We have a proffessional reception team that help satisfy your questions and
needs as long as you stay at the Octopus hotel so don't hiestate and go ask for anything
at anytime. We well suppor you 24 hours and at anytime.
2- Transportation
Octopus hotel offers transportaion services from and to the following destinations:
Sharm EL Shiekh Airport ( from and to ) the Hotel.
Taba Border ( from and to ) the hotel.
Nuweiba ( from and to ) the hotel. Dahab Bud Station ( from and to ) the hotel.
Cario Air Port ( from and to ) the hotel.
Cairo - Tahreer Square - Talat Harb - Downtown ( from and to ) the hotel.
3- Restaurant and Lounge Area
Enjoy you meal with us. Through a set of menus you can choose to eat whatever
you like to have for your breakfast, launch and dinner, and because we are so
special we offer our guests the Dinner Together Program that we organize everyday
night.
4- Currency Echange
With us ever worry about changing money, we offer you the money exchange in here
and with the same price the bank offers for his customers and if you are stuck on
something we can drive you to the cash machine or the available ATM machines in here.
5- Safety Deposite
If you have any valuable stuff that you want to keep in a safe place and free of charge
you can go and ask for it in the reception where we have a safety deposite that you can
use any time to store you things.
6- Travel Desk
If you have any quesion or problem about traveling inside egypt we will be happy to
help you solve it as soon as possible. We will provide you with the most useful
information that can help.
7- Wake up Calls
If you are in a hurry to do something and you don't want to miss is up you can ask
the reception to give you a wake up call at a specific time you will decide.
8- Internet Services
Our Internet Cafe is inside the place so you don't have to go anywhere else to check your
e-mail addresses or browse the web for something and with a very professional IT suff we
can help you solve your problems while your stay at the Octopus hotel as well as a Wi-Fi
enabled zone that you can use to connect through with your lapop PDA or any other
portable devices. Printing services, Scanning services and Burning services are included
as well.
9- Laundry Services
We offer you laundry services in a fast way and a cheap one as well.
Octopus Rooms
Octopus Rooms were built to fit your needs and here is some pictures for the rooms:
Octopus triple room
One King size bed room
Its all you need
The rooms fit your needs
Room Prices
Rooms Prices at Octopus Resort Garden are as follows:
Categories
Single
Double
Triple
Prices
120
150
180
* Prices apply per room per night not per person
* Prices are raised up by 30 EGP in local and global season times.
Octopus Resort Garden organizes Safari and Excursion Trips to the following destinations:
Mount SInai and St. Catherine
MountSinai (Moses Mountain) rises 2285m
and is said to be where God revealed the Ten Commandments to Moses. Mt Sinai is considered sacred by the Christian Jewish and Muslim religions. St. Catherine’s Monastery is the smallest dioceses and the oldest Christian monastery still in use in the world. It also houses a rich collection of icons and precious manuscripts.
With the exception of Fridays and Sundays, the monastery can be visited daily between 09:00 and noon. This excursion is offered either as a day or a night trip
Sunrise Trip (Night) We leave Dahab at 11:00 pm, ascend Mount Sinai, (about 1.5-3 hours) and watch the breathtaking sunrise from the summit.
On the descent we pay our visit to the monastery.
Sunset Trip(Day) The daytime excursion departs at 8:00 am, includes visiting the monastery, ascending the mountain, enjoying
the spectacular view, watching the sunset and descending via the serpentine path. Transfer back to Dahab.
The Canyons
The canyons are a unique natural spectacle in the middle of the Sinai desert. You will find snakey narrow canyons with impressive multi-color sediments.
We go to 3 very beautiful places in one trip. Usually we spend the whole day over there leaving at 8 am and getting back at 6 pm.
You will see the beautiful colored and white Canyons, and the Oasis of Ein Khudra.
The Coloured Canyon
The Coloured Canyon presents one of the most magnificent rock formations in the world. The vegetation is very limited - lonely acacias, green capparis (capparis sinaica), tamarisk trees, willow trees, sodom apples (which are poisonous) and desert pumpkin. Now, the rock formations are an incomparable attraction: they vary from sandstone to limestone, granite and veins of basalt dominate the scenery through the entire hike
With the Jeep you arrive on a plateau with very good sight to the mountains and the canyon right to your feet. When you start descending, you'll notice that many of the rocks are covered in a chalk-like powder - caused by being worn down by tourists. After about 20 minutes, it feels like walking through a dry riverbed. It is a must, besides watching your feet, to look around and above you (at some points, the walls reach some 20 stories in height) to realize that it is a geological wonderland. At some places, the rocks radiate crystalline colors, at others, they have a smooth velvety appearance. As the trip continues, the river gets smaller and smaller, and the walls plain from strong water-pressure in wintertime.
