Things to do in El Gouna
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El Gouna
El Gouna is a purpose-built resort town on Egypt's Red Sea coast, located north of Hurghada. The entire town is spread across islands and lagoons connected by bridges, with turquoise waterways winding through. White walls, arcades, and colorful Nubian-style buildings line the water, and with boats and stone bridges everywhere, it is often called the "Venice of the Red Sea" by tourists. Water-based activities are the focus here: kitesurfing is the town's signature activity. Mangroovy Beach offers steady sea breezes and calm lagoon waters, where enthusiasts from beginner to advanced levels can find suitable areas. You can take a boat out to visit the "Dolphin House" reef, famous for its dolphins, where you have the chance to swim with pods of bottlenose dolphins, while the nearby Abu Nuhas shipwreck cluster is a classic Red Sea wreck diving spot. If you don't want to learn to surf, you can also take a lagoon cruise through the waterways or spend half a day at the cable wake park. The land-based side is also worth exploring at a leisurely pace: Abu Tig Marina is lined with rows of yachts, and the cafes and restaurants along the water are perfect for watching the sunset. The area around Tamr Henna Square in the town center is filled with markets and small shops, making it the main place for dining and strolling. Most tourists arrange their itinerary for half a day on the water and half a day on land, ending the evening with a walk along the canal. The pace is relaxed, making it perfect for a laid-back vacation.Egypt · El Gouna
Marina El Gouna
El Gouna · 2.3 km from downtown
Desert Adventure Safari
Desert Adventure Safari is a popular desert experience in Hurghada, with the destination being the Eastern Desert of Egypt, located west of the city and on the eastern edge of the Sahara Desert. The itinerary usually begins with a 4x4 off-road vehicle or an ATV ride. The convoy traverses rolling sand dunes, with the kicking up of sand and the roar of engines providing a thrilling experience. Along the way, there will be a stop at a high vantage point where you can overlook the Hurghada city area and the Red Sea coastline, seeing a clear boundary between the greenery, the city, and the desert. After venturing deep into the desert, the itinerary continues to a Bedouin village camp. The residents here have been nomadic for generations. You can learn from your guide how they find water and navigate in the desert, drink a cup of piping hot Bedouin black tea, taste a freshly baked traditional flatbread, and then ride a camel across the dunes, switching from high-speed excitement to a slow, swaying pace. The evening is the highlight of the itinerary: as the sun sets over the edge of the sand sea, the entire desert is dyed golden red, a scene that leaves a deep impression on many travelers. After nightfall, far from city lights, the desert starry sky is exceptionally clear. Itineraries departing in the evening usually include a desert barbecue dinner and folk song and dance performances, and some even provide telescopes for stargazing. Choosing an evening session makes it easier to see both the sunset and the starry sky in one trip. Experience tip: ATV rides are noticeably bumpy, so travelers with back discomfort are better suited for off-road vehicles. A headscarf and sunglasses are practical gear for protection against sand, and since the desert cools down quickly after sunset, remember to bring a jacket.Hurghada · 32.4 km from El Gouna
Zeytouna Beach Bar & Restaurant
El Gouna · 3 km from downtown
Giftun Islands
Giftun Islandsare located in the Red Sea in Egypt, across the water from Hurghada. They mainly consist of Big Giftun Island, Small Giftun Island, and several surrounding reefs. It takes about 1 hour to reach them by boat from the Hurghada marina. The entire archipelago is designated as a marine protected area. There are no permanent residents on the islands, and visitors are not allowed to stay overnight. Therefore, tours are mostly conducted as day trips, departing by boat in the early morning and returning in the evening. Fine white sandy beaches and coral reefs right next to the shore are the core highlights of this archipelago: over 200 species of coral and thousands of fish species make their home here. When snorkeling, you can see staghorn coral and table coral stretching out in patches. Butterflyfish and parrotfish swim by in schools, and if you are lucky, you might encounter sea turtles and moray eels. During the boat trip, you also have a chance to see wild dolphins appearing near the boat. Visitors who cannot swim or do not want to go into the water can take a glass-bottom boat to view the coral through the bottom of the boat, or simply lie on the beach to sunbathe. The beaches of the archipelago each have their own characteristics. Among them, Orange Bay is popular for photo opportunities, thanks to the hammocks set up in the shallows and the swings on the water. There are also lagoon areas with shallow, calm water that are suitable for children to play in. For diving enthusiasts, there are multiple dive sites distributed around the archipelago. Local dive centers in Hurghada provide equipment rental and instructor guidance year-round and can arrange boat diving itineraries. As it is a protected area, please follow the rules when visiting the islands; do not touch or step on the coral. The Red Sea has intense sunlight, so it is recommended to prepare high-SPF sunscreen, sun hats, and plenty of drinking water in advance. If you want to avoid the crowds, you can choose to travel on days other than local weekends and holidays.Hurghada · 32.1 km from El Gouna
