Discovering the Wonders of Ras Abu Gallum and the Blue Hole in Dahab

Planning Your Trip: Booking and Budgeting

Sharm El Sheikh is a gateway to some of Egypt's most thrilling excursions, with the trip to Ras Abu Gallum and the Blue Hole ranking among the top experiences for adventure seekers. To avoid the extra costs associated with hotel commissions, savvy travelers should consider booking their adventure through local tour agents in areas like Naama Bay. Here, competition among agents allows you to negotiate and secure the most favorable deal. It's crucial to review the itinerary carefully to ensure it aligns with your preferences, as offerings can vary between operators.

Scheduling Your Adventure

The Ras Abu Gallum and the Blue Hole excursion operates on specific days, so it's wise to reserve your spot early, especially if your stay in Sharm El Sheikh is limited to a week. Groups are typically small, with six to eight people per jeep, ensuring a comfortable and personalized experience.

Essential Preparations

Given that this is an all-day adventure, preparation is key. Here's a checklist of what to bring:

• A lightweight backpack for essentials
• Ample water supply, as summer temperatures can soar above 45°C (113°F)
• Snorkeling gear (mask, snorkel, and fins), which can be rented if you don't own any
• Suitable footwear for rugged terrain (avoid high heels)

The Journey Begins

Your adventure kicks off early in the morning with a jeep pickup from your accommodation. Ideally, you'll be the last pickup to minimize travel time. The drive takes you through the stunning Sinai desert, a landscape of breathtaking beauty and home to the traditional Bedouin people. You may even have the opportunity to capture the desert's ever-changing colors and vast plains with a photo stop.

Ras Abu Gallum Protectorate

Upon reaching the Ras Abu Gallum Protectorate, a 400 km stretch of pristine coastline, you'll embark on a camel ride to the Blue Hole. For those less inclined to ride, the jeep remains an option. The camel journey is an experience in itself, taking about 45 minutes along the scenic coast.

The Blue Hole Experience

The Blue Hole is a world-renowned diving spot, boasting an 80-meter drop and vibrant coral reefs teeming with diverse marine life. While it has claimed the lives of some divers due to its hidden caverns and the challenges of managing breathing equipment, snorkeling is considered quite safe.

Dining and Souvenirs

After snorkeling, you'll enjoy a lunch of freshly caught fish and a special homemade rice dish at a Bedouin beach restaurant. Local Bedouin children often sell handmade gifts, perfect as a memento of your adventure.

Exploring Dahab

The trip continues to Dahab, a beach resort village once favored by hippies and now home to upscale hotels and restaurants. Despite its development, Dahab retains its laid-back charm, offering handmade souvenirs crafted by locals.

Returning to Sharm El Sheikh

The adventure concludes with a jeep ride back to your starting point, typically around 5:00 PM. The experience is exhilarating but can be physically demanding, so it's important to be well-rested and prepared.

Interesting Stats and Facts

• The Blue Hole is often referred to as the "Diver's Cemetery" due to the number of fatalities that have occurred there. However, with proper precautions and guidance, it remains a top destination for diving enthusiasts worldwide.
• Dahab was once a remote Bedouin fishing village before evolving into a hub for tourists seeking a blend of adventure and relaxation. Its transformation has been significant, yet it has managed to maintain its unique character.

For more information on the Blue Hole and diving safety, visit Divers Alert Network. To learn about the Bedouin culture and their presence in the Sinai Peninsula, check out The Bedouin Way.