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More than three decades ago, Egyptian visionaries invested an impressive $2 billion to transform the untouched southern Red Sea coastline into what is now Port Ghalib. Located about 67 kilometers south of El Quseir City, this purpose-built coastal destination was designed around a world-class marina and has grown into one of Egypt’s most remarkable resort towns.
Today, Port Ghalib spans nearly 8 million square meters of carefully developed shoreline. Along its 18-kilometer stretch, visitors will find entertainment venues, restaurants, shopping areas, and luxury hotels. European tour operators quickly recognized its potential, helping establish it as a major destination for package tourism. Its global appeal was further confirmed when The New York Times listed Port Ghalib among the world’s top 41 destinations in 2011.
One of Port Ghalib’s biggest advantages is its exceptional climate. Rainfall is almost nonexistent, and sunshine is abundant throughout the year. From October to April, temperatures average around 22°C (72°F), making it the most comfortable period for visitors. Consistent winds and crystal-clear waters have also made the area famous among divers and windsurfers worldwide.
This guide explores everything first-time visitors need to know—from transportation and seasonal planning to activities and accommodations—so you can enjoy an unforgettable Red Sea experience.
Port Ghalib is exceptionally convenient as it is located just five minutes from Marsa Alam International Airport. This makes it easily reachable straight from the plane, allowing visitors to begin their Red Sea holiday without a long transfer.
The waters near Port Ghalib are renowned for their marine life and are within easy reach of some of the world's top dive sites, including The Brothers Islands, Daedalus Reef, and Rocky Island. The eastern beach also offers direct jetty access to the beautiful surrounding reefs, which are perfect for snorkeling and diving.
Essential Information for Navigating Port Ghalib
Understanding how Port Ghalib is structured and how to get around will help you make the most of your trip.
- The best time to visit is between October and April, when temperatures range from 20–30°C
- Marsa Alam International Airport is just 10 minutes away, while the marina serves maritime travelers
- World-class diving at Elphinstone Reef and nearby Bedouin villages offer unique experiences
- Accommodation options range from luxury resorts to budget hotels starting at $45 per night
- Lightweight clothing, sun protection, and modest attire are recommended
With year-round swimming conditions and a wide range of activities—from submarine tours to spa treatments—Port Ghalib appeals to many types of travelers.
Transportation Networks and Access Routes
Port Ghalib is well connected by air, sea, and road, making travel convenient for visitors.
Aviation Gateway: Marsa Alam International Airport
Marsa Alam International Airport (RMF) is only 5 kilometers from Port Ghalib, offering a quick 10-minute transfer. It is the main entry point for international travelers, with flights from many European countries, including the UK, Italy, Germany, France, and Switzerland. EgyptAir also operates daily flights from Cairo, which take about one hour.
Upon arrival, transportation is easy to arrange. Private transfers start at €15.28, while shuttle services begin at €6.40. Taxis and shuttles are readily available at the terminal.
Maritime Entry: International Marina
Port Ghalib’s marina is Egypt’s southernmost official port of entry and serves yachts traveling through the Red Sea. It includes customs and immigration facilities for smooth arrivals.
Managed by Camper & Nicholsons, the marina offers fuel services, repair facilities, ferry terminals, electricity, water supply, and waste management. Additional services include laundry, communication facilities, medical support, and transportation coordination.
Overland Routes
Highways connect Port Ghalib to major cities such as El Quseir (75 km), Safaga (165 km), and Hurghada (225 km).
Travel times are approximately:
- 1 hour from El Quseir
- 2 hours from Hurghada
- 6 hours from Cairo
Visitors from the Nile Valley can travel via Luxor and Edfu in about three hours. Private transfers start at $48 and can reach $260 for longer routes.
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Plan Your TripSeasonal Patterns and Climate
Choosing the right season is essential for enjoying Port Ghalib’s desert-coastal environment.
Best Time to Visit
October through April is the most comfortable period, with temperatures between 20°C and 30°C. These months are ideal for sightseeing, water sports, and outdoor activities.
From May to October, temperatures often exceed 40°C. While some visitors enjoy the quiet luxury of summer, most prefer the cooler winter months.
Weather and Sea Temperatures
Port Ghalib receives only about 4 mm of rain annually and enjoys nearly 4,000 hours of sunshine each year.
Sea temperatures remain pleasant all year:
- Coolest in February: 22.6°C
- Warmest in August: 29.8°C
This allows swimming and snorkeling throughout the year.
Humidity peaks at around 56% in November and drops to about 35% in June.
What to Pack
To stay comfortable, visitors should bring:
- Breathable cotton or linen clothing
- High-SPF sunscreen
- Sunglasses and wide-brimmed hats
- Swimwear
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees
Activities in Port Ghalib
Port Ghalib offers a wide range of activities that highlight both marine and desert environments.
Diving and Snorkeling
The Red Sea’s underwater world is one of Port Ghalib’s main attractions. Elphinstone Reef is famous for its dramatic drop-offs and encounters with sharks. The house reef allows easy access directly from shore.
Abu Dabbab and Marsa Mubarak are popular for spotting sea turtles, rays, and even dugongs. Beginners can take part in guided programs before exploring independently.
Desert Safaris
Just 25 kilometers north lies Sheik Malek, where visitors can experience authentic desert life. Guided tours include camel rides, visits to Bedouin villages, traditional tea ceremonies, and stargazing.
