Taba, nestled on the northern tip of Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula, is a picturesque coastal town that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historical sites, and luxury resorts. For those considering things to do in Taba, exploring the serene waters of the Gulf of Aqaba, which boasts vibrant coral reefs perfect for snorkeling and diving, and visiting the historic Salah El-Din Castle on Pharaoh’s Island are top activities.
The town’s proximity to the Colored Canyon, a geological wonder with its labyrinth of sandstone rocks in hues of red, yellow, and purple, offers a thrilling adventure for nature enthusiasts. Nearby, the Fjord Bay is a hidden gem, a diving spot known for its crystal-clear waters and rich marine life.
Beyond its natural attractions and beachfront allure, Taba serves as a gateway to other significant sites in the Sinai region and neighboring countries, given its strategic location near the borders of Israel and Jordan. For those seeking the best places to visit in Egypt, Taba’s combination of seaside relaxation, historical landmarks, and natural wonders makes it a captivating destination.
Attractions & Things to Do in Taba, Egypt
1. Taba Heights
This is a picturesque resort town located on the Sinai Peninsula along the coast of the Red Sea. It is home to beautiful beaches, luxurious hotels, and a golf course.
Location: Situated along the Sinai Peninsula on the coast of the Red Sea, accessible by car, taxi, or shuttle services from nearby hotels and the Taba border crossing.
Scenic Spot: Stunning beachfront views, luxury resorts, and a scenic golf course surrounded by mountains.
Best Time to Visit: October to April, when temperatures are pleasant for outdoor activities.
Suitable for All Ages: Perfect for all ages, offering activities and amenities for families, couples, and solo travelers.
Price: Free to visit, but accommodation and activities within the resorts vary in price.
Travel Tip: Make sure to pack sunscreen and a hat as the sun can be quite strong.
2. Castle Zaman
Castle Zaman is a beautiful castle located on a hilltop overlooking the Sinai Peninsula and the Gulf of Aqaba. It is a great place to relax, enjoy a meal, and take in the stunning views.
Location: Perched on a hilltop overlooking the Sinai Peninsula and the Gulf of Aqaba, about 20 km from Taba, accessible by car or taxi.
Scenic Spot: Breathtaking panoramic views of the Red Sea and surrounding mountains.
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon to catch the sunset for an unforgettable experience.
Suitable for All Ages: Best for adults and older children due to its quiet atmosphere and historical significance.
Price: Entrance fee of approximately $20, including access to the pool and castle facilities. Dining is available at additional cost.
Travel Tip: Try to visit during sunset for an unforgettable experience.
3. Fjord Bay
Fjord Bay is a stunning bay with crystal clear waters and colorful coral reefs. It is a popular spot for snorkeling and diving.
Location: Located about 15 km south of Taba, accessible by car or taxi.
Scenic Spot: Crystal-clear waters, colorful coral reefs, and dramatic coastal cliffs.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn, when water conditions are best for snorkeling and diving.
Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for all, but young children should be supervised in the water.
Price: Free to visit, but snorkeling and diving gear rentals may cost around $10-$20.
Travel Tip: Bring your own snorkeling gear if possible as rentals can be expensive.
4. Colored Canyon
The Colored Canyon is a natural wonder located in the Sinai Peninsula. It is a narrow canyon with walls of multicolored rock formations.
Location: Situated in the Sinai Peninsula, approximately 90 km from Taba, accessible by 4×4 vehicle or guided tour.
Scenic Spot: A mesmerizing labyrinth of multicolored sandstone formations.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning to avoid the intense midday heat.
Suitable for All Ages: Best for adults and older children, as the hike can be strenuous and involves uneven terrain.
Price: Tour prices range from $30-$50 per person.
Travel Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water as the hike can be quite strenuous.
5. Salah El-Din Castle
This historic castle is located on Pharaoh’s Island in the Gulf of Aqaba. It was built by Crusaders in the 12th century and later expanded by Saladin.
Location: Located on Pharaoh’s Island in the Gulf of Aqaba, accessible by boat from Taba or nearby marinas.
Scenic Spot: A historic Crusader castle with stunning views of the Red Sea and nearby countries (Israel, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia).
Best Time to Visit: Late morning or afternoon, when the sunlight enhances the island’s beauty.
Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for all, though access requires a boat ride and some walking on uneven surfaces.
Price: Boat tours typically cost $20-$40 per person, including island access.
Travel Tip: Take a boat tour to the island and explore the castle and its surroundings.
6. Taba Protected Area
This is a protected natural area located along the coast of the Red Sea. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, reptiles, and marine life.
Location: Spanning along the Red Sea coast, accessible by car or guided tours from Taba.
Scenic Spot: Diverse landscapes with coastal beaches, rocky mountains, and rich wildlife.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn, when the weather is pleasant for hiking and exploration.
Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for nature lovers of all ages; however, some hiking trails may be difficult for young children or elderly visitors.
Price: Free to enter, but guided tours may cost $25-$40 per person.
Travel Tip: Follow the marked trails and do not disturb the wildlife.
7. Red Sea Water World
This is a water sports center located in Taba Heights. It offers a variety of water activities, including windsurfing, water skiing, and banana boat rides.
Location: Located in Taba Heights, easily accessible by car, shuttle, or on foot from nearby resorts.
Scenic Spot: Beautiful beachfront with access to water sports activities like windsurfing, jet skiing, and paddleboarding.
Best Time to Visit: March to October, when water conditions are ideal for sports.
Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for all ages, with activities available for kids and adults.
Price: Activity prices range from $20-$100, depending on the sport.
