Top 10 Amazing Things to Do in Marsa Alam: Your Ultimate Travel Guide
Things to Do in Marsa Alam

Things to Do in Marsa Alam
Marsa Alam, once a sleepy fishing village on Egypt’s southern Red Sea coast, has blossomed into one of the country’s most sought-after travel destinations. Known for its crystal-clear waters, coral gardens, marine wildlife, and remote desert landscapes, Marsa Alam is a perfect mix of tranquility and thrill. Whether you’re a diver, a beach lover, or a cultural explorer, this guide will walk you through the best things to do in Marsa Alam.
Let’s dive into the top attractions and most unforgettable experiences this coastal paradise has to offer.
Satayah Dolphin Reef – Swim in Harmony with Dolphins
One of the most iconic Marsa Alam experiences is swimming with wild spinner dolphins at Satayah Dolphin Reef. This large lagoon is home to more than 60–80 dolphins that live and play freely in the warm waters. It’s an eco-protected marine area where you can snorkel alongside dolphins in their natural habitat.
-
Location: 120 km south of Marsa Alam (departure from Hamata Marina)
-
What’s Included: Snorkeling gear, onboard lunch, multiple stops
-
Perfect For: Families, couples, marine lovers
✅ Book your Satayah Dolphin Reef experience
Shaab Samadai (Dolphin House) – Up Close With Marine Life
Things to Do in Marsa Alam
Shaab Samadai, also known as the Dolphin House Reef, is shaped like a natural horseshoe and provides shelter for dolphins and vibrant sea life. With calm waters, it’s ideal for snorkelers and beginner divers. Many tours also include a stop at nearby coral gardens in Shaab Marsa Alam.
-
Trip Highlights: Dolphin watching, coral reef snorkeling, lunch onboard
-
Departure Point: Marsa Alam Port
-
Great For: Eco-tourists and underwater photographers
✅ Explore Shaab Samadai Dolphin House
Marsa Mubarak – Discover Turtles and Dugongs
Marsa Mubarak: An Underwater Oasis with coral reefs and marine life
If you dream of swimming with turtles and spotting the rare dugong (sea cow), Marsa Mubarak should be high on your list. Its protected bay is rich with seagrass meadows and coral formations, making it one of the top snorkeling sites in Marsa Alam.
-
Marine Life: Green turtles, reef fish, occasional dugongs
-
Best Time to Visit: Morning hours
-
Accessible From: Port Ghalib
Abu Dabbab Bay – Easy Shore Access and Gentle Giants
Gita di snorkeling Abu Dabab Marsa Alam
Abu Dabbab offers snorkeling straight from the beach. This shallow bay is home to green turtles, reef fish, and sometimes dugongs grazing on seagrass. The calm waters make it great for beginners and children.
-
What to Expect: Sandy beach, colorful reefs, turtle encounters
-
Extras: Optional speedboat ride to search for dugongs
-
Trip Duration: 1.5–2 hours or full day
✅ Plan your Abu Dabbab snorkeling adventure
Sharm El Luli & Wadi El Qulaan – Paradise and Mangroves
Sharm El Luli Egypt
Sharm El Luli, often called Ras Hankorab, is one of Egypt’s most picturesque beaches. With powder-white sands and transparent waters, it feels like stepping into a postcard. Nearby, Wadi El Qulaan offers a chance to explore mangrove forests and sip Bedouin coffee on a secluded beach.
-
Combo Trip: Snorkeling + nature + local culture
-
Unique Experience: Walk through shallow lagoons to reach the mangroves
-
Bonus: Great for relaxation, therapeutic for joint and muscle pain
✅ Explore Sharm El Luli and Wadi El Qulaan
Wadi El Gemal National Park – Nature, History & Adventure
Wadi El Gemal National Park
Explore both nature and history at Wadi El Gemal, meaning “Valley of the Camels.” This protected area is rich in wildlife, Roman and Ptolemaic ruins, and rare plants. A Jeep 4×4 safari through the park includes:
-
Activities: Desert ride, camel trekking, archaeological sites
-
Sights: Ancient emerald mines, Mons Smaragdus mountain
-
Wildlife: Foxes, gazelles, ibex, and migratory birds
✅ Join a private safari to Wadi El Gemal
Luxor Day Trip – A Journey Through Ancient Egypt
From Marsa Alam, a day trip to Luxor opens up Egypt’s rich historical landscape. Visit the Valley of the Kings, the colossal Karnak Temple, and the magnificent Hatshepsut Temple.
-
Transportation: Private A/C vehicle
-
Extras: Egyptologist guide, all entrance fees included
-
Duration: Full day (approx. 12–14 hours)
✅ Experience Luxor from Marsa Alam
Marsa Alam Desert Safari – Quads, BBQ & Bedouins
Super Safari Trip
For thrill-seekers, Marsa Alam’s Eastern Desert offers a day full of adrenaline. Zoom across dunes on a quad bike, sip tea in a Bedouin camp, enjoy a camel ride, and cap the night with a BBQ dinner and traditional show.
-
Included: Hotel pickup, 4×4 rides, guides, dinner
-
Adventure Level: High
-
Safety: Helmets, guides, and full supervision
Hamata Islands – Red Sea’s Hidden Paradise
Hamata Island Marsa Alam Trip
Explore three untouched islands in the Hamata Archipelago, part of a protected marine reserve. These remote islands are known for brilliant coral reefs and exotic birdlife. It’s the perfect place to escape the crowds and reconnect with nature.
-
Marine Attractions: Clownfish, rays, reef sharks
-
Ideal For: Experienced snorkelers and nature lovers
-
Departure: Hamata Marina
✅ Snorkel Hamata Islands today
🧭 FAQs: Things to Know Before Things to Do in Marsa Alam
Is Marsa Alam safe for tourists?
Yes! Marsa Alam is one of Egypt’s safest tourist destinations with friendly locals and well-managed tours.
When is the best time to visit Marsa Alam?
The ideal months are March–May and September–November for perfect weather and optimal snorkeling conditions.
Can I see dolphins in Marsa Alam without diving?
Absolutely. Both Satayah and Samadai reefs offer snorkeling tours that include dolphin encounters in shallow water.
What should I pack for Marsa Alam?
Essentials include reef-safe sunscreen, water shoes, snorkeling gear, light clothing, and a reusable water bottle.
Is Marsa Alam better than Hurghada?
For peace, pristine nature, and unique marine life—yes. Marsa Alam is less commercial and more serene.
Can I travel from Marsa Alam to Luxor in one day?
Yes, day trips to Luxor are available with private transport and professional guides.
Are there tours for beginners or non-swimmers?
Yes! Try the Nefertari Seascope for underwater views without getting wet or snorkel straight from Abu Dabbab Beach.
🌟 Final Thoughts: Make Things to Do in Marsa Alam , Marsa Alam Your Next Destination
Whether it’s dolphins, deserts, or ancient tombs, Marsa Alam offers the perfect blend of thrill and tranquility. Far from the crowded tourist spots, this southern gem is Egypt’s best-kept secret—waiting to welcome you with coral reefs, warm smiles, and star-filled skies.
Book with confidence at MarsaAlamCity.com—your local guide to unforgettable Red Sea experiences.