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Marsa Alam
ℹ️Practical info — Marsa Alam
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🌤 Weather — 5 days
📍 Nearby
Sights nearby
💡 Tips
- Don't forget reef-safe sunscreen, as the coral reefs are easily accessible from the shore but sensitive.
- The wind can pick up in the afternoon, making mornings the best time for snorkeling or diving.
- Transportation between resorts and town is limited; rely on pre-arranged taxis or hotel shuttles.
- If you plan to visit the Wadi el Gemal National Park, bring a copy of your passport as there are checkpoints.
🍽 Food
In the restaurants around the Port Ghalib marina.
Served in traditional desert camps during safaris.
A traditional fish dish with spiced rice, available in local fish restaurants.
🛍 Shopping · 🧘 Quiet spots
At the El Quseir market, a short drive north.
Handwoven textiles often offered during desert excursions.
A pristine beach, first-rate for relaxing hours.
In the Wadi El Gemal National Park, convenient for birdwatching in nature.
Water temperature…
Marsa Alam was once a small fishing village on the Red Sea and has transformed over the past two decades into one of Egypt's leading tourist destinations. Located in the far south of the country, about 270 kilometers south of Hurghada, the city is primarily renowned for its pristine coral reefs and rich marine life. The Elphinstone Reef is particularly famous, being considered one of the best shark-diving sites in the world. Another highlight is Abu Dabbab Bay, where rare dugongs (sea cows) and giant sea turtles can be observed. The opening of an international airport in 2001 significantly accelerated the region's growth. Beyond tourism, Marsa Alam is historically known for gold and emerald mining; the nearby Sukari gold mine is one of the largest in the country. The surrounding area also features the Wadi el Gemal National Park, which protects an impressive variety of desert landscapes and coastal ecosystems. The city features an exclusive and nature-oriented atmosphere, far from mass tourism. The development of Port Ghalib has further established Marsa Alam as a premium destination for luxury yachts.
- Location: Egypt
- Nearby: Port Ghalib (51 km)
- Population: ~10.000 (2022)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 19 | 20 | 22 | 25 | 28 | 30 | 32 | 32 | 30 | 28 | 24 | 21 |
| Rain mm | 4 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 1 |
Geography
Facts
- Marsa Alam is located about 270 km south of Hurghada on the Red Sea.
- The Marsa Alam International Airport was opened in 2001.
- Abu Dabbab Bay is home to rare sea cows known as dugongs.
- Elphinstone Reef is world-famous for its hammerhead and reef sharks.
- The nearby Sukari gold mine is one of the largest in the world.
- Emeralds have been mined in this region since Pharaonic times.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Frequently asked questions
What makes Marsa Alam special?
What is Abu Dabbab?
Is there an airport there?
Can you travel to Luxor from here?
Is the area good for families?
Marsa Alam: where is it located?
Marsa Alam: when is the best time to visit?
Marsa Alam: why is it worth visiting?
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