Showing newest 20 of 30 posts from October 2007. Show older posts
Showing newest 20 of 30 posts from October 2007. Show older posts

Egyptian Red Sea Climate & Environment

From snow to sandstorms, the varied terrain around the Red Sea can take you from sea level through deserts to high mountains. In some countries, the temperatures can change drastically from season to season or even overnight.

Every country has its own delicate eco-system. So be responsible while you are appreciating the beauty. If you are in the desert, the rule is Pack it in, Pack it out. If you are in a protected park, stick to the trail. Wandering away can cause unforeseen damage to the delicate plant and animal life. Be conscious of things like water consumption, proper waste disposal, and turning off air-conditioning units when away from your room. Water is a precious commodity in the desert regions.

In the Red Sea, do not feed the fish, do not collect or remove any material either living or dead, and do not touch the coral reef with any part of your body including your fins! Thanks to a growing number of dedicated environmental agencies, there is a greater knowledge of Reef Protection awareness. For example, boats can no longer anchor to the coral.

Found at the northeast corner of the African continent, Egypt measures over a million square kilometers. However, since more than 95% of Egypt's land area is barren desert, 90% of the population lives in just 3% of the total land area - the lush Nile Valley and Delta.

Egypt is bordered by Libya in the west, Sudan in the south and Israel in the east. The Red Sea runs along its eastern coast and supports sharks, stingrays, turtles, dolphins, colourful corals, sponges, starfish and various mollusks. The Mediterranean Sea stretches along Egypt's north coast boasting endless white-sand beaches, many still untouched and secluded. North of Cairo the Nile splits into a series of tributaries that flow into the Mediterranean.

As far as animals, many of the animals that once flourished under the ancient Egyptian are extinct. The most visible forms of wildlife are domesticated donkeys & camels, rodents & bats, and the occasional desert fox. Egypt is also home to many species of birds. However, most are on their way from Europe to southern Africa where they migrate every year. Up to 34 varieties of snakes live in Egypt, including the infamous cobra. Scorpions are widespread throughout the country, but being nocturnal they are rarely seen.

Egypian Red Sea Culture & Traditions

For majority of the population (peasant farmers), life and lifestyle have changed little for hundreds of years. The 20th century has introduced coco-cola, Levis and TV. Elements of western pop music are increasingly being integrated into contemporary Egyptian music. A common saying among most Egyptians is "malesh" meaning, "What can I do?"

Islam is the major religion in Egypt with Coptic Christians being the second. The essence of Islam is the belief that there is only one God, and that it is the duty of the people to believe in and serve Him in the manner laid out in the Quran. In Arabic, Islam means submission and a Muslim is one who submits to God's will. Muslims are called to prayer five times a day, every day from the minarets of mosques. Islamic law forbids drinking alcohol.

Before the arrival of Islam, Christianity was the major religion in Egypt. The Coptic Church is ruled by a patriarch. The Coptic language is still used in religious ceremonies with some Arabic for the benefit of the congregation. Their language is based on the Greek alphabet with seven additional characters taken from hieroglyphics.

Egypt is famous for belly dancing which has been found recorded in tomb paintings dating as far back as the Pharaohs. In the past, there has been much conflict in Egypt over the respectability of belly dancing. However, belly dancing is an Egyptian art form that has made it internationally where it is taught at night schools and community centers worldwide. Cairo hosts an annual belly dancing festival.


Ahwa is the Arabic word that means both coffee and coffeehouse. An age-old tradition and national pastime, drinking coffee at one of Egypt's many coffeehouses is an experience not to be missed. Most of the coffeehouses still cater to men who meet with their friends to sip coffee, play backgammon, smoke sheeshas and converse. However, women and sometimes even families are a more common sight today. Ahwa can be ordered many ways - ahwa sada is black, ahwa ariha is slightly sweet, ahwa mazboot is medium sweet and ahwa ziyada is extremely sweet. Most Egyptian like their coffee very sweet because it cuts any bitterness the coffee may have. Traditional ahwa is not served with milk.

Red Sea Currencies & Banks

ATMs are becoming a common sight and most accept the Visa, MasterCard, Cirrus, and Plus system. This is a good way to avoid carrying a lot of cash and ensures that you get the latest exchange rate. However, check with your bank before leaving home as some PIN numbers are not compatible due to foreign keypads and some banks charge a small fortune to withdraw money overseas. Cash advances can be taken out on Visa and MasterCard at most major banks, be sure to have your passport ready for this. Most banks will also cash travelers' cheques, although you can often get a better rate at money changing booths. Again, don't forget your passport for cashing travelers' cheques.

Egypt uses the Egyptian Pound.

Egyptian Red Sea Health & Hospitals

No specific vaccinations are required to travel to the Egypt, but it is recommended to consult with your physician 2 months before leaving. Your Tetanus, Diphtheria, Polio, Typhoid and Hepatitis A and B should all be up to date before leaving. If Malaria is endemic in the area you are traveling to, you should make sure to get a specific anti-malaria medication from your physician. An international health insurance policy is highly recommended. Most insurance policies do not cover divers, so check if you need additional insurance for this.

