el gouna tourism board

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Best Things to Do in El Gouna

Looking for a vibrant tropical destination across the Red sea can be challenging but  El Gouna  is the ideal choice as the things to do in El Gouna is numerous filled with excitement and satisfaction. The magical lagoon of El Gouna is a modernly created miracle located 20km (12 mi) north of  Hurghada offering the chance to live a complete tropical vacation filled with a tremendous vision of natural beauty, rare archaeological sites and every possible means of entertainment. Through our article, you will experience extraordinary 18 things to do in El Gouna starting with:

1. Adventure Kitesurfing in El Gouna

2. stand up paddling, 3. board a boat to fishing tour, 4. enjoy snorkeling tours in el gouna, 5. experience diving trips, 6. swimming with dolphins at dolphin house, 7. enjoy riding camels, 8. have a tour to safari desert by quads, 9. enjoy the nightlife in el gouna, 10. enjoy a bedouin dinner in the desert, 11. marina street festival, 12. golf tour is amazing at el gouna, 13. sliders cable park in el gouna, 14. enjoy submarine tours.

• 15.Shopping Tour in El Gouna
• 16.Visit the Desert Breath

17. Take a Beautiful Sunset Walk on the Beach

18. enjoy a tour to el gouna museum.

This adrenalin backed adventure will be the high light of your best things to do in El Gouna, El Gouna is a hub for water sports such as kitesurfing where every traveler will get to board the skies of el Gouna using a kite carried by the winds of the red sea to explore the allure of El Gouna from above and witness a living miracle, all while being safeguarded by your kite surfing instructor and a number of safety measures.

El Gouna is the home to many awesome watersports like stand up paddling from the lands of Hawaii where everyone can easily paddle across the waters of the red sea and meditate on the surface of its magical waters.

El Gouna is a haven filled with incredible sea creatures of the red sea where you will get the biggest & most amazing catch of your life. while on your fishing boat, you will get to hunt of the beautiful and delicious sea creatures and cook it straight away on your boat under the wonderful skies of El Gouna and the most delightful weather. Fishing will provide a profound joy and pleasure under the waters of the red sea.

The Tropical heaven of El Gouna is able to transcend everyone to whole new levels through a snorkeling experience where all the hidden wonder of that part of the red sea is uncovered. Snorkeling is one of the best things to do in El Gouna where you will enjoy the tranquility of paradise between the beautiful sunshine & beaches and in the marvelous underwater ecosystem filled with rare sea creatures and colorful coral reefs.

Snorkeling Trip from El Gouna – Book Now

A chance to cross the borders between reality and fiction is close by a diving trip to El Gouna where all the wonders of  the Red sea  are located deep down in the delightful Zeytuna beach, Mangroovy beach, Moods beach and many more containing rare marine life of beautiful sea creature and enchanting coral reefs forming a harmonious ecosystem that makes every diver believe in magic and wonder.

Diving Trip from El Gouna – Book Now

A magical swim with the angelic humans of the sea “ The Dolphins ” in the beautiful waters of El Gouna is one of the most entertaining things to do in El Gouna. You will get to feel the magic & harmony of the underwater marine life of the red sea inside the embrace of dolphins who will form a strong connection with you and reveal a number of beautiful sensations about the red sea.

A camel ride across the eastern desert from El Gouna is like stepping into a different time and exploring the wild nature of the eastern desert showcasing pure ageless nature wonders in the embrace of the desert shining the sunlight in the day and in the night where the stars come out to offer a mesmerizing painting across of skies filled with sparking magical lights.

From El Gouna resort lies an adventure in the heavenly lands of the eastern desert where the untouched wild nature of the Sahara will offer true enlightenment. One of the exciting things to do in El Gouna is the safari trip where you will get to ride a quad bike or quad car or a camel around the desert to the heart of the honorable bedouin culture. The nightly skies and atmosphere of the Sahara will enchant your mind and soul as you gaze above at the sun & moon while discovering the wonders of the desert.

Safari Trip from El Gouna – Book Now

The nightlife of El Gouna is a magical chance to achieve the highest form of joy, tranquility, and excitement. Things to do in El Gouna is achance to experience all the locations filled with the wildest hotspots and the almost hypnotic atmosphere across the shores of the magical red sea Rivera. There are various great clubs, discos, and bars in El Gouna filled with creative music, awesome drinks, restaurants and bars for creating a fun memorable time.

If you looking for the best nightly things to do in El Gouna, A Dedouin dinner is one of the recommended things to do where the taste of the delicious Bedouin dinner will remain in your memory forever. The Bedouin people residing in the desert will offer an ancient cuisine dating to thousands of years made from all-natural ingredients such as chicken pie, kofta, rice and potatoes cooked on natural coal, plus the natural baked Bedouin bread which serves directly of the oven directly into your mouth where it immediately melts, followed by a delightful Bedouin tea while enjoying an oriental show and folkloric songs.

If any traveler is in the mood to have some fun while listening to the tasting the most magical music during the great music festival in El Gouna during spring break where a lot of international bands perform a live concert in open ground under a delightful atmosphere.

If you are looking to play some golf then El Gouna hosts a golf course designed by both Gene Bates and Fred Couples and a second golf course real estate project called “Ancient Sands Golf Resort” designed by acclaimed golf course architect Karl Litten which was opened in 2012. El Gouna offers the finest golf game experience accompanied by a magical view across the red sea.

Inside the great city resort of El Gouna is the slider park the only wake park in  Egypt  and also one of the largest cable parks in the world. It is a great place for family and friends where everyone can perform many water activities like wakeboarding, waterski and kneeboarding across 15 floating obstacles plus there is a beach volleyball field. Inside the park there is the golden shell pool club delicious menu of innovative and fruity cocktails, flavourful food, famous local and international DJs, unparalleled entertainment, and panoramic views of the lagoon equipped an oversized leisure pool, bar, restaurant, open cabanas, sunbeds, and shisha house and joyful hits to offer the most relaxed vibe.

15. Shopping Tour in El Gouna

Within the great city resort of El Gouna is all that you can wish for as there is no more awesome experience anyone can perform that a shopping tour On the roads outside the hotel shops where a number of shops that contain all that you want at lower prices are located.

16. Visit the Desert Breath

One of the modern spectacles in El Gouna is “ The Desert Breath ” which is located in the Eastern desert near Hurghada on the Red Sea coast. It is a double-spiral work of land art that suggests an experience of infinity with the desert as a landscape of the mind which is only viewable for only two decades after its creation in march 1997.

There is nothing more magical things to do in El Gouna than the sight of the sunset reflecting on the surface of the red sea like a beautiful enchanting painting from the heavens created for your eyes only. Imagine walking across one of the beaches of el Gouna while being followed by the fading light of the sun as it sets to the other side as you fill up with hope and happiness.

El Gouna houses a museum containing a number of amazing artifacts since opening in 1996. Any traveler in El Gouna will get the chance to explore 90 exhibits featuring statue replicas from the ancient Egyptian culture equipped with three interactive computer displays providing each exhibit with a full description. The facilities inside the museum include 52 contemporary Egyptian paintings.

Complete Your Magical Time By Explore All the Wonders of Egypt

If you plan to spend a beautiful time in El Gouna, so you should know that there are many things to do in El Gouna besides what has been mentioned such as enjoying Nile cruise from El Gouna, visiting the enchanting pyramids, temples & tombs of Pharaohs, and much more where you can find your dream tour through our  El Gouna excursions . Or simply you can customize your own dream tour to your chosen destinations to Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, Alexandria, El Gouna by the booking form below. And of course, your created tour will contain all the essential elements of a tour such as a tour operator will assist you from point A to Z in arranging the best and the most astonishing itinerary for you.

Day Trip from El Gouna to Cairo by Bus

Don't miss our day trip from El Gouna to Cairo by bus to vis...

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From: 135 $, 2 days aswan & abu simbel trip from el gouna.

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2 days tour to cairo & alexandria from el gouna.

Enjoy 2 days El Gouna to Cairo & Alexandria tour to visit th...

From: 435 $

2 days luxor & aswan trips from el gouna.

Amazing two days Luxor & Aswan tour from El Gouna accompanie...

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Share your comment, what should i wear while being in egypt.

You should wear whatever you want. It is advised to wear something light from cotton or linen, comfortable and put on sunblock during your time in Egypt in the summer and wear comfortable footwear like a closed-toe shoe to sustain the sandy terrain.

What to Pack for Your Egypt Tour?

You should bring a brimmed hat and sunglasses if you not used to the Egyptian sun &pack everything you could ever need and put in a small bag so you could move easily between your destinations.

Are All Nile Cruises Available at Any Time?

Yes, it is available all years. as the Nile from Aswan to Luxor takes three to four days of sailing on Monday, Wednesday and Friday for the total cost of 600$ and the Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan take four to five days in Saturday, Monday and Thursday for the coast of 650$.

Why book Trips in Egypt?

We have experience in vacation planning for more than 10 years & our staff consists of the most professional operators, guides and drivers who dedicate all of their time & effort create the perfect vacation. All of our tours are customized by Travel, Financial & Time advisors to fit your every possible need during your time in egypt. we always keep in mind that your safety & comfort are our main priority until you return home.

Is it safe to travel to Egypt?

Yes, it is absolutely safe to travel to egypt, You will feel secure in Egypt as the current atmosphere of the country is very peaceful after the government took powerful measures like restructuring the entire tourist police to include all the important and tourist attractions in Egypt and construct an entire environment dedicated for ensuring the lives of all tourists.

What are Egypt's Visa Requirements?

They are very simples, If you want to apply for a Visa On Arrival that lasts for 30 days then you should be one of the eligible countries(check the link), have a valid passport with at least 6 months remaining and pay 25$ USD entry fee in cash. As for the E-Visa for 30 days, you should have a valid passport for at least 8 months, complete the online application, pay the e-visa fee then print the e-visa to later be presented to the airport border guard. You could be one of the countries eligible for a free visa for 90 days.

What is the Weather is Like?

The temperature of Egypt ranges from 37c to 14 c, Summer in Egypt is somehow hot and winter is cool and mild but sometimes it becomes cold at night. The average of low temperatures vary from 9.5 ¡ÆC in the wintertime to 23 ¡ÆC in the summertime and average high temperatures vary from 17 ¡ÆC in the wintertime to 32 ¡ÆC in the summertime while the temperature is moderate all along the coasts.

What is the Best Time of Visit Egypt?

It is known the best time to travel to Egypt is in the winter from September to April as the climate becomes a bit tropical, a warm atmosphere with a winter breeze. You will also be notified a week before your trip if the weather is unsafe or if any changes have been made.

Should I Give Tips in Egypt?

It is totally up to you, but if you choose to you can tip the servers at your restaurant 5-10% by handing it to them directly and 5 Egyptian Pounds as a general tip of anyone.

Can I Enter the Pyramids?

Yes, you can enter the pyramids for the small fee of 20$.

How to Enjoy Egypt During Ramadan?

Ramadan is a special time of year for Muslims that should be celebrated by non-Muslims and feel the essence of the Islamic culture. You can fast with the Muslim or just observe but you are always welcome to join the celebrations and festivals.

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About Trips In Egypt

Trips In Egypt was founded in 2002 when it launched, since then the company specialized in providing trips in Egypt only which includes tour packages, vacations, Nile cruises, day trips, shore excursions, and any kind of trips in Egypt.

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El Gouna is a self-contained holiday town and probably the best-run resort in Egypt. The brainchild of Egyptian billionaire Onsi Sawiris, it is built around lagoons and waterways, ensuring there are plenty of beaches and that many places have views of the water. El Gouna is frequented by Egypt's chi-chi set and Europeans on package tours. Boasting 16 hotels, an 18-hole golf course, plenty of villas, and boutique shopping, restaurants and bars galore, it's about as far removed from Egypt's usual hustle and bustle as you can get. The only local experience you are likely to have is smoking shisha (albeit on a marina terrace overlooking some mighty swanky yachts). But if you're after a place to laze on a beach and do some diving, then you'll definitely enjoy your time here.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Sha’ab Al Erg

Ease of access means this is an excellent dive site for beginners, though veteran divers will still enjoy the towering brain corals and fan-encrusted rock…

Bibliotheca Alexandrina El Gouna

Also known as the Embassy of Knowledge and linked to Alexandria's modern Bibliotheca Alexandrina library, this peaceful oasis is El Gouna's sleepy…

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• 1.1 Climate
• 1.2 Tourist office
• 2.1 By plane
• 2.4 By boat
• 3.2 By tuktuk
• 3.3 By taxi or car
• 3.4 By foot
• 5.1 Beaches
• 5.2.1 Diving operators
• 5.3 Windsurfing, kitesurfing and wakeboarding
• 5.4 Land sports
• 5.5 Safaris and land tours
• 5.6 Boat tours
• 5.7 Spectator sports
• 5.8 Festivals
• 5.9 Wellness
• 5.10 Movies
• 6.2 Souvenirs
• 7.1 Restaurants
• 9.2 Mid-range
• 9.3 Splurge
• 9.4 Holiday homes
• 10.2 Phone and Internet
• 10.3 Library
• 11.1 Banking
• 12 Stay safe
• 13.1 Hospitals
• 13.2 Pharmacies

El Gouna (الجونة) is a self-sufficient, fully integrated resort town of 24,000 on the Egyptian Red Sea Coast just north of Hurghada . The town offers a large variety of activities and entertainment and is a popular destination around the year.

