Essential information for Sharm el Sheikh

When to go

Sharm el Sheikh has a pleasing climate, making it a fabulous destination for year-round travel. There are only two seasons in Egypt, summer and winter. Summer falls between May and October, with the hottest months being July and August, where the average temperature is typically 33°C.

The coldest month, January, sees an average temperature of 18°C. This is the season to bag cheap holidays in Sharm el Sheikh, but if you plan any desert tours, it is important to note temperatures can drop at high altitude come night.

Health and safety

The hepatitis A vaccine is recommended for all visitors to Sharm el Sheikh. It is also worth checking with your GP eight weeks prior to travel to find out about any other suggested vaccinations or precautions needed. Tap water is not safe to drink, so stock up on bottled water.

As with any holiday, you should take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance to cover yourself and family on your trip. If you’re visiting Sharm el Sheikh specifically to take part in sports or watersports, you should make sure your insurance covers this. See our holiday extras page for more information and for the latest health and safety information visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/egypt/health

Passports and Visas

British citizens don’t need a visa to enter Sharm el Sheikh if they’re travelling for up to 14 days but must have a valid passport. By law, you must carry your passport with you and may need to show it when paying by credit card. For the most up-to-date passport and visa info, visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/egypt/entry-requirements

Getting around

Getting a transfer from Sharm El Sheikh international airport by shuttle bus or airport taxis is pretty simple and can be booked in advance. The journey will usually take 10 to 30 minutes, making it a convenient option.

It’s possible to hire a car but given the chaotic Egyptian roads, you may want to check out the numerous excursions on offer instead, which can be booked through your hotel. Otherwise, most other amenities will be right on your doorstep thanks to Egypt’s All Inclusive holiday options.

Advice for travellers with children

There are many fantastic beach areas in Sharm el Sheikh with shallow, warm waters perfect for children. It’s best to check with your hotel where the most suitable spots are for paddling and swimming as some house reefs can suddenly drop off into the ocean.

Sharm el Sheikh is one world’s top resorts for diving, snorkelling and swimming, and there are many opportunities for families to enjoy the remarkable coral reefs and marine life. Children as young as 10 can be enrolled on a PADI diving course through a certified club where they will go into the Red Sea.

Electricity

Connector type: 2 pin socket, type C and F. Voltage Info: 220 to 240 volts AC

Emergency information

Call 122 for police, 126 for tourist police, 123 for ambulance and 180 for fire.

British Consulate

If you’re a victim of crime, affected by a crisis overseas, or if something happens to a relative or partner contact the British Consulate in Alexandria.

Address: 3 Mina Street, Kafr Abdou, Roushdi, Ramley Alexandria, 21529 Email: britconsul@dataxprs.com.eg Phone: +20 (0)2 27916000 Phone (from the UK): 020 7008 1500

Hospital

Sharm International Hospital Address: Qesm Sharm Ash Sheikh, South Sinai Governorate. Phone: +20 69 3660893