The 11 Best Things to do in Dahab

One of our favorite spots in Egypt is definitely Dahab, and the reason is simple and obvious. For those of you who’ve been to Egypt and visited Dahab, you’ll totally get it. Egypt can be pretty hectic and chaotic, but Dahab offers a peaceful, laid-back vibe that’s perfect for travelers looking to relax and soak up some freedom.

One of the best things to do in Dahab is, without a doubt, snorkeling or diving in the crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea. Here, you’ll find some of the best diving spots in the world—yes, you heard me right, in the world! But if you’re craving a bit more action, Dahab is also super popular for kitesurfing and windsurfing.

Now, you’re probably wondering what else there is to do in Dahab besides water activities. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into the 11 best things to do in Dahab!

What are the Best Things to do in Dahab?

As I’ve already mentioned, Dahab is a paradise for all types of water sports, especially diving, snorkeling, and kite or windsurfing. But there’s so much more to do in Dahab!

One of my favorite activities is hiking Mount Sinai at sunrise. It’s a tough climb, but the view at the top is totally worth it—breathtaking, literally!

Another must-do in Dahab is hitting up the Blue Hole for scuba diving and the Blue Lagoon for wind and kite surfing.

Exploring a Bedouin village is also a fantastic way to dive into the local culture.

Take a windsurfing or kite surfing class, and you’ll see how easy it is to get hooked! The wind conditions here are perfect, making the Blue Lagoon the ideal spot to learn or level up your skills.

Go on a jeep safari to the White Canyon and Colored Canyon to check out some of nature’s finest around Dahab.

And recently, Dahab has become a hotspot for digital nomads. So even if you’re here just to chill and live the digital nomad life, you’ll find plenty of coffee shops with strong Wi-Fi and a laid-back vibe to work from.

Hike Mount Sinai and see the Burning Bush

Mount Sinai, nestled in the Sinai Peninsula, is a must-visit hiking spot for both tourists and locals. The trek to the summit takes about 4 hours, but the breathtaking views make it all worthwhile. Once at the top, you’ll catch sight of Dahab and the Red Sea in the distance.

You’ll leave Dahab around 10 pm, reaching the base of Mt. Sinai around midnight to kick off your adventure. There are plenty of rest stops along the way for drinks and snacks, though it’s wise to bring your own if you’re budget-conscious.

At the peak, you can rent a small mattress and blanket to cozy up with some coffee while waiting for the sunrise—trust me, you’ll want those blankets. This is hands down one of the most magical experiences I’ve ever had.

Watching the sunrise over the mountains is an absolutely incredible, can’t-miss activity while in Dahab. After soaking it all in, you’ll start your descent, which takes about two hours. Along the way, you can visit St. Catherine’s Monastery, a significant Christian site at the foot of Mt. Sinai. Founded in the 6th century, the monastery houses numerous religious relics, including the legendary Burning Bush.

Embrace Your Inner Foodie in Dahab

I spent so much time in Dahab, so naturally, I know all the best places to eat. Trust me, you’ll never go hungry in Dahab because there are endless options for delicious food!

If you’re a fan of seafood, you’re in luck! Being a coastal town, Dahab offers some of the freshest and most flavorful seafood dishes you’ll ever taste. My absolute favorite spot is Shark Restaurant—I’ve had some of the best-grilled fish and fresh fish platters there.

But don’t worry if seafood isn’t your thing. There are also plenty of options for vegetarians and meat lovers. For a fantastic breakfast, Tim’s Munch is a super cool rooftop café. And if you want to try some local Egyptian food, head to King Falafel for some amazing falafel wraps.

Click here to check out our complete guide to Dahab

Visit the Blue Hole

The Blue Hole is a popular scuba diving site located in Dahab, known for its crystal-clear water and colorful coral reefs. The Blue Hole is about 120 meters wide and 30 meters deep, making it perfect for all levels of divers.

If you are not PADI certified, no worries; you can take a PADI diving course while in Dahab and do your Open Water Certification dives in the Blue Hole if time allows.

If not, you can join a snorkeling tour and snorkel at three different spots, have lunch, and enjoy watching the kite surfers at the Blue Lagoon.

