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Nestled between the Sinai desert and the Red Sea, Dahab’s dramatic seascapes have drawn divers and snorkelers for decades. Diving the Blue Hole, a 460-foot (130-meter) sinkhole, is one of the top things to do in Dahab—but there’s more to the laid-back, low-rise resort town than what’s beneath the surface. Desert oases, canyons, and Bedouin settlements are ripe for exploration by all-terrain vehicle, 4WD, horseback riding, and hiking. And Dahab is also a popular jumping-off point for St. Catherine’s Monastery and Mt. Sinai, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Dahab is blessed with clear skies and sunshine almost all year round, but summers can be scorching and winter nights in the desert surprisingly cold. Fall (September through November) is a popular time to visit for European tourists, as the Red Sea is still warm from the summer and the outside air temperatures are mellow. Despite cooler seas, spring (March through May) comes in a close second.
Dahab is compact compared to other sprawling Red Sea resorts, but you’ll need wheels to travel between the different areas: There’s no local public transit. Some travelers rent bicycles, while others rely on taxis, tours, and private drivers. Taxis aren’t metered, so be sure to agree on your price (in Egyptian pounds) and have cash on hand before setting off. Be aware that ride-hailing apps are not available in Dahab.
To fully appreciate the silence and the brilliant night skies of the Sinai Peninsula, opt for a multi-day safari with one or more nights in desert camps. At camp, Bedouin guides typically prepare bread and barbecue over the campfire. For an authentic taste of Egyptian cuisine, head to King Chicken, which serves delicious kebabs, kofta, and molokhia, Egypt’s silky green vegetable.
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General travelers can hit the highlights in four days, with the itinerary including an overnight desert trip, a sunrise climb of Mt. Sinai, a visit to St. Catherine’s Monastery, and a day discovering the underwater world. Scuba divers, free divers, snorkelers, and windsurfers may wish to stay in Dahab longer to take advantage of the Red Sea.
...MoreDahab is the best Red Sea resort town for independent travelers, with a wide range of accommodations at all price points and a laid-back culture. Underwater highlights include the Canyon, the Blue Hole, and Ras Abu Galum National Park. Desert trips often feature the White Canyon and the Coloured Canyon.
...MoreThat depends on what you’re looking for. Dahab is better for independent travelers, but Sharm is bigger, with more options in terms of hotels and nightlife. Both Dahab and Sharm have great diving, but Sharm is closer to a wider range of dive sites, including the SS Thistlegorm wreck and Ras Mohammed National Park.
...MoreOctober is the best month to visit Dahab. Accommodation prices are competitive, temperatures rarely rise above 86°F (30°C) or fall below 72°F (22°C), and the water temperature hovers around 78°F (26°C). That puts the full spectrum of activities, from hiking and camping to diving and snorkeling, within easy reach.
...MoreYes, Dahab has spectacular visibility and striking underwater topography, making it a great place to go snorkeling. The most famous spot is the Blue Hole, entered through a spectacular cleft called El Bells. Other great options with better coral cover include Three Pools, Lighthouse, and Ras Abu Galum National Park.
...MoreYes, you can drink alcohol in Dahab. All the big hotels serve alcohol, as do some restaurants, with Egyptian brands such as Stella more common and better priced than imports. There are a handful of dedicated liquor stores where you can buy alcohol to drink at home.
...More