Marsa Alam holidays

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Marsa Alam is generally considered a safe destination for tourists, with its relaxed atmosphere and fewer crowds than other Egyptian resorts. However, you should always check the government’s foreign travel advice for up-to-date safety information before you go and remember to take out comprehensive medical and travel insurance to cover you while you’re away. In addition, try to be mindful of your valuables and surroundings in crowded areas, respect the local culture and be wary of unsolicited offers and services.

There are lots of things to do in Marsa Alam, whether you’re keen to stay by the sea or head into the desert. Diving and snorkelling are major draws, with sites like Elphinstone Reef and Dolphin House Reef being particularly popular. You can also go kitesurfing, windsurfing, and stand-up paddle-boarding in the calm waters. On dry land, opt for quad biking or hiking around the Wadi El Gemal National Park.

Getting around in Marsa Alam is relatively straightforward, though there aren’t as many options as you might find in bigger Egyptian resort towns. Most visitors rely on hotel-organised transportation or tour operators for excursions and trips to nearby attractions, which reps in TUI hotels can help with. Taxis are available, but it's advisable to agree on the fare before starting your journey. Car rental is another option, so long as you’re prepared for desert driving conditions. And of course, you can get around on foot if you’re staying close to your resort area.

Marsa Alam is warm all year around, so the best time to visit depends on your preferences. For comfortable sightseeing, October to April is ideal – temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C during these months. It can be above 35°C in May to September, so sunbathing stints and dips in the sea will be warmer, while snorkelling enthusiasts will want to note that water’s clearest from March to May and September to November.

Direct flights from the UK to Marsa Alam typically take around five to six hours, depending on where in the country you’re departing from.

You have lots of luxury resorts to choose from in Marsa Alam. The Jaz Grand Marsa and the Jaz Lamaya Resort are two top picks for holidaygoers looking to stay right by a beach. The first hotel has five pools, a trio of restaurants – including one with show-cooking stations – and evening entertainment for both adults and kids, while the second lines up three pools with bay views, á la carte eats and fire-eating shows come sunset.

There are a few different areas to pick from when you’re looking for places to stay in Marsa Alam. Port Ghalib is a popular choice, featuring a modern marina, upscale resorts, and easy access to diving spots. El Quseir, a historic coastal town north of Marsa Alam, offers a more authentic Egyptian experience with its traditional architecture and local markets. For beach lovers and snorkeling enthusiasts, the areas around Abu Dabbab Bay are ideal, known for their pristine beaches and rich marine life. Those seeking a quieter, more secluded experience might prefer the resorts south of Marsa Alam town, where you can find more isolated beaches and a tranquil atmosphere.

For Marsa Alam, bring lightweight clothing, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses. Include swimwear for beaches and hotel pools, snorkeling gear if you plan to explore the coral reefs, and a light cover-up for hotel dining areas. Pack clothing that covers shoulders and knees for visiting local areas outside of your hotel and religious sites.

Marsa Alam features Sharm El Luli with clear waters and coral reefs ideal for snorkelling. Abu Dabbab Beach is known for sea turtles and dugongs. Marsa Mubarak offers sheltered bays with marine life and soft sands backed by desert landscapes.

For shopping in Marsa Alam, browse the small shops and bazaars in the town centre for local crafts, spices and jewellery. Many hotels feature onsite boutiques selling souvenirs, beachwear and essentials. For a wider selection, visit Port Ghalib Marina, around 30 minutes away, where you'll find an array of shops alongside dining options.

To experience traditional Egyptian cuisine in Marsa Alam, we recommend trying the restaurants in Port Ghalib or local eateries in the town center. You'll find dishes like koshari, molokhia, and fresh seafood. Many resorts also offer Egyptian nights featuring local specialties.

Tipping in Marsa Alam is common and called baksheesh. It is common to leave 10 to 15% of the bill for good service in restaurants. For hotel staff and taxi drivers, leaving a small tip is a nice gesture of appreciation.

When visiting Marsa Alam, it's respectful to dress modestly when outside hotel areas, especially for women. During Ramadan, we recommend being considerate of those fasting by avoiding eating in public during daylight hours. It's also polite to ask permission before photographing locals.

Nightlife in Marsa Alam is relatively low-key, centered mainly around the resorts. You'll find most entertainment options within your hotel, including bars, lounges, and occasional live music or shows. For a change of scenery, Port Ghalib offers a few bars and cafes with a relaxed atmosphere.

When visiting Marsa Alam, you'll need a European-style two-pin plug adapter Type C and F. Most hotels use the round two-pin sockets common in Europe. We recommend bringing at least one adapter for your electronic devices, as UK-style plugs are not widely used in Egypt.