This is one of my favorite things to do in Dahab as the water is perfect to escape the hot Egyptian sun, and it’s a full day exploring the corals.

Explore a Bedouin Village

The Bedouin people, a nomadic ethnic group, have been calling the Sinai Peninsula home for centuries. Even today, you can still find some Bedouin villages nestled in the Sinai, and visiting one is definitely one of the best things to do in Dahab!

These desert camps offer camel rides, scrumptious traditional Bedouin food, and unique souvenirs. Some even allow you to stay overnight in cozy Bedouin tents – trust me, it’s an experience you don’t want to miss.

I highly recommend joining one of their dinners. Imagine trying delicious food within the majestic surrounding mountains and a warm campfire, all while soaking up fascinating stories about their traditions.

Oh, and when you’re shopping for souvenirs, don’t forget to haggle a bit – the Bedouin people are masters of bargaining. Embrace the experience and have fun with it!

Try Windsurfing and Kiteboarding in the Blue Lagoon

Dahab is hands down one of the best places in the world for windsurfing and kiteboarding. Trust me, if you love these sports, you’ll be in heaven! The windsurfing season kicks off in March and runs through October, while kiteboarding takes the spotlight from December to February.

There are several awesome schools offering lessons, so definitely check them out before you go. For windsurfing, the Blue Lagoon is your go-to spot, and for kiteboarding, you can’t beat the Cable Park. And even if you just want to chill on the beach for a bit, the Blue Lagoon and Laguna Beach are incredible.

If you’ve got some extra time, I highly recommend spending a few nights in Aba Galum or the Blue Lagoon at one of the local camps. It’s the perfect chance to really dive into kitesurfing and enjoy some peace and quiet since there’s no electricity at night, and you’ll also be ditching the tour groups. If you enjoy it then kiteboarding is without a doubt one of the most fun things to do in Dahab!

Snorkeling or Scuba Diving in the Coral Gardens

In all honesty, some of the best snorkeling I’ve ever done was here in Dahab. That’s why it was a no-brainer to put it on my list of the best things to do in Dahab. The Coral Gardens is a beautiful snorkeling and scuba diving spot located in Dahab. The Coral Gardens are made up of numerous coral reefs that are home to many different types of fish.

The best time to snorkel in the Coral Gardens is in the morning when the sun is not too hot and the water is calm.

Be sure to bring your own snorkeling gear if you have it, but there are also several shops in Dahab that rent out snorkeling gear.

Make Your Way to Wadi al-Weshwashy

This hike was most like the best day trip in Egypt and one of the best things to do in Dahab. Still considered a hidden gem, Wadi al-Weshwashy in Nuweiba is a bit of a drive away. Wadi Al-Weshwashy is a desert canyon known for its natural beauty. Because it is not as popular as other canyons in the area, it is much less crowded.

The drive to Wadi al-Weshwashy is definitely an adventure in itself, and you will need a 4WD vehicle to make it there. I recommend going with a guide, as they will provide everything you need.

Once you are there, you will be able to hike, climb, and swim in the canyon. The hike is not too difficult, but it is definitely a workout. Make sure to wear a swimsuit and bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no restaurants or shops in Wadi al-Weshwashy.

If you are traveling to Dahab in the summer months, make sure to bring a lot of sunscreen and hats to protect yourself from the sun.

Explore The Coloured Canyon (Salama Canyon) and The White Canyon

Canyons, canyons, and more canyons! Dahab is surrounded by some of the most stunning canyons in Egypt, and they are a must-visit for any nature lover.

The Coloured Canyon, also known as Salama Canyon, is a popular destination for hikers and one of the coolest things to do in Dahab. If you love to explore, this is the place for you. The canyon walls are made up of layers of different colored rocks, making it a truly unique sight.

The White Canyon is another beautiful spot that offers breathtaking views. It gets its name from the white limestone rocks that make up its walls. Hiking through the White Canyon can be challenging at times, but the scenery makes it all worth it.

There are plenty of tour companies that offer group tours and day trips to these canyons, so make sure to do some research and find the best option for you.

Click here for a guided tour to the Coloured Canyon

Take a Boat Trip on the Red Sea

When you visit Dahab, Egypt, there’s one thing you absolutely gotta do: take a boat trip on the Red Sea. These trips let you check out some of the most stunning coral reefs on the planet, and if you’re up for it, you can go snorkeling, free diving, or scuba diving.

