Dahab Travel Guide - Wikitravel

Dahab travel guide - Wikitravel
1 of 23
file:///D:/Dahab travel guide - Wikitravel.htm
From Wikitravel
Earth : Africa : North Africa : Egypt : Sinai : Dahab
Coral Coast Hotel

EGP244.70 Book now
Booking.com
Dahab ( )is a town in Egypt,
located some 85 km (53 miles)
north of Sharm el-Sheikh on the
Gulf of Aqaba and 175 km south
from Taba, near the southern tip of
Sinai. It is a place that many have
fallen in love with over the years,
and return to time & time again.
Understand
Dahab was once an isolated coastal
Easy living on the beach
village inhabited only by the local
Bedouin. As little as 30 years ago,
there were fewer than 30 Bedouin families in Dahab. Like the Bedouin inland, they had
a self-sustaining lifestyle but in Dahab this was based on fishing as well as traditional
goat herds. During the summer, many inland Bedouin came to Dahab for fishing and to
collect dates, and to enjoy life by the sea. To this day, favourite presents from Dahab
(for the inland Bedouin) are dried fish & dates.
Dahab's isolated location, idyllic setting and
laid-back Bedouin hospitality made it a
favourite destination for all who stumbled upon
it. In the beginning (1970s), this was mainly
Israeli soldiers or people from the kibbutz
during their leave. During the 1980s it turned
into a hippie hangout, and in the 1990s
adventure enthusiasts from around the world
began to discover Dahab's natural wonders.
The combination of Red Sea & Sinai desert
Dahab's Masbat Bay
make Dahab perfect for world class
windsurfing, scuba diving, freediving, rock
climbing & of course desert trekking with the Bedouin. Add to this cheap
accommodation on or near the beach, inexpensive food and drink and a relaxed
atmosphere, and you have a heady enticement for the young and young at heart.
Today's Dahab has evolved into an "alternative
resort" - the home of independent & adventurous
travellers, but also with some more upmarket
resorts & hotels. Most of the latter are in the
Laguna area or outlying. For some people, this mix
is part of Dahab's charm ("everyone welcome"),
others regard the mix up as a problem: Prices in
Assalah are artificially increased which makes it
Work in progress
less and less interesting for backpackers, though
some locally-run camps still keep affordable. In
contrast to that, many package tourists and families won't feel comfortable with the
lacking conveniences and the all-handmade-look among the hippies. Note the
7/9/2015 11:05 PM
2 of 23
grotesque, forever unfinished concrete structures as a sign of this mismanagment.

Still, for everyone with an open mind, Dahab is definitely worth a visit and a place to
fall in love with. Particularly in the old part of Dahab (Masbat & Mashraba), you will
rarely find a visitor who comes only once to Dahab. To many people this has become a
second home.
Get in
By bus or taxi
By bus from Cairo, 9 hours: Several times daily from Turgoman station (central),
Abbasseya station (30 mins from centre), Heliopolis (near airport). Not all buses go
from/to all stations. Best to buy tickets in advance, especially for the night bus (departs
Abbasseya midnight, arriving Dahab 9am).
By bus from Sharm El Sheikh airport: The hardest part is to get from the airport to
the Sharm bus station. Taxis tend to charge a fancy 80 to 100 LE for this 10 km ride.
Try heading towards the airport site exit and say you'll pick up a taxi (or microbus)
outside. They'll tell you it's impossible and that there is no bus to Dahab anymore - just
go on. The blue microbus costs only one pound per ride, but you'll have to change
buses once to get to the bus station. Many taxis don't get an airport permission. If you
can talk them down to 30 LE for the ride to the bus station you're good!
Bus schedule Sharm to Dahab is 6:00, 7:00, 8:00, 9:00, 14:30, 17:00, 20:30. As of
October 2013, only 9:00, 15:30 and 17:00 are confirmed to depart. Bus schedule
Dahab to Sharm is 8:00, 9:00, 10:00, 11:30, 12:30, 15:00, 16:00, 17:30, 19:30, 20:30,
21:30, 22:00, 22:20
Dahab Bus Office:+20-69-3641-808 , but they almost never pick up.
By bus to St. Catherine: as of the end of October 2011, there is a regular, twice
weekly, minibus service to and from St. Catherine. The Bedouin Bus [1]
(http://www.bedouinbus.com/) runs on Tuesday and Friday and costs are 50LE each
way. Check the website for details on pick-up and drop-off points in Dahab and St.
Catherine.
By taxi from SSH: A posted rate is $98, but an experienced Dahab traveller would
never pay more than 150 LE ($23) for the whole cab to Dahab (bargaining generally
starts at 300-400 LE, sometimes higher). Decide for yourself, but don't exceed a 250
LE limit. Getting a taxi from Dahab back to the airport can easily be done for $20 (135
LE) with very little bargaining. Agree on a price "including all taxes, tips and tickets".
Exchange money before you pass the airport customs. There's an ATM in the
departures area past the security, you can ask the Information desk to get you there. If
you're stuck drivers will take euro or $, but you might end up paying a bit more.
Bargaining a taxi at the airport is really hard - it's best to call in some taxi driver before
you arrive.
A tip on bargaining: enter it in good nature. It's not normal for Europeans to have to
bargain for everything, but it is normal here. The argument "I paid this amount a week
ago and a driver was happy" usually works.
If you want to avoid the bargaining game, arrange an airport pick up through your hotel
or camp. Check at least one week in advance via E-Mail, responding times may vary.
7/9/2015 11:05 PM
3 of 23
150 LE should be the limit for that service as part of a package booking.
By private minibus from Sharm el-Sheikh: transport from the airport or city to Dahab
for 35 Euros (price is total, not per person, correct as of Jan 2013)
From Taba: There is one bus a day at 3:00pm, 45 LE (Jan 2015). Taxis cost about
350-400 LE. The 175 km drive takes about 2.5 hours depending on how much time you
wait at the numerous security checkpoints. (As of Nov 2014)
Companies:
Transfers to Sharm El Sheikh and Sinai (http://www.gosharmtours.com
/sharm-el-sheikh-airport-transfers-dahab-taba-cairo-airport-shuttle/) you
can go from Dahab to any where like Cairo, Sharm El Sheikh, Taba, Nuweiba
and St. Catherine Monastery as well as return transfers to and from these
destinations by air conditioned buses and good service.
By ferry
Aqaba in Jordan is connected by ferry:
Taba is the best port (the crossing is shorter, so cheaper and less likely to be
cancelled due to bad weather). There are two ferries - Sindbad
(http://www.sindbadjo.com/) Aqaba@sindbadjo.com and Babel
(http://www.your-guide-to-aqaba-jordan.com/aqaba-ferry-to-egypt.html).
Nuweiba ferry terminal is best by taxi. The 10:30AM bus to Nuweiba arrives
there early enough to be able to get onto the 3PM fast boat to Aqaba. In busy
times, you can be sure the fast boat will go. In slower times, it's best to be at the
ferry terminal by 11AM to book tickets. Tickets can only be purchased at the
ferry terminal in USD. Sometimes the fast ferry runs, sometimes just the slow
ferry. If you're on the slow ferry, board immediately and go; if you're on the fast
ferry, head off to small duna or Terabin to relax for a couple of hours before
boarding. Keep your driver with you until you know which ferry you're on - it's a
long walk to the nice bits of Nuweiba away from the port.
Once in Dahab
By taxi, you'll be taken straight to your hotel.
By bus, you will arrive at Dahab bus station in the Medina.
Arriving at the bus station you will be literally attacked by
a mob of taxi drivers willing to push you into their car.
You'll end up paying a ridiculous amount of money if you
don't resist. A fair price is 5 LE inside the median/Lagoona
area, or 10 LE into Masbat/Mashraba. If you pay more you
reinforce their hostile behaviour.
Dahab Bus Station
You can walk, too - be that only as a bargain move or to

