Nestled along the stunning Red Sea coast, El Gouna is a vibrant resort town in Egypt renowned for its dazzling marinas, pristine beaches, and extraordinary recreational opportunities. Whether you are a nature lover, an adventure enthusiast, or simply seeking relaxation, El Gouna offers an array of unforgettable experiences. Below, we explore 15 must-do activities that make this hidden gem a top destination for travelers.
1. Abu Tig Marina: The Heartbeat of El Gouna
At the core of El Gouna lies Abu Tig Marina, a lively waterfront filled with luxurious yachts and a buzzing atmosphere. This marina is perfect for leisurely strolls along the harbor where you can admire impressive boats while savoring gourmet meals at waterfront restaurants. Beyond its scenic charm, Abu Tig Marina boasts stylish shopping options and boat rentals, making it perfect for both relaxation and indulgence.
2. Scuba Diving in the Red Sea
El Gouna’s warm, clear waters are ideal for scuba diving, renowned for vibrant coral reefs and fascinating underwater wrecks. The town hosts multiple diving schools catering to beginners and seasoned divers alike. Whether embarking on your first diving experience or an advanced expedition, El Gouna promises breathtaking underwater adventures teeming with marine life.
3. Explore the Lagoon by Paddleboard or Boat
Known as the "Venice of the Orient," El Gouna’s intricate lagoon system highlights the town’s natural beauty. Exploring the lagoon by boat is a popular way to see the town from a different perspective. For a more active option, renting a paddleboard lets you glide across calm waters while soaking up serene views, making it an enjoyable and refreshing activity.
4. Ride a Tuk Tuk Around Town
For a quick and fun way to explore El Gouna’s scenic streets, take a ride in a tuk tuk – a motorized rickshaw popular among locals and tourists. These quick, nimble vehicles navigate well-paved, traffic-free streets, offering affordable tours. Many drivers are also accessible through apps like Uber, providing convenient booking options.
5. El Gouna Tower: Panoramic Views
Located at St. George Hotel, El Gouna Tower offers spectacular panoramic views of the city, golf courses, coastline, and lagoon. The climb to the top involves stair ascent, but the vantage point is well worth the effort. Visitors can enjoy refreshing drinks and unforgettable sunsets from this unique viewpoint, all free of charge.
6. Horseback Riding Along the Beach
Feel the sand beneath your feet and the breeze in your hair with a horseback riding excursion along El Gouna’s captivating coastline. Tours range from peaceful sunrise or sunset rides to more adventurous trips where horses can swim in the sea. Reputable operators provide well-maintained horses and safety equipment for riders of all skill levels.
7. Discover Hurghada: Close-By City Attractions
Just a short distance from El Gouna is the vibrant city of Hurghada. Its attractions include the impressive Grand Aquarium, where visitors can see sharks and tropical fish, and the charming old town, El Dahar, famous for its bustling souk and traditional coffee houses. Don’t miss the beautiful Al Mina Mosque, a white marble gem that embodies local culture and architecture.
8. Snorkeling at Zetuna Beach
For a relaxed underwater experience, snorkeling at Zetuna Beach is ideal. With shallow, crystal-clear waters and access to thriving coral reefs from a long wooden pier, this beach makes exploration easy and enjoyable. Many local hotels provide snorkeling gear, enabling you to begin your adventure right from the shore.
9. Wakeboarding at Sliders Cable Park
Sliders Cable Park is one of the world’s largest wakeboarding facilities, combining wakeboarding, an aqua park, and a pool club. Suitable for beginners and experts alike, the park features instructors, water obstacles, and various other activities such as water skiing and kneeboarding, ensuring an exhilarating experience suitable for all ages.
10. Kite Surfing at Mangroovy Beach
Mangroovy Beach is famous for excellent kite surfing conditions thanks to consistent winds and calm, shallow waters. Kite surfing centers like KBC Kite Center not only provide professional gear rentals and instruction but also offer amenities such as DJ bars, table tennis, volleyball, gyms, and free internet access. This makes it a perfect hub for both kite surfers and their friends or families.
11. Desert Safari Adventure
Venture beyond the coast with a desert safari about 1.5 hours from El Gouna. These tours offer a thrilling experience of camel rides, sand dune adventures, and traditional Bedouin-style meals under a starry sky. For excitement seekers, quad biking provides an adrenaline-pumping off-road journey across the dunes. Bringing a headscarf is recommended to shield against sun and sand.
12. Experience a Traditional Bedouin Dinner
A Bedouin dinner combines cultural immersion with a unique dining experience. Set in the desert, visitors are treated to traditional grilled meats, music, and dance performances under the stars. This intimate setting offers a genuine glimpse into the heritage of the region’s nomadic people.
13. Day Trip to Luxor: Egypt’s Ancient Treasure
El Gouna’s proximity to Luxor makes a day trip to this captivating city irresistible. Explore iconic landmarks including Karnak and Luxor Temples, the Valley of the Kings, and the Temple of Hatshepsut. The drive itself showcases Egypt’s stunning landscapes, from rugged mountains to the lush Nile Valley, enriching your historical journey.
14. El Gouna’s Dining Sound Program
El Gouna offers a unique dining program called the “Sound Program,” ideal for visitors staying at participating hotels with half or full board packages. This program allows guests to sample multiple restaurants within El Gouna at a fixed price, making it an economical and convenient way to enjoy diverse culinary delights during your stay.
15. Swim with Dolphins
Lastly, no visit to El Gouna is complete without the magical experience of swimming with dolphins. The Red Sea coast here is one of the best places to interact with these intelligent and friendly creatures, creating unforgettable memories for visitors of all ages.
FAQs About Visiting El Gouna
Q: What is the best time of year to visit El Gouna?
A: The best time to visit is from October to April when temperatures are pleasant and perfect for outdoor activities.
Q: Is El Gouna family-friendly?
A: Yes, El Gouna offers many family-oriented activities, from snorkeling and beach days to cultural experiences like Bedouin dinners.
Q: Are water sports suitable for beginners?
A: Absolutely. With expert instructors and beginner-friendly facilities available, newcomers can safely enjoy activities like wakeboarding, scuba diving, and kite surfing.
Q: How accessible is El Gouna for non-drivers?
A: El Gouna has well-organized transport options including tuk tuks and taxis, making it easy to get around without a car.
Q: Can you explore El Gouna on a budget?
A: Yes, options like the dining Sound Program, affordable tuk tuk rides, and free-entry points such as the El Gouna Tower help visitors manage costs while enjoying the town’s highlights.
Conclusion
El Gouna stands out as a dynamic destination perfectly blending natural beauty, thrilling adventures, and cultural richness. From the lively Abu Tig Marina to tranquil lagoon paddleboarding, and from desert safaris to historical excursions to Luxor, this hidden gem in Egypt offers something for everyone. Whether you seek excitement on the water, serene landscapes, or fascinating heritage experiences, El Gouna invites you to uncover its treasures and create lifelong memories by the Red Sea. Plan your trip today and let this remarkable city show you the diverse wonders of Egypt beyond the usual sights.