When traveling to the Red Sea with its desert environment, the three major hazards are dehydration, sunburn and an upset stomach. Drink plenty of mineral water and isotonic drinks (like coke and sprite), use high-factor sunscreens, and wear a hat and sunglasses. A change in diet often results in upset stomachs. Never drink tap water, and check the seal on bottled water. Prefer cooked food or peeled fresh fruit/vegetables, and use mineral water to brush your teeth, and to wash fruit/vegetables. Eat in restaurants that are busy, and where both the establishment and the staff look clean.

Public toilets are better avoided. Use the toilet facilities of mid to top-range hotels, and of western-style or tourist restaurants. Toilet paper, if available, should be disposed off in the bins provided, as local toilet systems can only take so much of it. If you travel to the desert, don't throw toilet paper away or bury it, take a plastic bag with you and dispose of it later.

Even though most pharmacies are very well supplied and any medication can be obtained without prescription, a basic first aid kid is also a good idea. It should contain:

- Painkiller/antipyretic/anti-inflammatory tabs
- Antihistamine tabs & cream
- Decongestant
- Multi-vitamins/iron
- Wide spectrum antibiotic
- Seasickness tabs
- Intestinal antiseptic
- Diarrhea tabs
- Rehydration salts
- Antiseptic solution
- Antibiotic spray & cream
- Insect repellent
- Sting relief cream/spray
- Bandages
- Plasters
- Adhesive & sterile dressings
- Non-sticking antibiotic dressings
- Gauze, steri-strips
- Cotton wool
- Syringes & needles.

Check the expiry dates on all medicines and prescriptions. When traveling (especially in Saudi Arabia) it is highly recommended that you keep the written prescription with your medication. Many of the larger Hotels in the Red Sea have a doctor on call, and the bigger cities have private hospitals, of which some offer very reliable medical care, are clean and equipped with latest technology.


EGYPT Time: GMT/UTC plus 2 hours
The Weather in Egypt does not vary much from city to city.

Frequent Asked Questions if you are visitng the Egyptian Red Sea

Still have questions? Maybe these frequently asked questions will answer your question.

When is the best time to visit Egypt?
Everywhere south of Cairo is uncomfortably hot during the summer months of June-August, especially Luxor and Aswan. Winter (December-February) is the best time to visit anywhere south of Cairo. Alexandria is crowded with people escaping the heat during the summer.

What do I need to bring?
Most things that you might need are readily available, although some things maybe more expensive than at home, like film material, sunglasses, sunscreen, certain toiletries.

What should I wear?
For shore holidays beachwear, shorts and T-shirts are acceptable, but inland, especially women, should wear more conservative clothing

Do I need to bring a jacket?
A sweater or jacket is advisable as nights can be quite chilly and cold winds blow along the Red Sea in the winter months of November to March.

When is the best time of year to go to Luxor?
Unless you have a high tolerance for heat, avoid the summer months which are June, July, and August. The air temperature during these months can rise to high 50s.

When is the best time to go diving?
Diving in the Red Sea is great year round. However, water temperatures decrease considerably between November and March. Water temperatures reach a high of 24 and a low of 20.

What is the voltage in Egypt?
Electricity: 220V, 50 Hz

What are Egypt's business hours?
Egypt: 8am รข€“ 2:30pm
6 days a week
Some banks open 7 days a week.
Fridays: Most shops open.
Some shops are closed during prayer times. Most shops open until the wee hours of the morning.
Most tourist shops and services are open 7 days a week. However, some businesses will close completely on Fridays. The official weekend in Egypt is Friday and Saturday with Friday being the Holy Day. It is not unusual for shops to be closed during mid day for a few hours.

Where can I wash my laundry?
If you are staying in a hotel they can arrange to have your laundry sent out. There are few self-serve Laundromats to be found, but there are numerous laundries where they will wash and iron your clothes for you. Short of this you can always do it the old fashioned way- by hand!

Is film and film processing readily available?
Film is widely available although, however, always check the expiry date on the film and ensure that it hasn't been sitting out in the sun. There are many stores such as Kodak that offer satisfactory film developing. It is possible to hire a professional underwater photographer or video graphed to record and edit your marine life experiences.

Egyptian Red Sea Transportation

Are we there yet?" For travelers with limited time there are national flights and charters. Modes of transportation range from 1st class trains to taxis to local buses. Renting a car or motorbike is perfect for those who like to stop and explore & get off the beaten track. And of course, there is the ever present taxi. Hitch hiking is not very popular and the driver will often expect a tip.


Red Sea Bus


Bus Travel in Egypt
Buses service virtually every town in Egypt.

