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Discover the enchanting Sinai Peninsula, a land of historical significance and natural beauty. Explore the majestic Mount Sinai, the serene Saint Catherine's Monastery, and the vibrant coral reefs. Experience the perfect blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation in this sacred and blessed region of Egypt.
| Overview | |
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| Location | Egypt, Africa-Asia Bridge |
| Size | 61,000 sq km |
| Population | 600,000 |
| Capital | Al-Arish |
| Climate | Sunny, variable temperatures |
Sinia Peninsula is a holy and blessed land filled with some of the most angelic and heavenly attractions found on earth. This article's main goal is to offer every traveler all the information and facts about the magical Sinia Peninsula. This article was written by a very knowledgeable and professional team of tour operators, tour guides, and travel consultants who know all the details about the Sinai Peninsula. Under the shadow of the heavens lives a biblical land between two great seas that shaped the fate of humanity.
The Sinai Peninsula is a wonderland filled with everything from historical sites like Mount Sinai and Saint Catherine’s Monastery to the most beautiful aquatic sites and resorts. Sinai is filled with amazing scenery and magical underwater marine life, and the majestic Sahara is filled with a number of enchanting attractions. In this land of Paradise are the keys to a magical holiday that will capture our imagination for centuries. Sinai today has become a famous tourist destination in Egypt due to its natural attractions & setting and the aquatic richness of coral reefs. Diving sites & sea creatures, and biblical history & significance.
Sinai has been known as the land of the prophets and conquers for over 5000 years. Sinai has always been of great importance due to its strategic geopolitical location and cultural convergence. It was the center of conflict between ancient civilizations such as the Levant, Mesopotamia, Asia Minor, and even the Ptolemaic era. Sinai has been occupied and controlled by foreign empires even in the recent history of the Ottoman Empire (1517-1867 AD) and the United Kingdom (1882-1956 BC).
Take a trip to Mount Sinai & St. Catherine Monastery from Cairo and immerse yourself in ancient history and tranquility.
Read MoreIsrael invaded and took over Sinai during the 1956 Suez Crisis, which is known in Egypt as the Tripartite Aggression, which involved France and Britain during the 1967 Six-Day War. On October 6, 1973, Egypt started the Yom Kippur War, also known as the October War, to liberate Sinai. In 1982, after the Israel-Egypt Peace Treaty of 1979, Israel left Sinai. It became an Egyptian land as it has always been since the beginning of time. Nowadays, Sinai has become a tourist destination of great biblical history as Mount Sinai is a sacred place in all the Abrahamic religions. It is famous for containing some of the most beautiful resorts, natural sites, rich coral reefs, and more.
Sinai has a triangular peninsula shape, which is located between the Mediterranean Sea to the north and the Red Sea to the south. It is the only part of Egypt located in Asia, which is the only gateway to Egypt from the east. Sinai is known as a land bridge between the two continents of Africa and Asia. It consists of 61,000 square km2 (23,000 sq mi), which is 6% of Egypt's total area. It is separated by the Gulf of Suez and the Suez Canal from the Eastern Desert side of Egypt. The dimensions of Sinia are about 130 miles (210 km) from east to west and about 240 miles (385 km) from north to south.
Sinia is linked to the African continent by the Isthmus of Suez which is 125 kilometers (78 mi) wide strip of land that contains the Suez Canal. The eastern isthmus is linking it to the Asian mainland which is around 200 kilometers (120 mi) wide. The Sinia peninsula's eastern shore is known to separate the Arabian plate from the African plate.
It is divided into two governorates, the southern Sinai and the Northern Sinai governorate, and has a population of 600,000 people. The largest city in Sinai is Al-Arish, the capital of the north Sinai governorate, famous for its beautiful shores and palm-lined beaches. The Southernmost tip is called the Ras Muhammad National Park.
Getting to Sinia is not an easy task, and it is not hard either; reaching Sinai is easy by flight or even by car. There are airports available in the cities of Taba and Sharm El Sheikh. Sinia is an 8-hour drive from Cairo to Sinai; traveling by car is safe and secure, but be aware of police checkpoints, which are common all across the Sinai Peninsula. That's why everyone should carry their passport with them at all times. A super safari across Egypt by car or bus will be magical, and it becomes really easier to access some of the amazing city resorts of Sinia, such as Sharm El Sheikh and Dahab.