Except for one or two obstacles, it's fairly an easy hike. For example, at one point, one has to slide down through a vent, where the two sides of the Canyon almost touch each other and where maybe thousands of years ago, a fallen boulder had blocked the way, leaving a narrow opening underneath. On the other side of this obstacle, the Canyon floor gradually starts to rise again. A few minutes later, another obstacle appears where the best way to handle is to swing yourself around a huge rock to slide two meters down, or simply to jump over it.
Ein Khudra
Tucked away between yellowish sandstone cliffs not far from the road linking St Katherine with Nuweiba and Dahab is one of Sinai's most scenic oases. Its Arabic name Ein Khudra (Green Oasis) perfectly describes this attractive locale where gushing fresh water springs nourish date palm gardens in the seemingly barren desert.
You will have a wonderful fresh cooked barbecue in the shades of palmtrees, resting for about one hour.
Mushroom Stone On our way to En Khoudra Oasis we pass by a big ancient coral-stone in form of a mushroom - its a special resting place for bedouins.
The White Canyon
The white canyon is a bit smaller than the coloured canyon, and made off sandstone and limestone - thats where the brilliant white colour comes from. Our advise is to wear sunglasses to avoid damage to your eyes, because the light reflected in a very strong way.
On the entrance of the canyon you see a lot of hand-imprints from bedouin couples - based on an old fairy tale.
You descend the canyon with a ladder to a plateau and go back by jeep.
Ras Mohammed
Ras Mohammed was officially opened as Egypts first national park in 1983. The peninsula is situated at the most southerly point of Sinai and extends for around 8 km into the Red Sea.
This remarkable region is made of fossilized reefs, the highest point being Shark Observatory from where you receive a fantastic view of the reefs below. As well as offering fantastic opportunities for diving and snorkeling, Ras Mohammed is home to 80 plant species, 14 types of mammal and an essential staging post for 100’s of bird species. There is even a mangrove forest which is almost unique in Sinai (mangroves are also found at Nabq). Ras Mohammed is an important area for research by environmentalists and marine biologists who provide education on how to help preserve this unique region. A well equipped visitor’s center shows educational films and slideshows about the park. Entrance fee is $5.
Nabq National Park
Nabq is situated on the coast between Dahab and Sharm el Sheikh. This 600 km2 desert area was declared a conversation area in 1992. Here you can find a 4 km long mangrove forest. Mangroves belong to the amphibic vegetation and grow in flat, sandy areas along tropical coasts. So-called stalk roots are tightly interwoven both in and above the water. The roots are able to filter the saline water and salt is excreted via the leaves of the trees. Nabq is the natural habitat for a large variety of plant species as well as various animals like Starks, herons, desert foxes, gazelles and hyenas. Underwater around Nabq you can even find populations of the extremely rare Manatee also called “Sea Cows” or "Dugongs". Open daily from morning to sunset. Entrance fee is 5$.
Ras Abu Gallum
A short Jeep trip takes us to the Blue Hole where we mount our camels for a trek along the spectacular coast of around one and a half hours.
Ras Abu Gallum has been a protected area since 1993. Not only are the fauna and flora protected here, but also the habitat of the Bedouin, who here still live a life relatively free from influence of tourism. We eat fish, freshly caught and prepared by Bedouins, (Bedouins have the right to fish in this protected area, to all others fishing is prohibited) we enjoy the beach and snorkel over the coral reefs.
We return by camel to the Blue Hole where we can refresh ourselves with a swim or snorkel before the jeep ride home.
The bedouin Dinner
We go with the jeep to a romantic place in the mountains. We enjoy barbacue with chicken or fish on open fire, drink bedouin tea and experience the natural life of the Bedouins.
Dinner and tea included, additional beer and Hifi-music available
Discover the splendour of the Sinai by means of various trekking routes. You camp in the desert, sleep under a million stars, and all meals are prepared bedouin-style over an open fire. Experience the extraordinary desert landscapes: mountains, oasis and gorges.
Visit places of cultural and historical importance. Trips vary from a couple of days up to two weeks. Below are some of our regular routes, but we can also compile a trip to suit your own requirements.
Note : The camel Safari trips are varies depends on the location and the time you will decide to spend in he desert to experience Sinai Deser's lifeso please contact the reception for more details
Quad Bike
What about your quad-bike parked on a beach of the ravishing Red Sea – how can you possibly compare the two?! The great difference is that the quad bike and the places that you will be able to visit with us are worth far more than that Porche.