dissociate from the hostile situation - if a good 20 - 25 min. walk doesn't scare you off.
Standing in front of the bus station (buses arrive in the back) facing the entrance,
looking at the "East Delta Travel" sign: turn right, go a few metres, turn left into "Dr.
Ahmed Zwel St.", walk about 200 metres. Turn right into "El Nasr Road". After about
300 m turn left at the pharao statue into "El Mashraba St.". Follow the road. After 400
metres you'll pass a two dolphin statue, go straight on, you're almost done. Soon the
road makes a 90 degree left turn, you will see some construction sites and the beach.
7/9/2015 11:05 PM
4 of 23
Turn left, following the road and walk into Mashraba.
Get around
Orientation
Dahab has 3 distinct parts.
1. At the centre is Masbat Bay, almost evenly divided by a floodway (the funny
bridge over dry sand - except during a rare but impressive flash flood). The tourist area
of Masbat effectively stretches north to Eel Garden (or Meleil as the Bedouin call it),
and South through Mashraba. A corniche runs along this entire stretch of beach. This
can be considered central Dahab, and you will find everything you need here.
2. A short taxi ride south is the Lagoona (El Goze). This is where the Corniche ends
in the South. Here you find Dahab's first resort hotels (Hilton etc). You also find all
municipal services: bus station, hospital, city council, etc.
3. Assalah: the residential area, mainly Bedouin but also with some foreign expats &
Egyptians now also living amongst the Bedouin.
Plus outlying hotels: Stretching north towards the Blue Hole, and South to Wadi Gnai,
there are around 15 outlying resort hotels - mainly booked as package holidays.
Plus Protected Areas: Dahab is bordered by 2 Protected Areas: in the south, Nabq
Protected Area starts at Wadi Gnai, as in the North Ras Abu Galoum Protected Area
starts at the Blue Hole. In total 52% of the Gulf of Aqaba coastline is Protected Area,
which is very important for managing growth and for preserving the reef & eco system.
No building is allowed in Protected Areas, except traditional Bedouin structures.
By taxi
Local taxis cost LE 10 between the city and laguna and LE 5 for in-city rides. Bedouin
drivers are usually less pushy and easy to agree with.
Shared taxis, in essence mini-buses, are a cheap way to travel locally. Shared taxis tend
to conform to a timetable, so they become useful if you have missed the day's bus to
the nearby spots like Sharm el-Sheikh, or if you need to get into Dahab when arriving
from the Aqaba ferry. To get to Dahab from Eilat, if you don't have a car, take a taxi to
the border, walk across, and grab a shared taxi on the other side.
On foot
Getting around Dahab itself on foot is quite simple, the promenade runs right along the
seafront and all the usual amenities are located along it. Bicycles would be an excellent
way of getting around, but most rental bicycles are poorly maintained and as such are
in terrible shape. Many businesses are distinctly unenthusiastic about the bicycle-rental
aspect of their commercial operation, quoting inflated prices and creative time
definitions ("1 day" = 6 hours). Even large and supposedly reputable operators are not
immune from deficiencies in this area.
See
Do
7/9/2015 11:05 PM
5 of 23
The most "traditional" thing to do in Dahab is not to do anything. It's one of the best
places in the world to indulge this most exquisite passion and a lot of Dahab's
reputation among travellers is based on that. Anyway, if "doing" something to you
means "activity" or "sites" there's also a great variety of options:
Windsurfing
Kite surfing
Scuba diving
Freediving
Desert excursions
Desert Trekking
Rock Climbing
Sandboarding
Yoga, Reiki, Chi Gong, etc
Horse back riding (& camel riding of course!)
Quad bikes
Learn Arabic
Wind-surfing & kite-surfing

Dahab has about 270 days a year of wind. Wind patterns are different in summer and
winter and between these seasons (mid Oct - mid Nov) you may hit occasional 1-4
relatively windless days in a row. Lagoona area is divided into kite surfing (north) and
windsurfing parts and provides a good protection from waves and currents, while
keeping the wind good. Right outside the lagoona there's a professional zone with
higher winds and waves.
Wind surfing: There are at least 6 big wind surfing stations around Laguna area
offering all levels of courses, as well as equipment rentals. Experts with their own
equipment can also surf from Masbat Bay, but must take great care not to hit the
snorkellers & freedivers on Lighthouse Reef.
Kite surfing is mostly done in a shallow "kite lagoona", as well as at other
places, like Eel Garden and other local spots. Recently, some kiters have started
heading out to the Laguna at Ras Abu Galoum - stunning location and you will
be just 1 or 2 kites rather than 10 or 20!
Diving & Freediving

Diving & freediving are extremely popular in Dahab and need a bit more explanation.
The reefs here are still in relatively good shape in town, and excellent shape in the
Protected Areas like Ras Abu Galoum. Known dive sites include Abu Helal, Blue Hole,
The Bells, Canyon, Coral Garden, Eel Garden, Lighthouse, Moray Garden, Islands,
Three Pools, Gabr El Bint, Ras Abu Gallum.
NOTE: Dahab's most infamous dive site is the Blue Hole, 107 meters
deep with an arch opening onto the reef face at 58 meters. This site is
considered to be the most dangerous scuba diving site on earth,
regularly killing inexperienced and experienced divers foolish enough to risk it. A
high number of instructors and divemasters have met their fate in the Blue Hole,
as well, including many who had successfully passed the arch dozens of times.
Should you be interested in descending to the arch you MUST go through
7/9/2015 11:05 PM
6 of 23
technical dive training and visit the Blue Hole on the correct gases. Diving this
site on air alone is near suicidal, so even if a very experienced person offers to
take you through, do not at any price do this unless you have technical training
and are using it.
You can dive the Blue Hole within safe recreational depths (that is without descending
to the arch) - it is one of the top ten diving spots in the world. Bells / Blue Hole is
extremely popular and beautiful. But be aware that it's crowded because lots of buses
from Sharm come here. A normal dive in the Bells, a chimney which goes down to 30
metres perpendicular (very exciting experience!), needs you to possess advanced open
water skills. Otherwise you are not allowed to go to 30 metres! Freediving is the new
kid on the block in Dahab thanks to the very convenient Blue Hole site and an ever
increasing range of world top freedivers training here.
There are more than 60 diving & freediving centres in Dahab, but some are not
properly licensed by the Ministry of Tourism (subject to annual inspections & fees).
This is an open list - simple alphabetical order, described in their own words. Before
you book, check the CDWS web site to make sure you avoid blacklisted centres: [2]
(http://cdws.travel/diving/black-list-dive-centers.aspx)
Note also, all dive shops can Dahab offer a trip to the Thistlegorm organised through a
central agency in Dahab organised on a fairly regular basis provided they have
adequate numbers. 3 dives, breakfast lunch and transportation for 110 euro, US$150 is
actually cheaper than doing it from Sharm el Shiekh and also saves you on the trip
down there / expensive accomadation in Sharm.
Bedouin Divers, [3] (http://www.bedouin-lodge-dahab.com/). Familiar dive
center on the coast of the Red Sea in the Mashraba area of Dahab. Bedouin
Divers is in the Bedouin Lodge Hotel, which can arrange Daily Diving, PADI
Courses, Camel Dive Safaris and Boat Dives.
Big Blue Dahab, +20 (0)69 3640 045, [4] (http://www.bigbluedahab.com/) is a
fully equipped 5 Star Gold Palm Padi resort meters from the reef, a relaxed and
welcoming environment ideal for both snorkeling and diving. Emphasis on safety
and fun with an environmental awareness. Small dive groups with highly
qualified instructors and divemasters to enjoy a full range of Padi courses and
guided dives at affordable prices.
Blue Realm. obile +20 122 744 4873; e-mail info@bluerealmdiving.com; [5]
(http://www.bluerealmdiving.com/). Great native-run diving center (English,
Dutch, German, French and Arabic available: the owner's wife is actually Dutch).
They charge for two dives 45 (plus extra for gear rental). Package discounts are
available. A 5-day PADI Open Water course here is 260, incl. equipment
BlueSkunk Freedivers, [6] (http://www.blueskunk.net/). Offers a complete and
progressive range of courses: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced, Deep. It is not
the goal of the course to push towards a new personal best, as they emphasize
technique development and depth adaptation before increasing depth. Safety
first.
Dahab Divers,[7] (http://www.dahabdivers.com/). PADI 5 star Golden Palm
Resort and Diving School at the Lighthouse in Masbat, +20 69 3640381, +20 10
1113481 (mobile), email dive@dahabdivers.com. Friendly staff, nice atmosphere,
7/9/2015 11:05 PM
7 of 23
good equipment. The Technical Diving facilities in Dahab Divers is operated by

