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Best Time to Visit Marsa Alam

Best Time to Visit Marsa Alam

Marsa Alam Red Sea Coast, Egypt Travel Guide

Climate Overview

Expect hot, dry summers and mild, agreeable winters. Rainfall is extremely rare.

Temperatures soar in summer (28-40°C), offer comfort in autumn/spring (25-35°C), and remain mild in winter (18-25°C).

Seasonal Highlights

  • Sunny Days Year-Round
  • Warm Sea Temperatures
  • Occasional Khamsin Winds in Spring
  • Optimal for Beach & Water Sports

Special Weather Considerations

Summer months bring intense heat. Staying hydrated and applying sun protection remain important.

Khamsin winds may occur in spring, potentially reducing visibility and carrying sand.

Low Season June-Aug

Summer

Pros:

Significant discounts, fewer tourists.

Cons:

Extreme heat, uncomfortable for non-water activities.

Shoulder Season May, Sept

Spring, Autumn

Pros:

Good weather, fewer crowds, better deals.

Cons:

May very hot, September windy.

High Season Oct-Apr

Winter

Pros:

Pleasant temperatures, ideal for all outdoor activities.

Cons:

Higher prices, more crowds.

Visa and Entry Information

Visa Options

Many nationalities acquire a Visa on Arrival (US$25, 30 days single entry) or apply for an e-Visa online.

Passport Validity

Your passport must have at least six months' validity beyond your planned departure date.

Essential Documents

  • Passport (6-month validity)

    Original document always.

  • Visa (if applicable)

    Printed e-Visa copy advised.

  • Return/Onward Ticket

    Proof of travel.

  • Accommodation Proof

    Hotel booking confirmations.

  • Emergency Contacts

    Family and embassy details.

Important Notes

  • Visa on Arrival is not for Sinai-only stamp.
  • Keep copies of all travel documents separate from originals.
  • Allow sufficient time at the airport for visa processing.

Traveler's Advisory

Confirm specific visa needs with your local Egyptian embassy or consulate before travel. Consult IVisa or VisaHQ for details.

Budgeting Your Marsa Alam Journey

Costs fluctuate greatly based on your travel preferences, from budget-friendly to luxurious.

Accommodation & Meals

Expect varied pricing for lodging and dining.

Daily Expenditure Estimates

  • Budget Traveler: ~US$25-50/day
  • Mid-range Traveler: ~US$50-100/day
  • Luxury Traveler: ~US$100+/day
  • Street Food: EGP 50-150 / Mid-range: EGP 150-400

Transport & Activities

Factor in local travel and desired experiences.

Activity & Transport Costs

  • Short Taxi Ride: EGP 50-150
  • Guided Snorkeling: EGP 500-1,200
  • Organized Day Trip: EGP 600-1,500
  • Discover Scuba Dive: EGP 1,500-2,500

Financial Practices

Currency & Payments

  • Egyptian Pound (EGP) is local currency.
  • Credit cards are common in resorts.
  • Cash favored for smaller vendors.
  • ATMs widely accessible.

Tipping Baksheesh

  • Restaurants:

    5-10% or round up.

  • Taxi Drivers:

    Round up or add EGP 10-15.

  • Hotel Staff:

    EGP 10-20 per service.

  • Tour Guides/Drivers:

    EGP 50-100/day for guides, EGP 30-50/day for drivers.

  • Dive Crew:

    EGP 50-100/day pooled.

Important Notes

  • Visa on Arrival is not for Sinai-only stamp.
  • Keep copies of all travel documents separate from originals.
  • Allow sufficient time at the airport for visa processing.

Traveler's Advisory

Confirm specific visa needs with your local Egyptian embassy or consulate before travel. Consult IVisa or VisaHQ for details.

Health and Safety

Your well-being remains a high priority when traveling. Preparation manages unforeseen issues effectively.

Health Practices

Common Health Concerns

Traveler's diarrhea is common. Hydration and sun protection are paramount in intense heat.

Prevention Measures

Insect bites and marine life stings require caution. Prepare for these by packing appropriate items.

Prevention Measures

  • Drink only bottled/filtered water.
  • Limit midday sun exposure; use high SPF sunscreen.
  • Apply Insect repellent, especially evenings.
  • Avoid touching marine life when swimming.
  • Consider Electrolyte packets for hydration.

Safety Advice

  • Currently no specific health-related entry requirements.
  • Consult a healthcare professional for recommended vaccinations (e.g., Hepatitis A, Typhoid).
  • Travel insurance Is highly recommended, covering emergencies and trip disruptions. Explore SafetyWing or Insubuy.

Emergency Contacts

For emergencies, dial Police: 112, Ambulance: 123, Fire Department: 180. Tourist Police: 126. Have your embassy's contact details.

Marsa Alam Essentials

Prepare for your journey by understanding health and financial aspects.

1

Stay Hydrated

The desert heat dictates consistent water consumption. Avoid tap water.

Drink plenty of bottled water.

Do not consume tap water or unpurified ice.

2

Sun Protection

Intense sun dictates the use of high SPF reef-safe sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing.

Apply High SPF reef-safe sunscreen regularly.

Avoid prolonged midday sun exposure.

3

Cash & Cards

Have Egyptian Pounds for local purchases; cards are accepted in resorts. Factor in tipping.

Carry small EGP denominations for transactions.

Do not expect card payments for all services.

Health & Safety Overview

Category Consideration Recommendation
Vaccinations No mandatory; consult doctor Routine, Hep A/B, Typhoid advised
Food Safety Avoid raw/unpeeled Eat at reputable places, hot food
Emergencies Hospitals, clinics available Know emergency numbers, use travel insurance for serious cases

Health Preparedness

  • Traveler's DiarrheaCommon
  • Heatstroke/DehydrationHigh Risk
  • SunburnHigh Risk
  • Insect BitesLow Risk

Safety Environment

  • Petty CrimeMinimal
  • Violent CrimeVery Rare
  • Road SafetyAssertive Drivers
  • Natural DisastersRare (Flash Floods, Sandstorms)

Tipping Guidelines

  • Restaurants5-10%
  • Taxi DriversRound up / EGP 10-15

Currency & ATMs

  • Local CurrencyEGP
  • Credit Card UseResorts Mostly
  • ATM AvailabilityWidespread

Cost Management

AccommodationVaried
MealsAffordable to Luxe
ActivitiesPackage Deals
TransportationNegotiated Fares
TippingCustomary
InsuranceRecommended

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