Understand [ edit ]

Resorts in Egypt, both on the Mediterranean and Red Sea, are usually a bunch of hotels on a previously uninhabited piece of coastline. El Gouna was built with a different mindset; a real town with inhabitants and "free standing" restaurants, bars, night clubs and shops as well as a marina for yachts. The same concept was used for Marina el-Alamein on the Mediterranean, Taba Heights on the Sinai east coast and Port Ghalib .

The construction of El Gouna (the name translates to "the bay" or "the lagoon") on the site of the village of Kafr el-Gūna began in 1989 with work on the Tamr Henna Palace. The town stretches for about 5 km along the coast and 2 km inland. It's set up like a Mediterranean lagoon landscape with several islands connected to each other by bridges. The buildings are a mix of both modern and traditional architecture and in addition to hotels, there are also holiday homes and housing for the around 10,000 employees of the resorts. Also Italian, French and American architects and engineers have been involved in the project.

Today El Gouna’s facilities include a landing strip, 3 international standard marinas, universities and schools, an 18-hole championship golf course, 17 hotels, 2 spas, and a state-of-the-art gym. The town has over a hundred restaurants and bars, scuba diving, yachting, fishing, and fully-equipped water sports centers, tennis, squash, padel and horse-back-riding.

There are three main areas with shops, bars and restaurants: 27.396089 33.677334 1 Downtown also including El Balad and Kafr el-Gouna, 27.397201 33.675252 2 Tamr Henna just north of the former, across a bridge and the 27.408052 33.674448 3 Abu Tig Marina much further north. The largest public beaches are Mangroovy Beach, Marina Beach, Buzzha Beach and Zeytouna Beach.

Climate [ edit ]

Temperatures are mild or warm throughout the year. Autumn and spring are the best times to visit; summer is scorchingly hot and during the winter there strong winds are common.

Tourist office [ edit ]

• Marketing Office, El Gouna , Tamr Henna, H9 Building , ☏ +20 65 3549 702 , fax : +20 65 3549 065 , [email protected] . The tourist information seems to be just an office you can contact online or by phone but not visit in person. ( updated Sep 2015 )

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ]

By bus [ edit ].

A bus ride from Cairo takes about six hours, from Hurghada about 30 minutes. Buses and share taxis between Cairo and Hurghada stop at a 27.370919 33.644696 3 bus stop west of town. There are about a dozen of these in each direction per day. For buses, you need to book tickets beforehand. GoBus has up to nine daily departures between Cairo and El Gouna.

By car [ edit ]

From Cairo, drive to Ain Sokhna and south along the coast. The distance is 440 km. You need to show your driver's permit and have your vehicle examined at the entry checkpoint. Vehicles entering and leaving will need to scan their QR code.

By boat [ edit ]

El Gouna has three marinas ( 27.408119 33.676057 4 Abu Tig Marina extended in 2009, 27.379294 33.682634 5 Abydos Marina and the 27.412119 33.675306 6 New Marina ). Abu Tig has 224 berths for yachts with a maximum length of 45 m and depth of 12 m. In the extension part there's space for yachts with a length of up to 60 m. Facilities include electricity and water supply, phone, cable tv, Wi-Fi and emptying of toilets.

To arrive by your own craft you will need, in addition to passport and visa, a departure document from the former port, a valid VHF radio license, a crew list (name, birth date, passport number) and registration and insurance documents for the vessel.

Get around [ edit ]

There are various transport options available within the resort.

Regular shuttle buses [dead link] run around the town, until as late as 2:00 in the night. Check the local bus timetables for buses that stop in front of your hotel. Tickets (day and week) are sold at hotel reception desks or you can buy them from the driver.

By tuktuk [ edit ]

These can be flagged down on the street and often have a flat fare for up to three passengers to any destination in El Gouna. Sometimes they accept payment in euros.

By taxi or car [ edit ]

You can request to reserve a taxi from your hotel. Cars can be rented with (effectively a long-term taxi, El Gouna Limousine Service is one company offering this option) or without a driver. There are also so-called water taxis plying the canals.

By foot [ edit ]

The roads are very quiet and have pavements for pedestrians to walk along safely.

See [ edit ]

El Gouna does have a few things to see, eventhough the vast majority of what the town has to offer falls in the Do category.

• 27.363354 33.658065 1 Church of Holy Mary and Archangel Michael . Coptic-Orthodox church in El-Bustan just southwest of town, designed by Italian architect Alfredo Freda opened in 2004. The church has three naves and two belltowers. The paintings in the church are mostly by artist Mina El Comos Temesaus.  
• 27.396146 33.663434 2 El Gouna mosque , ☏ +20 65 358 0521 ext 32389 .  
• 27.396303 33.67743 3 Aquarium ( Downtown ), ☏ +20 65 358 0521 ext 32408 . Here you can see the underwater life of the Red Sea.  
• 27.40569 33.680423 4 Mangrove island . An island, about 500 m in length, in front of the Sheraton Minamar Resort.  
• Culturama ( Embassy of Knowledge, in the library ), ☏ +20 65 358 0023 . Multimedia-Panorama-Show.  

Do [ edit ]

El Gouna has a wide variety of sports and recreation facilities. These include leisure pursuits such as horse-riding, camel-riding, go-kart racing, scuba diving, snorkelling and windsurfing.

Beaches [ edit ]

There are five beaches not part of a resort hotel, these are listed below from north to south. In addition Labranda Club Paradisio El Gouna and El Gouna Mövenpick Resort & Spa have their own beaches.

• 27.435837 33.658038 1 Element Beach . The northernmost beach, about 2 km northwest of La Maison Bleu hotel. ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 27.420376 33.673836 2 Buzzha Beach . About 300 m southeast of La Maison Bleue. Has a very flat coastline. ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 27.414976 33.67787 3 Mangroovy Beach . 650 m south of Buzzha, slightly north of the New Marina. Like the former, it also has a very flat coastline, and the reef outside of creates a lagoon. As such it is the Red Sea's best spot for kitesurfing. Windsurfing, snorkelling, beach volleyball or football are also available. ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 27.410109 33.677366 4 Marina Beach . Between the New Marina and Abu Tig, features the Moods Beach Restaurant . ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 27.401385 33.68236 5 Zeytouna Beach . Zeytouna Beach is located on its own island surrounded by sea and lagoons. At Zeytouna Beach you can enjoy beach volleyball, snorkelling, football, and dancing lessons. Beach services include towels, drinks and food, bathrooms, and fresh-water showers. You can walk a 350 m long pier across the lagoon and riff to the open sea. ( updated Feb 2023 )

Diving [ edit ]

Almost every hotel has its own scuba dive facility from which you can explore the northern part of the Red Sea. Top attractions are the wrecks of Abu Nuhas or the wrecks of Rosalie Moller behind Tawila Island.

Many beaches are lagoons separated from the sea with steeply falling reefs. Just outside the reefs there are good areas for diving, and this is where many diving tours will head. These reefs alone have about 50 diving areas. The waters around Tawila Island, 16 km to the north has a couple of wrecks, a large number of different corals and rich sea fauna. One of the wrecks is the British freight ship Rosalie Moller, sunk in 1941 by German bomber planes. It's at a depth of 50 meters, and is not suitable for beginners.

All diving operators have diving courses for different experience levels: for beginners and for experienced divers who want to learn more (wreck diving, diving with a rebreather etc.). The courses follow the programs of international organizations like PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors).

El Gouna’s nine certified diving centres and easy access to the finest reefs and wrecks in the Red Sea make it a diver’s paradise. Each centre offers a complete range of diving education, including PADI diving certification, from beginner through to professional level. El Gouna’s The Dive Tribe is also a certified National Geographic Diving Centre. The heated pools and calm reefs of El Gouna are ideal for beginners wanting to perfect their skills.

Some dive centres offer diving programs and courses tailored for kids, which include PADI Bubble Maker, Discover Scuba Diving, Junior Scuba Diving, and a Junior Open Water Diving and Snorkelling course. Special discounts are available for young children. In addition diving programmes to guests with reduced mobility. Guests are able to complete a standard scuba diver course, with minor adjustments as necessary, depending on the type of disability. All divers must complete a medical questionnaire, and those with a handicap are required to produce a medical certificate stating that they are fit to dive. It is advisable to get in touch with the dive centre and discuss individual needs in advance. Dive schools with facilities tailored specifically for divers with physical disabilities can be found in Sheraton Miramar, TTC Rihana, and Mövenpick Resort & Spa.

Diving operators [ edit ]

• Blue Brothers Diving , Abu Tig Marina ( in Ocean View Hotel ), ☏ +20 65 358 0351 , +20 65 358 0521 ext 77975 , fax : +20 65 358 0355 , [email protected] . daily 8–18 . Common diving basis with Emperor Divers.  
• Colona Divers ( The Three Corners Rihana Resort ), ☏ +20 65 358 0113 , fax : +20 65 358 0113 , [email protected] , [email protected] MULTIPLE-EMAIL . PADI courses. Languages: English, Danish, Swedish, Norwegian, Finnish, Portuguese, Italian and Russian.  
• The Dive Connection ( Panorama Bungalows ), ☏ +20 65 358 0052 , [email protected] . PADI, CMAS, VDST and TDI courses for technical diving and rebreather. Languages: German, English, French, Dutch and Arabic.  
• Dive Trek ( Sultan Bey ), ☏ +20 65 358 0521 ext 32381 , [email protected] . PADI courses. Languages: German, English and French.  
• Emperor Divers ( The Three Corners Ocean View ), ☏ +20 65 358 0521 ext 77975 , [email protected] , [email protected] MULTIPLE-EMAIL . daily 8–18 . PADI and SDI courses. One boat is suitable for mobility impaired divers. Languages: German, English, French, Dutch, Italian and Arabic. Common diving basis with Blue Brothers Diving.  
• Orca Diveclub El Gouna , Abu Tig Marina ( Turtle’s Inn ), fax : +20 65 358 0171 , [email protected] . PADI, CMAS and VDST courses. Languages: German, English, French and Arabic.  
• Orca Diveclub Paradisio , Golf ( Paradisio ), [email protected] . PADI, CMAS and VDST courses. Languages: German, English, French and Arabic.  
• TGI Diving Center ( Sheraton Miramar Resort ), ☏ +20 65 354 5684 . PADI courses. One boat for mobility impaired divers. Languages: German, English, French, Dutch, Italian and Arabic.  

Windsurfing, kitesurfing and wakeboarding [ edit ]

The resort’s five kite centres provide facilities, equipment and training staff with courses for beginners and advanced surfers. El Gouna’s beaches, excellent winds, and all-year sunny weather attract droves of kite surfers regularly, while its shallow waters are suited to beginners learning moves.

The Sports and Fun Aqua Centres offer windsurfing and other aqua sport activities. The centres operate from Mangroovy Beach, the Steigenberger, and Rihana resorts.

• 27.434151 33.659889 6 Element Watersports & Beach , Element Beach , [email protected] . daily 9–18 . Water sports center with wind- and kiteboarding, sailing, stand-up paddleboarding and similar sports. Courses, equipment rental and repair. There's also a large wind-protected patio with sun chairs, and a restaurant and land based activities including a football and beach volleyball and activities for kids. Free shuttle bus from Mosaique Hotel. ( updated Sep 2020 )
• 27.420567 33.672827 7 Kiteboarding Club El Gouna , Buzzha Beach, Northern Mangroovy Beach , [email protected] . VDWS kiteboarding school with courses for different skil levels, also sup boarding. An open area towards the north. Equipment rental and repair, large relaxing area with massage, sun chairs, playground, beach volleyball, bar and restaurant. Languages: German, Arabic, English and Dutch.  
• 27.415919 33.677419 8 Kitepower , Mangroovy Beach , ☏ +20 65 358 0521 ext 32506 , +43 664 202 77 04 (in Österreich) , [email protected] . daily 9:00-sunset . VDWS kiteboarding school.  
• 27.38522 33.685981 9 Osmosis Kiteboarding ( Club Paradiso ), fax : +20 65 354 7933 , [email protected] .  
• 27.419148 33.674169 10 RedSeaZone , Northern Mangroovy Beach , [email protected] . Courses certified by the International Kitboarding Organisation.  
• 27.37898 33.660672 11 El Gouna Cable Park Sliders , Sabina Area, El Gouna ( im El Gouna Watersports Complex ), ☏ +20 65 358 0521 ext 32622 , [email protected] . daily 9:30–18 . A sports complex with a wakeboard zipline course. The complex also has a beach club, restaurant, bar and a pool.  

Land sports [ edit ]

The resort’s 18-hole championship golf course 27.385048 33.677924 12 El Gouna Golf Club at the Steigenberger Golf Resort offers year-round golfing for players from novices to professionals. The club offers a full range of retail products, rental equipment, driving range facilities, and PGA tuition for players looking to improve their game. Designed by Gene Bates and Fred Couples the course features three different men’s and ladies’ tees, bunkers, lagoons, an aqua driving range and desert rough to challenge players. The aqua driving range can accommodate up to 30 players.

• 27.399263 33.670826 13 El Gouna Tennis Club , [email protected] . Enjoy the open air 6 clay courts at the El Gouna Tennis Club. Coach, changing room, racquet rentals, floodlights for summer evening play available.   In addition to the tennis club, several hotels have their own tennis and squash courts.

Ride horses and camels at the Mövenpick Hotel and Zeytouna Beach or go for full service with Arabian cross horses and ponies for children at Yalla Horse Stables.