Team Blue Immersion who offer both TDI, TecRec and GUE Programs up to
Instructor Level. (www.blue-immersion.org and www.dahabdiverstechnical.com)
Deep BlueDivers, +2 0121134668, [8] (http://www.deepbluedahab.com/)[9]
(http://www.dahab-backpackers.com/) is a fully equipped 5 Star Gold Palm Padi
resort meters from the reef, The Red sea is where we do our business; which,
obviously, is diving. We pride ourselves on being passionate, professional, and
personalized in all our Red Sea scuba diving trips.. Emphasis on safety and fun
with an environmental awareness. Small dive groups with highly qualified
instructors and divemasters to enjoy a full range of Padi courses and guided dives
at affordable prices.
Desert Divers (http://www.desert-divers.com/). Dive, climb, trek and freedive.
The owner, Said, was Dahab's first Bedouin to learn to dive more than 20 years
ago. They moved March 2013, to Marine Garden Bedouin Camp, just around the
corner from Lighthouse. Excellent for diving & freediving (PADI 5 Star Dive
Resort, Home of the Camel Diving Safari and AIDA Freediving Centre). Given
their Bedouin roots, they have also led the way in developing professional
trekking and rock climbing. Their efforts to integrate adventure sports and
tourism with the Bedouin community are very popular - they were even awarded
an EU grant for developing and promoting sustainable tourism in the Sinai.
Dive In Dahab" http://diveindahab.weebly.com was founded by Andreas
(Andy) Tischer in 1999. In 2006 Hans Lange joined Dive In as a partner to Andy.
Hans left the Dive In 2011 to built iDive Dahab.
Dive The Gap, [10] (http://www.divethegap.com/) is a gap year and career
development scuba diving company that operates out of a PADI 5-Star Instructor
Development Resort and National Geographic Centre. Dive The Gap is a UK
Company that mainly operates in Dahab, and has a range of scuba diving
programmes. Almost every PADI course is available from Open Water to
Instructor and PADI Master Scuba Diver Trainer with a full range of PADI
specialities, diving safaris and recreational diving. Also packages are offered and
a team located on site. Call 020 8133 4481 (+44 20 8133 4481) and you will be
put through to the team in Egypt at no extra charge.
Dive Pro Dahab, [11] (http://www.diveprodahab.com/) is a company established
by divers for divers to help them get the best out of their dive vacation. Located
all over the red sea enables it to supply divers with services wherever they go.
Dive Urge, [12] (http://www.dive-urge.com/) +44(0)2071935020, is a family-run
5 Star PADI Gold Palm resort meters from the reef in Eel Garden. Friendly and
relaxed hospitality just 5 minutes from the main bay, ideal for families and single
travellers alike. The only purpose-built accessible accommodations in Dahab for
those with restricted mobility. Big on environmental awareness, a maximum of 4
divers per group ensures a quality dive every time. They offer a full range of Padi
courses and guided dives as well as dive safaris and other excursions.
Divers Down Under (DDU),[13] (http://www.7heavenhotel.com/), Attached to a
70-room hotel and hostel lodge, it offers a wide range of entry-level PADI
courses in different languages, divemaster internships, speciality courses, as well
as technical diving experiences (INTD and PADI-Dsat). Cheapest diving in
Dahab US$25 per dive (Feb 2013) - equipment is not as new as the others (also
because it actuallly gets used!) but all perfectly fine, along with the dive
masters/instructors
Freedive Dahab,[14] (http://www.freedivedahab.com/). Founded by Lotta
7/9/2015 11:05 PM
8 of 23
Ericson (former World Record holder)and Linda Paganelli (Italian Champion).

Freedive Dahab is an Instructor Training Center and SSI and AIDA school,
providing all level courses and individual training. Freedive Dahab is also a
freediving shop where you can buy or rent any piece of freediving equipment
you can possibly need. Freedive Dahab also organizes National and World
Record attempts and Competitions like the Triple Depth competition. Contacts:
info@freedivedahab.com; phone 002 0165093752.
H2O Divers Dahab, [15] (http://www.h2odiversadahab.com/). Professional,
experienced and knowledgeable instructors that have been diving in Dahab for
over 15 years. A friendly, fun bunch of native English, French, German and
Dutch speakers that offer a full range of PADI, SDI & TDI courses. Right in the
heart of Dahab's main bay, three dive sites right on their door step: Lighthouse
Reef, Mashraba and Bannerfish Bay. You will leave this dive centre feeling part
of the team.
iDive Dahab, [16] (http://www.i-dive-dahab.com/) Ph 01118444097 Beautiful
designed dive center at the Jowhara Hotel. iDive offers all range of courses of
PADI, SSI and CMAS next to daily dive trips. Safaries and overnight trips are
done as well. A Marine Research center is part of the iDive center which offers a
great opportunity to get an inner look into marine sciences. iDive and its Open
Ocean Center are initiating several activities to protect the sea. They are hosting
frequently international universities who conduct field trips or having research
projects here.
Mirage Divers - Diving center, [17] (http://www.miragedivers.com/). Owned
and run by a very professional Bedouins and they always do their best to offer a
real social diving holidays which combine both safety and fun whilst
experiencing a whole different culture in a truly unique atmosphere. Their groups
are always small and there is a very high personal attention to all the divers,
info@miragedivers.com , Tel&Fax +20693641476
Nesima Diving Center, Tel. 069 3640320, [18] (http://www.nesima-resort.com/).
French-run diving center generally judged to be the best in town. They charge a
premium pricewise though, as two dives will cost you 47 (plus 20/day for gear
rental). Package discounts available. A 5-day PADI Open Water course here is
302.
Octopus World Dahab, [19] (http://www.octopusworlddahab.com/). A PADI 5
Star Dive Resort, with a sea front location in the heart of Dahab. It offers full
PADI courses from Open Water through to Divemaster. With new and well
maintained equipment and recently renovated facilities, they are known for their
family atmosphere and friendly team. With highly experienced and qualified
instructors, and a professional yet chilled out atmosphere, Octopus World Dahab
strives to provide quality education and a unique diving experience.
Poseidon Divers, [20] (http://www.poseidondivers.com/). Get into technical
diving or simply do fun dive or courses in a safe and professional way. It is the
only PADI Career Development Centre [21] (http://www.padi.com/english
/common/irra/cdc.asp) in town as well as a PSA and TDI Instructor facility (the
only one in Egypt), you will get no shortage of divers if you do your PADI
DiveMaster or Instructor course here which is a definite plus for the quality of
your course.
Red Sea Relax PADI 5 Star National Geographic Instructor Development
Resort, +20 (0)69 3641 309, [22] (http://www.red-sea-relax.com/). British-run
diving operation enjoying a prime beach side location in central Dahab, meters
from the teeming reefs but also convenient for Dahab's center and modern
7/9/2015 11:05 PM
9 of 23
amenities. On site accommodation is available with a choice of suite rooms, or a

bed in the dormitory complex offered totally free for divers. PADI diving courses
range from beginner through to professional Open Water Instructor, or for those
already qualified daily diving takes place to any of the 20 local reefs. Boat
excursions and Camel Dive Safaris are also arranged.
Reef 2000 Diving Center,[23] (http://www.dahab-info.com/diving/divingcenters
/reef2000.php), by Bedouin Moon Hotel, is a PADI 5* Gold Palm Resort and an
IANTD technical facility. It offers a wide range of courses, from beginner- to
technical diving courses.
Sea Dancer Dive Center, [24] (http://www.seadancerdivecenter.com/). Small
professionally run outfit located on the sea front. Offers the full range of courses
as well as guided dives. Staff are knowledgeable, experienced, enthusiastic and
friendly, the equipment is a good standard and well maintained. Sea Dancer is the
current dive shop at Le Meridien hotel.
Sea Pioneer Dive Club, [25] (http://seapioneer.org/). Our Dive Centre is directly
opposite the central Lighthouse diving area in Dahab. We are less than a minute's
walk to the beach for confined and open water dives. In addition to intro dives,
the PADI courses we conduct include Open Water, Advanced, Rescue, Dive
Master and many specialities. We can also arrange accommodation and airport
transfers on request.
World of freediving - International AIDA freediving School, [26]
(http://worldoffreediving.net/), World of Freediving is a freediving school located
in Dahab, South Sinai, Egypt. They offer a wide range of freediving courses and
training options for every level of ability,including AIDA Instructor Courses. All
the courses are AIDA courses and the staff are all experienced AIDA trained
instructors.
Zen Sea, [27] (http://www.zensea.com/). Offers fun dives, PADI courses and
yoga diving. edit
SeaQuest - International free diving education, [28]
(http://www.freedivingcourses.net/), Seauquest is Sailing cheap crossing the Red
Sea.The owner is Akim ADHARI Founder of blue immersion the world biggest
free diving school.
Desert Excursions & Trekking

