Travel report Safaga – tips & experiences for diving, snorkeling & beach holidays

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South of the lively Egyptian seaside resort of Hurghada lies the quiet, cozy and rustic Safaga. Compared to other seaside resorts on the Red Sea, Safaga is a bit more original and less crowded. It offers its visitors small bays with beautiful beaches, lovingly designed hotels and resorts and a holiday region that is still fairly original. Safaga is a dream destination for anyone looking for a relaxing holiday away from the mainstream of Hurghada and wanting to experience the feeling of an Egypt holiday like it was thirty or forty years ago when the first Red Sea hotels were built and diving centers opened.

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Safaga has evolved into a place that offers everything that vacationers could want for their vacation. From spa holidays to beach holidays to diving and snorkeling holidays, there is a wide range of activities and experiences. Unlike Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh, Safaga is quieter and more relaxed, making it the top choice for those looking to get away from the hustle and bustle and unwind in a relaxed and tranquil atmosphere. The resort also offers the possibility Stand Up Paddling operate and experience an unforgettable adventure.

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Impressions from Safaga.

Diving is very important in Safaga

However, one of the most important features of Safaga is undoubtedly its diving. Here are some of the most beautiful and popular coral reefs in the Red Sea, well known to experienced divers. The intact coral reefs and the wide variety of marine life such as dolphins, sharks, whale sharks and schools of fish attract diving and snorkeling enthusiasts from all over the world.

In my travel report about Safaga I have put together tips and information based on my own experiences. Of course, reading a travel report doesn't replace a visit there, but it gives an idea of ​​what to expect.

Dolphins off Safaga Island - in the region you can discover many creatures in the sea. Photo: Sascha Tegtmeyer
Dolphins off Safaga Island - in the region you can discover many creatures in the sea. Photo: Sascha Tegtmeyer

Ideal for beach holidays and beach holidays

For those who prefer to stay on land, Safaga, as a beach and bathing resort, offers mild temperatures and almost constant sunshine all year round. So Safaga is an ideal place for sunbathers and beach-goers who want to relax and get away from it all. I've been a fan of vacationing in the region for a long time - especially diving in Safaga. If my blog post inspires you to plan your next vacation in Safaga and there maybe this Diving and snorkeling try it out, the sense and purpose of this travelogue is fulfilled.

In short: Safaga is the ideal place for everyone who wants to spend a relaxed and authentic holiday on the Red Sea, who wants to dive, snorkel or just relax on the beach. The city offers a wide range of activities and experiences for every vacationer. It is worth putting Safaga on your travel list and seeing for yourself the diversity and beauty of this region.

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Travel Report Safaga - What distinguishes a holiday in the region?

An overview

  • Safaga is an original and somewhat less touristy place on the Red Sea.
  • Good hotels and resorts await you in the region, which are ideal for divers and active holidaymakers.
  • If you're not a diver and don't like snorkeling, you can have an excellent, relaxing beach holiday in the region.
  • The underwater world around Safaga is wonderfully intact - diving on the colorful coral reefs is diving at its best - you get to see an incredible number of marine animals and healthy corals.
  • You can pursue many leisure activities such as diving, snorkeling, kite surfing or stand up paddling, but you can also go on quad tours, camel rides and other excursions.
Travel Report Safaga Chilling on the beach? The Breakers Soma Bay offers divers every comfort imaginable. Photo: Sascha Tegtmeyer
Would you like to chill on the beach? The Breakers Soma Bay (near Safaga) offers divers every imaginable comfort. Photo: Sascha Tegtmeyer

My personal Safaga experiences

Safaga is a place that is very close to my heart and that I have visited several times. I made my first diving experiences in 2005 in the Red Sea off Safaga and was immediately hooked. The underwater world in Safaga is simply breathtaking and inspired me to continue diving. But Safaga is not only a diver's paradise, but also has a lot to offer for non-divers.

A small town south of Hurghada

Safaga is a small town on the Red Sea coast of Egypt, south of Hurghada. The clocks tick a little slower here than in other holiday resorts and you can really relax and escape the stress of everyday life. The bays with their fantastic beaches, the lovingly designed hotels and resorts and the largely untouched holiday region offer an authentic holiday experience. The underwater world of the Red Sea is currently more magnificent than it has been for a long time and attracts divers and snorkelers in particular. There are intact coral reefs and a wide variety of marine life including dolphins, sharks, whale sharks and schools of fish.