• Yalla Horseride , ☏ +20 65 358 0521 ext 32344 , [email protected] . Horse, camel and donkey riding, riding school.  
• 27.400499 33.67065 14 El Gouna Gocart , ☏ +20 65 358 0521 ext 32188 . daily 11–22 . Burn rubber on the popular go-kart circuit, which is located on the road between the Downtown area and the Marina. You can rent helmets and gloves. Drivers need to be at least 10 years old.  

Safaris and land tours [ edit ]

If you prefer to see the town by tour, there are many operators, check at your hotel. Some options include touring the coast and canals by boat, the streets by Segway or seeing the town from the air. You can also discover the secrets of the desert with an exhilarating drive through the sand dunes. Early morning and sunset trips are available. Quads are available for a desert safari, a full moon trip, or a visit to the Bedouin camps. Operators include:

• 27.397631 33.675182 15 Alex Safari El Gouna , shop 111 alex safari-tamr henna zone-elgouna , ☏ +20 1223261313 , [email protected] . Offer different safari tours by quad, buggy or jeep from El Gouna/ Hurghada/ Sahl Hasheesh/ Makadi Bay/ Soma Bay. ( updated May 2021 )
• Speed Devils , Building H10, Shop 14, Downtown El Balad , ☏ +20 65 354 9702 , +20 65 354 9704 . Buggy safaris.  
• Peak Safari , Kafr El Gouna , ☏ +20 65 358 0521 ext 32324 , +20 65 358 0521 ext 34030 (Tamr Henna Office) , [email protected] .  

Boat tours [ edit ]

• Tawila Island: A real 'escape to nature' from the resort bustle, this quiet island offers sparkling white sandy beaches and serenity. Located over an hour from El Gouna, travellers might get the chance to watch dolphins jumping in and out of the surf along the way to Tawila Island.
• Galatea Boat: to Gobal Island. Private day trips for diving or fish barbecues are available too.
• Lagoon Trip: Tour El Gouna by boat every Wednesday and Saturday morning. Bookings can be made through the Information Centre in Tamr Henna, or at your hotel's reception.
• Flying Dutchman Hydrofoil Submarine: The Flying Dutchman will take you from Abydos Marina to the coral reefs in only 10-15 minutes. Along the way there is a very good chance you will pass dolphins swimming quickly to try and keep up with your boat! The glass bottom of the boat shoes you the underwater world.
• Abu Tig Marina: The first purpose built yacht marina in the Red Sea, Abu Tig houses El Gouna’s most exclusive shopping and dining outlets, hotels and real estate properties. Abu Tig has been the harbour of choice for several international yacht rallies such as the Med-Red, Vasco de Gama, and Blue Water rallies.
• Orange Concept ( Ocean Diva Catamaran Sailing Cruises ), Abydos Marina, El Gouna , ☏ +20 65 358 0521 ext 37396 , [email protected] . Operator for wakeboarding, sailing, parasailing.  

Spectator sports [ edit ]

Festivals [ edit ].

There are three dance and live music festivals taking place weekly or even twice a week, meaning almost every day there's such an event. The Marina Street Festival takes place in Abu Tig Marina each Friday at 20:00. On Thursdays and Sundays at 21:30, there's the Tamr Henna Square Event , and on Thursdays and Saturdays at 20:00 the Kafr El Gouna Party .

The El Gouna Film Festival has apparently been on hold because of the corona pandemic; the next event is scheduled for 13-20 October 2023.

Wellness [ edit ]

Angsana Spa offers two spa locations in El Gouna: at the Mövenpick Resort & Spa and the El Gouna Golf Club. Both have a wide selection of beauty massages, sauna and steam bath treatments for singles and couples. A spa session can be booked in any spa in El Gouna regardless of your hotel of residence. Contact the El Gouna Spa Concierge at your hotel for more information.

Movies [ edit ]

• 27.4012 33.6728 17 El Cinema . Movie theater with three auditoria. ( updated Feb 2023 )

Buy [ edit ]

Outlets offer a range of goods from practical to ethnic to high fashion. The resort’s many shops are grouped around two distinctive centres: the Downtown area and Abu Tig Marina. There are also two shopping centres: 27.3959 33.6756 1 Ebaid Market and 27.396 33.6771 2 El Gouna Super Market .

Built in a traditional Egyptian style complete with bustling inner courtyards, winding alleys and a series of brick domes, El Gouna’s Downtown offers a variety of interesting and exotic shopping arcades, bazaars, boutiques and arts and crafts galleries. Courtyard cafes, bars and restaurants are interspersed throughout the vicinity to provide visitors with refreshments during their authentic Egyptian shopping experience.

The Abu Tig Marina has fashionable boutiques at a range of prices. With restaurants, cafes and bars, Abu Tig is a good spot for all-day shopping. Shops are usually open from 9:00 to 18:00, and prices are mostly not posted.

Food [ edit ]

Grocery stores for self-catering:

• 27.39753 33.67498 3 BestWay . Self service supermarket at Tamr Henna with a good selection and fresh meat every Thursday. They also have a branch at Abu Tig Marina.  
• 27.39747 33.67534 4 El Mohandes , Tamr Henna . Has also a small selection of alcoholic beverages.  
• 27.3959 33.67598 5 Cheers ( opposite Ebaid ). For more alcoholic beverages.  
• 27.39782 33.67527 6 German Bakery ( next to Bestway ). German bakery with a wide selection of cakes and bread.  

Souvenirs [ edit ]

Some of the many shops:

• 27.40809 33.67473 7 Azza Fahmy . Gold and silver jewellery designed by Egyptian designer Azza Fahmy.  
• 27.40895 33.67685 8 Inside - Out , Abu Tig Marina . Furniture and home decoration.  
• 27.39589 33.677 9 Shiekh Mounier ( near Ocean View, opposite duPort ). Watches and jewellery.  

Eat [ edit ]

The resort is home to a variety of excellent cuisine, with over 100 different dining outlets to choose from that offer fine dining options through to casual cuisine, and include a variety of cafes and coffee shops.

The Dine Around Program gives hotel guests opportunity to taste as wide a variety of the resort’s food as possible.

Restaurants [ edit ]

The restaurants listed above usually also have cheaper alternatives on the menu like sandwiches, salads, soups and pasta.

• 27.3963 33.6757 1 Athena Greek Taverna , downtown el-Balad ( next to Ebaed Market ), ☏ +20 65 358 0521 ext 32429 , [email protected] . Greek cuisine. mains LE 200-400 .  
• 27.40813 33.67505 2 Bleu Bleu Restaurant , Abu Tig Marina , ☏ +20 65 358 0521 ext 77928 , +20 65 549 7021 . Terrace restaurant with sea view, French cuisine. mains generally LE 150-300 .  
• 27.4088 33.67445 3 The Marina Steakhouse ( Captain’s Steakhouse ), Abu Tig Marina ( Captain’s Inn Hotel ). American Steaks. mains LE 400-1200 .  
• 27.395728 33.675237 4 Chicha ( opposite Ebeid-Supermarkt ), ☏ +20 122 775 5888 . Mexican cuisine.  
• 27.396 33.67543 6 Fish Market ( next to Ebaid Market ), ☏ +20 65 358 0521 ext 32268 . Fish restaurant.  
• 27.39553 33.67655 7 Grasshopper Café Restaurant ( previously El Taybeen ), Downtown , ☏ +20 65 358 0521 ext 37225 . German restaurant and bar.  
• 27.39693 33.67525 8 Jobo’s Sports Bar , Tamr Henna , ☏ +20 65 358 0521 ext 32127 . International and Scandinavian cuisine. mains generally LE200-400 .  
• 27.39643 33.67423 9 Kan Zaman , Downtown El Gouna , ☏ +20 65 358 0521 ext 24058 . Egyptian cuisine. mains generally LE 200-400 .  
• 27.40899 33.67551 10 La Scala , Abu Tig Marina , ☏ +20 65 354 9702 , +20 65 354 9703 , +20 65 354 9704 , +20 65 358 0521 ext 77933 . Italian and international cuisine.  
• 27.40898 33.67662 11 Le Garage , Abu Tig Marina , ☏ +20 65 358 0521 ext 77963 . daily 16:00–24:00 . Burger restaurant with a Swiss owner. ( updated Aug 2018 )
• 27.40736 33.67428 12 Maritim Restaurant , Abu Tig Marina ( opposite Restaurant La Scala ), ☏ +20 65 358 0521 ext 77971 . daily 9:00–1:00 . Swedish fish dishes and snacks. mains LE 300-600 .  
• 27.40618 33.67834 13 Orient 1001 ( Sheraton Hotel ), ☏ +20 65 354 5684 . Lebanese and Egyptian cuisine.  
• 27.39558 33.67637 14 The Grill ( formerly Oriental Grill ), Downtown El Gouna , ☏ +20 65 358 0521 ext 32261 . Barbecue restaurant. mains LE 175-400 .  
• 27.39572 33.67706 15 Puddleduck Bar & Restaurant , Downtown, Kafr El Gouna , [email protected] . British, Mediterranean, Chinese and world cuisine. mains LE 200-400 .  
• 27.40678 33.67435 16 Tandoor ( Ali Pasha Hotel ), ☏ +20 65 358 0088 . Indian cuisine. mains around LE 300 .  
• 27.39547 33.67534 17 Turkish House Restaurant , Downtown El Balad , ☏ +20 65 358 0521 ext 34040 . Turkish cuisine.  
• 27.39633 33.67582 18 White Elephant , downtown el-Balad , ☏ +20 65 358 0521 ext 32427 , fax : +20 100 102 5117 . Thai cuisine.  
• 27.39585 33.67544 19 Zia Amelia , Downtown El Balad ( next to Ebeid Supermarket ), ☏ +20 65 358 0521 ext 34004 , [email protected] . daily 12:30–23:00 . Italian cuisine, frequently live music on Wednesday. mains LE200-400 . ( updated Aug 2018 )
• 27.39566 33.67578 20 Zomba , Tamr Henna ( near the Ebid Market ), ☏ +20 65 358 0521 ext 32088 . daily 8:00–23:45 . Egyptian and Middle Eastern cuisine. Delivery. Free Wi-Fi. mains LE 100-200 .  

Drink [ edit ]

Music and dance events on Wednesday and Sunday nights on Mangroovy Beach. On Friday nights in Moods (Marina Beach) or in DuPort (TTC Ocean View).

Some resort hotels have bars and restaurants often serve alcohol (in addition to non-alcoholic drinks).

Cafés [ edit ]

• 27.39763 33.67582 1 Art Village , Tamr Henna , ☏ +20 65 358 0521 ext 34056 . Cafe, bar, shisha.  
• 27.40688 33.67387 2 The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf , Abu Tig Marina , ☏ +20 65 358 0521 ext 77852 . Café, also has a coffee and tea shop.  
• 27.39677 33.67561 3 Vienna Café Servus , Tamr Henna , ☏ +20 65 358 0521 ext 32149 . Cafe serving light meals also.  

Sleep [ edit ]

El Gouna is host to 17 hotels and resorts. Accommodation options include the convenience of a marina inn, the charm of a downtown boutique hotel and the luxury of a five-star beach resort. As a resort for package tourism, it's easiest to book your lodging beforehand through a tour operator or on the hotel's website rather than walking in when you're in El Gouna. Often lodging is offered as a package with activities.

Budget [ edit ]

Truly barebones hotels, hostels and the like don't exist here, the cheapest correspond to three-star, ie. mid-range hotels when it comes to amenities in the rooms and overall in the hotel.

Mid-range [ edit ]

Splurge [ edit ]

Holiday homes [ edit ]

There are also holiday homes for rent, bookable through travel agencies or dedicated websites.

Connect [ edit ]

Post [ edit ]

There's a post office on Tamr Henna square, open daily except Friday from 9:00 to 14:00.

Phone and Internet [ edit ]

There's both a landline and mobile network; Vodafone and Etisalat offers 4G coverage, Orange 4G coverage inland but 3G in the resort. Calls within the city are free of charge when calling through the landline network - these are the five digit numbers in the listings above marked "ext".

Hotels usually have Wi-Fi, it tends to be free in public areas but payable in the rooms.

Library [ edit ]

• 27.397187 33.670279 1 El Gouna Library , ☏ +20 65 358 0023 . Sa–Th 10–22 . A branch of the Bibliotheca Alexandria. It has a cultural center showing films about Egypt's history. ( updated Feb 2023 )

Cope [ edit ]

Banking [ edit ].

Many hotels have banks or ATMs. Banks are usually open on forenoon and midday every day except Friday.

• Audi Bank , Tamr Henna Sq. , ☏ +20 65 358 0096 , +20 65 358 0521 ext 32728 , fax : +20 65 358 0095 .  
• Banque Misr ( near Tamr Henna square ), ☏ +20 65 358 0202 , fax : +20 65 358 0203 .  
• CIB , El Bunouk Sq. ( Abu Tig Marina ), ☏ +20 65 358 0301 , +20 65 358 0521 ext 77970 , fax : +20 65 358 0302 .  
• HSBC ( Abu Tig Marina ), ☏ +20 65 358 0570 , +20 65 358 0571 , +20 65 358 0521 ext 32421 , fax : +20 65 358 0570 .  

Stay safe [ edit ]

A purpose-built resort, inhabited only by tourists and resort staff and patrolled by private security, El Gouna is a safe destination even for lone female voyagers. You can dress like you would in a Western country, and even Egyptian tourists do that.

