Things To Do In El Gouna For Adults With Kids
THINGS TO DO IN EL GOUNA, ATTRACTIONS AND PLACES TO VISIT WITH FRIENDS OR FAMILY
El Gouna is a trending travel hotspot in Egypt. This contemporary lagoon city is situated about 21 kilometers from Hurghada International Airport and was developed by the esteemed company ORASCOM to provide a consistently safe and high-quality resort on the Red Sea.
With pleasant weather year-round, El Gouna appeals to couples, families, and solo travelers alike. This interest is fueled by a diverse selection of hotels across various price points, as well as numerous excursions and activities available in the vicinity. El Gouna is perfect for relaxation while also offering excellent opportunities for various sports.
Below, we will highlight some of the most thrilling tours and stunning attractions in El Gouna.
1. Abu Tig Marina
Abu Tig Marina is the vibrant center of the city, serving as a social hub and a culinary destination. It ranks among the top attractions in El Gouna, bustling with activity both day and night. For instance, you can take a leisurely morning stroll and admire the many exquisite yachts. As with all areas in El Gouna, the marina is completely safe and can be enjoyed at any hour without concern.
You can savor lunch at one of the excellent restaurants with views of the harbor. Later, a cup of coffee or a refreshing ice cream could be the perfect way to recharge before continuing your adventures. Additionally, all areas in El Gouna are easily accessible via TukTuk (or taxi) for a modest fixed fare, allowing you to travel back to your hotel comfortably at any time!.
2. Boat Tour of the Lagoon
The unique lagoon system of El Gouna, often referred to as the “Venice of the Orient,” is best experienced from the water. Some tour operators even offer complimentary lagoon tours for their guests, so be sure to ask your guide about this option. Typically, the tour navigates through stunning hotels and countless private villas, winding through the canals of El Gouna to the marina.
Here’s something useful to know: for a small additional fee, you can book a private lagoon tour, allowing you to enjoy the experience exclusively with your loved ones. This makes for a perfect romantic getaway for couples. It’s also an excellent option for families who desire more flexibility on board and wish to explore at their own pace. You’ll gain a completely new perspective of the area compared to land-based views!.
3. Surf Spectacle at Mangroovy Beach
El Gouna is renowned as one of the top destinations for kitesurfing worldwide, thanks to its shallow, warm waters and consistent winds throughout the year, making it ideal for both novices and experienced surfers. Mangroovy Beach, located near Abu Tig Marina, serves as a central hub for this activity, featuring a large surf center that not only caters to kitesurfers but also offers guidance and equipment for classic windsurfers. The beach also includes a small bar and beach loungers for relaxation.
Mangroovy Beach is a captivating attraction in El Gouna, ensuring plenty of entertainment throughout the day. The thrilling stunts performed by surfers are exhilarating to watch, particularly when the youngest surfers showcase their impressive jumps. Additionally, the beach is equipped with volleyball courts, and on many summer evenings, it hosts lively beach parties attended by friendly surfer boys and girls.
4. Snorkeling and Dolphin Tours
Located next to the Red Sea and close to some of Egypt’s finest coral reefs, El Gouna offers an array of exciting waterfront activities. One of the most sought-after experiences is the combined snorkeling and dolphin tour, though sightings of dolphins can’t be promised. With a bit of luck, participants might even get the chance to swim alongside these majestic creatures for a brief period.
During our visit, we were fortunate enough to encounter a large pod of over 20 dolphins that curiously approached our small snorkeling group, diving beneath us before swimming away. These unforgettable moments are difficult to express in words. Additionally, the snorkeling stops at the vibrant coral reefs were certainly worthwhile, making the experience suitable for beginners as well.
5. Desert Safari: Quad biking adventure in the desert
If you find yourself ready for a change from days filled with feasting and lounging on the beach, consider an exhilarating desert safari. Typically, these tours are day trips originating from El Gouna, as the stunning desert landscapes are located up to 1.5 hours away from the city. The ride in an air-conditioned vehicle makes the journey enjoyable, so it shouldn’t deter you.