These need to be divided into 2 categories:
Daily excursions to popular sites: These are organized by loads of small safari
shops all along Dahab's Masbat Bay & inside hotels.
Embah Safari Tours & Travel (http:/www.embah.com or
http://www.embahadventuretravel.com) operating Safaris & Tours throughout
Sinai since 1992, Embah is one of first official Safari Operators in Sinai. They
have experience and knowledge of the area and the training and professionalism
of their Tour Leaders and Desert Guides, is second to none. All their safaris &
tours have been designed following the ethics of sustainable tourism and they
host Eco Guide Training courses for locals to be trained on environmental issues
as well as codes of practice for working with International clients. Embah offers
scheduled small group tours for the longer specialist tours although are renowned
for their tailor made holidays they design for independent travel. Embah provide
a full travel service and host daily excursions in and around Dahab, as well as
tailored safaris and tours throughout Egypt and Jordan.
7/9/2015 11:05 PM
10 of 23
'King Safari Dahab' [29] (http://www.kingsafaridahab.com/) on the beach front

is an official licensed tour agency. They arrange a large variety of tours and
personalised trips, such as camel safaris.
A friendly independent tour operator is 'Dahab Safari Day Tours'[30]
(http://www.dahabsafari.info/) able to arrange custom safaris to all the top safari
destination...s throughout Dahab, Sinai, Egypt, Israel and Jordan. These include
Camel Safaris, Jeep Safaris, Boat and Plane..
Longer Desert Safaris & Treks:
Although many of the small safari
shops will offer these, if you really
want to enjoy a deep desert
experience you need to go directly to
the Bedouin. A Bedouin guide will
take into account season & weather,
your fitness & your ideas and
recommend a nice route. Most
importantly, he will take you on a
route he loves & knows well (not just
For a deep desert experience, go directly to
a tourist trail). Please note that all
the Bedouin
safari businesses will have Bedouin
guides and/or drivers on their desert
trips. It is simply not possible to go
into the desert without the knowledge and permission of these people of the
desert. So, whichever company you chose, you will always have the opportunity
to experience Bedouin culture in the desert.
Desert Divers (http://www.desert-divers.com/trekking-sinai/) have one of the
Sinai's most extensive deep desert trekking programmes, including Serabit El
Khadem and Jebel El Tih. These areas are accessible from Cairo as well Dahab
and Sharm El Sheikh, so it gives some flexiblity on your start and end point.
Stunning landscape, and a beautiful way of life, especially in Spring when many
families move Bedouin tents onto the dunes for 2-3 months to graze their herds.
Sinai Safari (http://www.sinai-safari.com/). A Bedouin owned and managed
safari group offering authentic and ecological desert excursions from 1 to 14 days
to anywhere in south Sinai. The guides are all from the deep desert and have
been guiding travelers their whole life. They can arrange a tailor made trip to
either the famous locations or off the beaten track to visit areas that are not
known to the common safari operators. They are so confident of their service
that they only charge a 25% deposit before departure. Sinai Safari are desert
specialists and only offer desert trips in Sinai, nothing else and nowhere else
making them the most highly recommended and ecological safari organisers in
South Sinai.
Popular sites:
The Old Port: Walk by the ruins of an old Nabatean Port. It shows there was a
community here dating back about 1600 years. Along the corniche at the
beginning of Mashraba.
The laguna: at the south end of the Corniche, rent a bike to get here. Long
sandy stretch for wind surfing, kite surfing or to admire the view. On the inside of
the laguna, sandy shallow swimming great for small children. On the outside,
deeper water (take care for strong current, don't head to far off shore). Take
drinks and snacks with you as there are no cafes on the laguna point. This is a
7/9/2015 11:05 PM
11 of 23
great spot to spend a day away from the town centre.

Three pools, the beach area of Wadi Gnai with lazy Bedouin cares. 20 min drive,
lovely area for snorkeling, diving or just relaxing.
Wadi Gnai, inland: This is a beautiful granite wadi (valley) with an oasis &
several Bedouin gardens, 20 min drive. Great for day hike, dinner in the
mountains and rock climbing.
St Catherine monastery and Mount Sinai: Very popular trip by day or
overnight, organised by almost everyone (80-200LE). Alternatively, gather a
group of people, charter a taxi. In winter, beat the crowds by climbing during the
day and seeing the sunset instead. It gets cold at the summit, so bring a jacket!
Bring flashlight, preferably worn on your head. There are some shops and
teahouses along the way, so don't worry about the provisions.
Ein Khudra: Bedouin palm-tree oasis. Can be busy in the day. To see it at it's
best, include in a longer desert safari and stay for dinner & overnight.
Coloured Canyon: mainly a day trip. If you would like to combine as part of a
longer desert safari, be sure to have a full Egyptian Visa as it's often needed for
the best route.
Some of the safari shops also do day / overday trips to Jordan & Israel. for these, try
Bedouina at Mirage Village, Embah Safari Tours & Travel or Dahab Safari day tours
along the beach-front. They also organise one-day trips to Cairo and Luxor.:
Petra (Jordan) is easily organised from Dahab [31] (http://www.worldnomad.com/egypt-to-jordan/)
Jerusalem (Israel) day-trips are also organised from
Dahab.http.dahabsafari.info.&dahab _to_Israel
Rock climbing
The Sinai Desert has excellent rock
climbing in the granite mountains & wadis.
October-April only (i.e. not the hot summer
months). The main area near to Dahab is
Wadi Gnai:
Vast amounts of perfect bouldering
on granite boulders in shaded,
sand-floored valleys
Single and multi-pitch equipped sport
routes for all levels of climbers in
Waterfalls, Camel Canyon & Wadi
Connection
Top roping area especially for
beginners & children in Middle Gnai
Plus new routing possibilities for
sport climbs in many easily
accessible areas.
Fred Stone bouldering in Wadi Gnai
Desert Divers (http://www.desertdivers.com/climbing-sinai/) have led the way in developing rock climbing in the Sinai,
7/9/2015 11:05 PM
12 of 23
especially in Dahab's Wadi Gnai (sport, a bit of trad and endless bouldering). They can
arrange for equipment hire, drivers, guides and anything else you might need. In 2010,
they published the Sinai Rock Climbing Guide (http://www.desert-divers.com/climbingsinai/sinai-rock-climbing-guide/) complete with topos and route descriptions. It's
available as pdf download, email for the link. Their guides are also happy to share/offer
advice to experienced climbers who can 'self-guide'.
St. Catherine has incredible tradclimbing and bouldering. Base yourself in the village
at Fox Camp [32] (http://www.desertfoxcamp.com/) or Sheikh Mousa Bedouin Camp
[33] (http://www.sheikmousa.com/) with easy access (5 mns to 2 hours) to more than
60 routes. All long multipitch (7+ pitch), but wide range of grades. If you're a group, it
is great fun to head deep into the desert by camel where you will find unclimbed lines
almost everywhere you look! Absolutely no bolting allowed in St Catherine, and please
respect the holy mountains of Mt Sinai & St Katherine by walking the traditional
pilgrimage paths rather than climbing.
Sandboarding
Sandboarding is said to have originated in Egypt in the time of the Pharoahs where they
slid down dunes on pieces of wood. Yet, it only began to capture the center stage as one
of the most exciting outdoor adventure sports within the past couple years. Today the
sport has evolved in many countries with idyllic settings like Namibia, Peru in Latin
America, Australia, the Western USA and Dubai in the UAE with ever-increasing
followers throughout the world.
Sandana Sandboarding (Sandana Egypt Sandboarding Club), Dahab,
+201115500641 (sinai@egyptsandboarding.com), [34]
(http://www.egyptsandboarding.com/). Full day and half day. Sandboarding trips
are organized out of Dahab and Sharm El Sheikh, using professional equipment.
25-40 EUR. edit
Yoga, Reiki, Chi Gong & more

Whether ashtanga, hatha or kundalini, yoga is increasingly popular in Dahab. Yoga on
nearby Mount Sinai is a regular draw, as are full-moon retreats into the nearby wadis
(desert), taking advantage of the silence and space of the Sinai desert. More and more
people are coming to Dahab on holiday and yoga for Christmas has become a top travel
destination.
The El Salam Camp and Yoga Shala holds daily classes throughout the year, as well as
running regular retreats in high season. Classes are currently available in both English
and Russian.
Coral Coast and Blue Beach Hotel offer daily yoga drop- in classes with various
teachers of different yoga styles. Both yoga rooms are purpose built, with stunning
view, situated on the roof, not accessible to public view and provide yoga-mats and
props.
Other
Shisha try Egypts favorite pastime, smoking a shisha water pipe with flavored
tobacco whilst watching the world go by.
Kayaking a great way to explore the reef. Sea Kayaks are avalible for hire from
Sheikh Salem House [35] (http://www.sheikhsalemhouse.com/watersport.asp)
From 50 egp per hour, or try a guided night kayak - great for hot summer nights.
7/9/2015 11:05 PM
13 of 23
Quad-bikes trips into the desert.