Police and tourist police are based in Hurghada.

Stay healthy [ edit ]

The town has an international standard hospital providing 24-hour emergency care. Moreover, many hotels have either a resident doctor or a contract with a doctor that will come there when needed.

Hospitals [ edit ]

• 27.395527 33.66977 2 El-Gouna Hospital , ☏ +20 65 354 0011 (emergencies), +20 65 358 0012 , +20 65 385 0011 (decompression chamber) , fax : +20 65 358 0020 , [email protected] . Private hospital with ten clinics, a dentist and a decompression chamber to treat decompression sickness.  

Pharmacies [ edit ]

• Abu Tig Pharmacy , ☏ +20 65 358 0521 ext 77920 . daily 10–24 .  
• Hospital Pharmacy , ☏ +20 65 358 0521 ext 32073 . daily 9–14, 18–21 .  
• Tamr Henna Pharmacy , ☏ +20 65 358 0521 ext 32600 . 24/7 .  

Go next [ edit ]

• The nearest destination to head next is the larger resort of 27.231 33.838 1 Hurghada , about 30 minutes southeast by road.
• 26.5325 33.921111 2 Umm el-Ḥuweiṭāt , a ghost city, formerly a center for phosphate mining, 20 km south of Safāgā.
• 26.109072 34.275997 3 el-Quṣeir , famous for its citadel, built by the orders of Ottoman sultan Selim I.

Tour operators offer trips to these and also to for instance Cairo or Luxor .

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El Gouna, Egypt: A Local’s Guide

Updated: Jan 22

While it’s true that Egypt’s Red Sea Riviera is home to some amazing coastal cities, towns and beaches, we have to confess: El Gouna is our personal favorite. Sharm El Sheikh and El Gouna’s neighbor Hurghada might be way more famous and popular with tourists (and for good reason), but El Gouna has a special place in our hearts (we are totally aware that other people will fight us to the death over which Red Sea Riviera destination is best, but at the end of the day, they’re all amazing so no point arguing over apples and oranges).

You might like: 8 Best Egyptian Beach Holiday Destinations

Some quick facts about El Gouna

It’s a resort town spanning over 10 km of pristine Red Sea coast, with lagoons throughout

It’s 25 km from the city of Hurghada (for our full Hurghada guide, head here ).

It’s a 4 hour flight from most European cities and around a 4 hour drive from Cairo

The architecture throughout is inspired by traditional Egyptian homes in the countryside and Upper Egypt

It was the first destination in the Middle East and Africa to receive the Global Green Award, which is given by the UN to cities making substantial efforts, progress and improvements in the field of environmental sustainability

Best Time To Go

El Gouna is technically a year-round destination, but it really depends on your personal preferences. Spring and fall are El Gouna’s ‘high season’ -- it’s when the weather is at its most ideal (beach weather without soaring temperatures), so that’s when you’ll find Gouna at its busiest.

Considering it’s a coastal resort town, summer is a great time to go too obviously, but only if you can handle daily temperatures in the mid-to-high thirties (Celsius) or the nineties (Fahrenheit) and super-strong sun.

The great thing about El Gouna is that it never gets crowded -- with the exception of public holidays and certain annual events like the Gouna Film Festival or the Sandbox music festival.

How To Get There

If you’re coming from abroad (or even planning to fly domestically), then just fly into Hurghada International Airport, which is about a half an hour car ride from Gouna. Once you land, it’s easy to either grab a taxi from outside the arrivals hall or call a car service to pick you up (like Budget or ABC Taxi, more info about both below). If you’re staying at a hotel, you can also easily arrange pre-arrival for your hotel to send a car to pick you up.

If you’re coming from Cairo , then you have one of three options: a) drive, b) take a bus, or c) fly. Driving from Cairo is now a super-smooth trip thanks to the new Galala Road which allows you to bypass the scary two-way twisty mountain roads of Ain el Sokhna. It takes about 3.5 hours from the Cairo toll station to the Hurghada toll station (which is right before El Gouna), and about 4 hours from central Cairo.

If you’re coming by bus , then GoBus offers over 15 buses daily between Cairo and El Gouna (they drop you off at their bus stop in Downtown El Gouna). They offer different types of buses according to what kind of ticket you buy (for example, the Elite Plus bus has individual LCD screens for each seat). You can find more info on: https://go-bus.com/en

As for flying, the trip from Cairo to Hurghada takes about 45 minutes.

Where To Stay

The two main areas in El Gouna are Abu Tig Marina and Downtown -- that’s where most of the restaurants, nightlife, shops and beach bars/pool clubs are. You’ll find a handful of hotels in both areas, but the bigger resorts have their own real estate and beachfront in El Gouna. The rest of the town is mainly residential, divided into different neighborhoods on lagoons.

Ok, cool. But still, where should you stay? This totally depends on personal preference. Here are your options:

A big resort hotel like Movenpick , Sheraton or Steigenberger (pros: they have lots of activities for both adults and kids, and have pools, beachfront and restaurants, meaning you don’t have to leave your resort unless you want to).

A hotel on Abu Tig Marina (pros: being in walking distance of the marina’s restaurants and nightlife. The hotels range from 3 star to 5 star, and the ones that don’t have a pool or beachfront are given access to Moods and Marina Beach on the marina).

A hotel in Downtown (pros: you’re close to the restaurants and cafes of Downtown, and yet are simultaneously on a lagoon).

An exclusive, private (but pricey) boutique hotel like La Maison Bleue or Casa Cook

An apartment/villa rental , either through a broker or Airbnb (pros: it’s your own place and some have private pools).

Each option has its advantages, but it depends on your personal circumstances. And we can say with confidence, that there’s no *bad* place to stay in Gouna.

To book a hotel , you can go to: www.hotels.elgouna.com

For a rental , we recommend Airbnb.

Getting Around/Transportation in El Gouna

The thing we love about Gouna is that there’s enough space to never feel crowded, but at the same time it’s contained so that things are never too far from anything else.

If you don’t have a car in Gouna, that won’t pose a problem whaoltsoever. You can either get around by tuktuk, a car service or shuttle bus (or bike if you’re the athletic type, good for you!).

Tuktuks take up to 3 people, and you can either order one by phone from the Gouna hotline (16550) or you can ask your hotel reception to do this for you, and they arrive at wherever you are in about 10 minutes or less. There are also tuktuk stands in Downtown and at the Marina where you can hop in the first available one.

Car service

If you’re more than three people or just prefer cars to tuktuks, then you can call Budget, Gouna’s limousine service. You can either request a car ASAP or book one for a later time.

Budget limo service: +20122 734 0166

Shuttle Bus (within El Gouna)

If you’re staying at one of El Gouna’s bigger hotels or in the West Golf neighborhood, there’s 5 different shuttle bus lines that ferry guests between the hotels and Downtown. Ask your hotel reception for timing and bus stop details.

Transportation to/from Hurghada

If you’re heading to/from Hurghada airport or anywhere else in Hurghada, there’s easy ways back and forth.

ABC Taxi is a personal favorite of ours. They’re metered taxis based in Hurghada but you can order them from El Gouna. You can request one right away or book one for later, and they’re cheaper than Budget car service for going between El Gouna and Hurghada. There are also other similar private taxi services that serve Gouna from Hurghada, but ABC Taxi is the one we use the most personally.

ABC Taxi: +20100 222 8294

You can also take the GoBus from Downtown Gouna to their stop in Hurghada (doesn’t go to the airport).

Things To Do

There’s tons of fun activities in both El Gouna and nearby Hurghada, and as is the recurrent theme here, it really depends on your preferences.

Beaches/pools where you can spend the day:

Moods Beach

Zouni Beach Mangroovy

The Clubhouse

Smokery Beach

Makani Beach Club

Zeytouna Beach Island

Marina Beach

DuPort Pool Club

Water sports:

Kitesurfing

Windsurfing

Sliders the cable park

Water-skiing/waterboarding

Boat trips:

Day excursion island boat trip, eg. Giftun Islands (Mahmya/Orange Bay) or Tawila Island (more details at: Red Sea Islands Perfect for a Boat Trip )

Glass bottom boat

Diving/snorkeling

Daytime party boat (returns to the marina at sunset)

Chartered mini-yachts for weekends or specified amount of days

Regular sports:

Horseback riding

For more details , read 25 Fun Things To Do In Hurghada and El Gouna .

Where To Eat

El Gouna has a ton of great restaurants serving all different kinds of cuisines. One of our personal favorite things about this coastal town is that all the restaurants are small local affairs owned by Gouna residents of all nationalities -- you won’t find Mcdonald’s or Pizza Hut here (they do have a Nathan’s though for some reason).

You’ll find the majority of the restaurants in either Downtown or the Marina, with the exceptions being hotel restaurants.

Best places for breakfast:

Malu’s Deli

Seventh Star

The Bagel Tree

For our favorite breakfast spots, read this: 8 Best Breakfast Places in El Gouna

Best places for lunch/dinner:

Our full list of the 7 Best Restaurants in El Gouna .

Restaurants with an open sea view:

Morgan’s Beach Bistro

Ok, so you swam, tanned, ate… now time to party a little. The most popular night spots in Gouna are:

The Tap South (live music and DJs in a casual pub atmosphere on the marina)

Pier 88 on weekends after 10 pm

Villa Coconut (early in the evening it's ambient music for dinner and drinks, but then a DJ starts around 10/11 pm until 2 am)

Aurora (the main club in Gouna)

Barten (a cocktail bar on Abu Tig Marina)

Duport on select nights

Rush Sports Bar

In Downtown they also have shisha cafes that serve alcohol open until 3 am.

It’s just as straightforward as arriving. If you came by GoBus, then you board your return bus at the same stop in Downtown where they dropped you off.

If you came by plane and need to go to Hurghada Airport, either Budget limousine or ABC Taxis can take you.

Looking for more local guides? Check out:

Hurghada, egypt: a local guide for first-timers, sharm el sheikh, egypt: a detailed guide for first-timers, khan el khalili: an egyptian local’s guide, egypt's red sea riviera: where to stay, aswan, egypt: a local's city guide.

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25 Fun Things To Do in Hurghada and El Gouna

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Our Essential Guide To El Gouna, Egypt

Posted: April 25, 2024 | Last updated: April 25, 2024

A surprising gem on Egypt’s Red Sea coast

El Gouna laces Egypt’s Red Sea coastline with lagoons, canals and 36 man-made islands, which scatter the water like emeralds. This resort town is packed with the good things in life – a pick ‘n’ mix of attractions and activities to suit pretty much any type of visitor. Throw in average temperatures ranging from 59°F in January to 86°F in July, and it’s surprising that it flies under many vacationer's radars.

Click or scroll through our gallery to discover more about this hidden vacation gem, and the best things to see and do there.

A beautiful bubble

El Gouna (literally ‘the lagoon’) is a little different to the rest of the country. It lacks the hustle and bustle of its gateway city, Hurghada, around half an hour’s drive south. It isn’t home to ancient monuments or pyramids (highlights of Cairo and Luxor). What it does offer, in spades, is relaxed luxury and just about everything you could need for a safe, stress-free vacation, packed with as much (or as little) adventure as you fancy.

This man-made vacation idyll started in 1989, when billionaire Samih Onsi Sawiris commissioned a marina where he and his friends could moor their yachts, with a few choice villas thrown in for good measure. It sprawled out over the decades, with more villas and vacation homes followed by hotels, restaurants, a downtown area and the bigger Abu Tig Marina – the latter two now being the main hubs of activity outside of the resorts. 

It’s now a full-blown town and, while it makes an ideal base for exploring other highlights of the so-called Red Sea Riviera, there’s plenty to do within its gates. (Rather like arriving at a big resort, everyone coming in and out must pass a security checkpoint.) From diving and watersports to burnished-gold beaches and a buggy safari through the dunes, everything here is within easy reach.

Now discover our top 20 things to do in El Gouna, Egypt...

1. Explore the islands by boat

Having bagged itself a prime chunk of Red Sea coastline, El Gouna grew into a network of lagoons and canals, earning it the nickname ‘Venice of the Red Sea.’ A lagoon boat trip is the ideal introduction, passing by chic resorts and villas from wooden structures on stilts to mighty mansions. The small boats, which pick up from downtown and can be arranged via any hotel, cruise under looping bridges and offer views over the sparkling lagoon out to the navy and turquoise-dappled Red Sea.

2. Scuba dive among reefs and wrecks

The Red Sea is a hotspot for diving, with warm waters and vibrant coral reefs easily reached from the shore. Experienced divers can rent equipment, and join trips to reefs and wrecks from ORCA Dive Club in Abu Tig Marina. Boats take you out to wreck diving sites in the north, including famous spots from Abu Nuhas reef. For keen novices, most schools here offer lessons and some also cater for kids aged eight and above.

3. Snorkel in sparkling waters

For a gentler pace, this area is idyllic for snorkeling – a stroll compared to scuba diving’s strenuous hike. Most hotels and resorts will have equipment that you can don for a pootle around the lagoons, accessed straight from any beach. For just about the perfect snorkeling conditions imaginable, though, head to Zaytouna (or Zeytuna) Island, pictured – the shallow, limpid waters and long wooden pier make accessing the coral reefs a breeze.

