Safari in Sharm Elsheikh

Safari in Sharm Elsheikh

In 2026, the Sinai Desert remains as much of a draw as the Red Sea, offering some of the most dramatic landscapes in the Middle East. A desert safari in Sharm El Sheikh is a journey into a world of towering granite mountains, hidden canyons, and ancient Bedouin culture. Whether you are looking for high-octane adventure or a peaceful evening under the stars, the desert has an excursion tailored for every traveler.

The Thrill of the Dunes: Quad Biking and Buggies

The most iconic way to experience the Sinai is on four wheels. Quad biking tours are the top-rated safari activity in 2026.

Safari in Sharm Elsheikh

• Sunrise & Sunset Tours: These are the most popular times to ride, as the shifting light turns the mountains into shades of deep orange and purple.
• Echo Mountain: Most quad tours stop at the famous Echo Mountain, where you can hear your voice bounce off the ancient rock faces before enjoying traditional Bedouin tea in a goat-hair tent.
• Spider Buggies: For families or those preferring a bit more stability, dune buggies offer a rugged but seated off-road experience.

The Authentic Journey: Camel Treks

For a slower, more traditional pace, a camel safari—often called the "Ship of the Desert"—allows you to connect with the landscape as the Bedouins have for centuries. These treks typically lead to remote valleys far from the noise of the city, offering a silent and meditative way to see the desert flora and fauna.

The "Mega Safari" Experience

Many operators now offer "5-in-1" or "Super Safari" packages, which have become the gold standard for desert tourism in 2026. These comprehensive tours usually include:

1. Quad Biking across the dunes.
2. Camel Riding for a traditional photo op.
3. Bedouin Dinner: A feast of grilled meats, kofta, and Bedouin bread cooked over an open fire.
4. Live Entertainment: Fire shows, Tanoura spinning, and belly dancing under the stars.
5. Stargazing: Using high-powered telescopes to view the Milky Way, Saturn's rings, and distant nebulae, guided by an astronomer.

Day Trips to the Canyons and Dahab

Beyond the outskirts of the city lie geological wonders accessible by 4WD Jeep safaris:

• The Colored Canyon: A labyrinth of rocks featuring incredible shades of magenta, red, and yellow, formed by millions of years of erosion.
• The Blue Hole & Dahab: Many safaris combine a desert Jeep ride with a visit to the coastal town of Dahab, allowing for a "Surf and Turf" experience where you can snorkel the Blue Hole and ride camels along the shoreline in a single day.

Sustainable Safari Practices in 2026

With a renewed focus on eco-tourism, 2026 safari operators emphasize "Leave No Trace" principles. Travelers are encouraged to stick to marked paths to protect the fragile desert crust and to support Bedouin-led cooperatives, ensuring that the local community directly benefits from tourism.

Traveler Tips

• What to Wear: A scarf (Shemagh) is essential to protect your face from dust. Even in 2026, the traditional Bedouin wrap remains the most effective gear.
• The Temperature Drop: Remember that the desert cools down significantly after sunset. Even if it’s 35°C (95°F) during the day, a light jacket is recommended for evening stargazing.

Safari in Sharm Elsheikh