Egypt is one of Africa’s major tourist destinations, with the main drawcards being the Red Sea, Egyptology and the Nile. The Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx and the Valley of the Kings need no introduction in the world of antiquity, the sun-soaked beaches of the Red Sea with their scuba diving are a massive attraction to those from colder climes, and a cruise on the Nile floods back memories of Cleopatra. Aside from these famous attractions, this desert country houses ancient ruins and mystical Oases, and in Cairo, ancient cultures remain, blending with the very modern. Egypt offers so much more than its world-famous pyramids. Visitors can enjoy desert trekking, scuba diving, golfing, fishing, bird watching or floating along the Red Sea.
Stretching along 40 kilometres of beautiful Egyptian coastline, Hurghada is best known for its world-class scuba diving. With its magnificent setting on the Red Sea Coast, it’s not surprising that Hurghada, formerly a quiet fishing village, has developed into one of Egypt’s largest cities and busiest tourist centres. The Red Sea’s warm, tranquil waters and abundant coral gardens are a diving and snorkelling mecca, teeming with vividly coloured marine life, while windsurfing and yachting are also popular oceanic pursuits. The city is served by an international airport and has an extensive range of lodging options as well as a thriving nightlife.
Lining the coast of Egypt from the Gulf of Suez to the Strait of Mandeb, the Red Sea is thought to be named after the seasonal blooms of the red-coloured ‘sea sawdust’ near the water’s surface. There are other theories behind the naming of this famous sea, including the surrounding red, mineral-rich mountain ranges. Decorated by coral reefs, lined by ancient ports and home to teeming marine life, the Red Sea is one of the world’s most spectacular diving sites. Bird watchers will also find themselves in paradise here when thousands of migrating birds arrive at the Red Sea’s shores, appreciating the warm winds. Tourists are also attracted to the Red Sea for its excellent diving, snorkelling, and swimming opportunities.
As previously described
As previously described
As previously described
As previously described
Commonly known as ‘Sharm’, this popular beach resort town is sandwiched between the desert of the Sinai Peninsula and the warm waters of the Red Sea. With its sheltered white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, colourful coral reefs, and the legendary Pyramids of Giza just an excursion away, the town attracts countless tourists who flock here to enjoy the warm, sunny weather and the countless activities on offer. These include among others: guided desert safaris, horse riding, go-karting, quad biking, windsurfing, kayaking, kitesurfing, camel trekking, snorkelling and scuba diving. Must-see attractions include: the vibrant Sharm Old Market; the exquisite Naama Bay, with its palm-lined promenade filled with lively bars and restaurants; and the exceptional Ras Mohammed National Park, surrounded by some of the world's most impressive dive sites.
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