4. Learn to kitesurf in perfect conditions

Many coastal areas attract kitesurfers, but the conditions in El Gouna – with just enough wind to power the kite, yet relatively flat waters to allow the board to glide smoothly – are perfect. You need to register with a kitesurfing center, whether you’re a beginner or a pro – try Kite El Gouna on Mangroovy Beach, which is considered one of the best spots here for kitesurfing and other wind-powered watersports like parasailing.

5. Discover one of the world’s largest cable parks

If you’ve ever fancied trying wakeboarding – where you’re towed, feet bound to a board, behind a motorboat – this is your chance. Sliders Cable Park is one of the world’s largest Olympic-standard cable parks, with cables to pull you around the water. It’s a safe, stress-free spot to learn to wakeboard, and you can also try the easier kneeboarding (where you kneel, rather than stand on the board).

6. Swim from lagoon beaches

With water temperatures remaining above 68℉ year-round, there’s never a bad time to take a dip. You’re never more than an easy stroll from the lagoons here, and most resorts have sandy beaches with loungers. At Steigenberger, find chic beach beds (pictured) right by the water’s edge (and conveniently close to the outdoor pool and bar). For all-day beaching, there’s also a larger sweep of beach, with loungers sheltered by U-shaped screens – so it has a wonderfully private feel, even when it’s busy.

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7. Take a leisurely paddle

Did we mention the lagoons? Life really does revolve around the water here, as it should. Many of the resorts have watersports centers attached, so it’s easy to rent a paddleboard or kayak for an hour or two. The flat waters mean you definitely don’t need to be a pro, but give passing small boats a wide berth. You can also book lessons and SUP yoga sessions via Duotone Pro Center, which has boards to rent.

8. Stroll around the pretty marina

El Gouna’s resorts cram in plenty to do, but there’s more life to be found away from the hotel pools and beaches. Abu Tig Marina is one of the main hubs for when you want to explore a little more, and a very pretty one at that. When the sun is shining (as it does on average for 350 days a year here), this area of tinkling boats, chic souvenir and clothing stores, and waterfront cafes and restaurants positively sparkles.

9. Brunch with views of the boats

Among the many lovely places to eat here is the wonderfully relaxed Boho Cafe. The breezy spot by the water, with only masts and sails interrupting the view of blue, has tables that spill outside and a menu that makes you wish you were even hungrier. Brunch is a treat, with dishes like eggs Benedict with a parmesan ‘basket’, genuinely delicious smoothies and gooey cakes. There’s also a nice play area inside, which is a brilliant bonus for those traveling with toddlers.

10. Dine out in downtown

Exploring downtown is another must. There are several stores and stalls selling the usual souvenirs, from camel fridge magnets and figurines to textiles. If you only head down once, make it an evening trip. Stores open late and the restaurants that line palm-studded Tamr Henna have plenty of outdoor tables. Try terrific tacos at Chicha, linger over pizza and wine at Zia Amelia, or feast on affordably priced Egyptian specialties (including ful – fava bean stew – served various ways) at Zomba.

11. Travel by tuk-tuk

A colorful quirk of El Gouna is that the most prominent method of transport, aside from cars, is the tuk-tuk. With a set journey price of 45 EGP each way (around 90¢), these motorised rickshaws also provide a cheap and easy way to hop around the town (nothing is very far away). Most offer cheap tours too – look for a sign in the cab, or just ask. Find them adding pops of pink, yellow and orange to the scene in downtown and Abu Tig Marina, or ask your hotel to call one for you. There are regular taxis too.

12. Go on a desert Jeep safari

El Gouna may be something of a man-made paradise, but the location is no accident – aside from the Red Sea, it’s edged by desert. Explore this natural beauty with a sunset dune buggy tour with Alex Safari (you can also go via quad bike or Jeep), self-driving through canyons, visiting a Bedouin village and stopping to see the sun swallowed by distant mountains. The trip ends with a substantial and very tasty barbecue dinner, before guests are shuttled back to their hotels.

13. Drive golf balls into the lagoon

Steigenberger Golf Resort is (as the name suggests) a paradise for putters, with an 18-hole golf course reached from the main part of the resort via a quick free boat ride or via a looping bridge. Even non-golfers will enjoy the novelty of the aqua driving range. You’re encouraged to putt towards the turquoise lagoon, aiming for your ball to land on one of the tiny islands. The balls are designed to float, so those that miss can be collected later on.

14. Watch sunset from El Gouna’s highest point

On the golf course (and open to all, regardless of whether you’re staying at this hotel) is the town’s highest viewpoint, the Steigenberger Golf Tower. Sometimes simply called El Gouna Tower, it stands at a relatively lofty 36 feet (11m) and offers 360-degree views from its wraparound deck at the top. Come just before sunset, grab a cocktail from the downstairs bar, and watch the lagoons, islands and elegant villas get drenched in apricot light. You might notice the uniformity – buildings must stick to the 10 official colors, all muted, rich, earthy tones. Pictured is the view from the tower.

15. Take a sunset horse ride in the sea

A short drive, taxi or tuk-tuk ride into the desert will bring you to Habiba Horse El Gouna stables, a beautifully kept facility where you’ll instantly feel at peace with the world. Sip mint tea while the horses – all clearly loved and respected by the staff – are saddled up. It’s around an hour’s leisurely ride to a quiet beach, where you can then canter along the sand and (if the horses fancy a dip) into the sea. Trips, which last up to three hours, are timed to enjoy sunset or sunrise by the water.

16. Take advantage of the Dine Around scheme

Guests staying half-board or all-inclusive at any Orascom property (owners of 18 hotels on the island, including Casa Cook and Steigenberger) can book meals at sister hotels as part of their package. Among the loveliest spots is Nihon, a Japanese-inspired restaurant at luxurious resort, The Chedi. Sushi and dishes like Thai red chicken curry, vegetarian noodles and beef teriyaki are paired with Egyptian-themed cocktails and gorgeous open views over the sea, fringed by palms.

17. Dine with a show at Harumaki

Steigenberger boasts El Gouna’s only teppanyaki restaurant – and it’s well worth booking a table even if you’re staying elsewhere (it’s also included in the Dine Around package). Harumaki’s best seats are around the teppanyaki grill or hot plate, where the chef performs a fiery show complete with lightning-speed chopping, supreme egg-catching skills and some dramatic flambeing. The menu includes salad, soup, a choice of beef tenderloin, seafood, vegetables and chicken, and seasonal fruit flambe with ice cream.

18. Enjoy live music at Tandoor

The marina is especially lovely after dark, when the moonlight catches the water and the tinkle of masts is joined by music from the bars and restaurants. A top choice is Tandoor, an Indian restaurant that has regular live music nights on its chic terrace, where wicker lights dangle from a bamboo roof and cocktails are shaken up at the outdoor bar. Go hungry, as the food – from tasty bar bites to flavour-packed kebabs, dal makhani (black lentils) and butter chicken – is incredible.

19. Take a day trip to Hurghada

You can book day trips to Luxor or Cairo from El Gouna, but the most accessible excursion is to Hurghada, just half an hour’s drive away. The popular beach resort town also offers scuba diving spots but, for a different vibe, make a beeline for the old town, El Dahar, to explore the scents, sounds and shops of the souks, ducking into coffee houses when you need a break. Don’t miss the breathtaking Al Mina (or El Mina) Mosque, pictured, built with pure white marble.

20. Stay in chilled-out luxury

Steigenberger Golf Resort is that rare thing – a chic hotel that’s also wonderfully relaxed and family friendly. Regardless of whether you like golf, you’ll fall for the architecture, with buildings in the town’s signature Nubian colors and standout features including arches, blooming gardens and huge balconies with striking round viewpoints. There’s a lovely pool area with restaurant and bar, but the wooden, semi-enclosed beach beds will tempt you closer to the lagoon. A double room costs from around $200 per night, half board, based on two sharing.

For more information and to plan a trip, visit  elgouna.com

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Things to Do in El Gouna

Discover the ultimate guide to El Gouna's top activities! Explore thrilling water sports, serene snorkeling, cultural experiences, luxurious spa treatments, and unique attractions in this Red Sea paradise. Perfect for adventure seekers and relaxation enthusiasts alike.

By: ETP Team Published: 02 July, 2020 Updated: 31 March, 2024

Awards & Recognitions

Table of Content

1. kitesurfing, 2. sliders cable park, 3. sailing in the red sea, 4. experience snorkeling, 5. enjoy horse riding, 6. stand up paddling, 7. experience segway, 8. spa treatments, 9. enjoy golf, 10. sunbathing, 11. quad biking in the desert, 12. swimming with dolphins, 13. wakeboarding, 14. fishing tour, 15. ride a camel in the desert, 16. enjoy a bedouin dinner, 17. marina street festival, 18. visit the desert breath, 19. canoeing/kayaking, 20. scuba diving, 21. inflatable ocean ride, 22. tamr henna square event, 23. kafr el gouna, 24. moods beach club house party, 25. taste delicious salmon, 26. shop til you drop, 27. aerial sightseeing, 28. visit the aquarium, 29. beach buggy, 30. beach volleyball, 31. the bibliotheca alexandrina el gouna – culturama, 32. glass bottom boat trips, 33. liquid park el gouna, 34. visit zeytouna beach, 35. beach party at mangroovy beach, 36. fly in the air with jetlev-flyers, 37. sunset catamaran cruise with amazing champagne, best el gouna shore excursions, related articles.

• The article is crafted by experienced tour operators, guides, and consultants, providing detailed information on the most entertaining activities in El Gouna, a tropical resort on the Red Sea known for its natural beauty and cultural charm.
• El Gouna offers a range of thrilling activities, such as kitesurfing, with popular schools like KBC El Gouna Kitesurf & Wingfoil and Sliders Cable Park, one of the largest cable parks in the world, offering kneeboarding, wakeboarding, and waterskiing.
• The destination is ideal for sailing, snorkeling, and stand-up paddling in the Red Sea, providing opportunities to witness vibrant marine life, including rare sea creatures and colorful coral reefs.
• Visitors can enjoy horse riding along the Red Sea shores, experience traditional Bedouin dinners in the desert, and participate in the Marina Street Festival for music and dance shows.
• El Gouna offers luxurious spa treatments, golfing at renowned courses like El Gouna Golf Club, and beach activities such as sunbathing and beach volleyball for relaxation and entertainment.
• The resort features unique attractions like the Bibliotheca Alexandrina El Gouna, Liquid Park water park, and glass bottom boat trips for exploring marine life, providing a diverse and enriching holiday experience.

Things to do in El Gouna are the key to fully enjoying all the tropical beauty and charming culture of the Red Sea . The goal of this article is to offer every traveler all the information and details about all the most entertaining activities to do in El Gouna. This article was written by a group of very skilled team of tour operators, tour guides, and travel consultants who know all the best things to do in El Gouna.

The tropical resort of  El Gouna is a majestic lagoon that showcases the natural allure and the tremendous hidden treasures located at the essence of the Red Sea, where the most incredible vacation can be experienced through a series of amazing entertaining activities that spread joy and grace in the heart and soul of everyone who set foot within its heavenly beaches. Here are the best things to do in El Gouna:

Within the heavenly waters and ethereal winds of El Gouna lies an adrenaline-thrilling adventure that will be the highlight of your vacation. El Gouna is famous for being the hub for kitesurfing, especially from June to September when every traveler will hover in the skies of El Gouna by a kite through the skies of the Red Sea to explore the allure of El Gouna from above. There are a number of popular kitesurfing schools in El Gouna, which include KBC El Gouna Kitesurf & Wingfoil, Kite El Gouna, and KitePeople El Gouna.

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The best places to enjoy the most epic aquatic kitesurfing journey include Mangroovy Beach, the lagoon at Abu Tig Marina, Mangrove Sandy Beach, and Zabana Beach, so make sure to check them out if you are interested. You will meet with your kite instructor, who will give you the basics on how to harness the winds for your own amusement while paying more attention to the safety measures, and once you have mastered it, then the adventure of a lifetime is in your grasp.

Inside the great city resort of El Gouna is one of the largest cable parks in the world, the Slider Park. It is a great place for families and youth to do water activities like kneeboarding, wakeboarding, and Waterski across 15 floating obstacles. It provides a great time maneuvering in the sky and doing twists and turns while being airborne. El Gouna's near-perfect climate allows the park to operate year-round, making it a great option for any season. The park has two styles: cable system 5.0 Clockwise system, which is perfect for practicing tricks and maneuvers, and 2.0 System, which is perfect for beginners to learn the basics in a safe and controlled environment.

And if you aren’t into aquatic activities, well, the Golden Shell Pool Club offers a menu of amazing delicious fruity cocktails, flavorful cuisines, awesome DJs, plus panoramic views of the lagoon equipped with a massive leisure pool, sunbeds, restaurant, bar, shisha house, highly equipped kids area, open cabins and many more that puts a joyful memory in everyone’s heart forever.

Sailing in the Red Sea is like sailing across the shores of heaven where you will have the option to either board a sailboat like the luxurious catamaran as a passenger or sail by yourself after taking some courses where you will learn how to control the boat and harness the power of the wind and have an amazing experience that will be in your memory forever.

The ethereal waters of the Red Sea will open the gate to take part in a number of exciting activities like fishing, diving, snorkeling, and surfing that will bring to life the true magic of the Red Sea in the most heavenly fashion. By simply sailing in the Red Sea, a powerful sensation of tranquility and bliss will overwhelm you with every single moment as the winds, waters, and atmosphere of the area will transform every single second into a time of pure clarity and wonder.

