Sharm El Sheikh Day tour to Blue Hole and Dahab Canyon with Lunch

Experience the Best of Dahab and Blue Hole on a Full-Day Tour from Sharm El Sheikh

If you’re looking to escape the hustle of Sharm El Sheikh and explore some of Egypt’s most iconic natural sights, this full-day tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation. From snorkeling in the legendary Blue Hole to wandering the vibrant streets of Dahab, it’s designed for travelers craving authentic experiences at a reasonable price.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to snorkel at the third-best diving location in the world—the Blue Hole—offers incredible underwater vistas. Second, the opportunity to visit Colored Canyon and Three Pools promises a colorful journey through dramatic rock formations and crystal-clear waters. Third, the inclusion of local culture activities like Bedouin meetings and shopping in Dahab adds a personal touch.

A possible concern? The reviews highlight some inconsistencies with guides and organization, which could affect the overall experience. It’s important to stay flexible and keep expectations balanced.

This tour is well-suited for those who want an active, diverse day out, combining natural beauty with cultural insights, all at an accessible price point.

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Key Points

Authentic Experiences: Includes snorkeling, camel riding, canyon exploring, and cultural interactions.
Value for Money: At $55, it covers many highlights, with lunch and transport included.
Potential Variability: Some reviews mention guide inconsistencies, so experiences may vary.
Ideal for Adventurers: Perfect if you enjoy outdoor activities and discovering local culture.
Early Start: Begins promptly at 7:00 am, so be prepared for a long day.
Group Size: Limited to 20 travelers, maintaining a more personal atmosphere.

In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Sharm el Sheikh

The Pickup and Early Morning Start

The day kicks off bright and early at 7:00 am, with convenient hotel pickup, which is a huge plus in terms of saving time and hassle. Expect the journey to take around 10 hours, so pack snacks and water—although lunch is included, staying hydrated is wise.

Visiting Dahab: Culture and Coastal Charm

Your first stop is Dahab, a laid-back seaside town with a relaxed vibe that’s a stark contrast to the busy resorts of Sharm. Here, you’ll have the chance for a leisurely walk through the town’s streets, browsing local shops for souvenirs. The reviews note that Dahab’s charm lies in its authentic feel, with some travelers mentioning the opportunity to meet Bedouin people and experience local hospitality.

From there, the tour takes you into the surrounding desert to explore the Colored Canyon. While one review points out that the canyon was “wrongly advertised” and not seen by all, the natural beauty of the colorful rock formations is generally considered worth the visit. Expect a guided walk through this vibrant geological wonder, with plenty of photo opportunities.

Snorkeling at the Blue Hole

The highlight for many is the Blue Hole, renowned worldwide for its crystal waters and diverse marine life. You’ll have the option to snorkel here, which is ideal for non-divers. The water clarity and abundant coral reefs make for a memorable underwater experience. Be aware that entrance fees are approximately $10 per person, and snorkeling equipment isn’t included, so consider bringing your own or renting locally.

One reviewer found the Blue Hole “good and worth visiting,” despite some disappointment with guide professionalism. They emphasize that the site itself is stunning, but the overall experience can be affected by guide conduct.

Camel Riding and Local Culture

Adding to the sense of adventure, you’ll enjoy a camel ride along the beach, a fun way to relax and take in the views. This is a classic Egyptian experience and often a highlight for first-timers. Meeting Bedouins and seeing the local way of life adds a cultural layer to the day—something many travelers appreciate.

There's plenty more to explore in Sharm el Sheikh

Lunch and Shopping

A delicious barbecue lunch by the sea offers a break from all the activity. The quality and variety of the meal are generally good, providing a satisfying fuel for the rest of the day.

Following lunch, you’ll have free time in Dahab to explore markets and pick up souvenirs, which is appreciated by those wanting a more authentic slice of local life.

Final Return to Sharm El Sheikh

After a full day of exploring, the journey back begins, with most travelers arriving back around sunset. The group size remains small (max 20), which helps keep the experience personalized, although some reviews mention guide issues, so staying flexible is wise.

What Reviewers Say

While most praise the itinerary and value, some express frustration over guide professionalism. One reviewer mentions, “The guide was absolutely unprofessional,” which highlights the importance of choosing a reputable operator and keeping expectations realistic. Others appreciated the knowledgeable guides and stunning views, emphasizing that the Blue Hole is certainly worth the trip.

Practical Tips for Travelers

Bring snorkeling gear if you plan to explore underwater, as equipment isn’t included.
Carry cash for entrance fees and souvenirs; the Blue Hole fee is $10 per person.
Early start means a long day, so dress comfortably and stay hydrated.
Be flexible—some parts of the trip may not meet every expectation due to guide variability.
Check the weather; poor weather can lead to cancellations or rescheduling with full refunds.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This full-day adventure offers incredible bang for your buck, especially for travelers eager to see some of Egypt’s best natural sights. It’s perfect if you enjoy outdoor activities like snorkeling and camel riding, combined with a taste of local culture and scenery. While guide professionalism can vary, many find the sights—particularly the Blue Hole and Colored Canyon—absolutely worth the effort.

If you’re after a well-rounded day that mixes adventure, cultural insight, and relaxed beach vibes, this tour provides a genuine, budget-friendly option. Just remember to stay flexible, pack wisely, and keep expectations balanced.