  1. El Gouna Bus Company
  2. Superjet
  3. West Delta Bus Company
  4. The East Delta Bus Company
  5. Upper Egypt Travel
  1. Sinai East Delta Travel
  2. Distances between major cities and Red Sea Destinations in Egypt

El Gouna Bus Company


Hurghada Station:
Located on the round about on the road from Ad-Dahar to Sigala, next to the police station and across from the Aka building (the former duty free shop in the big pyramid building).
Phone: 065-541561
Phone: 012-228-7647

Cairo station:
Located at Tahir Square in the building beside the Ramses Hilton Hotel. Abd El Menem Riad Square, El Galal Street.
Phone: 012 3234045


Superjet


Hurghada Station:
Located opposite the main Mosque in downtown/Ad-Dahar
Phone: 065-544722

Cairo Station:
Located at Turgoman Garage
Phone: 02 579-8181


West Delta Bus Company

Cairo stations:
Located: Almaza , Turgoman and Giza.
Phone: 02 576 5582



The East Delta Bus Company

Cairo stations:
Located at Almaza and Turgoman.
Phone: 02 574 2814

Sharm el Sheik station:
Located behind the Mobil petrol station between Na’ama Bay and High Noor. They also use the terminal at Ras Kennedy.


Upper Egypt Travel


Cairo Station:
Located at Turgoman Garage
Phone: 02 5760261

Hurghada Station:
Located at the well-known main bus station opposite from the main mosque.
Phone: 065 547582

Safaga
Phone: 065 251253

El Quseir
Phone: 065 330033


South Sinai Travel – Sinai East Delta Travel

Cairo Station:
Located at Turgoman Garage
Phone: 02 5760261

Taba Bus Station
Phone: 069 530 250

Distances between major cities and Red Sea Destinations in Egypt
(Shortest approximate traveling distance)


Alexandria - Cairo 222 kms
Cairo - Suez 140 kms
Cairo – Zafarana 265 kms

From Hurghada to the north
Hurghada – El Gouna 22 kms
Hurghada – Suez 380 kms
Hurghada – Cairo 520 kms

From Hurghada to the south along the coast
Hurghada – Sharm el Naga 30 kms
Hurghada – Soma Bay 40 kms
Hurghada – Safaga 60 kms
Hurghada – Quseir 140 kms
Hurghada – Marsa Alam Airport 210 kms
Hurghada – Port of Marsa Galeb 212 kms
Hurghada – Marsa Shagra 250 kms
Hurghada – Marsa Alam 275 kms
Hurghada – Abu Gusum 355 kms
Hurghada – Hamata 390 kms
Hurghada – Port Berenice (Ras Banas) 425 kms
Hurghada – Bir Shalattein (former Administrative border with Sudan) 515 kms
Hurghada – Halaib 700 kms
Hurghada – Egyptian/Sudanese Border 735 kms
Safaga – Quseir 80 kms
Quseir – Marsa Alam Airport 70 kms
Quseir – Port of Marsa Galeb 72 kms
Quseir – Marsa Alam 135 kms
Marsa Alam Airport – Marsa Alam 65 kms
Marsa Alam – Abu Gusum 80 kms
Marsa Alam – Hamata 115 kms
Abu Gusum – Hamata 35 kms
Hamata – Port Berenice 35 kms
From Hurghada inland
Hurghada – Luxor (via Safaga/Qena) 270 kms
Hurghada – Aswan (via Luxor) 480 kms
Hurghada – Abu Simbel (via Aswan) 760 kms
Luxor – Aswan 210 kms
Aswan – Abu Simbel 280 kms

Sinai
Cairo – Sharm-El-Sheikh 490 kms
Suez – Sharm-El-Sheikh 350 kms
Cairo – St Katherine 450 kms
Cairo – Taba (via Nakhl) 390 kms
Cairo – Taba (via St Katherine) 625 kms
Cairo – Dahab (via Sharm-El-Sheikh) 580 kms
Cairo – Dahab (via St Katherine) 590 kms
Cairo – Nuweiba (via Taba) 455 kms
Cairo – Nuweiba (via St Katherine) 560 kms
Sharm-El-Sheikh – Dahab 80 kms
Sharm-El-Sheikh – Nuweiba 150 kms
Sharm-El-Sheikh – Taba 215 kms
Sharm-El-Sheikh – St Katherine 230 kms
St Katherine – Dahab 140 kms
St Katherine – Nuweiba 110 kms
Dahab – Nuweiba 70 kms
Dahab – Taba 135 kms
Nuweiba – Taba 65 kms


Red Sea Ferry
  1. Red Sea Jet Ferries
  2. Hurghada/Sharm el Sheikh
  3. International Fast Ferry
  4. Hurghada/Sharm el Sheikh
  5. Hurghada/Sharm el Sheikh (Slow Ferry)
  6. Hurghada/Duba
  7. Nuweiba/Aqaba Ferry

