Sightseeing in Sharm el Sheikh is a major tourist draw in Egypt. A number of beautiful
and significant locales bring in huge numbers of visitors every year. Tiran Island
located off the coast of Sharm el Sheikh is a diver's 'dream come true'. A magnificent
island surrounded by sparkling clear waters is the perfect venue for sailing,
diving, snorkeling and such water sports. Na'ama Bay is the tourist hub of Sharm
el Sheikh.
The beautiful beach, the luxurious resorts, the fine dining options and the excellent
activities offered make this bay the star of Sharm el Sheikh's crown. Ras um Sid
Beach is a beautiful beach in Sharm el Sheikh, albeit a bit crowded. It is well
known for the fan coral reefs and is famed for diving and swimming. The National
Park of Ras Mohamad is a conserved area of exceptional natural beauty and exotic
wildlife. Besides the spectacular views, tourist may see a number of birds and
animals such as storks, heron, gulls, terns and the elusive desert fox. Saint
Catherine's Monastery located at the foothill of Jebel Musa, is regarded as the
sacred land where angels laid the mortal remains of the Christian martyr, St.
Catherine. Deemed world heritage site by UNESCO, this monastery draws millions
of devotees every year. The foundations of this shrine were laid by the roman
emperor Justinian I in 527.
The precincts of this monastery also encompass the site of the "Burning Bush"
as seen by Moses. Moses Mountain or Jebel Musa as it is known in Arabic is another
sacred land. This mountain rising to an altitude of 7498 feet from sea level is
revered by Muslims, Jews and Christians alike. It is popularly believed that Moses
received the Ten Commandments from God upon this peak. Desert Safaris in Sharm
el Sheikh are extremely popular with the tourists of this city. Be it a jeep drive
into the Bedouin village to observe the rural life of this Arabic tribe or a camel
ride into the gleaming desert sands providing a panoramic view of the breathtaking
sunset, the attractions of desert safaris are manifold and their mystical appeal
never fails.
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