Pharaoh's Island

The island sits a few hundred metres offshore south of Taba, a bare rock ridge with two summits, and it has been fortified because it controls the head of the gulf. The crusaders built a castle here in 1116 to watch the route between Egypt and Syria and to tax the pilgrim and trade traffic, and Saladin took it in 1170 and rebuilt it, adding towers, cisterns, storerooms and a mill. What stands now is largely his work: curtain walls following the ridge, round and square towers, and a system for collecting rainwater, since there is no spring. There is also evidence of much earlier use of the anchorage. The reef around the island is protected and the snorkelling is very good, which for many visitors is the better half of the trip.

What you actually see

• Curtain walls along the ridge - Saladin's rebuild of the crusader castle.
• Rock-cut cisterns - the water system on an island with no spring.
• The gulf view from the summit - four coastlines from the highest tower.
• Reef around the island - protected coral with excellent snorkelling.

When to go

October to May. Mornings are calmest for the crossing and best for snorkelling. Half a day including the boat. Access has closed at various times, so check locally before planning.

Honest expectations

Access depends on boat operators and on the site being open, and it has been closed for extended periods. The climb around the walls is on rough rock with drops and no railings. There is no shade and no water on the island. Bring your own snorkelling gear.

Nearby

Taba is a short boat ride north; the coast road runs south to Nuweiba.