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Things to Do in Suez

Things to Do in Suez

Suez Egypt Travel Guide

Desert & Water Escapes

Suez city has limited formal outdoor adventure options; the surrounding desert and Red Sea seaboard offer possibilities.

Land Adventures

Hiking & Trekking

Suez city lacks formal routes. Desert excursions into the nearby Eastern Desert mountains require experienced guides.

Wildlife Safaris

Jeep or quad bike safaris can go into the nearby desert. These usually have visits to Bedouin camps. Marine living in the Gulf of Suez is not easily accessible for tourist viewing from Suez city.

Cycling Information

Suez has limited to no safe or designated cycling routes. Cycling on main roads is not recommended owing to significant traffic.

Aqua Fun

  • Limited direct water sports activities in Suez city itself. The port is mainly industrial.
  • For snorkeling, diving, and other water sports, travelers typically visit Ain Sokhna, approximately one hour away.
  • Or travel further south to world-class diving destinations like Hurghada or Sharm El Sheikh.
  • These resorts offer organized water activities.

Local Fishing

  • Experience local fishing culture.
  • Hire a local boat for a day.
  • Learn long-standing practices.
  • Enjoy the fresh catch.

Beach Day

  • Visit nearby Ain Sokhna's beaches.
  • Swim in clear Red Sea waters.
  • Enjoy resort amenities.
  • Sunbathe and unwind.

Canal Observation

  • Watch large vessels navigate the Canal.
  • Photograph passing ships.
  • Learn about maritime trade.
  • Enjoy Corniche strolls.

Safety Notice for Adventures

Always use licensed operators for the desert excursions and water sports. Confirm safety equipment and experienced guides. Solo desert investigation is not recommended.

Engaging with Local Life

Opportunities for cultural immersion in Suez often involve engaging with everyday life.

Local Interaction

  • Workshops & Classes: Not typically offered for tourists in Suez. More common in larger cultural centers like Cairo.
  • Local Projects: Community-based tourism is not widely developed in Suez.
  • Language Learning: Informal engaging with local people is a chance to pick up basic Arabic phrases. Most people appreciate visitors who make an effort.
  • Cultural Festivals: Religious holidays like Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are significant events, family-oriented rather than tourist festivals.

Authentic Experiences

Ahwas Experience

Be in traditional local cafes, known as "ahwas." Enjoy tea, coffee, and shisha (water pipe) while observing local social engagement.

Souk Exploration

Exploring the bustling local markets is an authentic experience of daily life. Observe local commerce and interact with vendors.

Mosque Visits

Suez has several mosques. Tourists are generally welcome with appropriate modest dress (refer to Section 3.1). Take off your shoes before going in.

Taste Local Flavors

Dine at local eateries for authentic Egyptian cuisine and fresh seafood dishes, a regional specialty.

Canal Narratives

Visit the Suez National Museum to find out about the Canal's profound impact and history. Gain insight into this global marvel.

Strolling the City

Stroll through the city center and along the Corniche to feel the city's pulse. Observe daily life unfolding around you.

Rejuvenation & Calm

Suez has limited dedicated wellness facilities within the urban area itself.

Hotel Wellness

  • Some higher-high-end accommodations in Suez might have fundamental spa facilities.
  • More extensive and luxurious spa and well-being options are found in nearby Ain Sokhna resorts.
  • There are no hot springs or natural therapy options directly in Suez.
  • Suez is not a destination for retreats for yoga or meditation.

Leisure Spots

Swim & Relax

You can access hotel pools if you are a guest. Inquire about day passes at some places.

Coastal Escape

For specific beach and pool clubs with extensive facilities, Ain Sokhna is the destination. Enjoy the clear Red Sea waters.

Finding Peace

Enjoy tranquil moments along the Suez Canal Corniche during off-peak hours for peaceful contemplation.

Mindful Travel in Suez

Embrace the Pace

Embrace the slower pace of local life. Take time to observe your surroundings and the daily rhythm.

