El Tur

Although it is the capital of the Governorate of South Sinai, El Tur is quite small. It features a central market and a few shopping streets around it. Foreigners usually visit it only to renew visas, but the town does have some charm and a couple of sights. It is located on the coast, at the edge of the vast sandy plain known as el Qaa, that stretches from the high mountain ranges. Jebel Umm Shaumar and Jebel Serbal are the highest peaks, clearly visible. 


  • The old town (Al-Kilani quarter) – This is probably the most distinctive part of El Tur. It contains the remains of traditional Red Sea houses built from coral blocks, local stone, mud, and timber. Some are partly ruined, while others are still standing. It gives a rare impression of what a Red Sea port looked like before modern concrete buildings. The coral architecture is unique in Egypt and has been studied by Japanese archaeologists.
  • El-Kilani Mosque – One of the oldest mosques in South Sinai, rebuilt in the 19th century but standing on an older religious site. It contains the tomb of Sheikh al-Kilani.
  • Hammam Musa (Baths of Moses) – About 3–4 km northeast of the town are several hot sulphur springs (around 37°C). The water is rich in sulphur and minerals and has been used for centuries for bathing and is believed to help with skin and rheumatic conditions. Palm trees and gardens surround the springs.
  • Raithou Monastery archaeological site – On the outskirts of El Tur are the remains of the Byzantine Monastery of Raithou, founded in the 6th century during the reign of Emperor Justinian. The monastery commemorates the monks of Raithou who were killed during a raid in the 4th century. The site is on Egypt's UNESCO Tentative List.
  • Archaeological excavations – documented by Egyptian and Japanese archaeological missions.
  • The seafront and fishing harbour – While not a major tourist attraction, the corniche, fishing boats, and views across the Gulf of Suez make for a pleasant walk, particularly at sunset.

See photos of El Tur.


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