If you’re thinking about a holiday in Egypt, mixing the energy of Cairo with the laid-back beaches of Sharm El Sheikh is a wild ride. We did it, and honestly, it’s a combo I won’t forget soon.
You get to wander ancient wonders in Cairo—pyramids, museums, all that—and then just chill or dive in Sharm’s stunning blue water. And yeah, swimming with dolphins is a thing you can actually do.
August is blazing hot here, but that’s the deal—scorching sun, warm sea, and long days for adventure. If you’re into diving, the water’s perfect.
Arrival in Sharm – First Impressions
Landing in Sharm El Sheikh at the end of August means stepping straight into a wave of heat, sunshine, and excitement. This Red Sea resort town has a reputation for beautiful beaches, world-class diving, and a touch of desert mystery. And honestly? It lives up to the hype.
But, like every adventure, not everything was perfect — some moments were jaw-dropping, while others were… let’s just say “character-building.” That’s the beauty of travel: you get both.
Our Stay: Sharm El Sheikh, Coral Hills Hotel (Not Recommended!)
Alright, so we stayed at Coral Hills. I have to be honest—wouldn’t recommend it. Cleanliness was… not great. On paper, it looked decent: affordable rates, a pool, and easy access to excursions. In reality? Let’s just say it wouldn’t win any awards.
- Cleanliness: Below expectations.
- Food & drinks: Coffee and cocktails that left you wishing you had packed a kettle.
- Service: The pool bar bartender could give a masterclass in “how not to smile.”
The bars? Instant coffee, and not the good kind. Breakfast and lunch were the same every day, and both pretty poor. Dinner was a bit better, but nothing special.
👉 Advice: In Sharm, accommodation really sets the tone. If budget allows, choose a slightly higher-rated hotel. You’ll thank yourself when sipping proper morning coffee with a Red Sea view.
Day 1: Super Moto Excursion – Jeep Safari, Bedouin Dinner, Camel Ride, Stargazing, Quad Driving
First day, we kicked things off with a super moto excursion. It was a wild mix—jeep safari through the Sinai (dust everywhere, but the views!), and then dinner with Bedouins.
Seafood under the open sky, chatting with locals, and riding camels. I’m not sure I’m built for camel riding, but it’s one for the books.
Later, we did some stargazing—so many stars, it almost didn’t look real. Quad driving in the desert at sunset? Absolutely exhilarating. If you like a bit of adrenaline, don’t skip this.
💡 Tip: Wear something comfortable, bring sunglasses, and don’t forget water. By the end, you’ll be sandy, tired, and absolutely thrilled.
Day 2: Boat Trip to White Island – Diving
The next day, we hopped on a boat trip out to White Island. The sea was this unreal turquoise, and the diving? Just wow.
We dove with all kinds of fish and coral. If you’ve never tried diving, this is the place to start. Even snorkeling was epic.
A boat trip to White Island delivered everything the brochures promised and more.
- The island: Just a strip of sand surrounded by endless turquoise waters.
- Diving: The Red Sea is like an open-air aquarium — schools of colorful fish, coral gardens, and water so clear it feels unreal.
- Snorkeling: Perfect for those not ready to dive but still eager to explore.
👉 Advice: Bring reef-safe sunscreen and your own snorkel if you can. Rentals aren’t always the best quality.
Day 3: Sharm City Tour – Fares Restaurant
We thought we’d check out Sharm City itself. To be honest, it wasn’t my favorite part of the trip.
The city tour felt a bit rushed, and when we stopped at Fares restaurant, the food didn’t impress. Maybe we just had bad luck, but I’d skip it next time.
The Sharm City Tour sounded good on paper but turned out to be the least exciting day.
- Rushed stops,
- Underwhelming views,
- And a visit to Fares Restaurant where the food didn’t live up to the hype.
👉 Advice: If you’re short on time, skip the city tour. Spend that day at the beach, diving, or exploring the desert.
Day 4: Cairo Excursion – Nile River, Pyramids, Museum
Now, Cairo. This was a marathon—24 hours on a bus, and I won’t sugarcoat it, the ride is long and rough. But was it worth it? Absolutely.
We got to cruise the Nile, which was surreal. The pyramids are even bigger and more mysterious in person, and the Egyptian Museum is jam-packed with ancient treasures.
We didn’t get to visit the market, but honestly, after all that, I was wiped out anyway.
This day was actualy test of stamina. 24 hours on a bus to Cairo is no small feat, but the reward? Priceless.
- The Nile: Cruising its waters is a moment that makes history feel alive.
- The Pyramids of Giza & the Sphinx: No photo prepares you for how massive and majestic they are in person.
- The Egyptian Museum: A treasure chest of ancient history, including Tutankhamun’s famous mask.
👉 Advice: Bring snacks, water, and comfy shoes. It’s a long, hot, and tiring day — but absolutely worth it.
Day 5: Swimming with Dolphins – Joy & a Bit of Drama
Few experiences are as magical as swimming with dolphins. Playful, intelligent, and gentle — they make you feel like a kid again.
But here’s the catch: no personal cameras allowed. The facility insists you buy their photos, which are pricey and not always high quality.
💡 Advice: Focus on the experience, not the pictures. The memory will be far better than any photo.
Day 6: Shopping & Farsha Café – Charm Meets Chaos
The Old Market was lively and colorful, perfect for picking up spices, souvenirs, and little gifts. Just be ready to haggle — it’s part of the culture.