Less crowded than in the tourist centers

Safaga is the perfect place for those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Here you can forget everyday life and enjoy the beauty of the Red Sea to the fullest. But those who are looking for adventure and excitement will also find a lot to experience in and around Safaga. Whether you are a beach lover or an adrenaline junkie, there is something for everyone here. If you want to explore the underwater world, Safaga is the place for you. There are numerous diving centers offering courses for all levels, from beginner to expert. The dive sites in Safaga are stunning and feature coral reefs, shipwrecks and much more. Snorkelers also get their money's worth here.

Water sports are popular in Safaga

But there is also a lot to discover on land in Safaga. For those looking for an adrenaline rush, there are numerous activities such as windsurfing, kitesurfing, parasailing and much more. Sandboarding in the nearby dunes is also an exciting way to enrich your vacation. In summary, I can say that my experience in Safaga was entirely positive. Safaga is a unique place for an unforgettable vacation.

Hello, I'm Sascha Tobias Tegtmeyer from Hamburg - and a real beach child with heart and soul! Sea fan, travel lover and always up for an adventure. On my travel blog Just-Wanderlust.com and the social media channels of Strandkind Travels, I combine my love of traveling and nature with a passion for water sports such as stand-up paddling, diving and surfing. I am a journalist, author and blogger - and I am naturally curious when I get to know new travel destinations and then write about them in detail. As a technology fan, when I'm traveling with my family or alone, I'm always happy to bring a few travel gadgets with me for testing purposes. My favorite travel countries, which I also prefer to write about in my travel blog: USA, Thailand and Maldives.
About the author

I'm just a curious beach kid in the world

Hello, I am Sascha Tobias Tegtmeyer from Hamburg – and a real beach child with heart and soul! Sea fan, travel lover and always up for an adventure. On my travel blog Just-Wanderlust.com and the social media channels of Strandkind Travels, I combine my love of traveling and nature with a passion for water sports such as stand-up paddling, diving and surfing. I am a journalist, author and blogger - and I am naturally curious when I get to know new travel destinations and then write about them in detail. As a technology fan, when I'm traveling with my family or alone, I'm always happy to bring a few travel gadgets with me for testing purposes. My favorite travel countries, which I also prefer to write about in my travel blog: USA, Thailand and Maldives.

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Travel report with Safaga tips - Diving and snorkeling is in the foreground

Known for its beautiful and intact coral reefs, Safaga attracts divers and snorkelers. The reefs off Safaga are some of the most beautiful and diverse in the Red Sea and host a wide range of marine life, from dolphins and rays to sharks and whale sharks.

On a diving holiday you can immerse yourself in a completely different world. Photo: Sascha Tegtmeyer
On a diving holiday you can immerse yourself in a completely different world. Photo: Sascha Tegtmeyer

Safaga is a paradise for divers and snorkelers of all levels. The protected inner reefs around Tobia, the easy dive sites at Soma Bay and the spots at Safaga Island, the large sandbar in front of the city, offer unforgettable diving experiences. The outer reefs Panorama Reef, Middle Reef and Abu Kafan are more sporty and challenging, but also breathtakingly beautiful. Drop offs, open water ergs and a wide variety of marine life await you here.

diving in safaga vacation diving vacationLRG DSC03049 Travel report Safaga - tips & experiences for diving, snorkeling & beach vacation
Travel Report Safaga Tip: Soma Bay north of the village is ideal for beginners and advanced. Photo: Sascha Tegtmeyer

Safaga offers divers and snorkelers a wide variety of dive sites and the opportunity to explore the fascinating underwater world of the Red Sea. There are many diving centers offering courses for all levels, from beginner to expert. Even as a snorkeler you will have a wonderful time here. If you want to try scuba diving, Safaga is the perfect place to get your diving license.

