Egypt's Red Sea Coast
- One of the World's Top Aquatic Sports Destinations
By Andrew Muigai
Egypt's Red Sea coast is famed for its crystal
clear blue waters and exotic marine life, attracting thousands of
tourists yearly. The reputation is well deserved - in 1989, an international
panel of scientists picked the north part of the Red Sea as one
of the Seven Underwater Wonders of the World. The sea carries over
800 fish species, including the lethal stonefish and butterfly fish
as well as shark and over 200 coral species. In addition, the shores
of the sea are visited by thousands of migrating birds every year
and bird watchers are bound to have a good time here.
The waters have a constant temperature of 21- 25 degrees
centigrade. Visibility is good at 10-50 m and upto a distance of
about 200 m. Visibility is best in summer but can be reduced in
spring by plankton growth and sediments. However, the sea is also
known for its strong winds and unstable currents.
So named because of its red tint mountain ranges,
the Red Sea is an important tourist destination and is home to a
number of resorts, the biggest of which is Hurghada. The coastline
is particularly famous for its diving
sites, which include Ras
Mohammed, Elphinstone, The Brothers and Rocky Island. The Austrian
biologist and scuba diver, Hans Hass put the Red Sea in the limelight
in the 1950's - and this has resulted in it being one of top diving
destinations. The renowned French environment explorer, Jacques
Yves Cousteaus, through his writings and movies cemented this reputation.
Egypt's Red Sea Coast has since then experienced rapid development.
More hotels and resorts have sprung up here than anywhere else in
the country. This growth has however at times resulted in over development
and resultant challenge to the environment. An estimated 60% to
80% of the coral reefs around the coast have been damaged due to
illegal and irresponsible activities. The authorities have in recent
years woken to this reality and this will hopefully lead to restoration
and more balanced development in the future.
The major centers along Egypt's Red Sea coast are
Ain Sukhana, Berenice, Bir Shalatein, El Gouna, Hurghada, Mersa
Alam, Al- Zuseir, Safaga, Suez and Zafarana. Hurghada emerged in
early 20th century and was until recently an isolated fishing village.
It terms of historical pedigree it cannot hold its own against some
of the other Red Sea towns such as Berenice which was founded in
275 BC by the Ptolemy II Philadephus during the Greek period. But
from the 1980's onwards, the city has prospered and is now the leading
resort along the Red Sea coast. Hurghada lies 380 km to the southeast
of Cairo.
Hurghada has today a population
of 40,000 and is home to numerous hotels and resorts offering first
class aquatic sports facilities for sail boarding, windsurfing,
yachting, deep-sea fishing, scuba diving and snorkeling. If you
do not want to get wet, you can still catch a glimpse of the impressive
diversity of marine creatures by visiting Hurghada's aquarium and
museum. The aquarium has a wide selection of fish and various other
odd- looking yet fascinating marine creatures. Sunbathers will also
find excellent white sand beaches. The resort has a good choice
of bars, restaurants, boutiques, and discos and is well known for
its vibrant nightlife.
From the city you can access numerous uninhabited
off shore reefs and islands. They offer a wide array of exciting
activities. At Giftun
Island you can indulge in snorkeling and view the Red Sea underworld
from a submarine! The Island is lined with shops and boutiques,
which will allow some retail therapy. There are also some historical
sites such as the Roman era porphyry quarry remains at nearby Gebel
Abu Dukhan. In addition, you can take day trips to explore the Red
Sea Mountains by camel or jeep.
Between El Gouna and Safaga, is an area that is known
as Europe's playground. The area boasts among other things an airport,
a hospital, an open- air amphitheatre, and golf course. It is an
area frequented by the rich and famous and is host to concerts and
sporting events. The beaches are clean and a perfect getaway from
the hustle and bustle of inner town. Safaga- 60 km from Hurgada,
specializes in diving. On account of its pristine beaches and strong
breezes, it was chosen as the venue for the 1993 World Windsurfing
Championships.
You will find El Gouna 20 km to the north of Hurghada.
This is a purpose built leisure resort that boasts of 10 km of beachfront.
It has international standard diving facilities and a myriad of
opportunities for windsurfing, snorkeling, parasailing, and water
skiing. Golfer may also relax at the El Gouna's 18-hole USPGA Golf
Course.
The area is also home to islands - Shadwan Island,
Shaab Abu Shiban, Shaab el- Erg, Umm Gammar Island, which are all
famous for snorkeling, diving and fishing. The southern side of
Egypt's Red Sea coast is more tranquil than the central areas and
is popular with honeymooners. Here you enjoy breathtaking nature,
excellent resorts and good diving sites. For those on a spiritual
journey, the Red Sea coast is home to Coptic Christian monasteries,
which are the oldest monasteries in Egypt as well as the whole of
Christendom. You can view the monasteries by taking a hike overseen
by the monks and novices residing within.
There are few international flights to Hurghada, though
most visitors fly or travel overland by bus from Cairo. There are
a variety of hotels and resorts in the Red Sea area- with Hurghada
having the largest share. In this city, you will find top tier international
chain accommodation and other digs suitable for budget travelers.
To get more value from your trip to the region, you can add on a
Nile cruise- the best way to experience the wonders of ancient Egypt.
The best time to visit Egypt's Red Sea coast is March
to May and September to November. In these periods, you enjoy warm
days and your fellow tourists are mercifully away. The summer months
are uncomfortably hot and humid, while winter days can be chilly
especially in the evenings. Remember to pack cameras to capture
images and sunglasses for protection against the scorching sun,
light clothing, hats and some sunscreen.
Disclaimer: Africa Point has done
its utmost to ensure that the information on this web site is as
accurate and current as possible. The information is provided 'as
is' and Africa Point will not accept responsibility for any loss,
injury or inconvenience sustained by anyone resulting from the information
on this website. Please verify crucial information like visas, health
and safety, customs and transportation with the relevant authorities
before you travel.
