Blue Hole and Dahab City from Sharm El Sheikh

Exploring the Blue Hole and Dahab City from Sharm El Sheikh: A Detailed Review

Taking a trip from Sharm El Sheikh to explore the iconic Blue Hole and the charming town of Dahab offers travelers a mix of adventure, culture, and natural beauty. This tour, run by Infinity Excursions and boasting a perfect 5.0 rating from 43 reviews, is praised for its knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and excellent value.

What we love about this experience is the diversity it offers: from riding camels across the desert to snorkeling among vibrant corals, you get a taste of Egypt’s rugged natural landscape and Bedouin traditions. The inclusion of Bedouin tea and a traditional lunch makes it more authentic and immersive.

One consideration is the long drive—about 1 hour and 30 minutes each way—which might be tiring for some. However, the journey is well-spent with engaging stops and the promise of unforgettable sights.

This tour is perfect for those who enjoy a balanced mix of cultural insight and outdoor activities. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned traveler, you’ll find plenty to love, especially if you appreciate guided insights and a friendly group atmosphere.

Key Points

• Affordable price point: At $15 per person, this tour offers great value considering all activities included.
• Comprehensive experience: Combines desert culture, camel rides, snorkeling, and canyon exploration.
• Expert guides: Highly praised guides like Saeed make the trip informative and fun.
• Flexible options at Blue Hole: Choose to visit the park (with entrance fee paid cash) or enjoy free snorkeling in Dahab.
• Authentic Bedouin culture: Includes tea, traditional lunch, and visits to Bedouin graves and dwellings.
• Ideal for a variety of travelers: Suitable for adventure lovers, culture buffs, and families alike.

Starting with Convenience: Pickup and Transportation

The tour begins early at 8:00 am with pickup from your hotel in Sharm El Sheikh. The transport, an air-conditioned vehicle, ensures a comfortable ride during the approximately 1.5-hour drive to Dahab. The long journey might seem like a lot at first, but travelers consistently mention the guides’ skill in making the trip enjoyable, with many reviews highlighting Saeed’s attentive and friendly nature.

The well-organized pickup and return service eliminate stress, letting you focus on the day ahead. Plus, with a maximum group size of 45, it’s large enough to meet new friends but small enough to feel personal.

Exploring Dahab: Bedouin Life and Desert Culture

The first stop in Dahab offers a rare glimpse into Bedouin life. Travelers love walking through the traditional tents, viewing Bedouin graves, and hearing stories about their burial rites and daily habits. The chance to taste Bedouin tea adds a comforting and authentic touch, giving you a flavor of local hospitality.

Reviewers like Saeed for his detailed explanations and friendly attitude, noting that he makes the cultural visit more meaningful. Many mention how seeing the graves and homes brings a deeper appreciation for Bedouin resilience and traditions.

Driving out of the desert, you’ll see dunes and vast sandy landscapes that showcase the raw beauty of Egypt’s deserts. This scenic drive is a highlight, especially when paired with the chance to spot dune formations and desert flora.

Camel Ride to Blue Hole: A Classic Egyptian Experience

Once in Dahab, you’ll leave the car to ride camels along the beach for around 20 minutes. This activity is often a favorite for travelers, offering a fun and relaxed way to reach the Blue Hole. Reviewers frequently state that the camels are well-behaved, and the ride provides great photo opportunities with the desert and sea in the background.

The Blue Hole itself is renowned globally among snorkelers and divers, ranked third worldwide. The shallow waters are teeming with colorful coral reefs and fish, making it a snorkeler’s paradise. While entrance fees to Blue Hole National Park are paid cash on site, the tour allows free snorkeling time in Dahab’s calmer waters if preferred. This flexibility means you can choose between a more structured visit or a relaxed, freeform swim.

Many visitors comment on the clarity of the water and the variety of marine life, claiming snorkeling here is unforgettable. The vibrant coral gardens and schools of fish create perfect photo moments.

The Blue Hole Experience: Snorkeling and Underwater Beauty

The Blue Hole earns its reputation for the spectacular underwater scenery. With guided snorkeling, travelers get a safe yet immersive glimpse into a thriving marine ecosystem. The experience is suitable for all levels, and the calm waters mean even less experienced snorkelers can enjoy the view.

