral. Bedouin culture was founded on strict tribal laws and traditions. Recent surveys have identified 167 species of desert plants, many Nature is respected, water is consumed sparingly, small water of which are not found in either Ras Mohamed or Nabq. As a result, reservoirs are constructed on hillsides to assist wildlife, the Abu Galum is also home to the largest number of Nubian ibex, relationship between coral reefs and fisheries is clearly understood. Hyrax, red fox and striped hyena. Ten different species of lizards and And tribal law prohibits the cutting down of green trees; Bedouins snakes have also been identified. believe that “killing a tree is like killing a soul.” Much can be learned from that statement. TABA PROTECTORATE This covers a massive 2,800 sq km and is located between Nuweiba and Taba. Mainly, it contains an intricate system of valleys and rifts beautifully sculpted by the elements of nature across time. It engulfs the Ein Umm Ahmed and Ein Khudra oases and the THE BEDOUINS Nawamis tombs, and has many plants, mammals and bird species The Bedouin population in Southern Sinai is broken principally into within its fabulous scenery. eight tribes. The Protectorates of Abu Galum and Nabq are inhabited by two of these tribes. The El Mezeina – one of the largest and most powerful – inhabit the Southern Gulf from Nuweiba to Sharm El Sheikh, and the El Tabarin live in the area from Nuweiba to Taba.

