Find hotels near El Gouna in Hurghada, Egypt

Discover the Fun Facts About El Gouna in Hurghada, Egypt

El Gouna is a beautiful resort town located on the Red Sea coast of Egypt, just north of Hurghada. It was founded in 1989 by the Egyptian businessman Samih Sawiris, who aimed to create a self-sufficient and sustainable community that would be both a tourist destination and a residential area. Today, El Gouna is a thriving town that offers visitors a unique blend of modern amenities and traditional Egyptian culture. One of the most interesting facts about El Gouna is that it is built on a series of islands and lagoons, which are connected by bridges and canals. This gives the town a distinctive Venetian feel, and visitors can explore the waterways by boat or kayak. El Gouna is also known for its commitment to sustainability, and the town has won several awards for its environmental initiatives, including the Green Star Hotel Award and the Green Globe Certification.

Top Reasons Why You Should Visit El Gouna

There are plenty of reasons to visit El Gouna, whether you're looking for a relaxing beach holiday or an active adventure. Here are some of the top reasons to add El Gouna to your travel bucket list: 1. Beautiful Beaches: El Gouna is home to some of the most stunning beaches in Egypt, with crystal-clear waters and soft white sand. Whether you're looking to sunbathe, swim, or try your hand at water sports like windsurfing and kitesurfing, El Gouna has a beach for you. 2. Water Activities: Speaking of water sports, El Gouna is a paradise for anyone who loves to be in or on the water. You can go diving or snorkeling to explore the vibrant coral reefs and marine life, take a boat trip to see dolphins and other sea creatures, or try your hand at fishing. 3. Cultural Experiences: El Gouna is located close to several historic sites and cultural attractions, including the ancient city of Luxor, the Valley of the Kings, and the Karnak Temple. You can also visit the nearby Bedouin villages to learn about traditional Egyptian culture and customs. 4. Family-Friendly: El Gouna is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities and attractions to keep kids of all ages entertained. You can visit the aquarium, go to the water park, or take a camel ride in the desert.

How to Get to El Gouna Hassle-Free

El Gouna is located just 22 kilometers north of Hurghada, which is the nearest airport. Most visitors to El Gouna arrive by air, and there are direct flights from many European cities as well as several Middle Eastern destinations. Once you arrive at Hurghada airport, you can take a taxi or shuttle bus to El Gouna. The journey takes around 30 minutes and should cost between 150 and 200 Egyptian pounds. If you're traveling from Cairo, you can take a bus or hire a private car to El Gouna. The journey takes around 6-7 hours and is best done during the day. Alternatively, you can take a domestic flight from Cairo to Hurghada and then continue on to El Gouna as described above.

Exciting Things to Do in El Gouna for an Unforgettable Experience

El Gouna offers plenty of activities and attractions to keep visitors busy, no matter what their interests are. Here are some of the most exciting things to do in El Gouna: 1. Visit the Marina: El Gouna's marina is a hub of activity, with plenty of restaurants, cafes, and shops to explore. You can also take a boat trip from here to explore the town's waterways. 2. Go Diving or Snorkeling: El Gouna is home to some of the best diving and snorkeling spots in Egypt, with clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. You can take a guided tour or rent equipment and explore on your own. 3. Explore the Desert: El Gouna is located close to the Sahara Desert, and you can take a jeep or camel ride to explore the sand dunes and oases. You can also watch the sunset over the desert and enjoy a traditional Bedouin dinner. 4. Visit the Aquarium: The El Gouna Aquarium is home to a variety of marine life, including sharks, rays, and sea turtles. You can also learn about the local ecosystem and conservation efforts.

Why Book Your El Gouna Hotel with Agoda.com

If you're planning a trip to El Gouna, booking your hotel with Agoda.com is a smart choice. Agoda.com offers a wide range of hotels in El Gouna, from budget-friendly options to luxury resorts. You can easily search and compare prices, read reviews from other travelers, and book your hotel with just a few clicks. Agoda.com also offers a Best Price Guarantee, which means that if you find a lower price on another website, Agoda.com will match it. Plus, Agoda.com's customer service team is available 24/7 to assist you with any questions or issues you may have.