Horse and camel riding
Relax: Enjoying sun, sea and juices in the restaurants with plank beds, which
you can use free of charge.
Buy
Great buys are the usual Egyptian suspects: water pipes, rugs, oriental lamps, shirts in
different lengths with embroidery, backgammon games, silver jewelery, etc. Prices are
geared for tourists, so haggling is a must, pay max. 50%-60% of the first price offered,
anything else is a rip-off. If you are not sure about the price, go to the next shop, they
all offer more or less the same things, and start bargaining again there.
Look out for Bedouin Handicrafts, some beautiful pieces are avalible. Hand
embroidered and made in Dahab, St Catherines and El Arish by Bedouin women.
Sheikh Salem House has a good selection of items as does some of the other Bedouin
establishments in Dahab.
If your stay extends with or without intention your shopping behaviour will focus on
the Ghazala Market where you can find anything you need to uptate your on-theroad-equipment from functional to convenient. For local fare & much cheaper fruit &
veg, go to Assalah shopping area (5 min taxi, or walk to Eel Garden then head into
town).
It is almost impossible to get rolling tobacco in Dahab, be prepared if you are not keen
on factory made ones.
Visit Weekly community market

Friday market (Sheikh Salem Community market) [36]
(https://www.facebook.com/groups/202972743067127/) is the longest running
and is held every Friday afternoon at Sheikh Salem House, Eel Garden Area,
Dahab. The market currently starts at 3pm and finishes between 7 - 8pm.
Eat
The trick to eating cheaply in Dahab is to avoid seafront establishments and use
restaurants inland, along and beyond the pedestrian zone, where identical meals are
regularly on offer for half the seafront price.
Note: some restaurants offer fishes freshly caught from the Sea. although that may
sound appealing truth is this is a natural reserve and so fishing here is illegal. Please
help us preserve this diving spot by not buying fresh fish
Budget places. In the side streets, you can eat at very low prices (4-24LE) such
as falafel, koshari, chicken at the "King Chicken", though King Chicken has
different prices for Egyptians and foreigners. Fish Market has fish meals for
30LE - the prices shown for fish are per kilo (not per fish), haggle for a better
price. There is a falafel, foul, etc., stall on the main road (Peace Road), at 2LE
per sandwich. The Koshary place on Peace Road has good koshary. In Assalah
(the Egyptian side) a fish meal cooked for you will usually be between 15LE and
25LE. Agree on a price at the start.
Ali Baba Restaurant, [37] (http://www.alibaba-dahab.com/). Ali Baba
7/9/2015 11:05 PM
14 of 23
Restaurant is a very high-standard restaurant, serving local seafood, grill, local