We jump onto our quads and off we head to Valley Gonai for an afternoon jam-packed with snake trails, minor dry-river water hazards and the most spectacular chilled drive whilst we hug the coast of the Red Sea. You can take yourself and your loved or take the whole family and friends on an afternoon of sun, fun and laugh after laugh after laugh after laugh
Horse Riding
Enjoy the beauty of Sinai on horseback. Whether you are an experienced rider or new to this pastime Penguin Village has a horse to suit all abilities, along with enthusiastic guides.
You can ride from one to five hours and if you are really keen can spend the night in the desert with the horses. A one or two hour ride takes you down the beach and then into a Wadi. On longer rides you will go away from the sea and into the desert.
We specialise in small groups and can organize trips into the desert – maximum of 4 nights – these rides need to be booked at least 2 months in advance.
Overday Trip To Cairo Upon arrival at Cairo; you will be met by your guide for the day who will begin your tour in Giza with visiting the legendary majestic The Three Pyramids. These are considered one of the Old Seven Wonders, erected by Cheops, Chephren, and Mykerionos. When you finish exploring the Great Pyramids our next stop is a visit to the Sphinx Monument; guarding the royal burial chambers and temple of Cheops. It is a mythical statue with the body of a lion & human head. Then you will see the old Pharaohs who were enscribing these lovely papers, and the perfume shops to enjoy the wonderful smell of the fresh oils which the perfumes are made from. Finish before lunch with a camel ride at the Pyramids Area.
Have your lunch at a local restaurant. Oriental or vegetarian lunch is available- after that; continue your tour in Cairo with visiting the Egyptian Museum of antiquities, which was
established in 1902 near the city centre in Cairo. On display is a rare collection of 5000 years
of art the largest most precious collection of Egyptian art in the world. Over 250,000 genuine artifacts are presented, including an exhibit dedicated to the Tut-Ankh-Amon collection of treasures, gold, and jewellery, as it was enclosed in his tomb for over 3,500 years before it
was discovered in the 1920's when his tomb was excavated. We then proceed to visit the
Coptic Cairo; home of some of the oldest Christian churches in the world. Retrace the steps
where Mary and Joseph walked thousands of years ago.
Next, visit the Hanging Church, also known as El Muallaqa that was dedicated to the Virgin Mary, believed to have been built at the end of the 3rd century. Built on the outer wall is the Greek St. George Church. Finally, a visit to the Khan El Khalili Bazaars that date back to 1382. Shops in this district are legendary for fine brassware, copper, perfumes, leather, silver, gold, antiques and more! Everything for sale in these shops is negotiable - be prepared to bargain for goods in this exciting maze of shops!
Overday Trip To Petra
Note: This tour are organized in different ways like the one day dahab to dahab so if
you are interested in please contac the reception for more details or ask Mr.Mohammed
the booking manager.
Day 1: Transfer to Nuwieba port to catch ferry boat to Aqaba, Arrive Aqaba, transfer from Aqaba to Petra, overnight in Petra
Day 2: Breakfast. Start your full day tour to visit Petra "the rose red city". The city comprises a complete urban infrastructure which includes temples, baths, private houses, high places, paved streets, public buildings, markets, theaters, reservoirs and cisterns. It's entrance, a one-kilometer long fissure through the towering cliffs, "The Siq", provides a dramatic approach and induction to the city. The narrow winding path through the canyon dramatically opens up to expose the awesome facade of the Elkhazneh, "the treasury", overnight in Petra.
Day 3: The road south from Petra leads down to Wadi Rum, another of nature's wonderlands that has attracted human beings for thousands of years. Wadi Rum is an unusual desert terrain that resembles a pastel pink lunar landscape, with towering limestone and granite cliffs shooting out of the sandy desert floor. In Wadi Rum which was known as "Lawrence of Arabia Land" time to ride a camel and join a jeep safari, overnight in camp
Day 4: Transfer again to Aqaba, to catch the ferry to Nuwieba, arrive Nuwieba, where you will be transferred to your hotel in Dahab.
All Egypt Tour
Day 1: Upon arrival at Cairo International Airport you will be met by our airport representative (holding a Penguin Village sign with your name), who will assist you with the passport control formalities, luggage
identification and customs procedures. Then you will be transferred to your hotel to spend the night. Our Cairo head Rep will welcome you, help you check-in to the Hotel and let you know the plan for the next few days.
Day 2: Morning - breakfast at the hotel then our friendly expert Egyptologist guide will accompany you to the area - inspiring Pyramids and Sphinx at Giza which was built 4600 years ago. Khufu, the successor of Sneferu, was known as a tyrant and in his arrogance he decided to have a tomb built that was bigger and better than all others.
