Marsa Alam Travel Guide
Best Time to Visit Marsa Alam
Marsa Alam has a hot desert climate with sunshine nearly every day.
Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are the best times, with temperatures of 26–34°C and water temperatures of 24–28°C. Visibility for diving is excellent.
Summer (June–August) is very hot, around 35–40°C, but it's peak season for oceanic whitetip sharks at offshore reefs and for dolphins.
Winter (December–February) is mild by day (22–25°C) but can be windy, with cooler water around 22–23°C.
Shark season: Oceanic whitetip sharks are most commonly seen at Elphinstone and the Brothers Islands from October to December, while hammerheads are seen from June to August.
Top Things to Do in Marsa Alam
1. Abu Dabbab Bay
One of the best places in the world to snorkel with green sea turtles, which graze on seagrass in the shallow bay. It's also one of the few places in Egypt where you might spot a rare dugong.
2. Sataya Reef (Dolphin House)
A large horseshoe-shaped reef where pods of spinner dolphins rest during the day. Full-day boat trips offer snorkelling with dolphins in the wild.
3. Elphinstone Reef
A world-famous dive site with steep coral walls, colourful soft corals and regular sightings of oceanic whitetip sharks, hammerheads and reef sharks. Suitable for experienced divers.
4. Wadi El Gemal National Park
A protected area covering desert valleys, mangroves, islands and coral reefs. Highlights include Qulaan mangroves, Hankorab Beach, one of Egypt's most beautiful beaches, and desert wildlife such as gazelles and ibex.
5. Marsa Mubarak
A shallow bay with seagrass beds where turtles and sometimes dugongs feed.
6. Port Ghalib
A marina town with restaurants, shops and boats departing for diving and snorkelling trips.
7. Desert Safari
Explore the Eastern Desert by jeep or camel, visit a Bedouin camp, and enjoy stargazing in some of the clearest skies in Egypt.
Also worth visiting: Samadai Reef, Shaab Marsa Alam, the Brothers Islands (liveaboard diving), the Sharm El Luli beach and the Roman emerald mines of Sikait.
Beyond Marsa Alam
- Hamata and the Wadi El Gemal Islands: Remote islands with pristine reefs.
- Edfu and Luxor: Ancient temples reachable on long day trips via the desert road.
- Berenice: An ancient Ptolemaic port near the Sudanese border.
- El Quseir: A historic port town with an Ottoman fortress.
Suggested 5-Day Marsa Alam Itinerary
Day 1 – Settle in: Relax at your resort and snorkel the house reef.
Day 2 – Turtles: Snorkel with turtles at Abu Dabbab Bay or Marsa Mubarak.
Day 3 – Dolphins: Take a full-day boat trip to Sataya Reef to swim with dolphins.
Day 4 – Wadi El Gemal: Explore the national park, Qulaan mangroves and Hankorab Beach.
Day 5 – Diving or desert: Dive Elphinstone (experienced divers) or take a desert safari with stargazing.
Responsible Marine Encounters
Marsa Alam's wildlife is protected, and responsible behaviour helps keep it that way:
- Keep your distance: Stay at least 2–3 metres from turtles and dugongs, and never touch or chase them.
- Dolphins: Follow guide instructions and let dolphins approach you.
- Sharks: Follow local rules and guide advice; swimming may be restricted at times.
- Reef-safe sunscreen: Protect coral health.
- Choose responsible operators: Look for guides who brief guests on marine etiquette.
Marsa Alam Food Scene
Most visitors stay in all-inclusive resorts, which offer international buffets. For local flavours, try fresh grilled fish, calamari, Egyptian mezze, ful, ta'ameya and Bedouin bread baked on hot stones during desert trips. Port Ghalib has restaurants with marina views.
Liveaboard Diving from Marsa Alam
Marsa Alam is the main departure point for liveaboard trips to the Red Sea's remote southern reefs. Popular routes include the Brothers Islands, Daedalus Reef and Elphinstone, famous for hammerhead and oceanic whitetip sharks, and the St John's Reefs near the Sudanese border, known for pristine coral gardens. Trips typically last 6–7 nights and require advanced certification and good experience in currents. Liveaboards depart from Port Ghalib and Hamata. Book with reputable operators that follow safety and environmental standards.