and international dishes. It has certificates for cleanliness and is constantly
re-inventing itself. Ali Baba has been among the top 5 Dahab restaurants on
Tripadvisor the past 5 years. edit
The Kitchen Restaurant, Masbat Bay (Between the bridge and the big
supermarket), 0020195959764, [38] (http://wikitravel.org
/en/www.thekitchendahab.com). 12:00-24:00. The Kitchen Restaurant offers
authentic and modern Thai, Chinese, Indiian and Sushi in a delicate dining
environment. The restaurant is certified for international food and health safety
and highly rated among travellers on Tripadvisor. Also for take-out and delivery."
edit
Blue Beach Restaurant. Located at the Blue Beach Hotel on the beach front,
provides comfortable eating with an extensive and interesting menu. The food is
well cooked and the steaks in particular are renowned in Dahab. The restaurant is
inside and provides warm shelter in the winter and a cool environment in the hot
summer months. Can also cater for large groups.
Buddha Restaurant & Cafe, Tel (002) 0108638537, [39]
(http://www.buddhadahab.com/)For the best quality steak and fresh seafood, this
restaurant in the Lighthouse area is now the place to eat in Dahab. Clean toilets
provided and sun loungers during the day, this is a very relaxed and friendly
establishment. Romantic by the Red Sea but can also cater for groups / weddings.
Dai Pescatori, Tel (002) 0127972361, [40] (http://www.sheikhsalemhouse.com
/daipescatori.asp). Owned and managed by Egyptians. At Sheikh Salem House at
the very northern end of the promenade, good italian food, especially the mixed
appetizers, and the semi-fredo desert.
Eel Garden. At the northern end of the promenade, sitting on nice bedouin
coussins, friendly staff, good food European and Egyptian you won't find
everywhere, e.g. mashi, couscous, sahlab. Weekly BBQ. Sunbeds and private
beach.
El Dorado.[41] (http://www.eldoradodahab.com
/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=49&Itemid=56&lang=en)
Also at the northern end of the promenade, with its own beach. Owned by
Italians, who serve excellent Italian fare, with pizzas to die for! Especially
popular with the locals. Be careful when receiving the check, as the owner of the
place has his own ideas about what to charge, should you have any special
request.
Friends Restaurant. [42] (http://www.friends.dahabpages.com/) One of many
effectively identical beachfront restaurants offering the same Arabic fare at the
same prices.
Jumas Wadi Bidar Bedouin Dinner Traditional Bedouin dinner cooked in the
desert on an open fire. Juma a Bedouin from the Muziena tribe makes excellent
food in his wadi close to Dahab with views of Dahab town and Saudi Arabia.
Prices start from 80 EGP per person for a tasty feast including transport. Booking
via Desert Divers, Sheikh Salem House or Blue Beach. There is also the option to
go to dinner on a camel, by jeep, by horse, hike (30 mins from Dahab town
centre or even by quad bike!).
The Lazy Camel Cafe Assalah Beach at the end of the beach footpath just north
of the Eel Garden Dive Site. Serves a great mix of Bedouin/Middle
Eastern/European food including home made beef burgers, Bedouin wrap
7/9/2015 11:05 PM
15 of 23
sandwiches and daily chefs specials. Free wireless internet for customers and one
of the nicest views in Dahab.
Leila's Bakery. German bakery, tasty breads, sandwiches, salads and cakes.
Lobster Seafood Restaurant. A few minutes beyond "King Chicken," offers
free soup, bread and salad with a main course, and may offer a complimentary
cup of tea, too.
Mona Mama (Lighthouse area). Real Egyptian food cooked by a
mother/daughter team. They open their doors around 3pm when the food is
ready. 1 or 2 dishes a day, and always excellent. Get there early - it's a local
favourite and they often close by 6 or 7 because everything's been eaten!
Nemo Restaurant. [43] (http://www.nemo.dahabpages.com/) Restaurant on the
boulevard. Offers nice food and even has some German 'speciaties' on the menu.
Complimentary appetizers, desserts and shesha's!!
Nirvana. Real Indian food with real flavor. Excellent curries, snacks, vegetarian
dishes and excellent Indian Tea (Chai). Portions are really huge - probably don't
need a starter. Proper Indian food! Highly recommended!
Quickly Restaurant. On Mashraba Street. Local & International food. Cheap
food, but huge portions and much more tastier than the tourists places along the
beachfront. Upstairs chilled out lounge with good tunes. Free wireless. Favourite
amongst local divers, backpackers.
Rush. Located up a small alley between the bridge and Tota. In a palmtree
garden with a small swimmingpool this restaurant serves excellent food, the style
is creative "fusion". There's also a bar with local and imported alcohol. In &
outdoor seating. Every Friday night there's a party with Dj's.
Same Same but different, +20106466863. good food, the strawberry shake is
a must try, it reminds of you childhood. good service, the staff speak excellent
English, not creepy or pushy at all. fresh seafood Catch of the day, good steak &
B.B.Q lamb kebab special Vegetarian menu free starter with a main course .. you
can bring your own Alcohol Drinks.. free wifi adelbluehole@yahoo.com edit
Star Of Dahab. In the sea side of mashraba. A good place to eat some fresh fish.
tel +2 069 3640130, mobile +2 010 111 3481.
Three Fishes. At the southern end of the promenade. Good italian restaurant,
run by Paola, an Italian.
El Fanar, El Masbat, South Sinai, Egypt, 0122525853. Delicious food in a
bedouin environment. Great service from friendly staff. Order the chicken kebab
or kofte off the menu and starter (pita and dips) and watermelon and tea are
included. Cheap drinks too. edit
Yalla Bar, Masbat Bay Dahab, [44] (http://www.yallabar.com/). Yalla Bar &
Restaurant is the place to be in Dahab. Meet people, enjoy great food and drink,
with great hospitality and atmosphere. edit
Blue House Thai Restaurant, Entrance of Seven Heaven Hotel (Masbat),
(+20) 016 717 7846. The best Thai restaurant in Egypt. Food cooked by a Thai
family. The fresh fruit juices are delicious. edit
Al Capone, Masbat (Dahab). Home of the best tricolor fruit juice in Dahab.
Good smile guaranteed. Great fun, enjoy a laugh with the staff. Very friendly.
Good food priced fairly edit
7/9/2015 11:05 PM
16 of 23
Drink
There are several bars on the beach. You can also buy beer, wine and liquor in special
shops called Drinkies. One is located at Azzahla market square, another in Mashraba
in the small road after Sea Bride fish restaurant.
Some egyptian alcohol brands mimic the names and labelling of better known liquors
elsewhere. Restaurants will often advertise Stella beer, which isn't Stella Artois, as well
as Sakara, Luxor and Heineken.
Dahab Partys, every week different venues hold different party nights. Current
nights include Wednesdays at the Sphinx Pool Bar - House and Dance Music,
Fridays at RUSH Village Bar for House and Dancey grooves.
(kind of) Discotheques Rush and The Tree. But as soon, as more than 15-20
people are in, the doorman says: "It's a party tonight" and charges you 50-100 LE
for entrance... Just ignore the place in that case.
Churchill's Sports Bar and Grill, Red Sea Relax Resort (on the promenade
50m down from Lighthouse) Tel (002) 069 3641 309, [45] (http://www.redsea-relax.com/Resort%20Restaurant.htm). Lively establishment, with a good mix
of tourist and resident trade. Serves draught Heineken on tap and British
orientated cuisine at very reasonable prices. Premiership football and other major
sports shown on the big screen terrace and downstairs in the air con bar.
Elzar Bar, next to the ruins of the old harbour on the beachfront. The best place
in town for anyone wanting to get pissed late at night. Chris the Aussie barman is
always on hand until the sun comes up serving a variety of alcoholics including
the drunken Welshman and unconfrontational Dave the Canadian nice man.
The Furry cup, at the Blue Beach Hotel, where local Westerners hang out at the
sound of U2, Coldplay, etc. The only place in Dahab where you can get Western
hard liquor brands instead of the fakes.
Funny Mummy. Giant colourful curtains and carpet seats offer a great
atmosphere if you just want to relax and enjoy some of Egypt's good fruit juices
(albeit not the cheapest option in town). Avoid the menu though as it tends to
over-sell and under-deliver. They do make their own burger patties though, as
opposed to some places that use store bought ones. edit
Same Same, 0020106466863. but different good place for drink &shisha edit
Beirut Nights on Peace Road has decent Turkish coffee at 3LE and tea at 1.5LE.
Sleep
Dahab has a plethora of cheap accommodation. All are rather the same, generally
offering bungalow/chalet type accommodation at very reasonable prices. For the those
on an extreme budget, most have areas where you can sleep on mattresses in the open
air, usually for under a dollar a night, including a blanket and pillow.
Safety tip: If you are considering renting a house you should know that metal bars on
windows are absolute necessary because of house break-ins
7/9/2015 11:05 PM
17 of 23
Budget
Room prices for a single camp room (no AC, no bath) should be no more than 30LE.,
less if you book ahead for a week or longer. The budget traveller heads for the ones run
by Egyptians. Some Westerners have bought into camps and try to (nearly) double
prices without any noticeable reason. If anyone asks more don't hestitate to go to the
next camp, there are plenty.
Auski Camp [46] (http://auskicamp.com/), Yasser is an amiable and helpful
camp host. Single Room prices start at 30 LE. Like anyone else in Dahab the
staff can arrange all trips and tours. One of the last relatively silent and cheap
places in the center of Dahab. It's next to the Sphinx hotel with direct beach
access.
Bish Bishi, (in Mashraba opposite The Sphinx Hotel), +20 69 640727, [47]
(http://www.bishbishi.com/). Jimmy is the owner and is well-known throughout
Dahab. Rooms are reasonable, LE30-80 depending on what you want. A double
on-suite is currently LE60. They do food, laundry, trips etc and so you be well
looked after. If you are flying into Sharm they can collect you from the airport
for 25 (1 hour away). Last visited in November 2008 and had gone downhill.
Dahab Dorms, (part of the Red Sea Relax Resort near the Lighthouse), +20 69
3641 309, [48] (http://www.red-sea-relax.com/). New dorm complex part of a
larger Resort near the Lighthouse Reef at the north end of Dahab Bay. Excellent
panoramic views of the mountains and bay from the rooftop terrace. Very
reasonably priced, the accommodation and breakfast is free for the those
choosing to dive with the complex. The air-con dorm facilities also include a
shared lounge and well equipped kitchen. On site facilities include an award
winning dive centre, a safari and transfer office, restaurant / bar, private beach
and if the sea is too salty- a pool!
Dolphin Camp, [49] (http://www.dolphincamp.net/) (tel +20 69 3640081). A
place for party lovers. The newest and hippest house club is right next door.
Party (almost) every night. Offers the Dahab standard rooms right on the beach.
The rooms range from 6 to 25 euro including breakfast - some with bathroom,
AC and fridge. If sleeping is within the range of your intentions, shift it after
sunrise, but don't worry: Everybody does! Like anyone else in Dahab, the helpful
and laid-back staff can arrange trips and excursions.
Gina Motel, Masbat Road,(tel 069640485) Double room with shower 50 LE
(talked down from 100 LE, Jan 2015)
Marine Garden Camp, [50] (http://www.marinegardencamp.com/). Right at the
beach in the Lighthouse area, a stones throw away from the restaurants and night
life of Dahab. Basic rooms with fan from 40LE per night, en-suites from 60LE.
Free WiFi in the restaurant. Bedouin Bus (http://www.bedouinbus.com/) stop.
Booking via the website or [51] (mailto:info@marinegardencamp.com), tel +20
112 5121 727
Neptune Hotel, [52] (http://neptunedahab.com/hotel). Direct to the sea, just by
the bridge. The budget en-suite single rooms start from 35LE. They also offer
budget sea-view rooms. Free WiFi in the lobby and in the restaurant. PADI
courses and safari trips around Sinai, post office service, and bookshop. booking
info@neptunedahab.com, tel (+2)069 3640 569 fax tel (+2)069 3640 262
Sindbad Camp, [53] (http://www.sindbaddahab.com/) Sindbad Camp is one of
the last traditional Bedouin camps in Dahab. It has a very relaxed atmosphere
7/9/2015 11:05 PM
18 of 23
and a full Bedouin Staff (under Dutch management). All rooms have a fan and
some of them also have own shower and toilet (LE30+ for a room). Most rooms
have seaview. They serve great coffee and also have a very good restaurant. The
camp is located 50 meters north of Light House Reef and the bay of Dahab. But
just around the corner so it is very quiet. Prices from 3 to 10 a night for the
room. Offers all diving activities and organize desert- and shoresafari's off-thebeaten-track. Offers airport transfers.
Star of Dahab, tel.+20 69 3640130, +20 10 111 3481, starofdahab@hotmail.com
(mailto:starofdahab@hotmail.com), [54] (http://stefaniemoehrle.de
/0%20Homepage%20Khaled/starofdahabhead.htm). A pleasant family-run
guesthouse at the southern end of Assalah, offers basic lodgings at basic prices,