The Red Sea is famous for its super-clear waters, diverse marine life, and vibrant coral reefs. On a boat trip, you’ll get up close and personal with all of this. Most trips also stop at various snorkeling spots, so you can dive into the underwater world and swim with tropical fish.

Never snorkeled or dived before? No worries, there are always guides on board to help you out and show you the best spots. And if water adventures aren’t your thing, just chill on the deck of the boat, soak up some sun, and enjoy the epic views around you.

Click here for a guided boat trip in Dahab

Hiking in Arada Canyon (Red Canyon)

Another canyon? Yes, you read that right! But this one is special; otherwise, I wouldn’t waste your time reading about it.

The Arada Canyon, also known as the Red Canyon, is located in the Sinai Peninsula and is truly a hidden gem. Its vibrant red and orange rocks create an otherworldly landscape that will leave you in awe.

This canyon is perfect for those who love to hike and explore off-the-beaten-path destinations. The trail through the canyon takes you through narrow passages, and up steep rock formations, and offers stunning views of the surrounding desert scenery.

If you’re feeling extra adventurous, there are also opportunities for canyoneering and rock climbing within the canyon. But even if you just want to take a leisurely stroll and snap some photos, this canyon won’t disappoint.

Being a Digital Nomad in Dahab

Dahab has become a popular destination for digital nomads, and for good reason. This laid-back beach town offers affordable accommodations, delicious food, and high-speed internet – everything you need to be productive while living in paradise. My number one spot to get some work done is definitely Bayside Eatery!

There are plenty of coworking spaces and cafes with WiFi access where you can set up your office for the day. And when you need a break from work, you can take a quick dip in the ocean or go on an adventure in the surrounding nature.

We stayed in Dahab for a month and fell in love with the relaxed lifestyle and friendly, welcoming community. Plus, the stunning beaches and colorful coral reefs make it easy to stay inspired and motivated while working remotely.

So if you’re tired of the traditional 9-5 office life, consider becoming a digital nomad in Dahab and experience the perfect balance of work and play.

Click here to check out our full guide for digital nomads in Dahab

The 11 Best Things to Do in Dahab – Frequently Asked Questions

🚗 How do I get to Dahab?

Getting to Dahab is rather easy, as several flights fly into Sharm el-Sheikh International Airport, which is located about an hour away from Dahab. Some buses and taxis can take you from the airport to Dahab.

A Taxi will cost you around 500 to 600 Egyptian pounds, you might have to haggle if you get the taxi from the airport. I recommend setting up transportation with your hotel or let me know when you are heading to Egypt, and I would be happy to set you up with my drivers.

🔒 Is Dahab safe?

Yes, Dahab is generally considered a safe place for tourists. The local community is welcoming and friendly towards visitors, and the crime rate is relatively low compared to other cities in Egypt.

However, as with any travel destination, it’s important to always be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions. Avoid walking alone at night and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.

☀️ What is the best time of year to visit Dahab?

The peak season for tourism in Dahab is from October to April when temperatures are milder and the weather is perfect for outdoor activities. However, if you prefer fewer crowds, consider visiting during the summer months (May-September).

Just be prepared for hotter temperatures and potential heatwaves!

👙 Can I wear a bikini in Dahab?

One of the great things about Dahab is that it’s a very laid-back beach town. You can wear whatever you want, and no one will bat an eye. It’s perfectly acceptable to wear a bikini on the beaches in Dahab. However, once you leave the beach area, it’s best to cover up and dress modestly as a sign of respect for the local culture and customs.

The 11 Best Things to Do in Dahab – Final Words

In a country that can be a little bit restrictive due to its strict laws and customs, Dahab offers a more relaxed and open-minded experience for travelers.

With its stunning beaches, crystal clear waters, and countless outdoor activities, it’s no surprise that Dahab has become a popular destination for tourists in recent years. From diving and snorkeling to hiking and camel rides, there are so many things to do in Dahab.

So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Dahab with these amazing things to do in Dahab! And don’t forget to try the delicious local cuisine while you’re there – trust me, your taste buds will thank you.

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