Do the history first, then the coast — it's the natural order and the easier logistics. Cairo, Luxor and Aswan come first, then a short flight to Hurghada or Sharm El Sheikh for the diving days. You don't need certification to snorkel the reefs, but scuba diving requires it — decide which you're doing before you book dive-specific add-ons.
Key takeaways
- Snorkeling needs no certification; scuba diving does.
- Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh both have short flights connecting to Cairo and Luxor.
- 3–4 dedicated coast nights is enough to dive multiple sites without rushing.
- Book certification courses in advance if you plan to dive without one already.
A shape that works
| Days | Focus |
|---|---|
| 4–5 | Cairo, Luxor, Aswan — the classic route |
| 3–4 | Fly to Hurghada or Sharm El Sheikh for diving |
See Hurghada vs Sharm El Sheikh for which coast suits your specific dive interests better.
Certified or not
If you're not certified, most resort towns run beginner courses (typically a few days), or you can snorkel the shallower reefs without any certification at all. Either way, book with a recognized dive operator and check equipment and safety standards before committing.
Frequently asked questions
Can beginners dive in Egypt?
Yes — resort towns run certification courses for complete beginners, typically over a few days.
Is snorkeling enough to see the reefs well?
For many of the shallower, most colorful reefs, yes — see our Giftun Island snorkeling trip for an example that needs no certification.
Reviewed September 2026.