Sharm el Sheikh - What to do that doesn't involve being in the water?
 

Our timing is terrible for visiting Sharm el Sheikh. We are on our way to Sharm specifically to snorkel, but the waters are closed to snorkelers and swimmers. We are wondering what else there is to do there. We are active, not lay on the beach or by the pool types, so your suggestions for things to do that involve some physical exertion will be most helpful. Advice for hiking Mt Sinai is welcome.

What kind of hiking are you doing at Mt Sinai? Are you taking the usual hike up in very the early morning in order to catch the sunrise? Most people take the camel route up at around 1:30 am; It's not difficult, just long. About 2-3 hours to reach the top. And they then take the Steps of Repentance down the mountain, which can be hard on the knees. (I thought those steps took forever to get to the bottom, lol.) My advice is to wear comfortable hiking/walking shoes. It does get windy and cold once you reach the top and you have to wait around 2 or more hours for the sun to rise, so wear layers for warmth. You can also rent blankets at the top to keep warm.

Bring a torch light with you, preferably the type that can leave your hands free.

Find the Fun-n-Sun kiosks in Naama Bay for a variety of activities available. They will have 4 x 4 ATV tours to take, Camel rides, the hike up Mt. Sinai and probably more. If you are a golfer, there is a good course at the newer Jolliville Movenpick Hotel (out of Naama Bay and towards the airport. Take a day trip up to Dahab, Nuweiba or Taba to snorkel there.
Other than that - shop, drink, and get a tan.

Hire a 4WD with driver and visit the White or the Colored Canyon.

Sorry to read of your disappointments. Why are the waters closed? Is it due to the recent shark attacks? Pollution?
Thanks. Hope it gets solved soon, like by next Oct.

Thanks all for your suggestions. Yes, the waters are closed due to the recent shark attacks, not pollution. By next October they will certainly be open again. The shark(s) will be move on.

Sharks it appears or they think one hungry shark is eating folks.
Seems he has a taste for Russians. Article is on yahoo.

Take Care

Well, I'll just carry my passport in a plastic bag to show the shark I'm not Russian.
He he he.