The desert tour starts from El Gouna, taking you to a Bedouin camp for a briefing before hopping on the Quads. Then, you’ll follow the guides in a group as you navigate the desert terrain. It’s advisable for men to wear headscarves to protect against sand and intense sun, which can also be bought on site. Depending on the specific tour, lunch and a stop at a camel farm may be included.
6. Nightlife at The Bartender Bar
While the Abu Tig Marina is already vibrant and upscale during the day, its nightlife offers an equally lively and refined experience. El Gouna features several charming bars and small clubs mainly located around the marina and town center, alongside some hotel venues. The Bartender Bar, situated by the harbor, stands out as a prime spot for a fun, laid-back night filled with good music and friendly faces.
Patrons can enjoy a wide variety of delicious drinks in numerous outdoor seating areas. The decor is very trendy, with tables fashioned from old car tires, creating an overall uplifting atmosphere. The Bartender Bar is renowned not only for its DJs but also for its exceptional cocktail selections. An especially popular option, particularly on Thursdays, is the lively parties held at the DuPort Pool Club at the opposite end of the marina.
7. Horse Riding on El Gouna Beach
Although we usually only endorse riding trips abroad in rare cases due to concerns about animal care, the overwhelmingly positive feedback about Yalla Horse Riding has prompted us to feature their beach rides in El Gouna as one of the top attractions. The German-speaking team provides lessons and excursions for both beginners and experienced riders.
Their offerings include short guided rides around the stable, one-hour desert rides, and half-day trips that entail an extensive beach ride with an option for swimming. The stables also house well-cared-for camels and donkeys that can be booked for tours. Visitors are welcome to drop by the barn without a reservation to meet the animals and the staff.
8. Diving in El Gouna
In addition to the snorkeling excursions mentioned earlier, El Gouna is an excellent destination for a diving vacation. There are several internationally accredited diving schools that offer thrilling experiences for experienced divers, as well as opportunities for beginners to earn a diving certification. It’s no surprise that the dive sites here are considered some of the finest in all of Egypt.
The waters off El Gouna feature stunning reefs and remarkable wrecks, showcasing a remarkably diverse marine ecosystem. Recently, there have also been several reports of whale shark sightings. Noteworthy providers include Orca Dive Club El Gouna, Colona Divers El Gouna, TGI Diving El Gouna, and Emperor Divers El Gouna, all of which have received exceptional ratings from travelers in recent years on the Red Sea.
9. Dine Around Concept
The Dine-Around program in El Gouna is a major highlight of the vacation spot, though many travelers remain unaware of it despite significant promotion by tour operators. Essentially, Dine Around allows you to enjoy dinner at different hotels or various restaurants in town instead of just your own hotel. The cost is already included in your stay, with no additional charges for lower-tier accommodations.
Guests at participating 5-star hotels can dine at any other hotel, while those at 4-star hotels can only eat at other 2- to 4-star locations. Drinks consumed will incur a modest charge. This intriguing concept adds variety to dining options and enhances the experience by providing new flavors. Notably, even luxury establishments like the Sheraton Miramar Resort, Steigenberger Golf Resort, and Mövenpick Hotel are part of the Dine Around program.
10. Golfing in El Gouna
El Gouna, a picturesque lagoon city in Egypt, has gained recognition in the global golfing community due to its high-quality courses and mild winter climate, which creates ideal golfing conditions. The 18-hole USPGA course, designed by American architects Fred Couples and Bene Gates, is renowned as one of the most beautiful courses in the world, offering stunning views of the lagoons.
This golf course is the only one in Egypt that holds official ratings from both the German Golf Association and the USPGA. Additionally, the El Gouna Golf Club features an Aqua Driving Range with 30 tees, as well as designated areas for pitching, chipping, and putting, with a required handicap of 45. Many golfers choose to stay at the upscale Steigenberger Golf Resort in El Gouna, while another expansive 18-hole golf course is under construction at the luxurious Ancient Sands resort located inland.