Things are quieter in Safaga

But what makes Safaga different from other Red Sea resorts like Makadi Bay, Marsa Alam or Sharm El Sheikh? Safaga is a sleepy and tranquil place where the clocks tick a bit slower than in other resorts. Here you will not find large resorts and crowds of tourists, but small bays with beautiful beaches and lovingly designed hotels and resorts. It is a place where you can really relax and escape from everyday stress.

Travel Report Safaga Tips Beach holiday with almost guaranteed sun: There are plenty of beautiful beaches in and around Safaga. Photo: Sascha Tegtmeyer
Beach holiday with almost guaranteed sun: There are plenty of beautiful beaches in and around Safaga. Photo: Sascha Tegtmeyer

Beach Holidays in Safaga - Sun, Beach, Turtle Alert!

Safaga is not only a popular destination for scuba divers and snorkelers, but also for those looking for a relaxing beach holiday. The small bays with beautiful beaches and the crystal clear waters of the Red Sea are ideal for sunbathers and water sports enthusiasts.

The beaches in Safaga are clean and well maintained and there is a wide range of sun loungers and parasols. The sea is warm and calm and is great for swimming, snorkeling or just relaxing in the shallow water. With a bit of luck you can meet Speedy, the famous sea turtle, on the beach. Speedy inhabits the house reef and beach in front of Orca Dive Village and is a popular attraction for tourists and locals alike.

After I arrived in Safaga, of course I grabbed my big bath towel and lay down on the beach under a bright blue sky. Nice and relaxed in the shade, with good music and a light breeze that you always have on the Red Sea. But of course I couldn't stand it on my beach lounger for too long. Anyone who knows how wonderful the sea is in the area would just like to stay in it. In addition, the temperatures were almost 40 degrees Celsius in the shade. So I grabbed a mask, snorkel and fins right away - and off I went into the almost 30 degree warm water.
Hawksbill Turtle: It is a common sight in the Red Sea. And can be found directly while snorkeling on many house reefs around Safaga. Photo: Sascha Tegtmeyer

It definitely won't be boring

There are many activities on Safaga Beach. For example, you can try stand-up paddling, kayaking, jet skiing or parasailing. If you like it a little quieter, you can just lie down on an air mattress and enjoy the warm water. Safaga's beaches are also a popular departure point for boat tours, exploring the coast from the water and discovering snorkeling and diving spots.

The beaches of Safaga are also ideal for families with children. The shallow water is safe for children and there are plenty of activities for all ages. There are also many child-friendly hotels and resorts with special offers for families such as kids' clubs and animation.

Solid selection of hotels in Safaga

In Safaga there are many hotels and resorts that are on or near the beach. They offer a wide range of amenities, from wellness and spa facilities to various restaurants and bars. Whether it's a luxurious resort or a simple guest house, in Safaga everyone will find the perfect accommodation for their beach holiday.

Dolphins often accompany the ships on their way to the coral reefs. Video: Sascha Tegtmeyer

Snorkeling and diving in Safaga has cult status among many Egypt fans

Safaga has achieved iconic status in the diving scene, and with good reason. In contrast to many other destinations in the country, it is still authentic and untouched here. Diving in Safaga focuses on the essentials, offering an authentic diving experience. Unlike in the big resorts, where golf caddies jet through huge hotel complexes, you can still enjoy a real Egyptian diving holiday here. Day trips to spectacular and beautiful coral reefs or just relaxed diving and snorkeling tours on the house reef, where not many other divers are in the water at the same time, are the norm here.

The reefs off Safaga are second to none

The reefs of Safaga are known for their biodiversity and coral splendor and are among the most beautiful coral reefs in the Red Sea. They are excellent for diving and snorkeling. The sheltered inner reefs around Tobia, the easy dive sites in Soma Bay and the spots around Safaga Island, the large sandbar off town, attract divers from all over the world. The sheltered location of the entire bay makes it ideal for dive boats, which often struggle with difficult weather conditions, wind and waves in the Red Sea.

Fish on the reef: diving and snorkeling in Safaga is simply an adventure! Photo: Sascha Tegtmeyer
Fish on the reef: diving and snorkeling in Safaga is simply an adventure! Photo: Sascha Tegtmeyer

Safaga is also very popular with snorkelers. The clear water and rich marine life make Safaga a mecca for divers and snorkelers. On the house reef and in the surrounding waters, snorkelers often encounter a colorful variety of fish, corals and sea turtles.