Sharm El Sheikh the best spots for snorkelling are Lighthouse Reef, Eel Garden and The water is clear, the sea bottom is downy soft and the shallow Deep-sea fishing is another sport fast on the rise. The Red Sea is writings and drawings created over the centuries by people of many the Canyon. water of the coast extend far out, making it ideal for children to play ideal hunting ground for those with a taste for it. At 15 metres you different cultures. close to shore. The coastal shelf is flecked with the grey and silver find groupers, in particular, the half-spotted and the black tip Camel and jeep treks are favoured excursions and are normally led shades of shallow water and as you wade there smaller fish weave grouper fish. At depth of between 25 and 30 metres there is an EIN KID OASIS by a Bedouin guide. Easily reachable from Dahab are the in and out between your feet. Further out the sea dips off suddenly abundance of snappers sherifas and rudderfish. If you’re lucky you This beautiful palm tree oasis is the perfect spot for a day-trip from breathtaking Colour Canyon, St Katherine’s Monastery and Mount into darker shades of blue. This is where many of the dive sites might even pull out the odd tuna. Sharm El Sheikh or Dahab. Sinai. Part of the pleasure of such a day out is a genuine Bedouin begin and you can watch divers taking the plunge from boats off meal at the Ein Umm Ahmed or Ein Kid oases. the coast. COLOUR CANYON NAWAMIS It is a popular day destination from Nuweiba, Taba and Dahab. It Nawamis are intriguing circular constructions made of sandstone Dahab, like all other Red Sea Riviera resorts, has accommodation to The resorts of the Taba region offer a complete range of watersports owes its name to the magnificent layers of sediment with a variety blocks, mostly from between 4000 and 3500BC, which are meet every budget, from five, four and three star hotels to the very with state-of-the-art equipment and professional instructors on hand of shades all carved by the elements of nature over millions of years. thought to be burial chambers. Just to the south of Ein Khudra economical tourist camps located in the original Bedouin city of to help the experienced and beginners alike. Waterskiing, As the canyon is sheltered from the rigours of the desert wind by its Oasis. Assalah. windsurfing and parasailing are also popular, as is exploring the 40 metres high walls, the sense of tranquillity and peace is coastline in a hired boat. unparalleled. PHARAOHS ISLAND A wide range of restaurants, discos, bars and nightclubs complete Also known as Coral Island or Geziret Faraoun, is situated in a the picture in this small but lively resort, which also has a marvellous EIN UMM AHMED OASIS unique position overlooking the Gulf of Aqaba, only some 8km from range of intriguing shops. Just 50 km south of Taba is the stunning Coloured Canyon, a Situated in a plain deep in the Sinai Desert, this desert jewel is Taba and it is renown for its Saladin Fortress, built by the Sultan marvel of the natural world and a kaleidoscope of colour. The Fjord, home to a number of hospitable Bedouins. It is abundant with fruit Salah El Din El Ayoubi to defend Egypt against the crusaders. It has NUWEIBA another spectacular site, just 15 km south of Taba, is a delightful trees and many species of fascinating birds. a yacht and boat marina. About 87 km north of Dahab lies Nuweiba, “the pearl of the Gulf of and protected bay with stunning coral reefs and unforgettable DAHAB Aqaba”. Rugged mountains and sandy beaches make this a scenery. EIN KHUDRA OASIS Dahab, which means “gold” in , was named after its particular heavenly spot, and the city itself offers a range of Ein Khudra (or the Green Oasis) owes its name to its sparkling glimmering sandy beaches that resemble gold dust. It lies 85 km SPAS IN SINAI accommodation, a fascinating bazaar and a wide selection of bars TABA HEIGHTS vegetation that grows thanks to its fresh water springs. Its highlights north of Sharm El Sheikh and was originally a Bedouin village called and restaurants. North of the centre is Tarabin, a marina walk A picturesque, year-round resort that overlooks one of the most include the White Canyon and the Rock of Inscriptions with ancient MOSES’ BATH Assalah. However, in recent years it has grown to become one of alongside peaceful Nuweiba Bay, which, with its bamboo beach beautiful spots on the Sinai peninsula, Taba Heights spreads over This is a wonderful oasis covered in palm trees around a natural hot the main Red Sea Riviera resorts. Visitors love to relax in its huts, is a perfect place to sit and watch the sun rise or set. 4.5 million square metres of colourful mountains and coastline and spring situated near El Tor. Its water is said to have the ability to excellent restaurants and hotels or among the palm trees that boasts five kilometres of heal wounds, combat general body weakness and relieve high surround its turquoise sea. Again, underwater activities are the main attraction in Nuweiba. beautiful and secluded blood pressure. Shallow reefs create interesting locations for snorkeling; and diving beaches. sites include Ras Burka, Big Ruta, Devil’s Head and Maagana to THE PHARAOH’S BATH name but a few. The natural setting of the This is located in Ras Mallab in the Suez Bay about 250 km from Taba region as a whole Cairo. It consists of a group of natural hot springs in which the water Opportunities exist, too, for trekking, either by camel or jeep, into the inspired 19th century flows naturally from the mountains, forming a narrow lake about astounding Sinai interior or through the coastline mountains. travellers to take home 100 metres in length perpendicular to the seashore. The mountain Highlights include St Katherine’s Monastery, Mount Sinai, the spellbinding tales of the has a stone tunnel used as a natural sauna because of the hot water Coloured Canyon, or a visit to some of the oases in the area. mysteries of the Arabian springs that eminate from inside the mountain. Scientific research is said to have proved the importance of the water in treating TABA Desert. The area occupies rheumatism, kidney problems, inflammation of the lungs and skin Taba, “The gateway to Sinai” is a beautiful, fast-growing resort 75 a tract of land between diseases. km north of Nuweiba. Well-known for its charming bays and the Sinai Mountain range coastline, tourism has blossomed recently with the opening of its and the Red Sea. So, no International Airport, which has direct flights from many parts of matter which beach you Europe. chose for the day, you always have the azure Among popular activities are diving, snorkelling and windsurfing. The 12th century fortress of Saladin on Pharaoh’s Island is a joy to blue of the sea in front There are more than 40 dive clubs and most diving centres visit as it is in a remarkable condition. It is surrounded by blue and of you and the soft grey organise safaris to Abu Galum, the Nabq Protectorates and The Blue turquoise waters and its reefs are a paradise for snorkellers and of the mountains in the Hole (which is one of the best sites for experienced divers). Among divers. background.