The tropical heaven of El Gouna is able to transcend the concepts of tropical beauty through a snorkeling trip from El Gouna, where all the hidden wonder of that part of the Red Sea is uncovered, like the rare sea creatures and colorful coral reefs.

The Red Sea holds a number of majestic spots, which include Sharm El Naga Bay , Giftun Island , and Abu Dabab Bay, that will shed light on all the colorful fish, turtles, dolphins, clownfish, angelfish, butterflyfish, moray eels, and even sharks, and many more plus a variety of marine life and provide a colorful and majestic underwater landscape. Every traveler will enjoy the tranquility of paradise between the beautiful sunshine & the crystal beaches as you move freely with the snorkeling equipment, thus providing the chance to appreciate every moment. 

If you want to get a taste of paradise and experience the sensation of being the star of your own movie, horse riding across the shores of the Red Sea will be truly an epic experience worthy of remembering. A horse ride in El Gouna is a miraculously relaxing experience where you will ride on the back of a beautiful, well-trained, friendly horse on the beach or through the desert, which will put you in a high position to allow you to see more of the heavenly atmosphere of the entire site providing an awesome experience and beautiful memories.

The phenomenal sands, the angelic atmosphere, the sparking water, and the beautiful skies with the beating heart of the majestic horse will bring to life a new aspect of the celestial tropical of El Gouna and give an experience worthy of remembering.

El Gouna is the home to a unique aquatic activity called stand-up paddling, which is a way to relieve stress and just relax by floating across the magical waters of the Red Sea, where miracles grassed its services countless times. It originates from Hawaii, which gives everyone the chance to paddle across the waters of the Red Sea and meditate on the surface of its angelic waters before moving on to some of the tricky water sports like surfing or diving.

Every single soul will find all the equipment he or she needs to enjoy their time to the fullest while on top of the heavenly waters of the blessed red Sea of El Gouna, which will also provide many other activities to uncover the blessed allure of the living miracle.

If you are looking to mix technology with nature, then a segway tour across the beaches and streets of El Gouna is here for you. The terrain and beautiful beaches of El Gouna will provide an epic adventure filled with incredible sensations of thrill and pure wonder as everyone gets to explore the landscape of this epic city resort and the beautiful atmosphere of the Red Sea.

Once you have mastered the machine, you will be able to travel freely and feel the fresh air and the sun on your skin without being controlled or cooped up in a car or a boat. Through the segway, everyone will get to move with ease across all the natural allure of El Gouns, thus making everything very accessible for all.

No vacation is complete without some relaxing time at the Spa; after enjoying the local sports and experiencing all the amazing activities and excursions then, it is time to regain your strength and chill with some amazing treatments before getting a good night's sleep, such as you typical body scrub, body wraps, and Angsana massage & a bamboo message which will provide pure relaxation and rejuvenation. In El Gouna, a wide selection of treatments are designed to heal and relieve every soul; these treatments include Swedish Massage, which helps relieve muscle tension and promote relaxation.

Deep-tissue massage assists deeper muscle layers to relieve chronic pain and tension. Aromatherapy Massage combines massage with essential oils to enhance relaxation and address specific concerns like stress or anxiety. Hot Stone Massage soothes the muscles and promotes deeper relaxation. Ayurvedic Treatments promote overall well-being through massage, herbal remedies, and yoga. Thalassotherapy utilizes seawater and seaweed to offer the ultimate relaxation and detoxification.

El Gouna is a truly international resort equipped with everything that a traveler desires to enjoy their time and chill across all the epic landscapes that will make every single golf game truly legendary. If you are into golf, then you are in the right place since El Gouna hosts an 18-hole golf course designed by world play players and designers Fred Couples & Gene Bates called El Gouna Golf Club and a second one known as "Ancient Sands Golf Resort" that premiered in 2012 and designed by acclaimed golf course architect Karl Litten.

El Gouna offers a good game of golf and an amazing experience accompanied by a magical view across the Red Sea among the incredible Red Sea under the warm sun and breezing winds. El Gouna is also home to a number of golf academies, such as The El Gouna Golf Academy, which offers a variety of programs for golfers of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced players. The David Leadbetter Golf Academy is led by world-renowned golf instructor David Leadbetter and offers a variety of programs for golfers of all skill levels.

A shower of sun rays awaits under the beautiful warm climate, beautiful beaches, and stunning scenery where you can soak yourself in the sunlight and get this wonderful golden tan after you have put on sun location so you won’t get any sunburns. El Gouna has over 10 km of coastline and numerous beaches where everyone can enjoy their time and get the most blessed sun rays.

Zeytouna Beach, Mangroovy Beach, Clubhouse Beach, Moods Beach Club, and Smokery Beach are known to be the ideal spots to soak up the sun, enjoy the relaxing atmosphere, and simply chill in the tropical environment of the Red Sea. After you get that ideal long-lasting suntan, you explore some of the other awesome activities.

The living miracles and hidden gems found in the golden heart of the desert will be the key behind the most thrilling quad bike adventure in your life. For those with a sense of adventure and independence, you have the chance to explore the hidden allure of the Sahara through El Gouna super safari by quads into the desert, where you will have your adrenaline pumping and have a window to experience some amazing activities like a delicious Bedouin dinner, experience the magic of el Gouna with an entrance to the eastern desert with a Quad Bike where the most incredible memories will be created.

Every traveler will get to explore the celestial essence of the eastern Sahara and witness the blessed majesty of one of the oldest living organisms on the face of the earth, where every single moment will be surely remembered.

The heavenly waters of El Gouna offer a gift to a magical swim with the angels of the sea and the Dolphins in the dolphin house and have the ideal chance to live the most enchanting memories. You will get to feel the harmony of the underwater marine paradise in the embrace of dolphins, where you will get a deep connection with the horses of the Red Sea.

This marvelous experience will live in your spirit and mind for as long as you live, where every single moment will be filled with a moment of pure, amazing bonds with these heavenly creatures that live in an angelic habitat loaded with some of the most enchanting sea creatures and coral reefs. 

The cable park is one of the best ideal places on the Red Sea to learn the active sport of wakeboarding. Plus, it offers some ramps to practice your wakeboarding abilities once you feel confident enough. Two 5-tower cable systems offer different courses and obstacles to riders of all skill levels. Plus, there are Easy rides, which are Perfect for beginners who are just starting.

Lessons are available for everyone at all levels by Qualified instructors. Eleven floating allows riders to practice and progress their skills, adding an element of challenge and excitement to the experience. You will be given the opportunity to learn quickly and safely until you are ready to try it on your own. You will now have the taste of a true adventure and even get the confidence to try a flip or two on the waters of El Gouna.

El Gouna is an ideal destination to catch some amazing fish and have an awesome fishing trip where you will fish in the blessed waters of the Red Sea, which have incredible quality, quantity, and a delightful atmosphere that will make every single moment of the fishing trip something worthy of remembering. Deep Sea Fishing into the Red Sea will offer the chance to pick tuna, marlin, barracuda, catfish, sole, and flounder.

All travelers will witness the vibrant coral reefs closer to shore, targeting fish species like snapper, grouper, and emperor fish. You will board a boat and then head to the center of the Red Sea. You will sit back and relax under the majestic skies.

A camel ride across the eastern Sahara from El Gouna is like riding through a different, time-filled, newly created natural wonder. You will explore the wild nature of the eastern desert on the back of a camel-like in ancient times to showcase pure, ageless nature wonders under the atmosphere of the sun and the moon in the skies where the stars come out to paint a beautiful image that will make your time truly magical.

The camel will be like a divine vessel, leading every traveler to a pocket dimension filled with enchanting marvels worthy of discovery. Exploring the Sahara of Egypt will be a spiritual journey showcasing the majestic wealth of this glorious destination, where everyone will dive into a truly heavenly environment filled with bliss and wonder. 

In the golden essence of the eastern desert is a majestic opportunity to enjoy the flavor of the graceful and honorable culture of Egypt in the most blessed manner. The heavenly delicious taste of the delicious Bedouin dinner will always be in your mind and soul forever as The Bedouin tribe residing in the desert will offer an ancient cuisine dating to thousands of years made from all-natural ingredients such as traditional chicken pie with kofta, potatoes, and rice cooked under the heat of the desert, plus the natural baked super delicious Bedouin bread baked under the clear heavenly skies filled with twinkling lights, then you will drink a Bedouin tea while observing a native oriental show playing under the influence of traditional folkloric songs under the shade of the red sea mountains.

Friday night in El Gouna is not like any other as you will listen to the most magical music celebrations during the great music festival in El Gouna in spring break, where various international bands perform to take the stage at a live concert on the open beach under a delightful tropical atmosphere, and dance shows as you enjoy tasty meals and drinks while watching.

This festival takes place seasonally in El Gouna and is known to be a small event that offers a variety of live entertainment, shows, and food and drinks for the whole family. Everyone will surely enjoy their time living the best holiday, where every moment will be highly entertaining, inspiring, enchanting, and, above all else, memorable.

One of the modern pieces of impressive art in El Gouna is " The Desert Breath " which is located in the Eastern desert near Hurghada on the Red Sea coast. This incredible wonder will combine the allure of modern art with the bliss of the Sahara.

Desert Breathe is a double-spiral work of land art that showcases an experience of infinity with the desert as a landscape of the mind, which has been viewable for only 20 years after its creation in March 1997 on one million Square feet. Every second spent in El Gouna will transform into a blessed epic memory filled with the sight of the most epic combinations of art.

The safe and calm waters of el Gouna lagoons provide you with a safe environment to perform a canoeing and kayaking tour where you will race against the Red Sea and be in charge of whether you want to have an exciting or relaxing adventure during your active holiday. One popular spot is the Mangrove Forest, which is located just north of the town. The forest is home to a variety of birds and other wildlife, and it is a great place to see the natural beauty of the area.

The Abu Tig Marina is also a marina wonder located in the heart of El Gouna. It is a great place to people-watch and enjoy the views of the town. Everyone will cast their eyes on a number of epic wildlife, both marine and terrestrial. You can have company to paddle with you and have an even more awesome time. Plus, make sure to be fully prepared and trained for this delightful adventure.

There is no better way to explore the beauty of the Red Sea than a diving excursion in one of the world's most popular destinations for diving, El Gouna, where you will witness the harmonious underwater marine life, which is filled with rare sea creatures and colorful coral reefs and shipwrecks through the countless diving centers in el Gouna. El Gouna’s climate enjoys beautiful year-round diving, with water temperatures ranging from 22°C (72°F) in the winter to 28°C (82°F) in the summer, which makes it ideal for everyone who wishes to enjoy every single moment to the absolute fullest. Gouna offers over 60 dive sites for all travelers, where all divers can enjoy themselves to the fullest and explore a number of marvelous attractions. Erg Somaya is a marvelous reef system that offers stunning coral formations, diverse marine life, and gentle currents, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced divers. Shaab Abu Nuhas is famous for its shipwrecks, including the legendary "SS Thistlegorm" a World War II British freighter.

Fanadir Reef is an extensive reef system that features beautiful coral gardens, colorful fish, and occasional sightings of larger marine animals like sharks and turtles. Dolphin House is known for encounters with playful dolphins, vibrant coral formations, and diverse fish life. It contains reputable dive centers in El Gouna that feature equipment rentals, guided dives, and courses for beginners. Some popular options include Scuba World Divers is located in the Mövenpick Resort & Spa and Sheraton Miramar Resort, Scuba World Divers offers a wide range of dives, courses, and equipment rentals. Dive Trek Divecenter is a PADI-certified dive center that provides guided dives, courses, and equipment rentals for divers of all experience levels. ORCA Dive Clubs is situated at the Abu-Tig Marina, and ORCA Dive Clubs offers various dives, including nitrox dives, and experienced divers.

If you want to have so much fun during your time in El Gouna with your family and friends, then the inflatable ocean ride will give you the thrill of a lifetime as everyone will get to glide across the Red Sea with ease and total excitement. They come in different shapes like an inflatable boat, a ring, and a banana, made into groups, you will scream and shout and feel the adrenaline pumping all over your body.

The inflatable boat is usually dragged by a speed boat across its ethereal sparkling waters, which contain some of the most captivating and enchanting marine life. Riding the boat will make everyone experience an epic sensation filled with marvel and allure. Riding the boat will illuminate all the enchanting landscapes and blessed bodies of water, where every second will become worthy of remembering.  

The majestic Tamr Henna Square, which has been around for a very long time from all walks of life, created a truly diverse and interesting scene. It has been a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to enjoy the ultimate strolling, chatting and outdoor activities. It is known to be the center of all the fun and exciting places in El Gouna that offer a traditional Nubian show with a mesmerizing talented belly and Tanoura dancing.

You will dine in one of the amazing restaurants in the city, offering customary Egyptian cuisine and awesome drinks. There are a few shops located around the square selling souvenirs, clothing, and other items. The square has several restaurants and cafes offering outdoor seating, perfect for bathing in the heavenly atmosphere and enjoying a delicious meal or a special drink under the most enchanting skies and divine marine scenery.

Kafr El Gouna offers a unique blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion, all in a safe environment, thus making it a popular choice for travelers seeking a memorable experience on the Red Sea coast. It is found in a prime location on the Red Sea coast, offering easy access to stunning beaches and vibrant coral reefs. It is filled with its surrounding Pristine beaches, luxurious resorts, and a relaxed atmosphere, providing the perfect setting for unwinding and rejuvenation. It is an ideal location for world-class diving, snorkeling, kayaking, and windsurfing.