The climate is sunny all year long but has cold weather due to the high altitude and the mountain topographies. Sinia is known to be one of the coldest provinces. Where during the winter, the temperatures in some of the towns and cities can reach −16 °C (3 °F), and in the summer, the temperature can be above 40 °C (104 °F).
The Sinai Peninsula is located at the borders of Egypt and the Gaza strip, which is a very strategic area which in turn would explain why the Egyptian government has a strong army and police presence all across Sinai. The temperature difference between day and night can be significant, with daytime temperatures being hot and nighttime temperatures dropping considerably, which is expected from the desert terrain of Egypt.
The Sinia peninsula has been known by names across history as Sinai in modern times because a mountain located within the area near the Saint Catherine's Monastery known as Mount Sinai, mentioned in the Bible where the prophet Moses went to meditate and ended up receiving the Ten Commandments from God. The name of the mountain is derived from a small town called El-Tor, which is called "Tur Sinai". The Ancient Egyptians used to refer to Sinia as Biau, which means the "Mining Country" and Khetiu Mafkat, which means the Ladders of Turquoise.
It is also believed that the name Sinia is derived from the ancient Mesopotamian moon-god Sin or from the Hebrew word "Seneh". The moon-deity Sin is associated with Sinia, and the ancient Egyptian moon god Thoth is associated with Sin and worshipped strongly throughout the south tip of the Sinai Peninsula. The Arabic name Sīnāʼ adopted the biblical name, replacing the 19th-century designation Jebel el-Tūr. The name "Sinai" in modern times is associated with a Christian assumption about the Biblical Mount Sinai. Today, Modern Egyptians also refer to Sinia as the land of turquoise.
The Sinai Peninsula is known to contain some of the most incredible and finest diving spots in the entire world. The Red Sea of Egypt is found within the Sinai Peninsula and possesses a heavenly marine life that will help each traveler live the most amazing diving experience.
The Red Sea underwater ecosystem is filled with over 300 species of corals that come in all colors and shapes, plus 1,200 species of rare and different types of fish, which represent 10% of these species that can not be found anywhere else in the world other than in the Red Sea. Many types of Turtles, dugongs, spinner dolphins, mantas, and sharks are some of the possible encounters divers will have while diving in the enchanting waters of the Red Sea.
Sinai Peninsula is a magical realm filled with all the elements that make it the most ideal tourist attraction on earth. It offers the chance to experience natural beauty, historical sites, and recreational opportunities. Everyone will enjoy the magnificence of Sharm El Sheikh, which is known as the "City of Peace" where all travelers will be part of the most luxurious hotels, vibrant nightlife, and the best world-class diving and snorkeling opportunities. Dahab is an affordable option for all travelers which is known for its relaxed atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and water sports in marvelous areas like the Blue Hole and the Lighthouse Reef.
Everyone can get a taste of biblical history in Mount Sinai and Saint Catherine’s Monastery. The very beautiful natural sights of Ras Mohammed National Park and Colored Canyon will offer the chance to live a majestic and entertaining quest filled with thrill and bliss. A tour across the Bedouin culture of Sinia will be a delightful trip that explores a unique lifestyle, culture, and art that was cultivated over hundreds of years. The region offers opportunities for various adventure sports, including desert trekking, camel safaris, and rock climbing, with the most fun aquatic adventures.
The city of Peace Sharm El Sheik is one of the most attractive destinations in Sinai and the most attractive destination for travelers because of the number of incredible resorts offering countless accommodation options, cafes, restaurants, and bars, and the natural beauty of sandy beaches, clear waters and coral reeds in national parks and diving sites.
At the southern part of the Sinai peninsula, just 12 km from Sharm el Sheikh, is the national park of Ras Mohammed, spanning 480 km, containing an underwater haven filled with 220 kinds of coral reefs and 1000 different species of fish inside famous shipwrecks like the famous ss Thistlegorm that makes ras Mohamed one of the best diving destinations in the world.
One of the holiest places on earth is located on the summit of Mount Horeb, where Moses received the Ten Commandments from the all-mighty. It stands at an elevation of 1,586 meters above sea level, constructed by the order of Sinai between 527 and 565 BCE at the mouth of a gorge on the top of Mount Sinai. The monastery became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2002 because of its historical importance.
