Camel ride & dinner with the Bedouin & star gazing in Sharm el Sheikh

Travelers looking for an authentic taste of desert life combined with breathtaking views of the night sky will find this tour offers a compelling blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation. While it’s not a full-day excursion, the five-hour experience packs in enough highlights to make it a worthwhile addition to any Sharm el Sheikh itinerary.

What we particularly love about this tour is the opportunity to ride camels at sunset, which is as picturesque as it sounds. The Bedouin-style dinner served under the stars feels surprisingly intimate, and the chance to look through powerful telescopes at Saturn makes it uniquely memorable. The guides, known for their friendliness and knowledge, really help bring the desert to life.

One possible consideration is the group size, which is capped at 15 travelers, making it intimate but also meaning booking in advance is recommended—this tour is typically booked about 18 days ahead. Also, some reviews mention occasional haggling from locals, which may slightly affect the otherwise smooth experience. Still, for those keen on culture and stargazing, this tour hits most marks.

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a combination of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and evening entertainment without spending an entire day out. It’s perfect for first-timers eager to see the desert’s magic, families, or couples looking for a romantic, authentic night under the stars.

Key Points

• Authentic Bedouin Experience: Enjoy tea, dinner, and traditional entertainment in a desert setting.
• Camel Ride at Sunset: A highlight for many, offering iconic desert vistas.
• Stargazing with Telescopes: See Saturn and possibly Neptune through three large telescopes.
• Good Value for Money: At around $35, it offers a balanced mix of activities and cultural insight.
• Group Size & Timing: Small groups ensure personalized attention; pick-up is at 3:30 pm.
• Potential Challenges: Some travelers report local harassment, so staying aware and patient helps.

An Authentic Evening in the Desert

This tour kicks off with a pick-up from your hotel in Sharm el Sheikh around 3:30 pm, which sets a convenient tone. The journey to the Bedouin village in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle feels smooth and well-organized, with the guides ensuring everyone is comfortable and informed along the way. As you arrive, the welcome in the Bedouin tent includes traditional tea, offering a warm introduction to local hospitality.

The highlight of the early part of the tour is the camel ride at sunset. Rides are often described as lasting around an hour, with some reviews noting guides taking photos and ensuring everyone gets a good experience. The views of the Sinai desert during sunset are stunning—think vast, golden sands stretching into the horizon, bathed in a warm glow. It’s a picture-perfect moment, and many travelers find it to be one of the most memorable parts of the evening.

The Bedouin Village and Dinner

After the camel ride, you’ll settle into a brightly lit, cozy environment for dinner. The menu features Egyptian staples, and reviewers frequently mention the delicious, simple, and authentic flavors. For some, the dinner is a highlight—“a simple but delicious dinner with a belly dancing show and fire tricks,” as one guest put it. The atmosphere is relaxed, with many appreciating the opportunity to sit together under the stars and enjoy the company of fellow travelers and guides.

Reviewers like Eliana_C highlight that the guides are friendly and attentive, making sure everyone is having a good time. The dinner isn’t elaborate but offers a genuine taste of the local cuisine, complemented by the desert’s peaceful ambiance.

Stargazing Through Telescopes

Once the meal wraps up, the real star of the night begins—literally. The tour includes the use of three powerful telescopes, which can magnify objects up to 150 times. On a clear night, you will have an unparalleled view of Saturn, and if conditions are just right, even Neptune.

Guests have expressed amazement at how close and detailed the planets appear, with some reviews mentioning guides pointing out constellations and celestial objects, making the star gazing both fun and educational. The telescopes provide a rare, in-depth look at the universe that you might find hard to replicate elsewhere in a short tour.

Additional Entertainment & Atmosphere

Towards the end of the evening, there’s often a belly dancing performance and a fire show, which add lively touches to an otherwise tranquil night. As one reviewer noted, “the best part was just sitting down to relax, have a simple dinner, and watch the fire tricks,” confirming how the mix of calm desert scenery and lively entertainment creates a balanced experience.

Practical Details and Value

The tour costs approximately $34.84 per person, which many consider excellent value given the variety of activities packed in. Included are dinner, soft drinks, transportation, and the telescopic star gazing, making it a hassle-free experience. You should be prepared for potential crowds, as this tour is limited to 15 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience but also requiring early booking.

The return transfer is smooth, with most guests arriving back at their hotels by approximately 8:30 pm. Note that the tour is weather-dependent—if skies are cloudy or conditions poor, the star gazing part might be canceled or rescheduled, with refunds available if the experience is canceled due to weather.

What’s Not Included

While most essentials are covered, some reviews flag local harassment as a minor nuisance—this is something to be aware of and handle politely. Also, the protected desert area may have restrictions that prevent certain activities or souvenirs from being purchased.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adventurous spirits who want to combine a cultural encounter with natural beauty. It’s ideal for those who enjoy outdoor activities, celestial sights, and a relaxed, social atmosphere. Families with children, couples, and solo travelers alike will find it engaging and memorable. However, travelers who prefer luxury or extensive sightseeing may find it a little simple, but the value for the price remains high.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes air-conditioned transportation to and from your hotel in Sharm el Sheikh, making logistics hassle-free.

What time does the tour start and end?
It begins with hotel pickup at 3:30 pm and concludes around 8:30 pm, after returning from the desert.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and the small group size makes it manageable. However, a camel ride and evening activity could be tiring for very young children or those with mobility constraints.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, casual clothing suitable for outdoor desert conditions. Light layers are advisable for the evening since it can get cool after sunset.

Are meals vegetarian options available?
The tour features Egyptian cuisine, which is generally versatile. Specific dietary needs aren’t detailed, so it’s best to inquire beforehand if you have special requirements.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Canceling less than 24 hours before the start results in no refund.

Final Thoughts

This Camel Ride & Bedouin Dinner experience in Sharm el Sheikh offers a genuine taste of desert life with a touch of cosmic wonder. The combination of beautiful sunset views, authentic Bedouin hospitality, and the spectacle of star gazing makes for a memorable night out. The small-group setting ensures more personal attention from guides like Mohammed, who is praised for his friendliness and knowledge.

The value is undeniable at under $35, especially considering the included activities, meals, and transport. While a few travelers experienced minor hiccups, overall, the experience delivers authentic culture and stunning scenery at a reasonable price.

This tour is especially recommended for first-timers, couples, and families wanting an evening filled with sights, stories, and stars that they’ll remember long after they leave the desert.

Whether you’re a space enthusiast, culture seeker, or simply in search of a unique experience, this desert adventure offers a wholesome blend of scenery, history, and entertainment that’s hard to beat in Sharm el Sheikh.