It was Built in the style of old Egyptian villages and is filled with charming canals, bridges, and colorful houses, creating a picturesque environment.  Everyone will get to enjoy all the golf courses, tennis courts, horseback riding, and various excursions, plus a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, bars, and nightclubs that cater to different tastes and preferences, offering vibrant nightlife and culinary experiences. You will get to relax with a drink or enjoy a lively evening by dancing the night away in one of the open-air clubs or festivals with a vibrant atmosphere that offers the chance to meet new interesting people.

One of the biggest clubs in El Gouna is the Moods Beach Club, which has a large outdoor stage and an impressive dance area where some of the biggest stars perform. It’s the best place in El Gouna to get your groove on as you sing and dance all night long. It is one of the most relaxing spots by the sea at the tip of Abu Tig Marina, offering a great variety of food, music, and drinks.

It is the perfect place to spend quiet time either with your family and friends or simply spend some alone on a sandy beach close to the open sea. The place offers the chance to enjoy the party across the magnificent and magical atmosphere, thus making every single moment a true gem worthy of cherishing. 

One of the many perks of the Red Sea is the fresh and delicious salmon that grow in the most heavenly waters, where every bite will feel like consuming the essence of the whole divine Red Sea. The Smokery Yacht Club is where you’ll want to be if you want to experience the finest dining experience in El Gouna. The supremely delicious salmon is a very popular dish and arguably some of the best salmon you will ever taste during your time in Egypt.

The incredible culinary arts of Egypt will also enhance your dining experience to incredible heights. The other dishes are also excellent and prepared to the highest standards by the skilled team in the club's kitchen. You will get to Chill out and relax in the calm atmosphere and let the well-trained staff handle every order, from a meal to a refreshing beverage.

Within the great city resort of El Gouna is all that you can wish for as there is no more than you can handle, from hand-crafted shops to bustling arcades to cultural bazaars. El Gouna is filled with great places to find unique gifts and experience rich Egyptian culture. One of the best places to enjoy shopping is Abu Tig Marina, which is loaded with a variety of shops selling souvenirs, clothing, handcrafted jewelry, papyrus paintings, alabaster sculptures, carpets, and other items.

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Everyone can also find cafes and restaurants, thus making it a great place to relax and people-watch Downtown Star Bazaar offers a charming atmosphere with numerous stalls selling souvenirs, handicrafts, spices, and local textiles. Some of the best places to shop are Downtown Star Bazaar, Senzo Mall, Nevin Altmann Shop, and Egyptian House. Anyone can perform a shopping tour on the roads outside the hotel shops, where a number of shops contain all that you want at lower prices.

The sight of the el Gouna from above is a piece of paradise, and you will witness it through motor gliders and ultra aircraft. From El Gouna to Hurghada or Sahl Hasheesh, you will have a 20-minute ride above the resort or a 90-minute ride along the coast. Aerial sightseeing will be the key to enjoying the ultimate sense of freedom, tranquility, and thrill across the divine atmosphere of El Gouna of the Red Sea.

Witnessing the true marine natural beauty of El Gouna has never been this easy. Where everyone will cast their eyes on the living miracles of the Red Sea from the most phenomenal view ever, the scenery will be completely hypnotic and purely enchanting, will resemble bringing to life a whole new world before your eyes, which will be filled with sparking waters, epic landscapes, and miraculous aquatic creatures that come in different colors, shapes, and forms. 

The small El Gouna Aquarium is a magical place that puts you up close and in person with some of the rare sea creatures of the Red Sea and offers a great deal of knowledge about their hidden habitat. Everyone, both young and adult, will have an amazing time so full of wonder and magic. The aquarium is located in the Magawish area, south of Hurghada, just a 30-minute drive from El Gouna.

The Aquarium offers the chance for all travelers to cast their eyes on over 1200 individual animals and 100 species that showcase the rich biodiversity of the Red Sea. Travelers can explore various sections, including a rainforest exhibit, a coral reef tank, and a tunnel that allows them to walk beneath sharks and other marine life. The aquarium also offers the chance to enjoy Daily shark feeding time, a Rainforest and Arabian Tent, a Mini Zoo, and a Fossil Museum, plus an Underwater tunnel and the chance to dive with sharks against charge.

One of the many ways to get your adrenaline pumping is by a thrilling beach buggy across the exciting different locations surrounding the resort. You will explore some incredible sites showcasing the pure heavenly allure of the el Gouna and the Sahara while feeling the wind on your face as you go faster and faster after you have received the required training and wear protective gear.

The picturesque desert landscape surrounding El Gouna will be explored to the fullest, thus offering the chance to observe the most stunning views of sand dunes, mountains, and the Red Sea in the distance. All travelers will get to travel in total style and make some of the most majestic and blessed memories through the marvelous and mesmerizing environment of the Red Sea.  

One of the best ways to stay active in El Gouna is to play beach volleyball on the amazing golden sands next to the Red Sea with your friends and family and create some beautiful memories. El Gouna occasionally hosts beach volleyball tournaments, as the climate and terrain are truly ideal.

Many beach clubs, such as Moods Beach Club, Labranda Club Paradisio, Kiteboarding Club, and the Club House, have dedicated vibrant beach volleyball courts available for everyone, plus hotels like Mövenpick Resort & Spa also have beach volleyball courts on their premises. Everyone will enjoy their time to the fullest, as the heavenly atmosphere of El Gouna will make your game truly awesome.

One of the most unique attractions in El Gouna is the great library of Bibliotheca Alexandria, where you will explore a ton of history and information for a fee of 1 euro. The Bibliotheca Alexandrina El Gouna is known as the Embassy of Knowledge, which is a cultural landmark located in the Abu Tig Marina area of El Gouna. It was established in 2002 by the Sawiris family to spread knowledge and understanding beyond the boundaries of Alexandria. It can provide access to educational resources and cultural experiences for the El Gouna community and Promote cultural exchange and dialogue.

The library has a collection of over 50,000 books covering various subjects, including literature, history, science, and art. It offers multimedia facilities, including computers with internet access, for research and learning purposes. The library regularly hosts cultural events, such as exhibitions, lectures, and workshops, promoting diverse cultural expressions. It also features a children's library specifically designed to encourage young minds to explore the world of reading and learning. Discovering the library will be a very entertaining and enriching trip filled with pure bliss and marvel.

There is no way to witness the full magic, wonder, and beauty of the underworld than the glass bottom of el Gouna, where you can see everything clearly from the bottom of the boat. You will witness the harmonious, beautiful sea creatures all living together in total harmony in a crystal clear vision with your family and friends.

The glass bottom boat offers a gateway to catch a legendary glimpse and uncover the pure essence and the magical intricate environment of the Red Sea of El Gouna that is able to create living art made of colorful fishes and amazing coral reefs. Each second will be transformed into a magnificent memory filled with visions of pure wonder and extraordinary coexistence.   

One of the biggest inflatable water parks is the liquid water park, where you can enjoy climbing walls, action towers, slides, and more while being very safe and secure. Liquid Park El Gouna is a popular water park located in downtown El Gouna, known for offering a variety of thrilling water slides, pools, and attractions for all ages.  The park features a variety of water slides that provide different levels of thrill and excitement. Some popular slides include the Kamikaze, the Space Bowl, and the Lazy River.

The park also has several swimming pools, including a wave pool, a children's pool, and an activity pool with water games and features. Liquid Park offers additional activities like a lazy river, a wave pool, a kids' play area, and a snack bar. The park typically operates during the summer season, from May to October. It is easy to get to, only operating in the peak seasons, and offers the ultimate fun for kids and the full family, so don’t miss it. Enjoy your time to the fullest.

One of the exciting and awesome beaches in El Gouna is Zeytouna Beach, which possesses all the means to relax and stay active, have fun and learn all kinds of new things. Zeytouna Beach is a heavenly tranquil haven offering stunning scenery, clear waters, ideal settings, and a relaxed atmosphere. It's a perfect choice for those seeking a peaceful escape and enjoying the celestial allure of the Red Sea. It is found on a small island accessible by a regular shuttle boat leaving from the Sultan Bey Hotel in El Gouna. Zeytouna Beach is perfect for escaping the hustle and bustle of the main town.

Its crystal-clear turquoise waters and golden sands are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and, of course, diving to fully explore the Red Sea's vibrant marine life. There are also various water sports activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, and banana boat rides. If you want to chill and get a suntan, then find a spot on the sandy shores. You can head into the glistening waters for a swim or snorkel to see the beautiful underwater marine life. You will also be able to learn kitesurf here, which is a superb activity.

If you're looking for a party, then you are in the right place on the irresistible beach of Mangroovy, which offers the ultimate location to have a delicious BBQ and tasty drink and have fun with your friends. The incredible soft sand and warm waters are ideal for swimming and relaxing across the soft sand and warm waters of the Red Sea.

Partying across the mesmerizing man groovy beach will be the chance to utilize the heavenly environment in the most entertaining manner, which holds a number of awesome activities that will make your party time truly epic.

One of the newly futuristic activities newly added is a unique experience of flying above the surface of the water using a kind of water jet device that will make you feel like a superhero as you are flying up in the air.

Hovering across the ethereal waters of the Red Sea will be truly awesome, where everyone will utilize the divine powers of the Red Sea with modern technology to attempt to touch the skies of El Gouna. This amazing machine will make every single moment truly spectacular, thus offering every traveler a new activity to create marvelous memories.

Luxury is best lived across the heavenly shores and waters of the Red Sea in El Gouna, where the ethereal scenery and natural blessings of the area will make every single moment feel like pure wonder. The sight from the catamaran cruise at sunset is nothing shorter than heavenly, where you will have the time of your life on board and experience the lifestyle of a millionaire with the beautiful sights of the el Gouna and the Red Sea showcasing an endless glimmering of magical blue waters.

The moments lived onboard this epic cruise in this phenomenal environment and atmosphere onboard the majestic cruise will be fun, and each second will transform into vivid memories.

With our El-Gouna excursions , having fun & enjoy, don’t stop at the limit of snorkeling & riding quad bikes in El-Gouna, but to go beyond limits and get the experience of being a king with our royal treatment with our guests while visiting the Egyptian cities with their fabulous landmarks. Here are the best tours from El Gouna

Day Trip to Cairo from El Gouna by Bus

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Private Day Trip from El Gouna to Pyramids by Plane

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Private Day Tour from EL Gouna to Cairo by Car

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Cairo Day Trip from EL Gouna By Plane

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• Before You Travel

Frequently Asked Questions

What to do in el gouna.

El Gouna is an ideal tropical destination to fully enjoy the best adventure and enjoy a true sense of tranquility. El Gouna resort holds the Silder cable park one of the largest cable parks on earth and is a center of many fun water sports such as wakeboarding, fishing, kneeboarding, waterski, snorkeling, and kite surfing. Every traveler will be able to dive in the water of the red sea through the delightful Zeytuna Beach, Mangroovy Beach, Moods Beach, and many more. The super safari and the nightlife in the eastern desert is very enjoyable

How far is El Gouna from Hurghada?

The distance between El Gouna and Hurghada is 26.7 Km which takes about 33 minutes. Which offers the chance to witness all the natural tropical wonders which are located between the two heavenly cities of El Gouna and Hurghada.

How do you get from Cairo to El Gouna?

The distance between Cairo and El Gouna is 445.4 KM which takes about 4 hours and 45 minutes drive to reach between the two. The quickest way to get from Cairo to El Gouna or vis versa is by flight which takes about one Hour.

What Are the Finest Destinations to Visit in Egypt?

The entire country of Egypt deserve to be explored with its every heavenly detail but there are places that must be seen before any other such as the breathtaking Hurghada's red sea, The wonders of Cairo the pyramids of Giza, the great sphinx, the Egyptian Museum, Khan El Khalili Bazaar, the wonders of Luxor like Valley of the Kings, Karnak & Hatshepsut temple and the wonders of Aswan such as Abu Simbel temples, Philea temple, Unfinished obelisk and The Wonders of Alexandria like Qaitbat Citadel, Pompey's Pillar and Alexandria Library. Read more about the best places to visit in Egypt .

What Are Egypt's Visa Requirements?

If you want to apply for a Visa On Arrival that lasts for 30 days then you should be one of the eligible countries, have a valid passport with at least 6 months remaining and pay 25$ USD in cash, as for the E-Visa for 30 day you should have a valid passport for at least 8 months, complete the online application, pay the e-visa fee then print the e-visa to later be presented to the airport border guard. You could also be one of the lucky ones who can obtain a free visa for 90 days. Read more about Egypt travel visa .

What Is the Top Traditional Egyptian Food?

Egypt has a variety of delicious cuisines but we recommend “Ful & Ta’meya (Fava Beans and Falafel)”, Mulukhiya, “Koshary”, a traditional Egyptian pasta dish, and Kebab & Kofta, the Egyptian traditional meat dish.

What is the Best Time to Visit Egypt?

The best time to travel to Egypt is during the winter from September to April as the climate becomes a little tropical accompanied by a magical atmosphere of warm weather with a winter breeze. You will be notified in the week of your trip if the Climate is unsafe and if any changes have been made.

What to Pack for Your Egypt Tour?

You should pack everything you could ever need in a small bag so you could move easily between your destinations.

Why Book With "Egypt Tours Portal"?

