- DurationApprox. 10–11 hours
- Tour typePrivate tour
- StartsEarly pickup from your Sharm El Sheikh hotel
- PriceFrom $92 per person based on 6+ travellers
OverviewItineraryWhat’s includedPricesFAQ
Tour Overview
This private Dahab tour from Sharm El Sheikh combines desert, sea and a laid-back seaside town in one long day. Your driver and guide take you north through the mountains of South Sinai to the Colored Canyon, where you walk between rock walls banded in red, yellow and purple, before heading down to the coast.
Near Dahab you ride a camel along the shore for a short stretch, then reach the Blue Hole, a deep sinkhole in the reef famous among divers. Snorkellers stay on the shallow reef rim, where the water is very clear and full of fish. Lunch is at one of the simple beach restaurants facing the sea, followed by free time on Dahab’s relaxed promenade.
The canyon walk involves some scrambling and uneven ground, so you need reasonable mobility. Sea conditions decide whether snorkelling is possible; on windy days you may only swim near the shore or simply enjoy the view. Expect to be back in Sharm in the early evening.
Highlights
- Walk through the narrow, striped rock walls of the Colored Canyon
- Short camel ride along the Gulf of Aqaba coast
- Snorkelling or swimming at the famous Blue Hole, conditions permitting
- Lunch at a Bedouin-style beach restaurant
- Free time on the Dahab seafront and in its small market
- Private vehicle and guide, with a 4×4 for the canyon track
Itinerary
07:00 – Hotel pickup
Your driver and guide collect you from your hotel in Sharm El Sheikh. The drive north through the mountains takes about one and a half to two hours, with police checkpoints on the way, so carry your passport or a copy.
09:00 – Colored Canyon
Transfer to a 4×4 for the desert track to the canyon, then walk for about an hour through narrow passages where minerals have coloured the sandstone in bands of red, gold and violet. Some sections need a little scrambling; your guide helps on the tricky parts.
11:30 – Camel ride by the sea
Back on the coast near Dahab, local Bedouin handlers lead you on a camel ride of around 15 to 20 minutes along the shore, with the mountains of Sinai on one side and the Gulf of Aqaba on the other.
12:00 – Blue Hole and lunch
Reach the Blue Hole. When the sea allows, snorkel along the shallow reef at its edge with your own or rented gear, or swim and relax at the beach cafes. Lunch is served at a Bedouin-style restaurant facing the water, with grilled chicken or fish, rice and salads.
Meals: Lunch
15:00 – Dahab town
Drive into Dahab for free time on the seafront promenade, lined with cafes, dive shops and stalls selling scarves, silver jewellery and Bedouin crafts. It is a good place for a coffee or fresh juice before the drive back.
16:30 – Return to Sharm El Sheikh
Drive back south through the mountains, arriving at your hotel around 18:00 to 18:30, depending on checkpoints and traffic. The guide can stop for photos of the mountains at sunset if there is time.
Good to know: Snorkelling at the Blue Hole depends on the sea and the protectorate rules on the day. The Blue Hole is a deep-water site; snorkellers stay on the reef rim with the guide.
What’s Included
Included
- Private hotel pickup and drop-off in Sharm El Sheikh
- Private air-conditioned vehicle with driver, plus 4×4 for the canyon track
- English-speaking guide
- Colored Canyon walk
- Short camel ride
- Blue Hole / Abu Galum protectorate fee
- Lunch at a local restaurant
- Bottled water
Not included
- Snorkel equipment (rent locally, about $5) or bring your own
- Extra drinks
- Shopping and personal expenses
- Tips
Prices
| Group size | Price per person |
|---|---|
| Single traveller | $255 |
| 2 travellers | $149 |
| 3–5 travellers | $119 |
| 6+ travellers | $92 |
Per person in USD for a private tour. Child prices depend on age and the services included – ask us for a child price before you book.
Frequently Asked Questions
How difficult is the Colored Canyon walk?
It is a walk of about an hour with some narrow squeezes, a few short climbs over rocks and loose ground. Most reasonably fit people manage it easily with the guide’s help. It is not suitable for anyone with serious mobility problems, and it is very hot in the middle of summer.
Can beginners snorkel at the Blue Hole?
Yes, on calm days. You snorkel along the reef close to the shore, not over the deep hole, and your guide stays with you. Wear a life jacket if you are not confident. If the sea is rough, the guide will keep you to the shallows or skip snorkelling.
What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes for the canyon, swimwear and a towel, sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses. Bring your passport or a copy for checkpoints, and some cash for snorkel gear, drinks and souvenirs in Dahab. A light jacket helps on winter mornings.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Children aged about 8 and over who walk well usually enjoy the canyon and the camel ride. It is a long day, so it is less suitable for small children. Children under 6 are free and ages 6 to 11 pay half price.
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Want to combine tours or change anything? Contact us or message us on WhatsApp and we will tailor it for you.