The three Pyramids: Cheops (Khufu), Chephren (Khafra) & Mycrenios (Menkaura). The Great pyramid was built by King Cheops (IV Dynasty). King Chefren, the son of Cheops, built the second Pyramid and the third pyramid was built in the reign of “Menkaura”, the son of Chefren. The mysterious Sphinx, with its mask of Chephren and body of a Lion, stands Close by guard of the land of Pharaohs. The Sphinx and the three pyramids are considered to be one of the Seven Wonders of the World.Then on to Sakkara which lies 25 Km south of Cairo. Djeser’s (Zosser’s) step Pyramid, (built 4700 years ago), dominates the skyline and is believed to be the ancient Egyptians' first attempt at pyramid building, to see the first pyramids ever built the step pyramid of Zosser.
Day 3: Morning - breakfast at the hotel then our friendly expert Egyptologist guide will accompany you to visit the famous Egyptian museum where you will see many precious antiquities. Afterwards onto Islamic areas of Cairo, including the Citadel of Saladdin which boasts the famous Alabaster Mosque of Mohammed Ali. After that you will visit the Coptic area of Cairo where the Romans constructed the fortress of Babylon. Built on the ruins of two towers of the fortress towers is the church of St. Mary, more commonly known as the Hanging Church. Next you will visit St. Sergius where it is said to be the resting place for the holy family.
Overnight 1st class sleeper train to Aswan.
Day 4: Upon arrival at the Aswan train station, you will be met and transferred to your selected Cruise. After freshening up you can take an afternoon tour to the Philae temple. As the centre of the cult of Isis, the island of Philae was an important place of pilgrimage for worshippers until long into the Christian era. From Philae, Isis was said to watch over the sacred island of Biga, one of the mythical burial sites of her husband Osiris. After the building of the Aswan Dam, the island’s temples were partly submerged in water and visitors took to rowing boats to peer at the remains. Then Aswan High Dam, one of the biggest dams in the World (measuring 360 feet high and over a mile and a half wide), was erected to store the flood waters of the Nile in Lake Nasser. Overnight at your Cruise.
Day 5: (Optional Abu Simbel Tour) After breakfast, you will sail by Felucca to visit Elephantine island: the island is characterized by its Grey boulders which some say resemble elephants drinking form the Nile. And Kitchner island or Botanical Island to see the beautiful and peaceful botanical gardens with a nice collection of plants from all over the world. Overnight on the Cruise Boat.
Day 6: Enjoy your breakfast while cruising down the Nile. Visit Kom Ombo temple and then continue sailing. Later you will stop at Edfu to visit Horus Temple the second large temple in Egypt. Overnight on the cruise boat while sailing towards Luxor.
Day 7: Arrive Luxor , after breakfast, tour to the East Bank of Luxor Karnak and Luxor temples, followed by a free afternoon and evening. Overnight on the boat.
Day 8: An early morning, continuation our touring in Luxor, by visiting the West Bank - Valley of the Kings: the remote, barren Valley of the Kings was the necropolis of the New Kingdom pharaohs. By digging their tombs deep into the Theban Hills, pharaohs from Tuthmosis I on hoped to stop robbers stealing the priceless possessions buried with them. Valley of the Queens: Named by Champollion, the Valley of the Queens lies to the south-west of the Valley of the Kings and holds the tombs of many royal wives and children. Hatshepsut Temple: Against its stark mountainous backdrop, the partly rock-hewn Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut at Deir al-Bahri is a breath-taking sight. Colossi of Memnon: the two enthroned statues of Amenhotep III are the first monuments most visitors see on arriving in the West Bank. Bus to Hurghada over night at your selected hotel.
Day 9: Morning of Day 9, you will be transferred to the Ferry terminal in Hurghada to take the fast ferry from Hurghada to Sharm El Sheik. Upon arrival in Sharm El Sheik you will be transferred to Dahab where we will welcome you to our lovely paradise Penguin Village where you can continue your holiday in your own way. Choose to go diving the unique coral reefs of the red sea, snorkel the world famous blue hole, take the pilgrimage to St. Catherines monestary and explore the beautiful Sinai desert in jeeps or in tranquil silence on camels or alternatively just sit back and relax and enjoy the paradise that is Dahab.
Padi Guided Dives
Since the Egyptian Federation of diving has been reinforcing regulations, by law no one is allowed to dive without a local guide.
Even the most experienced diver must dive with one of our Dive Master/Dive Guide.
Fair enough really ? You don’t want to bother yourself with navigation and orientation when you’re supposed to be on vacation! Just follow us and let our team do their job! Let them show you all the little secrets of each dive spot.
With a visibility up to 30 meters, our 15 dive sites are all shore dives, except for two sites that can be reached by camel or by boat (more information in Safaris).