Quiet Moments

Find moments for peaceful reflection along the Suez Canal. Watch ships pass and reflect on its history.

Tea Culture

Savor local tea culture for relaxation. Sip tea at an "ahwa" and unwind in a classic setting.

Evening Pleasures

Suez has a quiet nightlife, focusing on local cafes rather than bustling clubs.

Evening Hubs

  • Live Music: Very limited venues. Some hotel restaurants might occasionally feature entertainment.
  • Theater & Performance: Suez does not have significant theater or performance spaces catering to tourist entertainment.
  • Nightlife AND Dancing: Almost non-existent in Suez city; this city is generally conservative.
  • Bar Districts: Suez does not have bar districts or pub crawls.

Authentic Nightlife

Ahwa Culture

Local cafes, known as "ahwas," are operating late. Here, you can enjoy tea, coffee, shisha (water pipe), and conversation with friends or locals. This is a relaxed late-night experience.

Corniche Strolls

Enjoy a peaceful evening walk along the Suez Canal Corniche. Watch the city lights and the passing ships.

Hotel Lounges

Higher-end hotels may have lounges or bars for a quieter drink in a more private setting.

Casual Hangouts

Modern coffee houses are emerging in Suez. These are places to relax with a brew, enjoy casual chats, and observe local life in a contemporary setting.

Evening for All

Many local restaurants welcome families. Enjoy a relaxed dinner with loved ones. Experience local hospitality in a comfortable setting suitable for all ages.

Seasonal Festivities

Look at local schedules for seasonal events. Participate in public celebrations. Enjoy special food and atmosphere. Experience community spirit in an unique way.

Alcohol Notice

Alcohol availability is limited. Mostly found in specific hotel establishments. Public consumption is generally not appropriate in Suez.

Suez Shopping & Souvenirs

Traditional markets offer goods; ethical shopping is suggested.

Traditional Souks

  • Authentic Experience: Explore bustling local markets for an authentic experience of local life and commerce.
  • Goods: A range of products, including fresh produce, clothing, household items, and some local crafts.
  • Bargaining: Customary in markets. Do so politely and with a smile.
  • Local Vendors: Support local artisans and small small businesses.

What to Buy

Canal Memorabilia

Seek out little models of ships or items related to the Suez Canal.

Local Crafts

Local spices, traditional textiles, and small handicrafts are good souvenirs.

Ethical Buying

Be mindful related to culture heritage items. Genuine antiquities require special permits to export.

Aromatic Treasures

  • Purchase local spices.
  • Enhance your home cooking.
  • Discover new flavors.
  • Support local spice merchants.

Traditional Fabrics

  • Find traditional textiles.
  • Look for unique patterns.
  • Good for gifts or personal use.
  • Supports area craftsmanship.

Artisanal Creations

  • Discover small, locally made handicrafts.
  • Unique keepsakes.
  • Directly benefits local artisans.
  • Gives an authentic touch.

Customs Guidance

Export Rules
  • Check your home country's customs regulations for souvenirs.
  • Genuine antiquities need specific export permits.
  • Be aware of restrictions on cultural heritage items.
Shipping for Larger Items
  • Shipping services are available from major cities like Cairo.
  • Consider shipping for larger purchases or fragile items.
  • Ensure reliable shipping methods for international delivery.

Shopping Tip

While you are shopping in markets, carry small denominations of cash. This aids bargaining and makes transactions smoother.

Activity Planning Summary

Adventure & Exploration

  • Desert excursions (jeep safaris) into the Eastern Desert.
  • Water sports are mostly found in nearby Ain Sokhna.
  • Experience area fishing culture.
  • Observe large vessels in the Suez Canal.

Culture & Leisure

  • Engage in local life through cafes and markets.
  • Relaxation/wellness options are mainly in hotels or Ain Sokhna.
  • Nightlife is quiet, focused on local "ahwas."
  • Shopping for local goods and souvenirs at traditional markets.