The Sinai Peninsula offers historical knowledge, sightseeing, fun, and relaxation all in one experience. Read About Sinai Attractions
Read MoreThe beautiful city of Dahab lies on the southeast coast of the Sinai Peninsula, about 80km (50 mi) northeast of Sharm el-sheikh, and is famous for adventurous aquatic activities such as diving, snorkeling, kitesurfing, windsurfing, and more. One of the most famous places in Dahab is the epic Blue Hole, the world’s most dangerous diving site. The resort also offers a chance to explore the Bedouin tribes in the Sahara through a super safari.
The Blue Hole is considered to be one of the most thrilling and dangerous scuba diving sites on Earth. It is located in the marvelous Sinai city of Dahab. It consists of over 100 meters in-depth and a narrow tunnel that offers a challenge for all professional divers who seek to enjoy the most exciting experience.
Mount Sinia is located near the city of St Catherine, famous for being the home to one of the oldest Christian and Coptic monasteries on earth. Mount Sinai is a mesmerizing mountain composed of red contour mountain formations, with its highest peak measuring 2,285 meters high. Mount Sinai is the location where Moses received the 10 Commandments from God. It is an important holy site for the Abrahamic religions, as shown in the holy books of Exodus, the Bible, and the Quran.
The Colored Canyon is located 90 km north of Dahab and is known for containing majestic rock formations of multi-pastel colors of red that are shaped like a labyrinth, which forms a canyon of up to 40 meters high and 800 meters long.
Sinai nowadays is a safe haven for travelers from all over the world who seek a vacation full of adventure, wonder, and relaxation. The peninsula has various underwater miracles beneath the Red Sea and seaside resorts that offer the finest sun-drenched holiday entertainment, plus a heavenly Sahara filled with captivating natural attractions that will cast a spell of everlasting allure and wonder on all of its visitors.
Sinai is a portal to a new dimension filled with wonder and beauty, containing everything a traveler could ever desire, from incredible adventurous activities to the finest accommodations and services. A divine invitation from the heavens is waiting in Sinai; just one click away through our Sinai tours & packages. Save time by contacting us to customize your own Egypt vacation, which includes a visit to Sinai below.
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The Sinia Peninsula is incredibly important as it serves as an essential land bridge between Asia and Africa. Egypt’s control over Sinai ensures territorial integrity. It has a significant economic value as it plays a role in the field of tourism, where everyone can discover the most majestic collections of natural marvels, biblical history, archaeological milestones, marine wonders, and cultural blessings. Within the Sinai peninsula are a number of mesmerizing coastlines, plus it controls the operation of the Suez Canal, which creates an international waterway that connects the Mediterranean Sea to the Red Sea.
The Sinai Peninsula is currently under the sovereignty of the Egyptian government, which was behind the construction of the heavenly city of peace, Sherm El Sheik, where many diplomatic and peaceful peace talks took place.
The Sinai Peninsula is characterized by arid desert terrain with seasonal wadis (dry riverbeds) that occasionally fill seasonally after heavy rainfall.
The Sinai Peninsula is renowned for its historical and religious significance, as mentioned across various religious texts, which include the Bible and the Quran. Mount Sinai (Jabal Musa) is believed to be the mountain where Moses received the Ten Commandments. It is also famous for its natural beauty, biblical history, and coastal resorts along the divine Red Sea. The southern coast is filled with popular tourist resorts known for their stunning beaches, clear waters, and coral reefs.
The Sinai Peninsula is worth the visit, where everyone can explore some of the most magnificent historical sites, beautiful beaches, and entertaining activities through diving and snorkeling. The area is easily accessible and safe for all travelers who desire to live a blessed adventure between a legendary collection of amazing wonders.
the Sinai Peninsula is inhabited by around 600,000 people who mainly concentrated in the north and south. The majority belong to the Bedouin, nomadic Arab tribes with a rich cultural heritage that was cultivated over hundreds of years.
If you are a foreign citizen and desire to witness the magical destinations of Egypt then you need to have an Egyptian Visa so you can move easily across the many attractions of Egypt.
The main religion of the Sinai Peninsula is predominantly Islam, which is known for being the major religion practiced by the Bedouin inhabitants. The peninsula also houses various Coptic religious sites and communities that are filled with a number of meaningful structures.
