Sharm el-Maya - Discovering Egypt

Travelling to Sharm el-Maya

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Sharm el-Maya, a pretty good destination in Egypt (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Sharm el-Maya and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Sharm el-Maya, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Egypt, here's everything to know about Sharm el-Maya for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Sharm el-Maya

Sharm el-Maya is a resort town located in Egypt's South Sinai Governorate, along the coast of the Red Sea. It is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and exceptional snorkeling and diving opportunities. The town is home to several luxurious hotels, restaurants, and bars, making it a popular destination for tourists seeking a relaxing beach holiday. Additionally, there are various water sports and activities available, such as windsurfing and jet skiing. Sharm el-Maya is also close to several historical and cultural attractions, such as Mount Sinai and the St. Catherine's Monastery.

What to visit in Sharm el-Maya

1. Naama Bay: This is a popular tourist destination in Sharm el-Maya. It is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. Visitors can enjoy various water activities such as snorkeling, diving, and parasailing.
2. Ras Mohamed National Park: This park is located at the southernmost tip of the Sinai Peninsula and is known for its diverse marine life. Visitors can enjoy snorkeling and diving in the area to see coral reefs, sharks, and exotic fish.
3. Old Market: The Old Market is a traditional bazaar where visitors can buy souvenirs, clothing, and local goods. It is also a great place to try Egyptian street food such as koshari and falafel.
4. SOHO Square: This is a modern entertainment complex that features restaurants, bars, and nightlife. It also has a skating rink, a bowling alley, and a cinema.
5. Mount Sinai: Also known as Mount Moses, this is a popular destination for religious pilgrims. It is believed to be the place where Moses received the Ten Commandments from God. The trek up the mountain can take several hours but is worth it for the stunning views from the top.
6. St. Catherine's Monastery: This is a UNESCO World Heritage site located at the foot of Mount Sinai. It is an important site for Christian pilgrimage and houses a collection of priceless religious artifacts.
7. Tiran Island: This island is famous for snorkeling and diving opportunities to see coral reefs, exotic fish, and sharks. Visitors can also enjoy swimming and sunbathing on the island's beaches.
8. Desert Safari: Visitors can take a desert tour to explore the nearby desert to see beautiful rock formations, sand dunes and bedouin life. Safaris can be done on foot, on camel or by jeep.
Overall, Sharm el-Maya offers visitors the perfect combination of historical sites, natural beauty, and modern entertainment.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Egypt, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Sharm el-Maya

The best time to go on holiday to Sharm el-Maya in Egypt depends on your preferences and the activities you plan to do there. The high season is from November to March when the weather is more comfortable, with temperatures ranging from 20 to 25°C. However, if you love diving, the best time to visit would be in the summer months between June to August, when the water is warmer and you can enjoy the amazing underwater world. The shoulder season months are April, May, September and October when the prices are lower and the weather is still quite warm. Keep in mind that the weather can be very hot during the summer months and the winter months can be cooler, especially in the evenings, so make sure you pack accordingly.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Sharm el-Maya

Sharm el-Maya is located in the Red Sea Governorate of Egypt. To get there, you can take a flight to Sharm el-Sheikh International Airport, which is around 10 kilometers away, and then take a taxi or a bus to Sharm el-Maya. Alternatively, you can take a bus or hire a private car from other major cities in Egypt like Cairo or Alexandria, but this may take longer. It's important to check the latest travel advice from your government and the authorities in Egypt before embarking on your journey.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Sharm el-Maya, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Sharm el-Maya

Sharm el-Maya is a popular tourist destination in Egypt where visitors can savor various Egyptian and Middle Eastern cuisine. Here are some typical foods of Sharm el-Maya with a short description for each of them: 1. Ful Medames: This is a dish made from fava beans that have been cooked and mashed with olive oil and various spices. It’s often served with flatbread and is a popular breakfast dish in Egypt.
2. Kebabs: Kebabs are a type of grilled or barbecued meat that can be made from beef, lamb, or chicken. They’re often served in pita bread with a variety of vegetables and sauces.
3. Shawarma: Shawarma is a Middle Eastern dish made from spiced meat that’s been slow-roasted on a spit. The meat is sliced thinly and typically served in a wrap with vegetables and sauces.
4. Kushari: This is a popular Egyptian street food that’s made from rice, macaroni, lentils, and chickpeas, all mixed together with a spicy tomato sauce and fried onions on top.
5. Umm Ali: This is a traditional Egyptian dessert consisting of layers of puff pastry, nuts, and raisins, all soaked in sweetened milk and then baked until golden brown.
6. Baklava: Baklava is a pastry made from layers of phyllo dough that have been filled with chopped nuts, honey, and spices. It’s often served as a dessert or snack.
7. Koshary: This is another popular street food in Egypt that’s made from rice, lentils, macaroni, and chickpeas, topped with tomato sauce and fried onions.
These are just a few of the typical foods of Sharm el-Maya. Visitors should also try other flavorful dishes such as tagine, falafel, and hummus, which are all popular in this region.
You can find general info about typical foods in Egypt here.