The magic and colorful reef of Dahab is only a few meters from the beach and easily accessible. No need for a boat, just a short jeep ride to get to the spot! It’s especially good for beginners and relaxed for experienced divers.
From the famous Blue Hole and Canyon to the very rich coral reef of the Islands and Eel Garden, not to mention our very own house reef and night dives at the Light House, our guide will make sure that you take the best memories home with you.
Depending on the level of each diver, on their confidence in the water and on the sea conditions, your Dive Master will plan each day with you. Special requests, special treatment or specific skills to work on, at the end of every day, we return from the dive, sit together, log our dive, discuss and prepare for the next day. It’s a family affair!
Dive groups are formed of a maximum of 6 divers per guide and we set off every morning at 9:00am from the dive center with our jeep and drive to the chosen spot. Our afternoon dives start at approximately 1:30pm.
From North to South, between the mountains and the sea, distances to the sites are never more than a few kilometers.
As a PADI standard, if you haven’t dived for more than 6 months you will have to start with a refresher dive.
This is comprised of a short briefing on the skills, a confined water dive to demonstrate those skills and then a normal dive. Once you are fully refreshed on your skills you can join the groups on our guided dives
Our tanks are steel tank and 12 liters or 15 liters are available.
Nitrox is also available for Nitrox Certified Divers.
For certified divers, please note that even though Sea View Divers is a certified PADI center, all others associations and certifications (CMAS, SSI, FFDM, BSAC) are accepted.
Following PADI standards, our professional instructors are more than happy to get you through all courses. From the “Discovering Scuba Diving” to “The Open Water Course”, different specialties and the Dive Master Training, they are there to assist you in your diving evolution, to show you from where it should start and where it can go.
As mentioned earlier, Sea View Divers are there to share the experiences which our instructors hold in their hearts, in their past. It is way too beautiful to keep to themselves. It needs to be spread all over, including to you!
Our courses are offered in multiple languages. French, English, Dutch, Spanish, Arabic…You name it, you get it.
Some confined open water sessions take place in our swimming pool located next to the dive centre but for most of the part, they will be conducted in the sea. For this we can take advantage of places like the Light House or the Blue Lagoon where you can find a nice shallow and sandy area. There is no better place in the world than this to perfect your skills! A fish passing by while taking off your mask, how does that sound!
Remember that all the PADI books and materials can be purchased here. Equipment wise, the rental is included in the price of each course, as well as the certification.
You’ll find below a short description of each course. For more information, you know who to ask…we are here to answer any further questions. Feel free to contact us
PADI Course and Experience Prgram
Bubblemaker
Kids - bring your parents diving! For young adventurers like you, the Bubblemaker program is an introduction to the thrill of breathing underwater. If you're eight or nine years of age, now is your chance to take the plunge with a PADI Instructor and go pool diving.
Whether it's a glass of milk, bubble gum or submerged beneath the surface - you can't help blowing bubbles! So try blowing bubbles our way. Start out on the right fin, jump into the PADI Bubblemaker program today! Discover Scuba Diving (One Dive)
The PADI Discover Scuba Diving program lets you experience the thrill of diving under the supervision of a PADI Professional in pool open water sea conditions. During your adventure, you'll master some basic concepts and scuba skills and might even head off to experience an open water adventure.
When you participate in a Discover Scuba Diving program, you discover excitement and adventure - freedom and serenity. Nothing compares to the "weightless" exhilaration of breathing underwater. Only a diver knows the feeling!
What will I need?
A sense of adventure
Discover Scuba Diving brochure
Minimum age: 10
PADI Scuba Diver (2-3 Days)
Thinking of getting certified for an upcoming vacation, but don't have the time to put into a regular diver course? Now there's a quick and easy program designed especially for you! This is your chance to slap on some fins, strap on a mask and experience an intense adventure in a short amount of time.
The PADI Scuba Diver program is a pre-entry level certification that is perfect for vacationers or people who only plan to dive a couple times a year.
As a subprogram of the PADI Open Water Diver program, the PADI Scuba Diver rating allows you to get certified quickly and easily by minimizing time constraints. With the PADI Scuba Diver certification you can dive under the direct supervision of a PADI Divemaster, Assistant Instructor, Instructor or higher professional on your next vacation or dive trip
Throughout the course, you’ll learn fundamentals of scuba diving, including dive equipment and techniques. You earn this rating by completing pool dives, knowledge development sessions and by making two open water dives.
Minimum age: 10
PADI Open Water Diver course (4-5 Days)
Now is the time to dive into the PADI Open Water Diver course, the most popular dive program in the world! This is your ticket to a lifetime of intense adventure with PADI, the dive company that sets the standards in the global diving community.