Later, a trip to the iconic Farsha Café sounded like the perfect finale. The setting is beautiful, perched above the sea, decorated with lanterns and cushions. But… the reality was different: long waits, ticket numbers like a bank, and strict entry rules (solo travelers or same-gender groups weren’t welcome).
👉 Advice: Go early in the day if you want to enjoy the view without the chaos.
Planning a Holiday in Sharm el Sheikh and Cairo
If you’re planning this trip, definitely check the weather and your visa requirements. August is no joke—over 35°C most days. The Red Sea makes it bearable, though.
Try to do outdoor stuff early morning or late afternoon. Midday is just too hot.
Evenings are actually pretty nice. Bring lots of water and sunscreen, obviously.
Look for holiday packages that bundle Cairo and Sharm if you want less hassle. Some include door-to-door transfers, which is a lifesaver after a tiring excursion.
Make sure your package covers the big sites—pyramids, city tours, diving, maybe even a dolphin swim. Ask about the hotel quality, too. Trust me.
For money, grab some Egyptian pounds ahead or at the airport. ATMs are around, but check your bank’s fees before you go. Have your hotel’s info and a local SIM or roaming plan—it makes everything easier.
Unmissable Experiences in Sharm el Sheikh
Sharm is packed with cool stuff. The diving and snorkeling are next-level—so many fish, colors, and the water is just crystal clear.
Guided tours take you to places like Ras Muhammad National Park. Even if you’ve never dived before, they make it easy. Snorkeling is just as fun if you want to keep it simple.
Swimming with dolphins? It’s a bit touristy, but honestly, it’s kind of magical. The trainers are great, and you get to learn a bit about the animals, too.
Book ahead if you want a spot—these sessions fill up. You do need to be comfortable in the water, but it’s suitable for most people.
Tiran Island is another must. We did a boat trip out there, and the snorkeling was unreal. The island itself is beautiful, and the protected reefs mean there’s loads of wildlife.
Most trips include some time for sunbathing and swimming. You might even spot a sea turtle if you’re lucky.
Cairo Excursion Highlights
Cairo is a whirlwind. The pyramids really are mind-blowing—photos don’t do them justice. Walking around them, you feel tiny.
The Sphinx sits nearby, and it’s just as iconic in real life. The air is thick with history.
The Egyptian Museum is a treasure trove. So much gold, jewelry, and the mummies are both fascinating and a little creepy.
I wish we’d had more time there—there’s just too much to see in a single visit.
Desert and Adventure Activities
If you’re up for adventure, the desert excursions are wild. We did a super moto ride—flying over sand dunes, feeling the heat and wind, it’s a rush.
There’s also quad biking and jeep tours. The guides are really helpful and make sure you’re safe, even if you’ve never done it before.
Sunset in the desert is something else. The colors, the quiet—just unforgettable.
After all that, the Bedouin dinner is a perfect wind-down. Eating grilled meats, fresh bread, and rice around a campfire, with music and dancing—felt like a movie.
It’s a great way to learn about Bedouin culture, too. Everyone was so welcoming.
We also did a quick city tour of Sharm. It was fine, but after all the nature and adventure, the city felt a bit ordinary.
Practical Tips for a Seamless Holiday
What to pack? Light clothes, lots of sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. You’ll need comfy shoes for all the walking and exploring.
Don’t forget your swimsuit and maybe some water shoes if you’re hitting the reefs. A reusable water bottle is a lifesaver, and a tiny first-aid kit never hurts.
Bring the right power adapter for your electronics. And yeah, photocopy your passport and travel insurance just in case.
If you’re with family or a group, book your stuff early. Hotels fill up fast, and you want to be sure you’re all together.
Some excursions aren’t great for little kids or older folks—check the details before you book. Keep emergency numbers handy, and make sure everyone knows the plan.
All in all, Egypt is a wild, beautiful, sometimes chaotic place. If you’re up for a bit of unpredictability, you’ll come home with some epic stories.
How to Find and Book Local Excursions
Honestly, if you want to book trips like Cairo excursions or diving tours in Sharm, stick to official websites or travel agencies you can actually trust. I always check reviews—sometimes obsessively—and it’s worth asking about any hidden deals or discounts.
Double-check if the company will pick you up at your hotel. For things like diving or those wild super moto tours, make sure they include the gear, because renting it separately is just a headache.
I usually message the tour operators myself. You want to know about stuff like cancellation policies or how big the groups are—no one likes surprises there. If you’re headed to Sharm in August or another busy time, booking early is just smart. Otherwise, you might miss out on the good stuff.
If you want your Sharm El Sheikh holiday to run smoothly, contact our favorite local guide. He organizes the best excursions, knows all the hidden gems, and handles every detail so you can just enjoy the adventure. One message to him can save you hours of planning, ensure top-notch experiences, and turn your trip into something unforgettable.
Meet our favorite diving instructor in Sharm El Sheikh — the person who can turn any dive into an unforgettable adventure. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, he offers personalized private lessons and guided dives, sharing insider tips and showing the most stunning spots in the Red Sea. Booking with him guarantees a safe, professional, and truly magical underwater experience — it’s the best way to make your diving holiday unforgettable.
If you’re in Cairo and want to truly discover the city and the Pyramids, contact the best guide and photographer in town. With expert knowledge, insider tips, and an eye for capturing perfect moments, he makes your sightseeing both unforgettable and picture-perfect. Trust me — you won’t regret it!