We have been creating the finest vacations for more than 20 years around the most majestic destinations in Egypt. Our staff consists of the best operators, guides and drivers who dedicate all of their time & effort to make you have the perfect vacation. All of our tours are customized by Travel, Financial & Time consultants to fit your every possible need during your vacation. It doesn't go without saying that your safety and comfort are our main priority and all of our resources will be directed to provide the finest atmosphere until you return home.

Is it Safe to Travel to Egypt?

You will feel safe in Egypt as the current atmosphere of the country is quite peaceful after the government took powerful measures like restructuring the entire tourist police to include all the important and tourist attractions in Egypt. Read more about is it safe to travel to Egypt .

What to Wear While in Egypt?

Wear whatever feels right and comfortable. It is advised to wear something light and comfortable footwear like a closed-toe shoe to sustain the terrain of Egypt. Put on sun block during your time in Egypt in the summer to protect yourself from the sun.

What are the Best Activities to Do in Egypt?

The best activity is by far boarding a Nile Cruise between Luxor and Aswan or Vise Versa. Witness the beauty of Egypt from a hot balloon or a plane and try all the delicious Egyptian cuisines and drinks plus shopping in old Cairo. Explore the allure and wonders of the red sea in the magical city resorts of Egypt like Hurghada and many more by diving and snorkeling in the marine life or Hurghada. Behold the mesmerizing western desert by a safari trip under the heavenly Egyptian skies.

What are Egypt Festival and Public Holidays?

There are a lot of public holidays in Egypt too many to count either religious or nation, the most important festivals are the holy month of Ramadan which ends with Eid Al Fitr, Christmas and new years eve. Read more about festivals & publich holidays in Egypt .

What are Special Advice for Foreign Women in Egypt?

Egypt is considered to be one of the most liberal Islamic countries but it has become a little bit conservative in the last couple of decades so it is advised to avoid showing your chest, shoulders or legs below the knees.

What are the Official Languages of Egypt?

Arabic is the official language and Most Egyptians, who live in the cities, speak or understand English or at least some English words or phrases. Fewer Egyptians can speak French, Italian, Spanish, and German. Professional tour guides, who work in the tourism sector, are equipped to handle visitors who cannot speak Arabic and they will speak enough English and other languages to fulfill the needs of all our clients.

What is the Transportation in Egypt?

The fastest way is a car, of course, a taxi. If you are in Cairo ride a white taxi to move faster or you could board the fastest way of transportation in Egypt metro if the roads are in rush hour.

What is the Weather is Like?

The temperature in Egypt ranges from 37c to 14 c. Summer in Egypt is somehow hot but sometimes it becomes cold at night and winter is cool and mild. The average of low temperatures vary from 9.5 °C in the wintertime to 23 °C in the summertime and the average high temperatures vary from 17 °C in the wintertime to 32 °C in the summertime. The temperature is moderate all along the coasts.

What are the Reasons That Make You Visit Egypt?

It is the home of everything a traveler might be looking for from amazing historical sites dating to more than 4000 years to enchanting city resorts & beaches. You will live the vacation you deserve as Egypt has everything you could possibly imagine.

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About the Author: ETP Team

Egypt Tours Portal team dedicates its time and energy to preserving and showcasing the vast history and mysteries of the ancient Egyptians that trace back more than 5000 years across their most famous destinations that hold an incredible number of monuments and attractions. The team’s main purpose is to shed light on the infinite wealth of natural, historical, cultural, and mythological knowledge for everyone who wished to learn something new and prepare for their journey across the magical destinations of Egypt.

All the team members of the Egypt tours portal are a highly knowledgeable and qualified group of Egyptologists, Archaeologists, historians, world travelers, content creators, digital marketers, consultants, and explorers who have a vast experience in each of their fields, stretching from 5 to 20 years where everyone gained an unfathomable understanding of their craft that provide all the visitors and clients to gain priceless information and all the means needed to have the most entertaining travel experience in Egypt.

The information mentioned on the website was created over a long period of time by a number of the most qualified experts in each of their fields which was updated regularly on a monthly basis and depends on a number of highly trusted sources with confirmed facts to ensure the safest delivery and consumption of each information in the most useful and positive manner.

All our sources and resources of the Egypt tours portal which was cultivated for over 35 years that were made to provide the most incredible Egypt tours & vacation packages, Egypt Nile cruises, Egypt day tours & excursions, and Egypt shore excursions that have won the praise of all our clients as shown by own clients on TripAdvisor, won a number of awards, and mentioned by a number of renowned news agencies and travel blogs plus provides an enriching educational and entertaining travel experience for everyone.

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The Chedi El Gouna

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THE CHEDI EL GOUNA - Updated 2024

A little slice of Egyptian paradise

I’m not normally a huge fan of resort-style holidays but this Red Sea development in Egypt is quite unique. It’s an entire town built by just one company!

Written by Michael Turtle

Michael Turtle is the founder of Time Travel Turtle. A journalist for more than 20 years, he's been travelling the world since 2011.

Michael Turtle is the founder of Time Travel Turtle and has been travelling full time for a decade.

Updated: March 12, 2024

El Gouna, Egypt

We turn out of the Egyptian city of Hurghada and into the desert. The road is straight and disappears towards the horizon.

On either side sand blows. Not the rich yellow sand of Saharan postcards – the dirtier variety that gathers near cities like this.

As we drive further from the urbanity, though, the sand begins to take a more pleasant hue. We’re also leaving behind the large Red Sea resorts of Hurghada that I saw when flying in an hour ago.

From above, they look like small theme parks, I had thought at the time. Large pools that stretch across almost the whole property; building after building of hotel rooms surrounding them; water slides and beach umbrellas and tennis courts to amuse.

You can see what I mean in the map below.

I am told later these Egyptian resorts are particularly popular with groups of Russian tourists. It brings back memories of almost being crushed to death in the stampede for the all-inclusive lunch buffet at a similar resort one time in Turkey.

After about 30 minutes of driving, I arrive at my destination – El Gouna. To call it a resort would be unfair. El Gouna is actually more of a town.

I realise that straight away as I’m driven from the front gate of the site to my hotel, Captain’s Inn , by the water of the marina. It takes at least ten minutes to get there through what look like suburbs (it’s hard to tell exactly because the sun has set since we passed through the gate).

It’s not until the next morning that I’m able to start exploring properly.

El Gouna is not somewhere that you walk around, though. Like any town, it’s important to have proper transportation but you would not expect a town surrounded on three sides by North African desert to use boats. But it’s from deckside, cruising the artificial canals, that I get my first real glimpses of El Gouna.

As you can see in this map, El Gouna is larger than you might expect.

On one side is the Red Sea, which provides the beaches, the marinas, and a cool breeze in the evenings.

There’s a golf course in the middle of the development (and another one currently being built in the northern section), a cable park where I will later fail spectacularly at water-skiing, hotels, restaurants, a university, schools, a hospital and houses.

This is clearly more than just a holiday destination, even if everything feels like one.

What is El Gouna?

So how did this rather unusual town end up in the middle of nowhere Egypt, prosperous and green with water flowing through almost every vista? Well, it was the creation of Egyptian billionaire Samih Sawiris.

The story one person tells me here in El Gouna is that he chose a site where he used to fish as child to build his dream home and it grew from there.

The description on El Gouna’s website says he searched the Red Sea coast for the most beautiful spot he could find to “carve paradise out of the desert”.

And in a direct interview I read , Samih Sawiris explains that he wanted to build a small community for family and friends but chose the site because it was not too far from the city of Hurghada but was also just far enough.

The exact details of how the idea was conceived are irrelevant now, 25 years later. What is important is what has happened since then.

The small settlement on the coast did indeed grow and it now has about 20,000 full-time residents and 17 hotels. The whole town is owned by Samih Sawiris’s company which means development can be managed in a sustainable way, all the different areas of operation can work together easily, and there is a consistent atmosphere to the entire town.

It certainly does feel a bit odd in El Gouna. Not bad – just odd.

It’s almost like the Truman Show… if the movie had been set in the desert. You know that shambolic Egypt is outside the gates but here, inside, everything is clean and efficient and friendly. There are no beggars, no harassment, no safety concerns.

It may be a town but it still has the semblance of a resort. I don’t realise that at first but it comes to me peacefully after my golf lesson, while I’m being massaged at Future Spa, and dreaming about the evening’s dinner to come after a sunset stroll along the beach.

At first I thought maybe I would be too young for somewhere like El Gouna. Certainly it has, at times, the feeling that many of the guests are spending their children’s inheritance here rather than in an empty nest.

But as I explore, I realise this is the great benefit of this rather unique mix between town and resort.

Each of the 17 hotels offers something different – from high-end luxury, to easy access to the golf course, to adults only (which is not what I first assumed), to younger nightlife.

At my hotel, Captains’ Inn, many of the guests are 20-something Europeans who are here for the excellent kitesurfing conditions. But no matter where you stay, all of El Gouna’s facilities are available to you.

In fact, there is even a rather novel Dine Around program where, if you have paid for full or half board at a hotel, you are able to have your dinner at the restaurants of other hotels on some of the nights.

Although the steak I have the first evening at Captain’s Inn is delicious, I am particularly impressed with the Egyptian feast on offer at the El Tableya Restaurant of Dawar El Omda Hotel .

The food may be authentically Egyptian but El Gouna isn’t. The whole complex may appear sometimes to be a resort but it isn’t.

At other times it may appear to be a town, but it isn’t really that either. It’s unique. It really is just how it was described – it’s billionaire Samih Sawiris’s little bit of paradise carved out in the desert.

Time Travel Turtle was a guest of El Gouna, Red Sea, Egypt and Holiday Designers but the opinions, over-written descriptions and bad jokes are his own.

More stories about Egypt

• The best things to do in Cairo
• How to visit the Pyramids of Giza
• The best tombs in the Valley of the Kings
• Discovering the birthplace of Ancient Egypt
• The magnificence of Karnak Temple
• What to do in Aswan
• Why seeing Philae should be on your list
• Visiting Abu Simbel's incredible temples
• When whales walked the earth!

10 thoughts on “A little slice of Egyptian paradise”

The reality has been supplanted by the fantastical. Quite a feat!

It’s great to see another side to Egypt rather than the traditional Pyramids.

At least it’s beautiful and has authentic cuisine.

Great post. Really does look like a kind of paradise. Very charming.

Thanks Mary. Charming is a great way to put it. It’s very different to much of Egypt but a lovely place to relax and get away from things.

Interesting place. Kinda looks like a ghost town? Were you there off season, or did you just get up very early to shoot your photos?

It is pretty hot during the middle of the day so people try to avoid the outdoors. Most of the visitors would have been at the beach, the pool, or inside somewhere.

Well. I agree with you that Elgouna is a paradise in Egypt. Since I’ve been organizing private guided tours in Egypt for so long, I had many guests choosing Elgouna specifically as a stay and for tours. Thanks for sharing these amazing photos.

This quite a great guide article! useful info and great coverage of the topic.

what agreat information thanks for it

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Navigate El Gouna's Beauty: Rent Your Perfect Boat for a Day of Adventure

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Easy Speedboats

Easy Speedboats is the most established speed boat hire company in El Gouna with fully licenced and trained captains. It provides tuition, up-to-date safety equipment, and well-maintained boats from 25 horsepower. Located in Movenpick, Three Corners Ocean View, Three Corners Rihanna, Zaytouna Beach Area.

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Lagoon Trip

Cruise elegantly on crystal-clear waters and discover the town in style! Hop on board of our new modern boats to enjoy a pleasant cruise through the vast lagoons of El Gouna with our professional boat guides and refreshments. We offer private trips for up to 20 people, making the most memorable moments for couples, groups, celebrations and special events. Daily collection trips are available in the morning and for sunset. Our signature lagoon cruises include all El Gouna’s landmarks and most important stops like Downtown, all Marinas, Golf tower, hotels, beaches, private villas and some of the town’s hidden gems. The most enjoyable way to discover and experience El Gouna, making memories and amazing photos!

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We wish you a pleasant trip your Dima Tourism team

Just, 22 KM, away from the city of Hurghada and only 5 hours' drive from Cairo (470 KM) is the superb Resort of EL-Gouna, an environmentally friendly destination, complete with almost world class accommodations that offer indifinetly the utmost of services and activities to suit the requirements of every taste. Temperatures on this part of the Red Sea are pleasant and moderate in winter months, with a minimum between 16-18 °C , while the maximum summer temperatures ranging between 30-35 °C, in addition to countless interconnected islands, beautiful turquoise lagoons, ultimate ready golf courses, luxurious beach-front establishments and an endless range of water activities, make EL-Gouna the Hub and main tourist destination of the Red Sea. Moreover, its state of the art spas, variety of restaurants, discos and clubs, cafes is nothing more than a unique getaway of a relaxation experience and the most perfect honeymoon destination hardly found elsewhere, just imagine you celebrate this occasion walking hand in hand among lush green gardens, crystal clear lagoons, enjoying a romantic dinner under moon and candle lights, gazing at the most expensive and luxurious yachts in the Marina, and in another day you board one of these dreamlike ships and enjoy another one. Another night there, get you little cultural escape when you head to the desert to be offered with Bedouin tea, gazing at the countless stars in the sky watching a folkloric dancing show and enjoy a Barbeque Dinner. El-Gouna which housed in the past few years successful Events and International Meetings is the correct place for accommodation water activities and entertainments options, make the holiday a memorable one to be told.

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