Valley of the Kings
The Valley of the Kings is located on the west bank of the Nile in Luxor, Egypt, serving as the royal burial site during the New Kingdom period of ancient Egypt. Over nearly five centuries from the 18th to the 20th dynasties, pharaohs and nobles carved their tombs into the cliffs. Today, more than 60 tombs have been discovered, numbered with "KV" prefixes. The royal tombs are mainly clustered in the eastern valley, while the western valley is more secluded. The tomb murals are the true highlight here: the corridors, walls, and ceilings of the burial chambers are adorned with scenes from religious texts like the Book of the Dead and the Book of the Netherworld, with pigments retaining their vivid colors after over 3,000 years. The tomb of Tutankhamun gained fame in 1922 when archaeologist Howard Carter discovered a wealth of burial treasures here. The pharaoh's mummy remains in a climate-controlled glass display within the tomb, while most treasures are exhibited in Cairo's museums. The tomb of Ramses III is grand in scale with well-preserved paintings, while Ramses VI's tomb features a ceiling painted with the sky goddess Nut spanning the entire chamber. The painted corridor in Seti I's tomb is exceptionally exquisite. Travel tips: There is almost no shade in the valley, and it gets extremely hot in the afternoon, so visiting in the morning is more comfortable. Small electric shuttles operate between the entrance and the tomb area, saving energy. Tomb entrances are often inconspicuous openings along the cliffs—slow down to observe hieroglyphs and depictions of gods in the murals for richer details. Energetic travelers can also hike the ridge trail for a panoramic view of the valley. The natural pyramid-shaped peak of Al-Qurn above is one reason the ancient Egyptians considered this valley sacred.Egypt · Qesm Al Wahat Al Khargah
Luxor Temple
Luxor Temple is located on the east bank of the Nile in the city of Luxor, forming a north-south counterpart to Karnak Temple. It was a worship site built during the New Kingdom period of ancient Egypt for the "Theban Triad"—Amun, Mut, and Khonsu. In ancient Egyptian, it was called the "Southern Sanctuary" and is often referred to as the "Southern Harem of Amun." The main structure of the temple was constructed by Pharaoh Amenhotep III of the 18th Dynasty, while the pylon, forecourt, colossi, and obelisks at the entrance were added by Ramses II. Later pharaohs like Tutankhamun continued to add reliefs, and during the time of Alexander the Great, the rear sanctuary was rebuilt. A single temple thus layers over a thousand years of construction history. At the entrance still stands a granite obelisk of Ramses II, while its paired counterpart crossed the ocean as early as the 19th century and now stands in Paris's Place de la Concorde. The seated statue of the pharaoh in front of the pylon, the grand colonnade, and the sun court of Amenhotep III unfold layer by layer. The reliefs on the colonnade walls vividly depict the procession of the Opet Festival—during the Nile flood season in ancient Egypt, the statue of Amun was ceremoniously transported from Karnak Temple to here. The avenue of sphinxes in front of the temple gate was precisely the sacred path for this ritual. After years of archaeological restoration, this nearly three km-long avenue has been reconnected, and today, visitors can walk the round-trip route between this temple and Karnak Temple. In one corner of the temple stands a still-functioning mosque built atop the ancient pillars, sharing the same courtyard with the pharaonic-era pylon. When illuminated at night, the pillars, colossi, and minaret form a highly recognizable nightscape in Luxor.Egypt · Luxor
Karnak
Karnak is located on the east bank of the Nile River, 700 km south of Cairo. It is a massive temple complex from ancient Egypt and one of Thebes' oldest temples. Construction began around 2000 BC with over 50 pharaohs contributing to its development. The temple remained active until the 3rd century BC.In the history of human civilizationThe long-constructed temple is finally completed. The temple is divided into three sections by brick walls, with the central and largest section being the best preserved. This part is dedicated to the sun god Amon. The left section is dedicated to the god Montu, while the other section is dedicated to Mut, Amon's wife who takes the form of a vulture, though this area remains unexcavated. Additionally, the complex contains dozens of smaller temples of various styles. Along the sacred path leading to the temple's pylon stand two rows of sphinx statues with ram heads. Historically, this ram-headed sphinx-lined path is said to have stretched for 3 kilometers, connecting toLuxor TempleThroughout the temple, you can see many murals, statues, and columns that have been painstakingly restored by reattaching fragmented relics with clay and stone. This is because the temple's construction began over 4,000 years ago and was completed more than 2,000 years ago. Due to both human and natural damage, the temple was once in complete ruins. It took countless years of effort by archaeologists to restore and present the temple as it stands today.Egypt · Luxor
