Home / Day Trips in Africa / Day Trips in Egypt / Day Trips From Sharm el-Sheikh / Colored Canyon, Blue Hole & Dahab: Day Trip from Sharm El Sheikh
A day trip from Sharm El Sheikh to Dahab, the Colored Canyon, and the Blue Hole is a popular excursion that offers a mix of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural experiences. These tours typically last between 7 to 9 hours, with early morning pickup from hotels in Sharm El Sheikh. Expect to be collected between 5:00 AM and 7:00 AM, depending on your hotel’s location and the tour operator.
The journey to Dahab usually takes about 1 to 1.5 hours by air-conditioned van or jeep. Most tours include visits to the Blue Hole for snorkeling, the Colored Canyon for sightseeing, and the town of Dahab for shopping and relaxation. Activities often include snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea, camel riding along the beach, and optional quad biking adventures.
At the Blue Hole, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the vibrant underwater world, though for safety reasons, snorkeling is typically done in the surrounding area rather than in the Blue Hole itself. The Colored Canyon offers a chance to walk through stunning rock formations, marveling at the natural beauty of the Sinai Peninsula. In Dahab, you’ll have time to browse local shops and experience the laid-back atmosphere of this coastal town.
Lunch is generally included in these tours, often served in a Bedouin-style tent on the beach. The meal usually consists of a barbecue or buffet with options like grilled chicken, rice, and salads. Some tours also offer a stop at the Abu Galum Reserve, where you can enjoy additional snorkeling or relaxation time.
Prices for these day trips typically range from $20 to $40 per person, depending on the included activities and group size. Some tours offer small group options limited to around 10 participants for a more personalized experience. It’s important to note that while many tours include entrance fees to national parks and reserves, snorkeling equipment is often an additional cost, usually around $8-10 for rental.
Most tour operators offer hotel pickup and drop-off, making transportation convenient. The return journey to Sharm El Sheikh usually begins in the late afternoon, with arrival back at your hotel typically between 5:00 PM and 7:00 PM.
When booking, it’s advisable to check what’s included in the price, as some tours may have optional activities with additional fees. It’s also recommended to bring sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, swimwear, and cash for any extra purchases or tips. While these tours offer a comprehensive experience, be prepared for a full day of activities and some time spent traveling between locations.
The Colored Canyon, Blue Hole, and Dahab form a trio of captivating destinations in Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula, offering visitors a diverse blend of natural wonders and cultural experiences.
The Colored Canyon, located about 150 kilometers north of Sharm El Sheikh, is a natural marvel carved by water erosion over millions of years. This narrow gorge stretches for about 800 meters, with walls reaching up to 40 meters high. The canyon’s name comes from its striking array of colors – vibrant bands of red, purple, yellow, and gold streak across the sandstone walls, creating a mesmerizing natural palette.
As visitors walk through the twisting passageways, they’re treated to an ever-changing display of hues and textures, especially stunning when the sun’s rays penetrate the narrow openings above. The hike through the canyon is moderately challenging, requiring some scrambling over rocks, but it rewards adventurers with breathtaking views and unique photo opportunities.
The Blue Hole, situated near the coast of Dahab, is one of the most famous dive sites in the world. This submarine sinkhole plunges to depths of over 100 meters, creating a dramatic underwater landscape. The site earned its reputation not only for its beauty but also for its danger, as its deceptive depths have claimed the lives of several divers over the years.
Despite this, the Blue Hole remains a major attraction for both divers and snorkelers. The surrounding reef area offers safer alternatives for less experienced swimmers, teeming with colorful fish and vibrant coral formations. The crystal-clear waters provide excellent visibility, allowing visitors to witness the diverse marine life of the Red Sea up close.
Dahab, once a quiet Bedouin fishing village, has transformed into a laid-back coastal resort town that serves as a gateway to both the Colored Canyon and the Blue Hole. Located about 80 kilometers northeast of Sharm El Sheikh, Dahab (meaning “gold” in Arabic) is named for its golden sandy beaches.
The town has managed to maintain much of its bohemian charm, attracting a mix of backpackers, diving enthusiasts, and those seeking a more relaxed alternative to the busier resorts of the region. Dahab’s waterfront promenade is lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops, offering a pleasant place to unwind after a day of adventure. The town is also known for its wind and kite surfing opportunities, thanks to its consistent breezes.
Together, these three destinations offer a comprehensive Sinai experience. The Colored Canyon provides a glimpse into the region’s geological history and the raw beauty of the desert landscape. The Blue Hole represents the allure and mystery of the Red Sea’s underwater world, drawing visitors to explore its depths or simply marvel at its azure waters from the shore. Dahab ties it all together, offering a base for exploration as well as a taste of local culture and hospitality.
Visitors to this area often combine all three locations in a single day trip, typically departing from Sharm El Sheikh early in the morning. These excursions usually include transportation, guided tours of the canyon, snorkeling opportunities at the Blue Hole, and time to explore Dahab. Many tours also incorporate additional activities such as camel rides along the beach or quad biking in the desert, providing a well-rounded experience of the Sinai Peninsula’s diverse offerings.
The combination of the Colored Canyon’s rugged beauty, the Blue Hole’s marine wonders, and Dahab’s relaxed atmosphere creates a memorable journey through some of Egypt’s most striking landscapes. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, nature lover, or simply looking to experience a different side of Egypt beyond the pyramids and ancient temples, this trio of destinations offers a unique and enriching travel experience.
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