Travel Tip: Book your activities in advance to ensure availability.
8. Taba Casino
For those who enjoy gambling, the Taba Casino offers a variety of games, including slot machines, blackjack, and roulette.
Location: Situated within the Taba Hotel & Nelson Village, near the Taba border crossing, easily accessible by car or taxi.
Scenic Spot: A lively gaming environment with views of the Red Sea.
Best Time to Visit: Evening or nighttime for entertainment and gaming.
Suitable for All Ages: Only for adults (18+).
Price: Free entry, but gambling requires a personal budget.
Travel Tip: Set a budget before you start gambling and stick to it.
9. Quad Biking in Sinai Desert
Explore the Sinai Desert on a quad bike. This is a fun and adventurous way to see the desert landscape.
Location: Tours start from Taba and surrounding areas, with transport provided by tour operators.
Scenic Spot: Experience the vast desert landscape, golden dunes, and rugged mountain backdrops.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid extreme desert heat.
Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for adults and teenagers; not recommended for young children.
Price: Quad biking tours cost approximately $30-$60 per person.
Travel Tip: Wear long sleeves and pants to protect yourself from the sun and sand.
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Taba, Egypt: Ratings
Kid-Friendly Activities in Taba: 6/10 – Taba offers several family-friendly activities, particularly within the resort areas. Activities include snorkeling, swimming, and visiting Taba Heights with its kids’ clubs and entertainment programs. However, the range of kid-specific attractions is limited compared to larger destinations.
Nightlife in Taba: 4/10 – Nightlife in Taba is relatively subdued, focusing mainly on hotel and resort-based entertainment. There are a few bars and restaurants offering evening entertainment, but the nightlife scene is generally quiet and relaxed, making it ideal for those seeking tranquility.
Sport in Taba: 7/10 – Taba is a good destination for water sports, including snorkeling, diving, and sailing in the Red Sea. The region also offers golf courses and opportunities for desert safaris, hiking, and quad biking. While the variety of sports activities is decent, it is primarily centered around resort facilities.
Culture and Attractions in Taba: 6/10 – Taba is more known for its natural beauty than its cultural attractions. However, it offers easy access to historical and cultural sites in nearby areas, such as the St. Catherine’s Monastery and the Coloured Canyon. The Taba Protected Area is notable for its scenic landscapes and wildlife.
Gastronomy in Taba: 6/10 – The food scene in Taba is primarily centered around the resorts, offering a mix of Egyptian cuisine and international dishes. Fresh seafood is a highlight. While the dining options are good within the resorts, the variety is limited outside of them.
Shopping in Taba: 4/10 – Shopping in Taba is limited, with a few shops and markets within the resort areas offering souvenirs, local crafts, and basic necessities. For more extensive shopping, visitors often travel to nearby cities or resort areas.
Prices in Taba: 7/10 – Taba is moderately priced, offering a range of accommodation and dining options that cater to different budgets. The cost of living is reasonable, making it accessible for both budget and mid-range travelers.
Average price for a hotel night: $70
Cost of a lunch at a local restaurant: $10
Price of a beer: $4
Price of a coffee: $2.50
Beyond the City: Exploring Surroundings and Stays in Taba, Egypt
For those looking to explore beyond the tranquil beaches and luxury resorts, top day trips near Taba invite adventure into the rugged landscapes of the Sinai Peninsula. The majestic Sinai Mountains, the historic Monastery of Saint Catherine, and the peaceful island of Pharaoh’s Island with its Crusader fortress offer a mix of natural beauty and historical intrigue.
When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay, Taba accommodations span from opulent hotels with panoramic views of the Red Sea to quaint beachside cabins, offering a serene escape for those seeking both adventure and relaxation in this unique corner of Egypt.
FAQ About Things to Do in Taba, Egypt
What are the top attractions in Taba?
Some of the top attractions in Taba include the Taba Heights, Salah El-Din Castle on Pharaoh’s Island, the Fjord, and the beautiful beaches lining the Red Sea coast.
Is it worth visiting the Taba Protected Area?
Absolutely! The Taba Protected Area is a pristine natural reserve that offers visitors a chance to see unique desert landscapes, beautiful coastlines, and diverse marine life.
Can I go diving in Taba?
Yes, Taba is renowned for its rich underwater ecosystems. The Red Sea in the Taba region offers various diving spots with vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life, suitable for both beginners and experienced divers.
Is it possible to take a day trip to Petra from Taba?
Yes, while Petra is in Jordan, its proximity to Taba makes it possible to arrange day trips or overnight excursions, usually involving a ferry ride across the Red Sea to Aqaba and then a drive to Petra.
What watersports can I enjoy in Taba?
Taba offers a variety of watersports, including snorkeling, windsurfing, paddleboarding, and jet-skiing, thanks to its clear waters and gentle breezes.
Are there any desert tours available from Taba?
Yes, several tours take visitors into the Sinai desert from Taba. These tours might include camel rides, visits to Bedouin villages, and viewing the unique landscapes and canyons of the Sinai region.
Where can I get the best views of the Red Sea in Taba?
The Fjord, a famous diving spot, offers breathtaking views of the Red Sea. Additionally, Taba Heights provides panoramic vistas of the coastline and the sea.
What local dishes should I try while in Taba?
When in Taba, be sure to try dishes such as koshary (a mix of rice, pasta, lentils, and fried onions), ful medames (cooked fava beans), grilled lamb or fish, and traditional Egyptian bread called ‘baladi’.
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Taba,_Egypt
https://www.getyourguide.com/taba-l1376/
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