Where to Stay in Marsa Alam
- North of Marsa Alam (Port Ghalib and El Quseir road): Resorts close to the airport and Port Ghalib.
- Abu Dabbab area: Resorts near the famous turtle bay.
- South of Marsa Alam: Quieter eco-lodges and resorts near Wadi El Gemal.
- Eco-lodges: Simple, sustainable accommodation for divers and nature lovers.
Compare hotel prices and availability in Marsa Alam here.
Getting There & Around
Flying to Marsa Alam
Marsa Alam International Airport (RMF) is about 60 km north of Marsa Alam town, near Port Ghalib, with direct charter and scheduled flights from Europe. Alternatively, fly to Hurghada (HRG) and transfer by road (about 3–4 hours). Search and compare cheap flights to Marsa Alam to find the best fares.
Getting Around
- Hotel transfers: Most resorts provide airport transfers.
- Taxis: Available but expensive for long distances; agree on prices.
- Organised excursions: Include transport to beaches, reefs and the desert.
- Car rental: Limited availability; roads are long and remote.
Travel Costs in Marsa Alam
Marsa Alam is mostly an all-inclusive destination. Egypt uses the Egyptian pound (EGP), but many services are priced in euros or US dollars.
| Travel style | Accommodation | Food & drink | Transport & activities | Daily total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Budget | US$30–60 | Included or US$15–25 | US$20–50 | US$50–135 |
| Mid-range | US$70–150 | Included | US$50–150 | US$120–300 |
| Luxury | US$200–500 | Included or US$50–100 | US$150–500 | US$350–1,100 |
Visa & Entry Requirements
- e-Visa: Many nationalities can apply online. Since 1 March 2026, a single-entry tourist visa costs US$30 (multiple-entry US$65).
- Visa on arrival: Available at Marsa Alam and Hurghada airports for eligible nationalities for US$30.
- Passport validity: At least 6 months beyond arrival.
Always check the official Egyptian e-Visa portal before departure.
Local Tips for Marsa Alam
- Remote location: Bring essentials, as shops are limited outside resorts.
- Marine safety: Follow lifeguard advice and swimming restrictions.
- Diving certification: Some sites, such as Elphinstone, require advanced experience.
- Cash: Carry euros or US dollars for tips and small purchases.
- Safety: Egypt is at US Level 2 ("exercise increased caution"); Marsa Alam's resorts are calm and secure.
- Sun and heat: Wear a rash guard while snorkelling to protect against sunburn.
- Seasickness: Boat trips to Sataya and Elphinstone can be rough; take medication if needed.
- Tipping: Boat crews and dive guides appreciate tips.
- Water: Drink bottled water.
- Dress code: Dress modestly when visiting Marsa Alam town or Bedouin villages.
- Staying connected: Mobile coverage can be patchy on boats and in the desert. Buy a local SIM or a travel eSIM. Get your Egypt eSIM here.
Tours & Experiences
- Sataya Dolphin House trip: Snorkel with spinner dolphins.
- Abu Dabbab turtle snorkelling: See green turtles.
- Elphinstone dive: Dive with sharks.
- Wadi El Gemal safari: Mangroves and Hankorab Beach.
- Desert stargazing tour: Experience the night sky.
Browse and book the best tours in Marsa Alam here.
FAQ
Can you see dugongs in Marsa Alam?
Yes, occasionally at Abu Dabbab and Marsa Mubarak, though sightings are rare.
How far is Marsa Alam from Hurghada?
About 270 km, or 3–4 hours by road.
When is the best time to visit Marsa Alam?
March–May and September–November.
Is Marsa Alam good for snorkelling?
Yes. It has some of the best snorkelling in Egypt, with turtles and dolphins.
Do I need a visa?
Yes, for most nationalities: US$30 online or on arrival.
Conclusion
Marsa Alam's turtles, wild dolphins and shark-filled reefs make it Egypt's best destination for wildlife encounters away from the crowds.
Plan ahead: book your tours and activities on GetYourGuide, and get ready to discover Marsa Alam.