Red Sea Jet Ferries

Cairo Office
Phone: 02-358 5831 or 02-380 2689
Fax: 02-359 7400

Hurghada Office
Phone: 065-441 506 or 065-441 507

International Fast Ferry

Hurghada/Sharm el Sheikh
Travco Cairo Office
Phone: 02 7322224
Fax: 02 7380400

Travco Sharm-El-Sheikh Office
Phone: 062 660764
Fax: 062 660765

Travco Hurghada Office
Phone: 065 442231
Fax: 065 446023

International Fast Ferries Hurghada Office
Phone: 065 447571-2
Fax: 065 447573

International Fast Ferry
Hurghada/Duba
Hurghada Office
Phone: 065 545147

Mena Tours
Cairo Office
Phone: 02-748 2231
Fax: 02-336 8961


Ferry Nuweiba & Aqaba

Tickets sold by:

Cairo Navigation Agency
7 Abdel Khalek Sarwat St, Cairo
Phone: 02 574 5755 / 575 5568

Nuweiba Coral Hilton Resort or Habiba
Phone: 069 578 0049/50/51

Egyptian Red Sea Visas & Embassies

Most foreigners entering Egypt require a visa which can be issued on arrival or from Egyptian consulates overseas. You cannot get a visa on the Egyptian/Israeli border. If you get a visa upon arrival, you must pay in foreign currency - $15 and it's valid for 1 month. Visas are easily extendable for longer stays or multiple entries.

Locate your local embassy to find out the latest developments and travel advisories. Most embassies recommend that you register with them in case they need to contact you.

Egyptian Red Sea Accommodation

Red Sea Accommodation

The Red Sea offers a variety of accommodation from budget hotels for the economic traveler to all-inclusive beach resorts. For those who love to experience the great outdoors, there are camps that offer a range of huts right on the beach or you can have all the comforts of home by renting a fully furnished apartment. You can also find International hotel chains that maintain their uniform standards here on the Red Sea. Real Estate is flourishing here on the Red Sea and those who just can't stay away can create their dream villa or apartment.

ACCOMMODATION - Camping


Camping offers stone, cement or reed huts located right on the beach. While electricity and running water are becoming more of the norm, some of the more modern huts even come complete with private bathrooms.


ACCOMMODATION – Hotels and Resorts

Budget hotels offer the bare minimum and usually have a shared bathroom. Mid-range hotels usually come with their own bathroom, air-conditioning, and breakfast. If you are looking for a top-end hotel, you can find most of the world's major hotel chains which will provide you with amenities and all the comforts of home. Resorts have their own swimming pools, beaches, entertainment, and restaurants. Some even have gym facilities and tennis courts. Most resort offer all-inclusive vacation packages.

ACCOMMODATION – Real Estate

Red Sea Real Estate

There are great investment opportunities in real estate including buying, renting, and leasing. Build your dream villa with spectacular views of the Red Sea.

Egyptian Red Sea Community News

One of the biggest problems in the Red Sea is communication. There are lots of people who are looking for flats, have 2nd hand items for sale, need a job. We hope that we will provide a real solution with the following services.

Share information on the forum, sign up on the job bank and get immediate notice if a job comes up, check the classifieds regularly, this is for the locals, enjoy!

Red Sea Arabic Phrases

Useful Arabic phrases such as a list of fruits and vegetables which you can print out and use when you go shopping. Please contact us if we missed anything.

Spot Red Sea Newsletter

Have you read the news? Did you hear what's on? Are you looking for an apartment, trying to sell or buy something second hand. Need a new job? Looking for an employee? Wondering what to do on your day off? How to entertain the kids?

All of this and more in the weekly Red Sea Newsletter!

Once a week you can receive all of the news, stay on top of what's going on, don't read about it after it happened!

Read previous issues here.
Subscribe Our Newsletter Here

Egyptian Red Sea Water Activities

If you love the water or would like to get your feet wet for the first time, come to the Red Sea.

The water temperature is agreeable for most of the year, even too hot in some parts during the summer season (April-September).
The choices of water activities are huge; choose from simply taking a swim to diving some of the best reefs in the world.

Wind and Kite surfing is also a popular Red Sea sport. You can choose to surf from land and now a few centers also arrange boat based mini safaris.

Come and explore the possibilities.

Red Sea Free diving

Just you, your fins and the underwater life to explore. The popularity of free diving is quickly growing as more and more divers want to get closer to nature. Experience the purity of free diving!


Red Sea Sailing

With year round warm water and constant wind, sailing over the turquoise waters of the Red Sea is the perfect get-away. Lie down on the deck and relax listening to the rush of the waves or gaze on the beautiful volcanic islands dotting the surface of the Red Sea.

Red Sea Scuba Diving

Daily Diving, Liveaboard Safari Trips, Desert Safari Diving, Shore Diving, Wrecks, Reefs, Walls, Drifts, Diver Education and Technical Diving... the Red Sea has it all!!

To view a listing of companies who offer Scuba Diving in the Red Sea, you can use the Quick Search Box located on this page or check the Diving Centers listing. Or the Liveaboards listing.