Evening programs feature traditional meals, folklore performances, and telescope-assisted astronomy.
Wellness and Relaxation
Spa facilities combine ancient traditions with modern treatments. Planet Spa offers steam rooms, saunas, hammams, and therapy suites.
Treatments include stress relief, rhassoul clay masks, and reflexology.
Quiet beaches and promenades provide ideal spaces for relaxation and reflection.
Family-Friendly Activities
Families can enjoy submarine cruises, turtle-watching tours, and themed boat trips. The marina also hosts regular cultural shows and evening entertainment.
Shopping
The shopping district includes traditional bazaars and modern boutiques selling textiles, jewelry, spices, papyrus art, and handicrafts.
Dining
Waterfront restaurants offer diverse cuisine:
- Divino – Italian dishes
- Sultan – Middle Eastern food
- BiCafe – Sushi with marina views
- Hakuna Matata – International menus with live shows
Located on the edge of the Eastern Desert, Port Ghalib offers thrilling day trips by four-wheel drive or quad bike. These desert safaris take you through a spectacular landscape of sand and mountains, culminating in a visit to a traditional Bedouin village for a barbecue dinner and camel ride.
At the heart of Port Ghalib's town center is a traditional Egyptian bazaar called The Khan. Here, visitors can step back in time and enjoy the traditional character and charm of haggling with sellers for local goods like semi-precious gems, ceramics, and perfumes.
Accommodation Options in Port Ghalib
Port Ghalib offers accommodation for every budget and travel style.
Luxury Resorts
Five-star resorts dominate the premium sector. Pickalbatros Palace Resort features Egyptian-inspired design and private beaches. JAZ Elite Amara blends Far Eastern influences with desert surroundings. The Palace Port Ghalib showcases traditional Arabian architecture and sea views.
Mid-Range Hotels
Affordable hotels provide comfort and convenience. Marina View Hotel is close to the marina, with rates starting at $45. Three Corners Fayrouz Plaza Beach Resort offers easy access to both the airport and marina.
Family Resorts
Family-oriented resorts include water parks and kids’ clubs. Amarina Jannah Resort & Aqua Park features slides and splash areas designed for children.
Choosing the Right Location
- Marina hotels offer easy access to shops and restaurants
- Beachfront resorts provide private shoreline access
- Quieter areas suit travelers seeking relaxation
Port Ghalib at a Glance
- Best Time to Visit: October to April offers the most comfortable weather, with temperatures between 20°C and 30°C.
- Easy Access: Marsa Alam International Airport is only 10 minutes away, making Port Ghalib very convenient for travelers.
- Top Experiences: World-class diving at Elphinstone Reef, desert safaris, spa retreats, and family-friendly submarine tours are highlights.
- Wide Accommodation Choice: Visitors can choose from luxury beachfront resorts, mid-range marina hotels, and family resorts with water parks.
- Year-Round Activities: Warm sea temperatures allow swimming, snorkeling, and diving throughout the year.
- Cultural Awareness: Light, breathable clothing and modest dress help travelers stay comfortable and respectful.
- Great for All Travelers: Port Ghalib suits solo travelers, couples, families, and adventure seekers alike.
Port Ghalib is truly one of Egypt’s hidden gems. It offers pristine beaches, exceptional diving, and high-quality accommodations in a beautiful Red Sea setting.
Visiting between October and April ensures pleasant weather. The nearby Marsa Alam International Airport makes travel easy, while the marina and road networks provide additional access.
Activities cater to all interests—from diving at Elphinstone Reef and desert safaris to submarine tours and spa treatments. Accommodation options range from luxury resorts to affordable hotels, ensuring something for every traveler.
Whether you are diving among colorful reefs, shopping along the marina, or relaxing on quiet beaches, Port Ghalib promises unforgettable memories. With proper planning and this guide, first-time visitors can confidently enjoy everything this remarkable destination has to offer.
Port Ghalib enjoys exceptional year-round climate with almost no rainfall (only 4mm annually) and nearly 4,000 hours of sunshine. Average temperatures from October to April are around 22°C (72°F). Sea temperatures range from 22.6°C in February to 29.8°C in August, allowing swimming year-round.
Egyptian visionaries invested an impressive $2 billion over three decades to transform the untouched southern Red Sea coastline into Port Ghalib. This investment created a purpose-built coastal destination designed around a world-class marina that has become one of Egypt's most remarkable resort towns.
Port Ghalib offers world-class diving, with Elphinstone Reef famous for dramatic drop-offs and shark encounters. The house reef allows easy shore access. Abu Dabbab and Marsa Mubarak are popular for spotting sea turtles, rays, and even dugongs. Beginners can participate in guided programs.
Bring breathable cotton or linen clothing, high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, wide-brimmed hats, swimwear, comfortable walking shoes, and modest clothing covering shoulders and knees. Lightweight, breathable fabrics work best in the desert-coastal climate.
Port Ghalib is 67km from El Quseir (1-hour drive), 165km from Safaga, 225km from Hurghada (2-hour drive), and approximately 6 hours from Cairo. Visitors from the Nile Valley can travel via Luxor and Edfu in about 3 hours.
The New York Times listed Port Ghalib among the world's top 41 destinations in 2011, recognizing its exceptional development, world-class marina, luxury accommodations, pristine Red Sea diving, and appeal to international travelers. European tour operators helped establish it as a major package tourism destination.
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