The landmark Blue Hole also offers a unique visual contrast: a deep blue sinkhole in the reef, surrounded by colorful fish and coral. Multiple reviews highlight how breathtaking the underwater landscape is, with some describing it as a “paradise” for snorkelers and a top-rated snorkeling spot worldwide.

If you opt for the park entrance, remember that fees are paid separately in cash. Alternatively, you can enjoy a more leisurely snorkeling experience in the calmer waters nearby, often praised as equally rewarding.

Dahab Town: Relaxed Coastal Charm

After snorkeling, the group heads back to Dahab for about an hour of free time. Travelers love strolling along the laid-back promenade, browsing local shops, or relaxing at seaside cafes. The town exudes a relaxed vibe, with cafés offering fresh seafood and traditional Egyptian fare.

Many reviews mention the beautiful scenery and the friendly, unhurried atmosphere. It’s a great spot to unwind, enjoy another cup of Bedouin tea, or snap some photos of the iconic mountains and sea.

Incorporating Optional Activities: Canyon and Lunch

The tour also includes a visit to Dahab Canyon and a Bedouin-style lunch by the beach. The canyon is noted for its striking natural formations and is described as a “fantastic” adventure by many travelers. The guides are praised for their knowledge and safety, making the canyon accessible to all.

Lunch is typically served in Bedouin tents, featuring traditional dishes and fresh seafood. Reviewers frequently mention the deliciousness of the meal and the cultural authenticity it adds to the day.

Returning to Sharm El Sheikh

The journey back takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes, with comfortable transport and a friendly atmosphere reinforced by guides like Saeed, who many say made the day memorable. The tour concludes around 6:00 pm, leaving plenty of time for rest after a full day of exploration.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

Considering the affordable price of $15 per person and the wide range of activities packed into one day, this tour offers notable value. The inclusion of Bedouin culture, camel rides, snorkeling, and canyon exploration means you’ll get a well-rounded adventure with plenty of photo-worthy moments.

The tour is best suited for those who enjoy outdoor activities, cultural insights, and scenic beauty. It’s especially appealing if you’re traveling with family or friends and appreciate guides who make the experience engaging and informative.

While the long drive might be tiring for some, the stops and activities make it worthwhile. The flexible options at Blue Hole, combined with the friendly group size and reliable organization, help ensure a smooth, enjoyable day out.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventure seekers and culture lovers alike. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to see some of Egypt’s most stunning natural sites without sacrificing quality, this tour is a strong choice. Families, solo travelers, and small groups will find plenty of value and fun.

However, if you’re sensitive to long bus rides or prefer a more leisurely pace, consider your comfort with the drive time. Be prepared for optional expenses like entrance fees, and plan your packing accordingly, especially for snorkeling gear.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup from Sharm El Sheikh, making the start seamless.

What’s the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts around 10 hours, including transportation, activities, and breaks.

Can I snorkel at Blue Hole without paying the entrance fee?
Yes, if you prefer, you can enjoy free snorkeling in Dahab’s calmer waters without paying the Blue Hole entrance fee. However, if you want to access Blue Hole itself, the entrance fee must be paid in cash.

Are there options for lunch during the trip?
Yes, lunch is served in Bedouin tents on the beach, featuring traditional dishes. You also get to taste Bedouin tea.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers say yes, especially since activities like camel riding and snorkeling are generally accessible. Check the guide’s instructions and your children’s comfort with outdoor activities.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, towel, and waterproof camera or phone for snorkeling photos. Cash is needed for park entrance fees.

How fit do I need to be?
The activities are generally moderate; walking and camel riding are gentle. If you’re comfortable with these, you’ll enjoy the day.

Are guide tips included?
Tips are not included and are at your discretion, but guides like Saeed are highly praised and appreciated.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour, receiving a full refund.

Final Words

This Blue Hole and Dahab City tour offers a fantastic combination of adventure, culture, and natural beauty, all at a budget-friendly price. With professional guides, authentic Bedouin experiences, and some of the world’s best snorkeling, it’s a day well spent whether you’re visiting Egypt for the first time or want a balanced mix of sightseeing and fun.

Ideal for those seeking value without sacrificing quality, it’s a tour that promises memorable moments, plenty of photo opportunities, and a taste of real Egyptian life—complete with desert dunes, colorful reefs, and warm Bedouin hospitality.