Seasonal temperature changes play a big part in determining visibility. Winter tends to be the period of best visibility in Northern Red Sea areas with waters too cool to support algae and plankton growth. Conversely, in the South, it is the summer which offers best visibility as the blistering hot surface temperatures translate into sea temperatures too hot to support the growth of marine microorganisms. No matter where you dive in the Red Sea blooms of plankton growth can crop up at any time bringing the visibility down. Fortunately these are rare occurrences and the normal visibility is excellent ranging from 10-50 plus meters.



During the peak of summer, water temperatures often exceed 30 degrees Celcius. However, during the winter in the north temperatures often fall as low as 20degrees Celcius (68 degrees F) with a surface wind chill before and after the dive making it seem even colder. Therefore, at least a 5mm or 7mm wetsuit is advisable for diving the Red Sea in winter months. It is not uncommon to see a local dive guide in a dry suit during this period. During the summer a Lycra or 3mm suit is usually adequate.

Dive centers have all the latest gear hire available and most operate liveaboard boats. Most dive centers operate out of hotels and a considerable range of them offer daily diving. A daily dive usually consists of 2 dives and lunch before returning to the shore. When life on a boat does not appeal there is always Shore Diving. Many dive centers host their own house reefs or operate shore diving excursions to nearby reefs along the coast. The Red Sea boasts some of the best local diving in the world with most sites accessible within an hours boat ride from established diving centers. Another popular option is a shore diving desert safari which offers rudimentary accommodation in the form of a tent with evenings spent around the fire on the beach. When you feel you have seen all of the shore sites, most offer short boat trips to nearby reefs.
There are local headquarters for diver training agencies such as TDI, SSI and NAUI. The nearest PADI headquarters are in Europe, however most diving centers offer PADI courses. Bring your Dive License! Any reputable center will ask you for one. No problem if you don't have a license; your options for learning to dive or for advancing your education are endless. Courses from novice all the way up to instructor level and beyond are held regularly from a range of training agencies in the language of your choice!

Red Sea Snorkeling

In addition to snorkeling trips by boat, there are also many house reefs easily accessible from the beach as well as day trips to local reefs by boat.

Red Sea Wind/Kite Surfing

The Red Sea is located in an ideal geographical location. The open sea, hot flat deserts and high mountains create strong thermo cline winds. The constant annual wind strength averages 4-6 Beaufort. Jumping conditions are perfect because there are no wind obstructions and waves can sometimes reach up to 1.5 meters. The beginner can take lessons at windsurfing schools and the professional can jump right in. Equipment is available for rent.
With year round warm water and constant wind, the Red Sea is the perfect place for the extreme sport of kite surfing. There are numerous kite surfing centers where you can rent equipment and take lessons.

Egyptian Red Sea Land Activities

Red Sea Desert Trips


Live the life of a Nomad. There are many ways to discover the desert with deep desert safaris, jeep safaris, overnight camel safaris, and even rock climbing and yoga safaris. Another popular option is a shore diving desert safari which offers rudimentary accommodation in the form of a tent with evenings spent around the fire on the beach. When you feel you have seen all of the shore sites, most offer short boat trips to nearby reefs.
Meet the Bedouin people and experience the vast landscape and staggering beauty of the desert. Experience a stunning, colorful sunset followed by gazing into an abnormally bright array of stars. You will quickly develop a passion for the desert after experiencing all its canyons, wadis, gorges, oases, and mountains.

Red Sea Golfing

There are few rain checks when it comes to golfing on the Red Sea. The weather will definitely accommodate your desire to play golf. Most courses either adjoin or are a part of fabulous hotels. For those of you who are serious about golfing, check out a Golfing Tour.

Red Sea Horseback Riding

Horse riding can be found all around the Red Sea. There are various horse stables to choose from and most offer trips out into the desert. Some offer lessons and have horses of different levels for beginners or experienced riders.


Red Sea Quad Biking

Satisfy your adventurous side! Drive yourself out into the desert where you can see miles and miles of golden sand. Watch life go by in the Bedouin camps. Finish the day off with a barbeque dinner and some of the brightest stars you will ever see.

The Egyptian Red Sea

Egypt is one of the world's oldest vacation spots drawing travelers from around the globe to experience its ancient wonders. No where in the world can you see such things of unspeakable greatness as in Egypt. Egypt is a land bustling with life, beauty and excitement. The Pyramids, temples, churches, and monasteries offer an overwhelming profusion of art and architecture. Egypt's Red Sea Coast line attracts thousands of visitors each year and stretches from Suez in the North to the Sudanese border in the south.

1. Dahab (meaning 'gold' in Arabic) is located about 85km north of Sharm El Sheikh. Originally a Bedouin Village, snorkeling and diving are now among the main attractions. There is a distinctly bohemian feel among the popular beach hangouts lining the Gulf of Aqaba. The combination of golden sand, sparkling blue water, and a luxurious strip of palm trees continues to pull travelers from all over the world.

