Marsa Alam – Travel Guide
Marsa Alam, a hidden gem on Egypt`s Red Sea coast, is known for its pristine beaches and incredible marine life. It offers world-class diving and snorkeling spots, including the famous Dolphin House and Elphinstone Reef. Visitors can explore untouched coral reefs, swim with dolphins, or relax in luxury beachfront resorts. With its tranquil atmosphere and rich underwater world, Marsa Alam is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
All about Marsa Alam
Getting around Marsa Alam
Transportation
Most everywhere around the town will require either a car, taxi, or rental bike. You can also arrange off-site driving through the drive center at your hotel. Cars for side trips can be arranged through the front desk of your hotel as well.
Marsa Alam FAQ
Where is Marsa Alam?
Located 170 miles south of Hurghada on the west coast of the Red Sea, Marsa Alam is located at the confluence of the Hurghada-Halaib Coastal Road with the Marsa Alam-Edfu Road.
What is the best way to get to Marsa Alam?
If you do not take a private transfer with us, there are a few options to reach Marsa Alam. The fastest and easiest way is to fly directly to Marsa Alam International Airport. However, the airport is small and few companies fly there (domestic and charter flight services). Once at the airport, take a taxi to your hotel or a pick-up at the airport can often be organized by your hotel.
By Bus – It takes around 8 hours to reach Marsa Alam from Cairo and there are many bus services on this route. The best bus company is GoBus followed by Webus. There are also regular bus services between Marsa Alam and Edfu, Aswan, and Luxor but foreign tourists are not allowed to use those routes. Any tourist wishing to travel to Luxor must travel in convoy along the Safaga to Qena road which means you have to backtrack two-thirds of the way back to Hurghada before crossing over to the Nile valley.
By Taxi – It costs approximately 3000 EGP for a one-way ride to Marsa Alam from Cairo.
How do I get around in Marsa Alam?
You can get around either by taxi or minibus. Be sure to negotiate the price of the taxi before the ride.
What is Marsa Alam known for?
It is known as the ‘Egyptian Maldives,’ but still not very touristy. It is a great destination for scuba diving, snorkeling, kitesurfing, and beach vacationing.
The beaches are quiet and serene and a far cry from the vacationing crowds of Sharm el Sheikh and Hurghada. It is also a sleepy town with not much to do except to dive, snorkel, sail, and enjoy the beautiful beaches.
Read More
When is the best time to visit? What is the weather like?
Because Marsa Alam is farther south than other beach resorts, the enviable climate is warmer, especially in winter, when the temperature averages between 60 and 84 degrees Fahrenheit – making it a comfortable holiday destination all year round. Also, most hotels have bays that are protected from the infamously strong Egyptian winds.
Temperatures in Marsa Alam reach average highs of 75 to 84 F from November to April. During these (comparatively) cooler months, the sea is still good for diving in a wet suit. Sea temperatures from November to April range from 72 to 79 F.
Things heat up in the summer months, June through August, and the water gets very warm as well. Marsa Alam is most ideal during spring, fall, and the early and tail ends of winter.
When is the best time to dive?
Around April and May, the visibility in Marsa Alam is reduced by the plankton bloom but that attracts Manta Rays and Whale Sharks. The coldest water occurs in January when the temperature is about 75°F. Whale Sharks can be spotted between May and June. Avoid November to February as strong winds can make the sea choppy. The best diving conditions are available during the summer months. One can spot Hammerhead Sharks and Manta rays season in Elphinstone Reef runs from May to August. The season of the famous Oceanic Whitetip Shark runs from October to December in Elphinstone Reef.
Can I pay/tip in US dollars?
The official currency is the Egyptian Pounds, but Dollars and Euros are very welcome.
You’ll need some cash in Marsa Alam, and it’s very possible that the ATM in town does not have any. We recommend that you bring some cash from wherever you are coming from.
You may also find it hard to pay by card in many places, or you may be charged a hefty commission to do so.
I don`t speak Arabic. Will many people speak English?
The official language is Arabi, however, the majority speaks English and German, and sometimes even Italian. We suggest you get a good English-Arabic guidebook or app on your phone and familiarize yourself with common phrases such as hello, goodbye, excuse me and numbers 1-10.
What is the tourist infrastructure?
Pharmacies, shops, bars, and restaurants are starting to pop up in town. You can also head to neighboring Port Ghalib, about an hour away, to eat at one of the restaurants there.
Is Marsa Alam safe to travel to?
Yes, it is generally safe. LIke any tourist destination, it’s important to exercise common sense and caution. Respecting local customs and dressing modestly can reduce any potential issues.
What should I do if I need medical assistance or need to go to the hospital?
Emergency number: 123
Marsa Alam has a few small clinics and medical centers that can provide basic medical care, including treatment for minor injuries, common illnesses, and emergencies.
The nearest well-equipped hospitals are in the larger towns nearby, such as El Quseir, or further north in Hurghada. These hospitals have better facilities and specialized care.
Top Attractions
Sharm el Luli
Spend a day snorkeling and sunbathing, then observe a variety of colorful marine life living in the coral reefs.
Pickalbatros Palace Hotel Port Ghalib
Relaxed quarters in a polished beachfront hotel offering 3 restaurants, a spa & an outdoor pool.
Aqua Coraya
Offers wonderful, healthy fun for all age-groups, with slides up to 10 meters height.
Planet Spa at the Palace Port Ghalib
Enjoy undisturbed luxury bath with sound of relaxing oriental music.
Unique Experiences
.
Abu Dabbab Beach Full Day Trip with Turtles: Abu Dabbab Beach is known for its spectacular coral, as well as excellent turtle spotting and occasionally dugong too. Skip the self-drive stress and relax on this convenient tour, with transfers direct from your hotel.
.
.
Camel Ride, Bedouin Dinner and Stargazing in Marsa Alam: A wonderful Safari desert tour in the Egyptian desert next to the Red Sea with (Egypt stargazing). It is one of the best things to do while you are in Marsa Alam, for who that like to combine lots of things in one day.
.
What to expect while traveling