The entire country of Egypt deserve to be explored with its every heavenly detail but there are places that must be seen before any other such as the breathtaking Hurghada's red sea, The wonders of Cairo the pyramids of Giza, the great sphinx, the Egyptian Museum, Khan El Khalili Bazaar, the wonders of Luxor like Valley of the Kings, Karnak & Hatshepsut temple and the wonders of Aswan such as Abu Simbel temples, Philea temple, Unfinished obelisk and The Wonders of Alexandria like Qaitbat Citadel, Pompey's Pillar and Alexandria Library. Read more about the best places to visit in Egypt.
If you want to apply for a Visa On Arrival that lasts for 30 days then you should be one of the eligible countries, have a valid passport with at least 6 months remaining and pay 25$ USD in cash, as for the E-Visa for 30 day you should have a valid passport for at least 8 months, complete the online application, pay the e-visa fee then print the e-visa to later be presented to the airport border guard. You could also be one of the lucky ones who can obtain a free visa for 90 days. Read more about Egypt travel visa.
Egypt has a variety of delicious cuisines but we recommend “Ful & Ta’meya (Fava Beans and Falafel)”, Mulukhiya, “Koshary”, a traditional Egyptian pasta dish, and Kebab & Kofta, the Egyptian traditional meat dish.
The best time to travel to Egypt is during the winter from September to April as the climate becomes a little tropical accompanied by a magical atmosphere of warm weather with a winter breeze. You will be notified in the week of your trip if the Climate is unsafe and if any changes have been made.
You should pack everything you could ever need in a small bag so you could move easily between your destinations.
We have been creating the finest vacations for more than 20 years around the most majestic destinations in Egypt. Our staff consists of the best operators, guides and drivers who dedicate all of their time & effort to make you have the perfect vacation. All of our tours are customized by Travel, Financial & Time consultants to fit your every possible need during your vacation. It doesn't go without saying that your safety and comfort are our main priority and all of our resources will be directed to provide the finest atmosphere until you return home.
You will feel safe in Egypt as the current atmosphere of the country is quite peaceful after the government took powerful measures like restructuring the entire tourist police to include all the important and tourist attractions in Egypt. Read more about is it safe to travel to Egypt.
Wear whatever feels right and comfortable. It is advised to wear something light and comfortable footwear like a closed-toe shoe to sustain the terrain of Egypt. Put on sun block during your time in Egypt in the summer to protect yourself from the sun.
The best activity is by far boarding a Nile Cruise between Luxor and Aswan or Vise Versa. Witness the beauty of Egypt from a hot balloon or a plane and try all the delicious Egyptian cuisines and drinks plus shopping in old Cairo. Explore the allure and wonders of the red sea in the magical city resorts of Egypt like Hurghada and many more by diving and snorkeling in the marine life or Hurghada. Behold the mesmerizing western desert by a safari trip under the heavenly Egyptian skies.
There are a lot of public holidays in Egypt too many to count either religious or nation, the most important festivals are the holy month of Ramadan which ends with Eid Al Fitr, Christmas and new years eve. Read more about festivals & publich holidays in Egypt.
Egypt is considered to be one of the most liberal Islamic countries but it has become a little bit conservative in the last couple of decades so it is advised to avoid showing your chest, shoulders or legs below the knees.
Arabic is the official language and Most Egyptians, who live in the cities, speak or understand English or at least some English words or phrases. Fewer Egyptians can speak French, Italian, Spanish, and German. Professional tour guides, who work in the tourism sector, are equipped to handle visitors who cannot speak Arabic and they will speak enough English and other languages to fulfill the needs of all our clients.
The fastest way is a car, of course, a taxi. If you are in Cairo ride a white taxi to move faster or you could board the fastest way of transportation in Egypt metro if the roads are in rush hour.
The temperature in Egypt ranges from 37c to 14 c. Summer in Egypt is somehow hot but sometimes it becomes cold at night and winter is cool and mild. The average of low temperatures vary from 9.5 °C in the wintertime to 23 °C in the summertime and the average high temperatures vary from 17 °C in the wintertime to 32 °C in the summertime. The temperature is moderate all along the coasts.
It is the home of everything a traveler might be looking for from amazing historical sites dating to more than 4000 years to enchanting city resorts & beaches. You will live the vacation you deserve as Egypt has everything you could possibly imagine.
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