2. El Gouna, located 20kms north of Hurghada, is often called the Venice of Egypt with its landscape of tropical gardens and traditional Egyptian and Nuweibian architecture. Built on clusters of islands surrounded by turquoise lagoons, El Gouna spreads over 11 kilometers of the most pristine beachfront on the Red Sea. It boasts a marina, 18-hole championship golf course and casino.

3. El Quseir's history dates back to the Pharaonic times as one of the major ports of the Red Sea. Once a thriving center of trade and export in Egypt and a major exit point for pilgrims to Mecca, it is no less interesting today. A bazaar teeming with goods made and sold by the friendly locals, many historical sites of interest, sandy beaches, clear waters and beautiful coral reefs are among the points of interest.

4. In less than 15 years, Hurghada has grown from a modest fishing village to one of Egypt's biggest resort and diving centers. People from all over the world come here to soak up the sun, experience Egypt, and enjoy what many will say is the best diving in the world. A mix of traditional Egyptian culture and moderate European influence sets the background for a town many foreigners now call their home.

5. 8 kilometers of sandy beach stretching in front of an impressive mountain backdrop, Lahami Bay is newly developed for tourism and is located approximately 120 kms south of Marsa Alam.

6. Makadi Bay is ideally situated on a stretch of white sandy beach only 27 K.M away from Hurghada international Airport. The bay provides a superb location for scuba diving and snorkeling. Makadi Bay is nestled between the Red Sea, desert dunes and spectacular mountain ranges.

7. Marsa Alam is a small fishing village south of Quseir (132km) popular among divers and fishing enthusiasts. With the creation of the new airport, Marsa Alam is fast becoming the new hot spot among divers.

8. The port and town of Nuweiba are located on the eastern coast of Sinai, between Taba, 65 km to the north, and Dahab, 70 km to the south. It offers beautiful scenery of colourful high mountains, deep blue sea and superb sandy beaches, lined with palm trees. The commercial port lies in the southern area, and provides regular ferry and freight services to Aqaba, Jordan. Tarabin is the beautiful, palm tree shaded beach of northern Nuweiba Bay. It is ideal for sunbathing, swimming, snorkeling and other water sports. Relax at the comfortably cushioned Bedouin restaurants and coffee shops along the beach. Beach camps with bamboo huts and small hotels provide accommodation nearby. Nightfall brings plenty of possibilities to party.

9. Port Safaga (Bur Safaga), or simply Safaga as it is more commonly known, is located 53km south of Hurghada. A famously windy place, Safaga has resorts specializing in diving, windsurfing, fine beaches and plenty of sunshine. This is an ideal destination for kite surfing and windsurfing.

10. Located at the southern tip of the Sinai, Sharm el-Sheikh is one of the most accessible and developed resort communities on the Sinai Peninsula. Sharm El Sheikh is a diver's paradise with crystal clear waters, stunning reefs and a brilliant variety of exotic fish. Na'ama Bay is where most people stay and has both small intimate hotels, as well as larger resort complexes, many with their own private beaches with sun loungers, shades and bars. Sharm El-Sheikh mall provides foreign and local products, including jewelry, leather goods, clothing, pottery and books. Sharm is the place to be for night life!

11. Soma Bay Just north of Safaga, far enough from the crowd, is the idyllic getaway spot with a natural sand beach and year-round sunshine. Enjoy peace and tranquility, play a round of golf on the championship course or dive into the spectacular diving spots just a few minutes from the shore.

12. The busy border crossing town of Taba is located on the Red Sea coast of northeastern Sinai. Right by the border to Israel it overlooks Jordan and Saudi Arabia. It was only given back to Egypt in 1989, while the rest of Sinai had been returned by Israel in 1982.

13. Located 150km east of Beni Suef on the Nile, Zafarana is simply a quiet little village that many go through to reach the monasteries of St. Anthony and St. Paul nearby

Jordan Red Sea Places of Interest

Amman -
The restored Roman Theater built in the 2nd century AD is the most impressive remnant of the Roman city of Philadelphia. It holds 6000 people and is cut into the side of a hill that once served as a giant graveyard. There is also a Folklore Museum and Traditional Jewels & Costumes Museum here.

The Roman Citadel, the garrison for centurions, stands atop a hill. Most of the buildings are now rubble, but you can see Roman, Byzantine and Muslim architecture as well as the National Archaeological Museum.

Jerash -
Jerash is a wonderfully preserved Roman City. Under excavations since the 1920s, it is estimated that only 10% of the Roman City has been uncovered. Inside the city wall there is a Temple of Zeus and a rare oval-shaped Forum. Built in the 1st century, the South Theatre once held 5000 spectators.

Madaba -
Located 30km south of Amman, much of Madaba is now a carefully restored Archaeological Park. The town has a very easy-going feel to it. It is well-known for its beautiful Byzantine-era mosaics, especially the 'Madaba map'. Made of two million pieces, the 6th-century mosaic map of Palestine shows the Nile, the Dead Sea and Jerusalem. The Madaba Map can be viewed in St George's Greek Orthodox Church.