What do I need to start?
Virtually anyone who is in good health, reasonably fit, and comfortable in the water can earn a PADI Open Water Diver certification. You must be older than the age of 14 to begin the PADI Open Water Diver program.
Throughout the course, you’ll learn fundamentals of scuba diving, including dive equipment and techniques. You earn this rating by completing five pool dives and knowledge development sessions and by making four open water dives.
Adventure Diver (1-2 Days) and Advance Open Water Diver (2-3 Days)
The Adventures in Diving program offers both the Adventure Diver and Advanced Open Water Diver certifications. If you complete any three adventure dives, you can earn your PADI Adventure Diver certification. If you complete your Deep Adventure Dive, Underwater Navigation Adventure Dive and three Adventure Dives for a total of five, you can earn your Advanced Open Water Diver certification.
Here's your chance because you can sample three dives of your choice, get a taste of what you like, and feel more comfortable in the water, strengthening your underwater skills and letting you enjoy diving more than ever.
Minimum age: 15 years old (10 for PADI Junior Adventure Diver)
This certification includes three of the following Adventure Dives:
Adventure Dives available to divers 10 years old and older: AWARE-Fish Identification, Underwater Naturalist, Boat Diver, Underwater Navigator, Peak Performance Buoyancy, Underwater Photography
Additional Adventure Dives available to divers 12 years old and older: Altitude Diver, Multilevel Diver, Deep Diver, Night Diver, Search and Recovery Diver, Drift Diver, Underwater Videography
Minimum age: 15 years old (10 for PADI Junior Adventure Diver)
Rescue Diver (3 Days)
The PADI Rescue Diver will expand your knowledge and experience beyond purely recreational level because you'll learn to look beyond yourself and consider the safety and well being of other divers. Although this course is serious, it is an enjoyable way to build your confidence.
What will I do?
Rescue Diver training will prepare you to prevent problems and, if necessary, manage dive emergencies. During the five open water sessions, you'll cover:
Self-rescue and diver stress
dive first aid
emergency management and equipment
swimming and non-swimming assists
panicked diver response
underwater problems
missing diver procedures
surfacing the unconscious diver
inwater artificial respiration
egress (exits)
first aid procedures for pressure related accidents
dive accident scenarios
PADI Master Scuba Diver
This certification denotes that you've reached the highest recreational diver level in the PADI System of diver education. PADI Master Scuba Diver indicates you have a significant amount of training and experience in a variety of dive environments.
PADI Open Water Diver certification (or qualifying certification from another organization)
PADI Advanced Open Water Diver certification (or qualifying certification from another organization)
PADI Rescue Diver certification (or qualifying certification from another organization)
50 logged dives
Five PADI Specialty course certifications
Minimum age: 15 years old (12 for Junior Master Scuba Diver)
Divemaster
Take the first step in your dive career and become a PADI Divemaster. Working closely with a PADI Instructor, you'll expand your dive knowledge and hone your skills as you become a dive professional. PADI Divemaster training develops your leadership abilities by training you to supervise dive activities and assist instructors with student divers. What can PADI Divemasters do?
Work at local dive centers, on live-aboard dive boats, yachts and at exotic resort locations
Assist PADI Instructors with students
Lead PADI Scuba Divers on guided dive tours
Teach and certify PADI Skin Divers
Teach PADI Discover Snorkeling programs
Conduct PADI Scuba Review programs for certified divers
Lead certified divers on Discover Local Diving experiences
Teach Emergency First Response programs after successful completion of an Emergency First Response Instructor course.
What will I do?
Learn dive leadership through classroom and independent study sessions
Complete water skills and stamina exercises in confined and open water
Training exercises to test organizational and problem solving abilities
An internship or series of practical training exercises
A month or more should be considered to complete the course.
Minumum age : 18
.
Diving Safaris
Between 15 and 20 km away Dahab there are two protected areas where coral reef and aquatic life are still untouched.
Gabr El Bint, in the south, is well known for the forest of Gorgonians and the presence of bigger fish which are rarely seen in Dahab. Ras Abu Galum, in the north, well recognized for the beauty of the reef and the spirit outside of the water. There you’ll find a small Bedouin village and a few huts similar to how Dahab used to be a few years ago.
These two exclusive dive sites can be reached by camel or by boat only. It might be the occasion to make your first camel ride or to experience the pleasure of diving from a boat!
Camel Safari
Early in the morning, the jeep will drive you to the end of the road, where a camel will be waiting for you, then on a few kilometers to the site. Bedouins will take care of packing the equipment, the tanks and the food on each side of the camel. The Camel is a very strong animal, don’t worry, they can handle it!