Is Sharm el-Maya an expensive destination for tourists?

Sharm el-Maya is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Egypt, so it can be relatively expensive, especially when compared to other cities in Egypt. However, the cost of living and travel expenses in Sharm el-Maya is still cheaper than many other popular tourist destinations in the world. Accommodations, food, and transportation costs can vary depending on the location, time of year, and the level of comfort you require. It's a good idea to do some research and compare prices before you book your trip to ensure you're getting the best value for your money.

Where to find accomodation in Sharm el-Maya

The best areas to find accommodation to visit Sharm el-Maya in Egypt are: 1. Naama Bay: This is the most popular and vibrant area with plenty of hotels, resorts, and restaurants.
2. Ras Umm Sid: This area is quieter and more relaxing than Naama Bay and also has hotels and resorts.
3. Shark's Bay: This area is great for those who want to be close to the airport and quieter beaches.
4. Nabq Bay: This area is located outside the main tourist hub and offers a quieter experience with great opportunities for snorkeling and diving.
Ultimately, it depends on your personal preferences and what you want to do during your visit to Sharm el-Maya.
You can check hotel prices at Sharm el-Maya here:
Booking.com

Is Sharm el-Maya a safe destination for tourists?

Sharm el-Maya, like most tourist areas in Egypt, is generally considered safe for visitors. The Egyptian government places a high priority on the safety and well-being of tourists, and there is a heavy police and security presence in tourist areas. However, as with any travel destination, visitors should exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings, especially at night and in unfamiliar areas. It is also advisable to follow local customs and dress modestly to avoid unwanted attention. Overall, Sharm el-Maya is considered a safe destination for tourists.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Egypt here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Sharm el-Maya.

What type of travelers will enjoy Sharm el-Maya the most?

Sharm el-Maya in Egypt is a great destination for all types of travelers. Couples will enjoy the romantic atmosphere of the area, especially during sunset walks on the beach. Young people will find a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs and restaurants. Families will appreciate the safe and clean beaches, kid-friendly resorts and activities like snorkelling and swimming. Additionally, the area is also a great place for anyone interested in water sports, with options like diving, windsurfing, parasailing, and more.

How to get around Sharm el-Maya

In Sharm el-Maya, you can use various modes of transportation to move around the city, including taxis, minibusses, buses, and rental cars. Taxis are the most comfortable and convenient way of getting around, but they are also the most expensive. Minibusses and buses are cheaper and offer a more immersive travel experience, but they can be crowded and might take longer to reach your destination due to frequent stops. Rental cars are also an option, but you need to have a valid driver's license and be familiar with local driving rules and customs. Consider your budget, travel goals, and personal preferences to choose the most suitable transportation mode for your trip.

What to see around Sharm el-Maya

Sure, here are some nice places you can visit in a day trip from Sharm el-Maya: 1. Colored Canyon - A stunning geological wonder with colorful rock formations and narrow canyons to explore.
2. Mount Sinai - Considered a sacred site for several religions, the mountain offers amazing hiking trails and scenic views from the summit.
3. Ras Mohammed National Park - One of the most popular snorkeling and diving spots in the region, with colorful coral reefs and stunning coral gardens to explore.
4. Dahab - A laid-back beach town with a great vibe and excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities.
5. St. Catherine's Monastery - A UNESCO World Heritage Site located at the foot of Mount Sinai, this monastery is one of the oldest Christian monasteries in the world and known for its beautiful icons and mosaics.
6. Nabq Bay - A great spot for swimming and lounging on the beach, with turquoise waters and soft sand.
7. Sharm el-Sheikh Marina - A picturesque marina with great restaurants and shops, perfect for a leisurely stroll and people-watching. These are just a few options for day trips from Sharm el-Maya. There are plenty of other places to explore depending on your interests, so feel free to let me know if you're looking for something specific.
For every travel information about Egypt you can click here.

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