Nuweiba Nuweiba Dive Sites Taba Taba Dive Sites

Taba Heights Location

Dahab Dive Sites

arcades, bazaars, an art village, cafes, and a wide selection of up of Pharaonic, Greco-Roman and Oriental-style buildings. There is something there for everybody: manta rays at Sha’ab town of some 200 buildings. The gold extracted from the restaurants, bars and pubs, as well as a casino, and discos. Saiman, the eel garden at Gamul Kabira, blue spotted stingrays at surrounding mountains was washed and transported to the Divers, watersport lovers and sun worshippers love its immaculate Tobias, sharp drop-offs at Abu Kafan, the anemone city at Panorama Nile Valley for refining. Bir Umm Fawakhir’s largest mine In El Gouna you could spoil yourself with a Turkish bath, traditional clear waters, perfect beaches and marvellous coral reefs. It is Reef. And there is nothing like a night dive at Sha’ab Sheer or the extends horizontally approximately 100 metres into the Egyptian body scrub or facial and massage in a number of health convenient for day trips to Luxor, Nile cruises, trekking in the Eastern sight of the huge Salem Express lying on its starboard side. mountain and is about two metres high. Today, visitors can and beauty spas located throughout the town. Thererafter, you Desert and visits to the Roman site of Mons Claudianus. walk around the site and examine the neatly-laid-out buildings could eat in one of a wide selection of restaurants featuring MAKADI BAY Safaga is also famed for Mons Claudianus. These fascinating ruins and the ancient inscriptions etched into granite boulders at the international cuisine and modern and traditional interpretations of This new resort, 35 km south of Hurghada, is a beautiful natural of a Roman settlement lie in the parched desert between the Red town’s guard posts. Arabic food in a variety of moods and settings. bay, nestled between desert dunes and a superb mountain range. Sea and the Nile. For more than two centuries, from 68 AD to 282 It offers translucent waters, white sandy beaches and exquisite AD, Mons Claudianus used the surrounding mountains to produce PORT GHALIB Many believe that El Gouna is marine life. Facilities include tennis, diving, watersports, an open-air high quality columns and building blocks of grey granite known as This is a new tourist development near Marsa Alam, a world-class the ultimate holiday theatre, a health club, a children’s club, outdoor and indoor granodiorite for the sole purpose of beautifying imperial Rome. resort community that is colourful and exciting, with the serenity destination for diving, water swimming pools, and horse and camel riding. At night, visitors can that comes from being in harmony with nature. Facilities include: a skiing, sailing, fishing, The largest and best-preserved Roman site in the Eastern Desert, enjoy live music at a number of bars, restaurants and discos. variety of accommodation, restaurants, entertainment, shopping Mons Claudianus, was once home to 1,000 quarrymen and windsurfing and golf – it is centres, an International marina and golf. EL GOUNA home to an 18-hole USPGA SOMA BAY soldiers. And, today, visitors can still see remnants of the fortress, championship golf course Situated among white, sandy dwellings, workshops, stables, baths, broken granite columns and Nestled between Sienna Mountains and the azure waters of the Red MARSA ALAM with spectacular views. beaches in a panoramic peninsula, slabs. One column is an impressive 16 metres long and 2.4 metres Sea, El Gouna started out as one man’s dream. Once a small fishing village, Marsa Alam is rapidly increasing in Soma Bay is a beautiful, self- wide, weighing 209 tons. popularity, especially among divers and fishing enthusiasts. A businessman from Cairo HURGHADA contained resort south of Hurghada Relatively untouched, its coral reefs are spectacular for snorkelling is behind the grand resort Tucked into the lower end of the Gulf of Suez, Hurghada has been and only 45 km from Hurghada EL QUSEIR and its islands, part of the Gebel Elba Protectorate, are one of the that now boasts 13 hotels transformed into one of Egypt’s liveliest and busiest resorts and is International Airport. One of its Known historically as one of the major ports on the Red Sea coast, highlights of the area. and endless residential still evolving. Merging the old with the new, Hurghada boasts some principal attractions is golf. The Quseir was once the launching point for Queen Hatshepsut’s villas, desired only to find of the finest modern buildings alongside the sights, smells and Cascades is a full size 18-hole expedition to the mystical African land of Punt. On top of that, it was the most beautiful spot on sounds of El-Dahar, the old town, which is the lively hub of everyday course designed by the world- also a major point for pilgrims leaving for Mecca, as well as a Two other superb local attractions are: the Red Sea to build himself Egyptian life. famous Gary Player and surrounded significant trade route for spices from India to Britain. a