Marsa Alam is one of Egypt’s most breathtaking coastal destinations, offering a perfect blend of pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, desert adventures, and cultural experiences. Located along the Red Sea in southeastern Egypt, this once-quiet fishing village has transformed into a top destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure—without the heavy crowds of other Egyptian resort towns.
If you’re planning a trip, here’s your ultimate guide to the best things to do in Marsa Alam.
1. Snorkeling and Diving in the Red Sea
Marsa Alam is world-famous for its untouched coral reefs and extraordinary marine biodiversity. The Red Sea waters here are crystal-clear, warm, and teeming with life.
Top snorkeling and diving spots include:
- Elphinstone Reef – A bucket-list dive site known for its dramatic drop-offs, colorful coral walls, and the possibility of spotting oceanic whitetip sharks.
- Abu Dabbab Beach – Perfect for snorkeling with sea turtles and even dugongs (sea cows).
- Sataya Reef (Dolphin House) – A magical spot where you can swim alongside pods of wild spinner dolphins.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, Marsa Alam offers dive centers with professional guides and certification courses.
2. Relax on Unspoiled Beaches
Unlike busier Red Sea destinations, Marsa Alam boasts quiet, wide stretches of soft sandy beaches. The calm atmosphere makes it ideal for couples, families, and solo travelers looking to unwind.
Spend your day soaking up the sun, enjoying the turquoise waters, or simply walking along the peaceful shoreline. Many resorts also offer private beach access for a more exclusive experience.
3. Explore Wadi El Gemal National Park
Nature lovers should not miss Wadi El Gemal (Valley of the Camels), a protected national park combining desert landscapes, mountain scenery, and coastal ecosystems.
Here, you can:
- Go on a 4×4 desert safari
- Visit ancient Roman ruins and emerald mines
- Experience Bedouin culture
- Watch wildlife including gazelles and rare birds
It’s a fantastic way to see the diverse beauty of Egypt beyond the beaches.
4. Enjoy a Desert Safari Adventure
For a thrilling experience, book a desert safari tour. These excursions often include:
- Quad biking across golden dunes
- Camel rides
- Sunset photography stops
- Traditional Bedouin dinners under the stars
The desert around Marsa Alam is stunning at sunset, when the sky turns shades of orange and purple over the rugged mountains.
5. Visit Port Ghalib Marina
Just a short drive away, Port Ghalib offers a more modern atmosphere with restaurants, cafés, and shops. It’s a great place for an evening stroll, dining by the marina, or enjoying a relaxed night out.
6. Take a Cultural Journey: Marsa Alam: Ancient Cairo & Giza Pyramids Day Trip by Plane
While Marsa Alam is known for its natural beauty, one of the most unforgettable experiences you can have is stepping back in time with the “Marsa Alam: Ancient Cairo & Giza Pyramids Day Trip by Plane.”
This tour is ideal for travelers who want to combine a beach holiday with Egypt’s most iconic historical landmarks.
The day typically begins with an early morning transfer to the airport, followed by a short domestic flight to Cairo. Once there, a professional Egyptologist guide takes you on an incredible journey through history.
Highlights of the tour include:
- The Great Pyramids of Giza – One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World
- The Sphinx – The legendary guardian of the pyramids
- The Egyptian Museum – Home to thousands of ancient artifacts, including treasures from Tutankhamun’s tomb
- Optional visit to Khan El Khalili Bazaar for a taste of local culture
Traveling by plane makes the experience convenient and time-efficient, allowing you to explore Cairo’s wonders and return to Marsa Alam the same day. It’s a fantastic way to add a cultural dimension to your Red Sea vacation.
7. Swim with Dolphins
One of the most magical experiences in Marsa Alam is swimming with dolphins in their natural habitat. Tours to Sataya Reef give you the opportunity to snorkel in calm lagoons where dolphins often play and swim nearby.
Seeing these intelligent creatures up close in the wild is a memory that lasts a lifetime.
8. Try Water Sports and Boat Trips
Beyond snorkeling and diving, Marsa Alam offers:
- Glass-bottom boat tours
- Fishing trips
- Kite surfing
- Stand-up paddleboarding
Boat excursions often include stops at remote reefs and islands, giving you access to untouched underwater worlds.
Final Thoughts
Marsa Alam is much more than a beach destination—it’s a gateway to adventure, nature, and ancient history. From world-class diving and tranquil beaches to desert safaris and the unforgettable Marsa Alam: Ancient Cairo & Giza Pyramids Day Trip by Plane, this Red Sea gem offers something for every type of traveler.
Whether you’re seeking relaxation, exploration, or a mix of both, Marsa Alam promises an unforgettable Egyptian escape.
