Beyond the Pyramids: Exploring the Wonders of Marsa Alam, Egypt.

When you talk about travelling in Egypt, the first things that come to mind are the famous Pyramids of Giza and the huge ancient temples of Egypt. That’s the point—there are many other things to see and places to go that most people don’t know.

Yes, we are talking about MarsaAlam.

Well, you may not have heard about this place because El Gouna, Sahel, or Sinai get most of the tourist attention in Egypt. From wildlife and sunken ships to scenic blue waters, Marsa Alam has some amazing wonders that will leave you speechless. A little research also showed that there is no dearth of adventure activities at this tourist destination. If you’re looking for some thrills, you can always go on a jeep tour in Marsa Alam to explore the deserts. Also, enjoy a Bedouin dinner and get to know the local culture.

So without further delay, let’s find out the top hidden gems of MarsaAlam.

 

Top Hidden Gems of MarsaAlam

Whether you’re taking the bus or renting a car, travelling to the best locations in Marsa Alam is totally worth it. Here are the top places that should be on your bucket list when you’re planning a trip to Marsa Alam.

• El Nayzak

Although it’s becoming less of a secret, El Nayzak is also referred to as the secret beach paradise or the shooting star by the locals. The pool is shaped like an eye, with turquoise blue waters from the Red Sea. According to the locals, it got its shape because of a meteorite that hit the coast many years ago. Although this theory doesn’t gel with the geologists, it still attracts travellers from across the world. From swimming to diving, this natural pool is not only ideal for travellers but also a lovely subject for photographers.

Stargazing is another amazing activity for visitors coming to the area, as is almost any location along the Red Sea coastline. You only need a campfire, clear night skies, and a gentle breeze to enjoy some quality alone time.

 

• Marsa Mubarak

It’s possible that you haven’t heard about it, but Marsa Alam is also the home to a very rare creature called Dugong or locally known as Gudongo that lives in the Mubarak Reef with dolphins and turtles. It’s one of the reasons why snorkelling at Mubarak’s diving site is famous for underwater photography and exploring the beauty of the underwater world. It is said that there are few Dugongs in the Red Sea, which makes diving at this place a surreal experience.

 

• MarsaAlam shipwrecks

Shipwrecks can be found on Marsa Alam’s Red Sea reefs, which are among the most fascinating places to explore in the world. With the opening of the Suez Canal in 1869, it became the most important route for shipping between Europe and Asia. However, the numerous reefs and shoals posed a fatal threat, causing the sinking of a number of unknown ships.

 

Nature immediately colonised the disaster areas, which turned into the home to a bright variety of fish and coral species. Divers will find them to be both challenging and extremely photogenic in shallower waters. However, if you plan to explore a shipwreck, make sure to follow your diving guide’s instructions to ensure a fascinating but safe dive.

 

• Mangroves

Mangroves are interesting plants that seem to magically grow out of the salt water, making them one of the most interesting things to see in Marsa Alam. The Red Sea shoreline is home to nearly all of Egypt’s remaining mangroves, which are all now protected. They are such a gorgeous sight, merging plants into the beach environment and sprouting directly out of the ocean. Also, they are crucial to the eco-system of the seashore because they safeguard bird life by preventing nesting.

 

• Valley of the Camels National Park or Wadi El Gemal

The Valley of the Camel is a popular national park not only in Marsa Alam but also throughout Egypt. Situated at a 2-hour drive from the Marsa Alam airport, this park is also known for its prehistoric rock art as well as Roman and Ptolemaic ruins. The national park also has the mountain “Mons Smaragdus”, which is the site of a mining community and dates back to ancient Egyptian times.

Wadi El Gemal is famous for camel riding and exploring the wilderness of the area. The place is rich in wildlife and vegetation, plus it is also an historic site that dates back before the times of the Roman era.

 

• Qulaan Islands

In Hamata, to the south of MarsaAlam, are the Qulaan Islands, also known as the Egyptian Maldives. A paradise unlike any other because they are not as crowded with tourists. Snorkelling is quite famous in the Qulaan Islands, as it has some amazing spots of beautiful underwater beauty. It’s a place that is almost similar to the Caribbean islands, but with less crowd and more serenity. If you like going to beaches with fewer crowds, make sure to visit the Qulaan Islands.

 

• Buggy safari in MarsaAlam

Last but not least, if you want to add some adventure to your tour of Marsa Alam, you can always go on a buggy safari trip. It’s a great opportunity to explore the desert in a thrilling way. Get up close and personal with the desert wilderness, climb the dunes, and enjoy a Bedouin dinner to complete your trip.

Conclusion

MarsaAlam is an amazing place to spend your next vacation. It offers everything that you would need to make your holidays special. From snorkelling and buggy safaris to visiting shipwrecks and national parks, it has everything to satisfy a traveller’s heart.