Petra -

Set in a deep canyon and only accessible through a narrow winding cleft in the rock, Petra is a stunning city carved from sandstone that takes on deep rusty hues interlaced with bands of grey, yellow, blue and rose. The city of Petra remained lost for over 1000 years until it was rediscovered in 1812. Petra was the Nabatean capital and until recently was home to a number of Bedouin families who have been relocated to the surrounding hills. Petra is an absolutely stunning site and is a must see for all visitors to Jordan.

Qasr al-Hallabat -
Originally Qasr al-Hallabat was a Roman fort, but was taken over by the Umayyads and converted into a pleasure palace. Hammam as-Sarakh is a bathhouse and hunting lodge that has been almost entirely restored. Here you can see the original channels that were used for hot water and steam.

Wadi Rum
Wadi Rum boasts some of the most spectacular desert scenery in the world. Many of the scenes from the film,Lawrence of Arabia were shot here. Wadi Rum is a majestical landscape of bizarre, soaring rock formations called jebels. The best way to view the desert is in a 4WD or for the more enduring, a camel.

Jordan Red Sea Visas & Embassies


All foreigners need a visa to enter Jordan which can be obtained at the border or airport when you arrive, or from consulates in your country. Visas are valid for two weeks from entry, but can be easily extended up to three months.

Jordan Red Sea Transportation

"Are we there yet?"

For travelers with limited time there are national flights and charters. Modes of transportation range from 1st class trains to cheroots to local buses. Renting a car or motorbike is perfect for those who like to stop and explore & get off the beaten track. And of course, there is the ever present taxi. Hitch hiking is not very popular and the driver will often expect a tip.

Red Sea Bus

There are two main bus stations in Amman: Abdali and Wahdat.

Buses from Abdali go to Ajloun, Beqa’a, Deir Alla, Fuheis, Jerash, Irbid, Sweileh, Wadi Seer and the King Hussein Bridge. Most of these fares cost less than half a dinar.

Buses from Wahdat station go south of Amman to Aqaba, Madaba, Petra, Ma’an, Wadi Mousa, Karak and Hammamat Ma’een. Fares for these routes are 2 JD or less.

Destinations are written on the front of public buses in Arabic, so if you do not read Arabic ask to be shown the bus you need. Other companies run large private buses (usually air-conditioned) north from Amman to Irbid and south to Aqaba.
All smaller towns are connected by 20-seat minibuses. These leave when full and on some routes operate infrequently. The Dead Sea is one destination that is difficult to get to without private transport, as there are no JETT or public buses operating there.

JETT Bus Company
The enormous blue-and-white JETT buses run on limited routes within the country and run charter tours. JETT connects Amman to Aqaba, the King Hussein Bridge, Petra, and Hammamat Ma’een. It is best to book a couple of days in advance.

Amman Station:
King Hussein Street 500 meters from the main Abdali bus station.

Aqaba Station:
In front of Ayla on the road to the Aqaba Hotel


For 24 hours after scuba diving in Aqaba, you cannot leave Aqaba by the Desert Highway as it climbs up more than 1,000 meters over sea level, which creates a risk of getting altitude sickness. You can leave Aqaba using the Dead Sea Highway where the elevation is less than 300 meters.


Red Sea Ferry

Ferry Nuweiba–Aqaba
Tickets sold by:
Cairo Navigation Agency
7 Abdel Khalek Sarwat St, Cairo
Phone: 02 574 5755 / 575 5568

Nuweiba Coral Hilton Resort or Habiba
Phone: 069 578 0049/50/51

Red Sea Plane

Amman : Queen Alia International Airport (AMM)
Aqaba : Aqaba Airport (AQJ)

Jordan Red Sea Health & Hospitals

No specific vaccinations are required to travel to the Egypt, but it is recommended to consult with your physician 2 months before leaving. Your Tetanus, Diphtheria, Polio, Typhoid and Hepatitis A and B should all be up to date before leaving. If Malaria is endemic in the area you are traveling to, you should make sure to get a specific anti-malaria medication from your physician. An international health insurance policy is highly recommended. Most insurance policies do not cover divers, so check if you need additional insurance for this.


When traveling to the Red Sea with its desert environment, the three major hazards are dehydration, sunburn and an upset stomach. Drink plenty of mineral water and isotonic drinks (like coke and sprite), use high-factor sunscreens, and wear a hat and sunglasses. A change in diet often results in upset stomachs. Never drink tap water, and check the seal on bottled water. Prefer cooked food or peeled fresh fruit/vegetables, and use mineral water to brush your teeth, and to wash fruit/vegetables. Eat in restaurants that are busy, and where both the establishment and the staff look clean.

Public toilets are better avoided. Use the toilet facilities of mid to top-range hotels, and of western-style or tourist restaurants. Toilet paper, if available, should be disposed off in the bins provided, as local toilet systems can only take so much of it. If you travel to the desert, don't throw toilet paper away or bury it, take a plastic bag with you and dispose of it later.