Abu Tig Marina
El Gouna · 2.5 km from downtown
Mahmya Beach
Mahamya Beach is located on the coast of the Red Sea in Egypt. The sea water here presents a gradient of blue-green tones, and the underwater coral reef ecology is well preserved. It is a paradise for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. The beach has a fine texture and the shallow water near the shore is gentle, which is suitable for family swimming. There are comfortable sun loungers and parasols on the beach, where you can relax and enjoy the sun and sea breeze. Mahamya Beach also offers a variety of water activities such as windsurfing and kayaking, which are suitable for groups seeking excitement. The beach's restaurants also serve fresh seafood and authentic Egyptian cuisine, and you can enjoy delicious food while enjoying the beautiful scenery. Mahamya Beach is conveniently located and can be easily reached by taxi or chartered car. The surrounding facilities are complete, providing services such as showers, changing rooms and rental equipment, making the play more comfortable. Whether it is a family trip or a couple's vacation, this is a good choice.Hurghada · 29.8 km from El Gouna
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1-day tour in Hurghada with meals, snorkeling equipment, transfer, dolphin chasing and Orange Island
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El Gouna
Egypt · El GounaMarina El Gouna
El Gouna · 2.3 km from downtownDesert Adventure Safari
Hurghada · 32.4 km from El GounaZeytouna Beach Bar & Restaurant
El Gouna · 3 km from downtownGiftun Islands
Hurghada · 32.1 km from El GounaValley of the Kings
Egypt · Qesm Al Wahat Al KhargahLuxor Temple
Egypt · LuxorKarnak
Egypt · LuxorAbu Tig Marina
El Gouna · 2.5 km from downtownMahmya Beach
Hurghada · 29.8 km from El Gouna
What travelers say about El Gouna
juki2359 February 2020
5.0
Gouna Island is a very beautiful island in Hurghada. There are many star-rated hotels on the island. The environment is really super good. The sea water here is blue and clear, and there are coconut trees swaying in the wind. It is obviously a beautiful island resort. It is really comfortable and cozy.
El Gouna
寂寞的西瓜19 February 2020
4.0
Over the years, I have been eating and drinking everywhere, from the Fairmont series in Kenya to the invincible giant resort in Mauritius, and then to various six-, seven- and eight-star hotels in Dubai. My requirements for hotels in all aspects have probably become higher and higher without realizing it.
In Hurghada, Desert Rose seems to be ranked among the top three in terms of hotel location, Red Sea area, various hardware equipment, comprehensive evaluation, etc.
In fact, a score slightly above the average may be more in line with its overall performance.
It is undeniable that the Red Sea is so beautiful that you only need to offer the entire private sea view of the hotel to attract fans immediately, enough to ignore the various other minor problems of the hotel~
Is this the legendary #God's gift#
Desert Adventure Safari
Ibrahem Gaber25 October 2022
5.0
special place and the best of the best at Red Sea
Zeytouna Beach Bar & Restaurant
努力的三号3 November 2019
4.0
The scenery of the island is quite good. There are some resorts on it. You can see the vast Red Sea from here. It is also a relatively interesting place. Not many people come here, so the tranquility is guaranteed here.
Giftun Islands
Gully9 August 2023
5.0
Valley of the Kings is a must see in Egypt. The burial place of a ton of historical figures including King Tut. Give yourself plenty of time when going though because it takes a long time to see everything.
Valley of the Kings
Sadman Aayan23 September 2025
5.0
Luxor Temple 🏛️ – The Living Legacy of Ancient Thebes is a mesmerizing testament to Egypt’s rich history. ✨ Located in the heart of Luxor, this temple was a center of religious and political life for millennia. Its grand pylons, towering statues, and intricately carved walls tell stories of pharaohs, gods, and ancient ceremonies. 🌞 Visiting at sunrise or sunset enhances the magic, as the temple glows in golden light. 🌟 Walking through its majestic halls, you can feel the spirit of Thebes come alive. Luxor Temple is not just a site—it’s an unforgettable journey into the grandeur of ancient Egypt. 🏺
Luxor Temple
朱朱Hello24 September 2026
5.0
Karnak Temple, located on the east bank of the Solo River in Luxor, Egypt, is the world's largest ancient temple complex, dedicated to the sun god Amun-Ra. The most spectacular part is the Great Hypostyle Hall, with its 134 massive sandstone columns. Standing beneath them is a truly awe-inspiring experience, as if stepping back in time. To explore, simply follow the central axis. Inside, there's also the Scarab Stele; it's said that turning it seven times clockwise brings good luck. The Hatshepsut Obelisk is the tallest surviving obelisk in Egypt. The Avenue of the Rams leads directly to Luxor Temple. Karnak Temple is undoubtedly one of the must-see attractions for any traveler to Egypt.
Karnak
🎀彡🐾10 August 2019
5.0
Mahamya Beach in Hurghada is the most famous beach here. There are many high-end holiday villas and hotels on the beach. The beach is very wide and the sand is soft. It is a good place to sunbathe and swim in the sea.
Mahmya Beach