and new, more expensive rooms with sea view. Excellent beachside location,with
a sea side shade, restaurant (good food), and a dive centre as well. but it's a bit of
a hike to the center of Assalah.
Sunrise Lodge, tel.+20 1090 574242, bookings@sunrisedahab.com
(mailto:bookings@sunrisedahab.com), [55] (http://www.sunrisedahab.com/). A
charming and peaceful guesthouse set around a large garden area with arisha, in a
very central location in Masbat Bay. Quality, yet budget accommodation offering
clean rooms that are more stylish than the typical hostel room. All rooms are
en-suite and have free wifi access. One budget room does not have air
conditioning, all the rest do. Very good value. Owners can arrange transport from
Sharm as well as any other trips/excursions in the area.
El Bulti Fighting Kangaroo,(+20)12 359 8741,. One of the oldest Bedouin
camps in Dahab and the original Fighting Kangaroo, this small family run hostel
and guesthouse offers clean rooms, great value and a warm welcome. Located
right in the main strip, close to the bridge, LE40 for ensuite rooms. All have fans,
some have air-con. The owners can also arrange taxis from Sharm airport.
Mid-range
4S Hotel - Offering a new style of accommodation with contemporary design,
with an excellent quality and a special calculated rate. The hotel consists of 21
spacious studios and suites (2 or 3 Rooms) suitable for 2 to 6 persons, Pool and
Restaurant. Each unit is equipped by hotel standard plus a Kitchenette. All
Studios or Suites with Balcony or Terrace. (Coordinates: 28.489 N, 34.511 E).
Actual Rates [56] (http://www.4shotel.net/)
Alf Leila Boutique Hotel. Phone: +201006128484 [57]
(http://www.alfleilaboutiquehotel.com/) Located in the center of Dahab just a
short distance from the beach, Alf Leila hotel has a different theme for each
room - all in Arabian style. The courtyard features a dip pool and a cozy lounge.
All rooms have new air-conditioners, a minibar and private bathrooms. All suites
include an extra dinning area, balcony & mosquito net; while the Royal Suite
additionally comes with an LCD screen, DVD player and a movie library. ( Prices
from $12 for a bed in a co-ed dormitory room )
Alaska Camp & Hotel. [58] (http://www.dahabescape.com/) Good quality
budget hotel located next to the bridge in the center of Dahab. Nice central
courtyard with bedouin seating area. Free wifi. Clean, en-suite rooms with
options to suit all budgets (rates from 100LE).
Ali Baba Hotel, tel. 069 3640876, [59] (http://dahabhotel.blogspot.com/).
Egyptian-run hotel in a mixed European/Oriental style. Minibar, sea view,
balcony, and air-con for around 25/room/night, there is also a "suite" (double
size with bathtub) for 33.
7/9/2015 11:05 PM
19 of 23
Bedouin Lodge Hotel, tel. 069 3641 125, [60] (http://www.bedouin-lodgedahab.com/). Bedouin owned hotel directly at the coast of the Red Sea in the
heart of Dahab (El Mashraba). Simple rooms equipped with bathroom, AC or
fan. Small beach, sun roof, restaurant, dive shop. The dive centre here is
excellent and offers PADI at good rates.
Bedouin Moon Hotel - tel (002) 069 3640 695, [61]
(http://www.bedouinmoonhotel.com/). A popular sea view hotel with beach, pool
with views, pool bar and restaurant, purpose built yoga room and high quality
dive centre (Reef 2000). A friendly place perfect for single travelers and divers.
Free Wi-Fi, Bedouin dinners in the mountains, diving, yoga classes, yoga diving,
massage and wellness therapies available. Plenty trips and activities available in
the surroundings too with a fusion of Bedouin, Egyptian and European culture.
En-suite sea view and mountain view rooms available. From 32-63 per night.
Blue Beach Club is located between Eel Garden and Lighthouse. Clean ensuite,
air conditoned rooms at reasonable prices and a fresh water swimming pool are
available. [62] (http://www.bluebeachclub.com/)
Bon Sjour Guesthouse is a modern luxurious guesthouse series built just after
the Egyptian revolution in 2011. It is owned and managed by two Egyptian MBA
holders. Located near the lighthouse in Al-Masbat district just few minutes from
all attractions with a roof cafe with a sea view. All rooms are air-conditioned,
room service and laundry are available. TVs & DVD players in every room. Their
motto is "Book as a Guest, Arrive as a Friend and Leave as a Family Member". It
is a mini 5 stars hotel for travellers who want to be pampered without having to
break the bank. With around 40 - 50 Euros per night, this is a very good deal.
[63] (http://www.facebook.com/Dahab.Guest) [64]
(http://www.bonsejourguesthouse.com/)
Coral Coast Hotel is location in Eel Garden, set right on the beach front. 30
en-suite rooms, all with AC. Superior Rooms all have amazing seaview and pool
view with a choice of first or second floor. The Bar & Restaurants have a few
lovely areas for eating and drinking, the Arisha is a particular favorite with its
thatched palm roof and perfect temp on a hot summers day. In 2013 during
refurbishment, they created family / connecting rooms and offer great rates for
families. Dive Center and Adventure Center are both in house with a Yoga Studio
and wellness therapies also on location. Rates from 30 euro per night BB - 50
euro per night BB. http://www.fantasearedsea.com &
http://www.coralcoasthotel.com. Their facebook http://www.facebook.com
/coralcoasthoteldahab has some great offers and holidays running throughout the
year.
Dahab Divers is a clean and obviously newer hotel and dive centre. Rooms are
air conditioned, and there are excellent showers - a rarity in Egypt. Official price
is 37 per night, but is negotiable. Extremely helpful staff. Also an excellent
place for diving.[65] (http://www.dahabdivers.com/)
Dahab Paradise. [66] (http://www.dahabparadise.com/). tel +2 010 700 2527 +2
010 700 4133. A small, boutique hotel located just outside the centre of Dahab at
the beginning of the Blue Hole road. The hotel offers an easy style, a tranquil
atmosphere and sea view from every room. Currently listed as the No.1 hotel in
Dahab on TripAdvisor. Prices from 53.00 per Double room per night.
Dahab Plaza Hotel, Dahab, South Sinai, +20123335235, [67]
(http://www.dahabplazahotel.com/). checkin: any time; checkout: 14.00. 50 mts
from the sea. Swimming pool, billiard in the garden. All rooms with A/C, fridge,
TV, bathroom/toilette. EUR 15-25. edit
7/9/2015 11:05 PM
20 of 23
El Salam Camp and Yoga Shala. Dahab's oldest camp has been re-opened with
a yogic twist! A range of beautifully decorated yoga themed rooms are available,
choose to suit your budget en suite rooms with A/C or standard or sea view
with fan and shared bathroom. Daily yoga classes, monthly ten day yoga retreats,
Chi Gong, massage, desert safari trips, snorkelling and diving excursions are also
available. Located right on the sea front next to the archaeological port and 30
seconds from the main supermarket...El Salam is located close enough to the
main promenade but slightly set away from the hustle and bustle.
Golden Apartments info@dahab.nu, www.dahab.nu [68]
(http://www.dahab.nu/) spacious affordable apartments situated in a unique, quiet
location at astraight distance of 100 yards from the Eel Garden coastline and
very close to the local Assalah market quare. Surrounded by a large secluded
garden. Perfect for families, couples or groups of friends: The generous ground
floor apartment is suitable for a group of 3-8 persons and there is plenty of room
upstairs in the two stylisch apartments with a sunny sea-view balcony for 1-4
persons or 1-2 persons. Apartments from 35 euro per night.
Jowhara Hotel tel 002 010 2733883/7913816,
info@jewelofdahab.com,[69] (http://www.jewelofdahab.com/). Located in the
middle of El mashraba st. apartments with sea views, 1 minute from the beach. A
nice place to relax and absorb the local culture. They also arrange safari and
diving for affordable price. Double and triple rooms available with AC and
private bathroom from 100-150 LE per apartment per night.
Pearl of South Sinai has self catering facilities, a kitchen and a washing
machine. Rooms at 50LE.
Penguin Village and Diving [70] (http://www.penguindivers.com/) is a well-run
30-room hotel right on the water, which has a good restaurant and a dive shop.
It's popular with travellers in their 20s and 30s who are looking for a reasonably
priced place, but who aren't on a really tight budget and not too picky on
cleanliness. Rooms are around E50 for a double. Single with fan and ensuite is
70EP, with air-con 80EP. Also at off-season double rooms with shared bathroom
are available for only 20EGP.
Red Sea Relax Resort tel. +20 (0)69 3641 309, [71] (http://www.redsea-relax.com/) A brand new Resort at the north end of the Dahab Bay,
beachside and close to the teeming Lighthouse Reef, colourful beachside cafes
and traditional bazaars. Specializing in diving, safari and therapeutic activities,
the resort offers a choice of sea view rooms, a restaurant/bar, dive school, free
gym, pool and transfer office.
Sheikh Ali Resort. [72] (http://www.sheikhali-dahab.com/) (info@sheikhalidahab.com), tel +2 069 364 2991, fax tel +2 069 364 2992. Dahab's first all-suite
hotel, built with love by Dahab's original tourism family. Featuring 22 pool-side
suites with balcony or terrace just a few minutes walk from the beach
promenade. Prices from 55.00 per double/twin junior suite per night B&B.
Stay Young, [73] (http://www.fiksdal.be/) 002 010 2702770,
stayyoung@fiksdal.be Is a part of Jowhara hotel that offers cheap
accommodation and has hand painted murals on the walls. This is an impressive
art project that just opened in August 2009. The rooms start at 60Le, 80Le,
100Le for single, double and triple room with private bath and AC.
Residence Arabesque, [74] (https://www.facebook.com
/ResidenceArabesqueDahab?ref=hl). Residence Arabesque is a new unique
luxury boutique rental option in Dahab. Located in the central Lighthouse/Eel
7/9/2015 11:05 PM
21 of 23
Garden area only a couple of minutes walk to the sea and all amenities in town.
A secure compound of two one bedroom apartments and one three bedroom
villa. Beautiful Islamic design; handmade floor, reclaimed antique iron work,
domed ceilings and arches throughout. Private landscaped gardens with palm
trees. Free WIFI and on site manager. Catering for groups from 2 to 13 people.
Competitive prices starting at 45 Euro per night. edit
Red C Villas, Peace Road Dahab, 01092202375, [75]
(https://www.redcvillas.com/). Self catering 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments and
villas centred around 3 swimming pools. Cosy and intimate with great sea views,
on site 'try scuba' dives in the swimming pool for free and a BBQ for guest use.
There is a manager on site and can help with booking diving and safari
experiences. Owned and operated by long term Dahab expats. FREE WiFi and a
welcome beer. edit
Red Rock Apartments, Zarnoug, El Assylah, 01004493032, [76]
(http://wikitravel.org/en/www.redrockapartmentsdahab.com). Newly opened Red
Rock Red Rock Apartments is an exclusive boutique concept two minutes walk
from the beach in Zarnoug, Assalah. Diving with Reef 2000 and a range of other
activities can be arranged in advance or on arrival with the onsite manager. Free
Wifi and welcome pack of goodies on arrival. edit
Sheikh Salem House, tel (002)0127304871, [77]
(http://www.sheikhsalemhouse.com/). Budget Boutique Hotel set in a beautiful
house owned by a Bedouin Sheikh of Dahab and his family. Managed by a
Bedouin team and an English lady. Set in a quiet spot at the northern end of the
promenade, right on the beach with a sandy beach. Budget rooms with amazing
views and shared bathrooms from 45egp, deluxe suites with air conditioning, tv
and satellite, kitchen from 150egp or 23 per suite per night. Wireless internet for
guests. This is a great place for those wanting to stay in unique accommodation
with a home like feel, and get to know Dahabs Bedouin Community and Culture.
Star of Dahab, tel.+20 69 3640130, +20 10 111 3481,
(starofdahab@hotmail.com). A pleasant family-run guesthouse at the southern
end of Assalah, offers basic lodgings at basic prices, and new, more expensive
rooms with sea view. Excellent beachside location,with a sea side shade,
restaurant (good food), and a dive centre as well. but it's a bit of a hike to the
center of Assalah.
Villa Barbara - a big house on the beach with a big yard, a patio, a kitchen, 2
bathroms (with water accumulativ heaters), four bedrooms for 9 persons, from
the terrace upstairs you can see the sea. There is only one house between the
Villa and the sea, there is a reef nearby. From 25-45 per night.
Splurge
Sea Stars Apartments tel +2 0100 8177052/+2 0100 8695232
email.seastarsapartments@yahoo.co.uk 6 stylish 2 bedroom apartments set in a
beautiful planted garden in the eel garden area of Dahab, 1 minute from the
beach, perfect for families, couples or groups of friends/ divers or windsurfers.
First floor apartments with balcony, sea and mountain views from 60 euro per
night, Ground floor garden apartments from 55 euro per night. All sleep up to 6
with a/c, welcome pack supplied. The friendly English owners also offer bespoke
diving packages.
Stay safe
7/9/2015 11:05 PM
22 of 23
Women travellers are safe in Dahab, but please be smart:

Dress: As a matter of courtesy to the local customs, even though you will see
quite a few girls with short skirts and tight t-shirts, please respect the fact that
Egypt is a conservative country and dress appropriately in the city. On the beach
a bikini is no problem.
Local men: flirting and even chit-chat are likely to be interpreted very differently
here than in the west. Take care. Be polite but don't invite more than you want.
Snorkeling along/past the reef can be very dangerous when very windy: strong
underwater currents develop, and it is very difficult to come back onto the shallow reef.
Always ask a dive center nearby if it is safe to snorkel - they will be happy to help.
Eel Garden is a beautiful beach area with a wonderful coral reef popular for
snorkeling and scuba diving located just north of the Dahab bay area. In calm weather
it is one of the most beautiful places to relax and enjoy the sea however, care must be
taken in rough weather as it becomes very dangerous to enter the water. Rip currents
prevent even strong swimmers getting back to shore and there have been numerous
fatalities at Eel Garden over the years. A community project has erected signs
(October 2012) to warn of the dangers of swimming and snorkeling in bad weather please read them.
Drugs, particularly marijuana, are available in Dahab but that doesn't make them legal.
Consider very carefully if you want to risk at best large fines and at worst lengthy
prison terms in Egypt's notoriously squalid prisons before indulging.
Respect
Dahab and most of the red sea area is considered a natural reserve so please be aware
that.
Fishing in the whole area (including Sharm and Nueiba) is illegal
Some restaurants brag about having "Fresh fish", its either not fresh or illegally
caught from the sea. By buying it you participate in coral destruction caused by
fishing nets and frequent death of sea creatures like turtles and eels
Dahab is a very popular diving spot try to enjoy it but do not touch any sea
creature. Many people were caught before handling a sea turtle or a fished shark.
If you see your dive master doing or encouraging such behavior you must report
him
Dahab has a big problem with plastic bottles, if you can refill your bottle from
your hotel or a restaurant you will save both your money and the environment
Get out
This is the tough part. Many people arrive in Dahab to chill for a few days, some of
them stay for weeks or months, and there are people who stay for years, become a dive
instructor, run a restaurant etc. It is easy to get stuck in Dahab. For the rest of us:
Luxor & Aswan
Luxor
Aswan
Aqaba
Sharm el Sheikh
Taba Heights
Mount Sinai
7/9/2015 11:05 PM
23 of 23
Eilat
Jordan
This is a usable article. It has information for

getting in as well as some complete entries for
restaurants and hotels. An adventurous person
could use this article, but please plunge forward
and help it grow!
Categories: Has custom banner Articles with warnings Usable articles

This page was last modified on 14 June 2015, at 07:39.
Text is available under Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0, images are available under various
licenses, see each image for details.
7/9/2015 11:05 PM

Dahab Travel Guide - Wikitravel

Hochgeladen von

Dokumentinformationen

Originalbeschreibung:

Copyright

Verfügbare Formate

Dieses Dokument teilen

Dokument teilen oder einbetten

Freigabeoptionen

Stufen Sie dieses Dokument als nützlich ein?

Sind diese Inhalte unangemessen?

Copyright:

Verfügbare Formate

Dahab Travel Guide - Wikitravel

Hochgeladen von

Copyright:

Verfügbare Formate

Dahab travel guide - Wikitravel

file:///D:/Dahab travel guide - Wikitravel.htm

Coral Coast Hotel