Even though most pharmacies are very well supplied and any medication can be obtained without prescription, a basic first aid kid is also a good idea. It should contain:

- Painkiller/antipyretic/anti-inflammatory tabs
- Antihistamine tabs & cream
- Decongestant
- Multi-vitamins/iron
- Wide spectrum antibiotic
- Seasickness tabs
- Intestinal antiseptic
- Diarrhea tabs
- Rehydration salts
- Antiseptic solution
- Antibiotic spray & cream
- Insect repellent
- Sting relief cream/spray
- Bandages
- Plasters
- Adhesive & sterile dressings
- Non-sticking antibiotic dressings
- Gauze, steri-strips
- Cotton wool
- Syringes & needles.

Check the expiry dates on all medicines and prescriptions. When traveling (especially in Saudi Arabia) it is highly recommended that you keep the written prescription with your medication. Many of the larger Hotels in the Red Sea have a doctor on call, and the bigger cities have private hospitals, of which some offer very reliable medical care, are clean and equipped with latest technology.



Jordan Red Sea FAQs

Still have questions? Maybe these frequently asked questions will answer your question.

What do I need to bring? Most things that you might need are readily available, although some things maybe more expensive than at home, like film material, sunglasses, sunscreen, certain toiletries.

What should I wear? For shore holidays beachwear, shorts and T-shirts are acceptable, but inland, especially women, should wear more conservative clothing

Do I need to bring a jacket? A sweater or jacket is advisable as nights can be quite chilly and cold winds blow along the Red Sea in the winter months of November to March.

When is the best time to go diving? Diving in the Red Sea is great year round. However, water temperatures decrease considerably between November and March. Water temperatures reach a high of 24 and a low of 20.

Jordan Red Sea Currencies & Banks

ATMs are becoming a common sight and most accept the Visa, MasterCard, Cirrus, and Plus system. This is a good way to avoid carrying a lot of cash and ensures that you get the latest exchange rate. However, check with your bank before leaving home as some PIN numbers are not compatible due to foreign keypads and some banks charge a small fortune to withdraw money overseas. Cash advances can be taken out on Visa and MasterCard at most major banks, be sure to have your passport ready for this. Most banks will also cash travelers cheques, although you can often get a better rate at money changing booths. Again, don't forget your passport for cashing travelers cheques.

Jordan uses the Jordanian Dinar.

Jordan Red Sea Culture & Traditions

Islam is the predominant religion in Jordan with Friday as the Holy Day. Muslims are called to prayer five times a day, every day from the minarets of mosques. Since Islam forbids the depiction of living things, architecture is an important visual art as you will soon discover at Jordan's spectacular mosques.



The word 'Hospitality' is synonymous with 'Jordanians'. Jordanian families, especially desert dwellers, are constantly welcoming strangers into their home. This tradition developed from the harshness of desert life - without food, water and shelter from strangers most desert travelers would die. So wherever you are in Jordan, expect to be welcomed and invited into people's homes for a cup of tea or a meal.
Islamic law forbids drinking alcohol and this law is usually followed throughout Jordan. When eating out, Jordanians usually order meals for the whole table to share. Mansaf is a traditional Bedouin meal- a whole lamb, head included, served on a bed of rice and sprinkled with pine nuts.

Jordan Red Sea Climate & Environment

Jordan is surrounded by Syria, Iraq, Saudi Arabia and Israel. The fertile Jordan Valley on the western side of the country, the east bank plateau and a desert which extends into Syria, Saudi Arabia and Iraq comprises the main geographical zones of the country. The northern pine forests meet the cultivated slopes of the Jordan Valley, which are covered in cedar, olive and eucalyptus trees.

The Dead Sea region is dominated with mud and salt flats. It is impossible for vegetation to survive here, however to the northeast of the Dead Sea, you can find boars, badgers and goats. The Dead Sea is the saltiest body of water on earth as well as the lowest point in the world. The deserts sustain the usual camels, desert fox, sand rats and hares. The Gulf of Aqaba boasts a huge variety of Red Sea tropical fish and coral. Jordan's largest sanctuary is the Shaumari Wildlife Reserve, where gazelle and oryx have once more been reintroduced to the country.

Every country has its own delicate eco-system. So be responsible while you are appreciating the beauty. If you are in the desert, the rule is Pack it in, Pack it out. If you are in a protected park, stick to the trail. Wandering away can cause unforeseen damage to the delicate plant and animal life. Be conscious of things like water consumption, proper waste disposal, and turning off air-conditioning units when away from your room. Water is a precious commodity in the desert regions.

In the Red Sea, do not feed the fish, do not collect or remove any material either living or dead, and do not touch the coral reef with any part of your body including your fins! Thanks to a growing number of dedicated environmental agencies, there is a greater knowledge of Reef Protection awareness. For example, boats can no longer anchor to the coral.