After riding the camel for about an hour, you should be at the dive site ready to assemble your equipment and get the dive started. The Bedouins, who will be following, will also take care of preparing the lunch served either between the two dives or at the end of the dive.
At the end of the day, we’ll pack everything again and head back to Dahab. You will follow the sea on the right, the high mountains of Sinai on the left and you and your camel in between…a very nice combination.
Please note that overnight trip can also be organized.
Boat Safari
The Jetty is located 5 minutes from the center of Dahab where you will find our boat. We are not talking about a small boat, but a boat 26 meters long with a comfy capacity of 27 guests. Quality service, friendly crew…The standard is very high.
It takes 45 to 60 minutes to get to the dive site. Following the coast, it’s one hour to spend watching the landscape, relaxing, talking, sleeping, whatever you like! The boat is big enough to have your own space.
With the advantage of having such a friendly captain, special requests are also welcome. Depending on the sea conditions, a drift dive or the exploration of other dive sites along the coast might be possible.
The boat usually leaves from the jetty at 8h00am. Generally, we are back at about 16h30…but it all depends on how much time we spend relaxing between the two dives!
Open buffet and drinks are served on the boat.
Snorkelers are more than welcome aboard.
Snorkeling Trip
A big advantage for Dahab`s visitors is that, even if you are not adept at scuba diving, the coral reef is still accessible for you. All along the coast, colors and signs of underwater life can be seen, even from the shore.
So grab your mask, fins and snorkel or rent them from our dive center. Take a walk to the Islands, Eel Garden or the Light House (10 to 20 minutes walking distance), or use our jeep which takes people everyday to the Blue Hole or the Southern Oasis (12km maximum distance). You can also check to see if we have any camel or boat safaris planned to Ras Abu Galum, our the two protected areas (more information in Safaris).
No matter where you’re going to, there will always be amazing colors, a big diversity of corals and a huge amount of fish to discover. It’s all along the coast, no exceptions!
These trips, except for the camel or boat safaris, are offered as a half-day or a full day trip.
Don’t be shy to ask us for a guide. Some of you might be new to snorkeling and may feel safer by having a guide with you…EASY, we’ll send you one of our best swimmers to look after you. Just ask!
How to get to Dahab By plane: The main airport is Sharm El Sheikh (SSH), which is approx. 1-1.5 hours away from Dahab. We organise transfers from the airport to Dahab. The next airport is Taba (TCP), which is around 2-5 hours away. By Bus: There are about 4-5 buses per day from Cairo to Dahab (there is also a night bus), the journey takes around 9 hours.
If you arrive from the Taba border: the easiest is to take a taxi from there, it will take you about 2.5 hours (for approx. 400 LE). Otherwise, a public bus runs about 1-2 times per day only.
Luggage and dive gear Divers or surfers may well want to bring their own equipment with them. Please bear in mind that there is normally a 20 kg per person limit on luggage. Most airlines will push that up to 30kg if you let them know in advance you’ll be travelling with sports equipment. So make sure you give them a call and also pack sports gear in a separate bag. Dive torches must have their bulbs removed.
You can buy most of your holiday accessories in Dahab, but there are some vital items you should make sure you don’t forget: Sun glasses, sun hat, sun cream, mosquito spray or cream (Off or Autan), warm clothing for the evenings. Short-sighted divers might like to take disposable daily contact lenses with them. Average Temperatures (Air / Water in Celsius)
With an average of 2 days rain per year, little clouds, Dahab is almost sunny all year around, making it a great holiday destination to escape from the cold and grey.
January
21 / 22
May
31 / 22
September
36 / 25
February
23 / 21
June
38 / 23
October
33 / 25
March
26 / 21
July
39 / 25
November
27 / 24
April
31 / 21
August
39 / 25
December
22 / 23
Visa and documentation You can buy your visa at the Egyptian embassy in your country before you leave, however it’s far easier to buy it on arrival at the airport, for this, you’ll be given a landing card on the plane It costs about 15 USD / 15 Euros – you simply go to the bank counter in the arrivals hall where you’ll be given two stamps to stick in your passport. Make sure that your passport is valid for at least another six months. The visa you’ll receive is ‘All Egypt’, allowing you to travel beyond Sinai if you want to explore the rest of the country.
If you’re planning to stay only in Dahab, you can get a „SINAY ONLY“ visa, which is normally free and you won’t need stamps for your passport. If you want a „SINAY ONLY“ visa, remember to write this on your landing card. Remember: this visa is valid for stays of max. 14 days, and if you change your mind and want to explore further afield, such as diving in Ras Mohamed or going on safari in Sinai, getting an ‘All Egypt’ visa once you’ve left the airport is very complicated and difficult (you might need to go to Israel!!).
