Let's begin our journey by exploring the coral reefs of the northern Red Sea, near Sharm El Sheikh. The program is tailored to the level of each participant, offering the option to complete the introductory course (Open Water Diver), the advanced course (Advanced Open Water), or enjoy recreational diving for already certified divers. Sharm El Sheikh, located at the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula, is world-renowned for its pristine coral reefs and crystal-clear waters: vibrant colored reefs, exceptional visibility, diverse marine life, ideal diving conditions, and iconic dive sites including Ras Mohammed National Park, the Strait of Tiran, and wrecks like the Dunraven or the Thistlegorm, one of the best in the world.

 

Open Water Program: The PADI Open Water course is the first level of certification for recreational diving. During the course, students learn the basic skills needed to dive safely and independently to a maximum depth of 18 meters. This includes theoretical knowledge about diving equipment, underwater physiology, dive planning, and safety techniques, as well as practical sessions in a pool or confined water to master skills such as equipment handling and underwater breathing. Additionally, students perform a series of open water dives to apply what they've learned and demonstrate competence under the supervision of an instructor. Once successfully completed, students earn a certification that allows them to dive anywhere in the world with a buddy of equal or higher certification. The course lasts 4 days, and the 5th day will be for recreational diving from the boat.

 

Advanced Program: The PADI Advanced Open Water course is the next step after the Open Water certification. It focuses on enhancing your skills and experience in diving. You will complete five adventure dives, which may include navigation, deep diving, night diving, among others, under the supervision of an instructor. This course is an excellent way to gain confidence and explore different aspects of diving. The course lasts 2 days, and the 3rd, 4th, and 5th days will be for recreational diving from the boat (2 dives included per day, with an option for an additional third dive). 

 

Fun Diving Program: If you are already a certified diver and do not wish to take any additional courses, you can opt for 5 days of recreational diving from the boat at some of Egypt's most famous dive sites. The waters of Sharm El Sheikh are an underwater treasure, teeming with a rich variety of marine life. From vibrant reef fish to imposing sharks and majestic sea turtles, each dive reveals an underwater world full of color and life. The pristine coral reefs host an incredible diversity of species, while the crystal-clear waters offer exceptional visibility to explore this underwater paradise.

 

On the afternoon of the 26th, we will travel to the nearby town of Dahab, known for its impressive coral reefs and its bohemian and relaxed atmosphere. Bedouin culture permeates the town of Dahab, and many local businesses are run by Bedouins of the Tarabin Tribe. Dahab is the ideal starting point to begin the exploration of the Sinai desert.

 

A morning in Dahab offers an immersion into its bohemian Bedouin atmosphere, with streets filled with colorful craft shops and cozy cafes where the aroma of spiced coffee mingles in the air. Traditional Bedouin decor and live music create a relaxed and creative ambiance as we stroll towards the tranquil beaches. Here, you can enjoy the serenity of the sea or engage in water activities, all while feeling the influence of Bedouin culture in every corner of this picturesque and welcoming place.

 

After lunch, we begin our journey to the center of the Sinai Peninsula, heading towards Saint Catherine's Monastery, one of the oldest continuously operating Christian institutions, founded in the 6th century. This monastery, located at the foot of Mount Sinai, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and houses an impressive collection of icons, manuscripts, and religious artifacts. It is also the traditional site where Moses received the Ten Commandments. We will stay in a nearby Bedouin camp, where we will enjoy a traditional dinner and prepare for the nighttime ascent.

In the early hours, we begin the ascent of Mount Sinai, following ancient routes used by pilgrims for centuries. There are two main routes: the "Path of Moses," which is longer but less steep, and the "Path of the 3750 Steps," which is shorter and steeper. During the ascent, we take breaks at rest stations where we can enjoy the nighttime landscape. We reach the summit just before dawn and marvel at the spectacular view of the sun rising over the Sinai desert, a spiritually and visually impactful experience.

After sunrise, we descend back to the Bedouin camp for a well-deserved breakfast and rest. The significance of Saint Catherine's Monastery and Mount Sinai lies not only in their historical and religious value but also in their stunning natural surroundings. This combination of history, spirituality, and natural beauty makes our excursion an unforgettable experience, filled with moments of reflection and admiration for the landscape and the sacred history of the place.

 

We will enjoy two days exploring Wadi Ghazalla, an enchanted valley known for its spectacular desert landscape, which includes canyons, impressive rock formations, and sand dunes. We will hike through narrow gorges and stunning rock formations, marveling at the natural masterpiece sculpted by millennia of erosion. Throughout the journey, we will be guided by local experts who will reveal the secrets of this unique place and immerse us in the authentic Bedouin culture of the desert.

As night falls, we will prepare for a magical camping experience under the vast, starry desert sky. Bedouin tents will provide us with shelter as we enjoy a simple yet delicious dinner around a campfire, sharing stories and traditional songs with our local hosts. We will also savor their cuisine, tasting typical dishes such as mansaf (lamb in fermented yogurt sauce), zarb (chicken or lamb cooked in an underground oven), mangluba (rice), hummus, and babaganoush (chickpea and eggplant purees), and Arboud (freshly baked bread). This is a unique opportunity to connect deeply with nature and the rich Bedouin culture, an experience we will remember forever.

 

On the afternoon of the second day, we will head to Nuweiba, a tranquil Bedouin enclave on the shores of the Gulf of Aqaba, known for its white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and pristine, less-explored reefs.

We will enjoy a well-deserved day by the sea, starting with a Bedouin breakfast and then snorkeling or diving at the reef in front of the camp.

After our marine adventure, we will head to Castle Zaman to enjoy a slow food meal that will delight all our senses. This charmingly restored castle, with its rustic ambiance and panoramic sea views, will offer us a unique gastronomic experience. We will savor dishes carefully prepared with fresh local ingredients and authentic flavors, while immersing ourselves in the tranquility of the surroundings.

At night, we will retreat to our Bedouin cabins by the sea, where we will indulge in relaxing by the water under the stunning starry desert sky. With the gentle sound of the waves in the background and the sea breeze caressing us, we will be swept away by the magic of the night. The Bedouin cabins, with their traditional charm and modern comforts, will provide the perfect refuge for a restful night's sleep. We'll immerse ourselves in the serenity and beauty of Nuweiba. This unforgettable day will connect us with the nature, culture, and cuisine of this magical corner of Egypt.

A final sunrise in the desert, a last swim in the warm and crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea, and one more Bedouin breakfast before heading to the airport to catch our return flight from Sharm.