The Best Time to Visit El Gouna and What to Expect

The best time to visit El Gouna is between October and April, when the weather is mild and comfortable. During this time, temperatures range from 20-30 degrees Celsius, and there is very little rainfall. The summer months can be very hot, with temperatures reaching up to 40 degrees Celsius, so it's best to avoid visiting during this time if you're not used to the heat. El Gouna is a safe and friendly town, and visitors can expect to be welcomed by the local community. English is widely spoken, and most hotels and restaurants accept credit cards. However, it's always a good idea to carry some cash with you for small purchases and tips.

Useful Tips for Travelers Planning to Visit El Gouna

Here are some useful tips to keep in mind if you're planning a trip to El Gouna: 1. Dress Conservatively: Egypt is a conservative country, and it's important to dress respectfully, especially when visiting religious sites. Women should cover their shoulders and knees, and men should avoid wearing shorts. 2. Stay Hydrated: The weather in El Gouna can be hot and dry, so it's important to drink plenty of water and stay hydrated. You can buy bottled water at most hotels and shops. 3. Respect Local Customs: Egyptians are friendly and welcoming, but it's important to respect their customs and traditions. For example, it's polite to remove your shoes before entering someone's home. 4. Bargain for Souvenirs: If you're shopping for souvenirs or gifts, it's common to bargain with the vendors. Start by offering a lower price than what they're asking and negotiate from there.

Where to Stay in El Gouna: A Guide to the Best Neighborhoods

El Gouna offers a variety of neighborhoods to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best neighborhoods to stay in El Gouna: 1. Abu Tig Marina: This is the heart of El Gouna, with plenty of restaurants, cafes, and shops. It's a great place to stay if you want to be close to the action. 2. Downtown: This area is located close to the marina and offers a range of budget-friendly hotels and apartments. 3. Kafr El Gouna: This is a quieter neighborhood that's located a bit further from the main attractions. It's a good option if you're looking for a more peaceful stay. 4. Mangroovy Beach: This is a newer neighborhood that's located on the beach. It's home to some of the most luxurious resorts in El Gouna.

Delicious Local Cuisine to Try in El Gouna

Egyptian cuisine is known for its bold flavors and spices, and El Gouna offers plenty of opportunities to try traditional dishes. Here are some of the most popular local foods to try: 1. Koshari: This is a popular street food that's made with rice, lentils, pasta, and a tomato sauce. It's a hearty and filling dish that's perfect for lunch. 2. Ful Medames: This is a breakfast dish that's made with fava beans, garlic, and lemon juice. It's often served with bread and eggs. 3. Shawarma: This is a Middle Eastern staple that's made with marinated meat (usually chicken or beef) that's roasted on a spit and served in a pita with vegetables and sauces. 4. Baklava: This is a sweet pastry that's made with layers of phyllo dough, nuts, and honey. It's a delicious dessert that's perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.

Getting Around El Gouna: Transportation Options for Tourists

El Gouna is a small town, and most of the attractions are within walking distance. However, if you need to travel further afield, there are several transportation options available: 1. Taxis: Taxis are readily available in El Gouna, and most drivers speak English. You can negotiate the fare before you get in the car, or ask the driver to use the meter. 2. Buses: There are several bus routes that connect El Gouna with Hurghada and other nearby towns. Buses are cheap and reliable, but they can be crowded. 3. Tuk-Tuks: These small three-wheeled vehicles are a fun and inexpensive way to get around El Gouna. They're especially useful for short trips around town. 4. Rental Cars: If you want to explore the area around El Gouna, you can rent a car from one of the local rental agencies. Just be aware that driving in Egypt can be chaotic, so it's best to be an experienced driver.