Please also check the website of your government to see the latest entrance visa rules.
Insurance We strongly recommend that you take out travel insurance before leaving home. Particularly if you’re planning on diving or riding horses or camels, make sure your policy covers these activities. You can buy special diving insurance at www.padi.com or www.daneurope.org.
Vaccinations There are no requirements for vaccinations when travelling to Egypt at the moment. However, it is advised that you’re vaccinated against polio, hepatitis A and tetanus.
Advice for divers Make sure you’re fit and healthy before diving. If you want to do a PADI dive course then you’ll need to fill out a PADI health check form. If you answer ‘yes’ to any of the questions you are advised to get medical approval before you dive, and bring this with you. Feel free to ask dahab.net to send you the PADI health-check document.
Telephone and internet The mobile network in Egypt now has very good coverage. Mobile phones work in most places. You can also make calls with phone cards from public phones and phone shops for about 1 Euro per minute. If you plan on staying longer in Dahab, it is worth getting an Egyptian call-by-call SIM card (Mobinil or Vodafone), this will save you a lot of money.
There are plenty of internet cafes – most are high speed DSL connections and cost 8 LE (approx. 0.80 GBP) per hour.
Numerous Beach-Cafes now also offer free WLAN.
Money The currency is the Egyptian Pound (written as LE), which translates to about LE11 to £1 and about LE 8,4 to 1 EUR. All banks and some shops will change currency for you. Banks are open normally from 9am – 2pm and 5-10pm.
Holes in the wall / ATMs There are several holes in the wall in Dahab. You can take out money using Visa, Mastercard, Maestro as well as EC and Cirrus Cards, using your PIN number. Beware: the ATMs do not always work (slight exception: CIB Bank in Mashraba), so do not wait till the last minute to retrieve cash! If you would like to retrieve cash upon arrival in Egypt, there is an ATM at the SSH airport before the passport control.
Prices:
Dahab ist quite inexpensive for Western standards. Here some guidelines: Supermarket:
Water 1,5liter: 2-3 LE Cola can: 2-3 LE
Crisps/small snacks: 2-4 LE Restaurant:
Nescafe/Tea: 5 LE Fruit juices: 12 LE Beer: 12 LE
Vegetarian meal: 20-30 LE Meat: 60 LE Fish: 70 LE
Cigarettes: 5-10 LE Taxi within Dahab: 5-10 LE (per Taxi, not per person!! Please don’t pay more, a lot of taxi drivers are spoiling prices by asking outrageous amounts)
Local culture Please respect the local culture. Women should dress moderately when walking in the streets and men should not walk without shirt in the streets – despite the rise in skimpy outfits due to the increase in tourism, the local Egyptians and Bedouins do find this offensive and you should avoid it as much as possible.
Safety Petty crime rates are low here compared to European countries and the tourism police have a high presence in the town. Most of them speak English and are very willing to help in case of difficulty.
Health Dahab has plenty of doctors, excellent dentists and physiotherapists as well as a hospital. There are several pharmacies and most hotels will have a doctor on call if necessary.
Divers should make sure they have specific diving insurance in case of accidents, which may require them to use the decompression chamber in Dahab. Divers can get an insurance at the local dive centers for the chamber DECO International Dahab.
Remember to drink at least 2-3 litres of water each day to avoid dehydration, and in the summer or if you are a diver even much much more!
Transport In Dahab you can use any of the jeeps and pickups that act as taxis, and should charge you between LE 5 for most local journeys. If you want to take a bus to Sharm, Cairo or Nuweiba, then you need to take an East Delta bus from the station – it’s best to reserve tickets at the office, open 8am – 10pm, before travelling.
Further schedules are at www.ask-aladdin.com/transportation_in_egypt.htm
A few arabic phrases…
Greeting: salam aleikum Answer: aleikum salam
Please: min faddlak Thank you: Shukran You are welcome: Afuan
Bye bye: ma’salaama Yes: aiwa No: la
Important phone numbers
Prefix Egypt: +20 Prefix Dahab: 069
Doctors Dr Ahmed Sadek 012-3486 209
Dr Heikal 010-1433 325
Dentist
Dr Adel Ramadan 012-4515 998
Sharm el Sheikh
Emergency 069-3661 744 / 745
International Hospital 069-3660 20
Welcome to Octopus Resort Garden Reservation System please be sure to fill all the fields with the correct information so we can help you finish your reservation as fast as possible and make sure you select the type of your request, so if you are making a new reservation please choose the reservation field and if you are requesting anything else then chose general information.
For more Information please contact us at the following addresses:
Dahab Bud Station ( from and to ) the hotel.
.