house and small jetty for by the ever-blue waters of the Red ▲ The Gebel Elba National Park, encompasses a variety of Diving has long been the mainstay attraction of Hurghada, famed Today, the historical charm of Quseir is more than apparent, and, his boat. Sea. However, it also offers ecosystems: mangroves, islands, coral reefs, sand dunes, salt for its extraordinary and unique reefs, as well as being the ideal today, it is popular among divers for its pristine and unpopulated watersports, diving, snorkelling, marshes, desert plains and a cluster of mountains and, It was not long before many starting point for safaris further afield. For non-divers, Giftun Island is dive sites, and transparent waters. surfing, sailing and deep-sea together, these unique habitats support a remarkable diversity of his friends, struck by the a snorkellers’ paradise, where they can also camp overnight and fishing. Day trips to Luxor and of flora and fauna found nowhere else in Egypt. splendor of the glistening awaken with the sunrise. Due to Quseir’s historical importance, it is home to many interesting safaris in the desert can also be waters and the dramatic attractions, including Wadi Hammamat and Bir Umm Fawakhir, From Hurghada visitors can join a live-aboard boat to the arranged. ▲ The emerald is the oldest known gemstone. Uniquely green mountain backdrop, asked both of which can be reached within a day. exceptional dive sites of Brothers Islands, Ras Mohammed and the in colour and widely used in jewellery, emeralds were prized to join him. And, in that way, El Gouna slowly began to blossom into SAFAGA Strait of Gubal, where Thistlegorm, the Red Sea’s most well known ▲ The legendary Wadi Hammamat has hundreds of rock and cherished as symbols of eternity and power uring antiquity. the rich, vibrant community it is today. Safaga is a favorite spot for sun bathers, and its water is known to wreck, is found. inscriptions some of which date back to 4000 BC. What made It is believed that Egypt’s Pharaohs began mining emeralds in have a high content of saline, which is said to be beneficial for the A lively, nicely planned town, it is ideally situated along 10 it famous during antiquity was the Bekheny Stone, a beautiful, the mountainous area in the Eastern Desert southwest of If you are seeking out nightlife, then you will find plenty in Hurghada. skin. kilometres of scenic beachfront, and is built by award-winning green ornamental rock that was considered sacred. The stone Marsa Alam. Later identified as the Cleopatra Mines or Mons There are various nightclubs, bars and pubs that turn this diving architects on islands surrounded by crystalline turquoise lagoons. was actively quarried from Pharaonic until Roman times for the Smaragdus (Emerald Mountains), the area became the most town into a party town. Encircled by the attractive waters of Makadi Bay, Soma Bay and Year-round sunshine, closeness to an international airport Shahl Hashish - Safaga is also home to Tobia Arbaa and Tobia production of bowls, statues and sarcophagi. A large number of famous mining complex throughout the ancient world. The (Hurghada) and an exciting array of sports and leisure activities, As a cultural focal point, Hurghada has some fascinating spots that Hamra; these two chain reefs line the shore and make it an ideal Bekheny Stone monuments have been found in the Pyramids, mines at Wadi Gimal, Wadi Sikeit, Wadi Nuqrus and Gebel made many people move and become part of this unique can be easily visited within one day. These include the Monasteries spot for daily diving. The town is also popular for windsurfing and, in graves and temples of those periods. Zabara were energetically exploited during the Ptolemaic and community. With many hotels to choose from - ranging from of St Anthony and St Paul. 1993, hosted the World Windsurfing Championships. Roman periods. They were also worked during later centuries intimate guesthouses to five-star beachfront resort hotels - El Gouna ▲ A little to the north of Wadi Hammamat, in the central part of until left deserted after the Spaniards discovered emeralds in is a sophisticated yet informal holiday destination. SAHL HASHISH Most dive sites are still unspolit and can be reached by boat, less the Eastern Desert, lies a Byzantine gold mining settlement Columbia in 1545. Today, the ruins of the Zabara and Sikeit Situated just 20 km south of Hurghada, on the Hurghada-Safaga than one hour to the inner reefs and between one-and-a-half to two from the fifth and sixth century known today as Bir Umm mining settlements are still evident, as are the remains of The downtown area and marina are always lively with shopping Road, Sahl Hashish is an environmental-friendly destination made hours to the outer reefs. Fawakhir. Around 1,000 Coptic Christians once lived in this temple structures and some old caved-in mine sites.

Hurghada Resorts

El Gouna and Hurghada Dive Sites Soma Bay Location

Marsa Alam South of Hurghada

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