More exciting activities for sea fans

Besides diving and snorkeling, Safaga offers many other activities such as windsurfing, kite surfing and parasailing. Here's something for every taste. The city itself offers only a few tourist attractions and is a bit more original than the big holiday resorts with their hotel palaces. There are small shops and locals going about their daily lives. A nice form of normality in a country that – at least on the Red Sea coast – is heavily influenced by tourism. Safaga is a place where you can forget the stress of everyday life and enjoy the beauty of the Red Sea.

The Orca dive center in the Orca Dive Village - from here you can go to the reefs. Photo: Sascha Tegtmeyer
The Orca dive center in the Orca Dive Village - from here you can go to the reefs. Photo: Sascha Tegtmeyer

Dive centers in Safaga - large selection of high-quality dive centers

Diving in Safaga is a real experience and a highlight for anyone who is passionate about the underwater world of the Red Sea. The numerous dive sites around Safaga attract with intact coral reefs, a rich biodiversity and breathtaking landscapes. To make diving in Safaga an unforgettable experience, numerous diving centers have settled north and south of the city.

Dive center in the hotel complex

Most dive centers have joined the hotels that are lined up north of the small town like a string of pearls. Many of the diving centers are German-speaking and have been established on site for decades and are therefore routine. The diving trips take place daily on half-day tours and full-day tours and Egypt diving safaris can also be booked. Here is the right offer for every diver and snorkeler, whether beginner or advanced.

Not so many divers in the water

The special thing about Safaga is that unlike many other dive sites in the Red Sea (and worldwide) there are not too many divers in the water at the same time. On the dive trips in the morning around nine o'clock you can always see a whole squadron of dive boats moving out to the reefs and meeting there. Many of the captains, crews, instructors and dive guides know each other and communicate over the radio. This ensures that not too many divers dive at the same time and that the underwater world can be seen in all its glory.

Diving sites offer something for every taste

The dive sites around Safaga offer something for every taste: Whether simple dive sites at Soma Bay, protected inner reefs around Tobia or spots at Safaga Island, the large sandbank that is offshore from the city - there is a wide variety of dive sites to discover . Sporty and demanding dives on the large outer reefs Panorama Reef, Middle Reef and Abu Kafan are also possible. Here, divers will find breathtaking drop-offs, open-water ergs and a who's who of marine life. If you are looking for sharks in the Red Sea, with a bit of luck you will find them here and you can easily come across many predatory fish.

Travel Report Safaga Tips On the snorkeling tours and diving trips the most beautiful reefs are approached before Safaga. Photo: Sascha Tegtmeyer
On the snorkel tours and diving excursions the most beautiful reefs are approached before Safaga. Photo: Sascha Tegtmeyer

Safaga vacation means diving and snorkeling - the most beautiful dive sites

Safaga is a true insider tip for diving and snorkeling. The breathtaking dive sites attract divers and snorkelers from all over the world year after year. If you decide to spend your vacation in Safaga, you should definitely not do without diving and snorkeling. We introduce you to the most beautiful dive sites that Safaga has to offer.

Popular reefs right on your doorstep

To the north, just off Soma Bay is the Shaab Saiman reef. Here you can discover a large variety of corals, moray eels and fish. The steep wall, which drops down to a depth of 30 meters, is particularly impressive. Another highlight is the Tobia Arba reef, which consists of six plateaus. Here you can dive to a depth of 30 meters and watch moray eels, sharks and a variety of fish. The reef Tobia Hamra is also worth a visit. A spectacular steep wall and a large variety of corals and fish await you here.

Abu Kafan a highlight for divers

For divers looking for bigger fish, Abu Kafan Reef is a must-see. Here you can often meet sharks and big fish like groupers or tuna. The underwater landscape with rock formations and drop-offs hundreds of meters deep is particularly impressive. A little further south is Panorama Reef, which is among the best dive sites in Safaga. Breathtaking steep walls, overhangs and large schools of fish await you here. The Middle Reef is also a popular dive site with a wide variety of sea creatures.

Head for the wreck of the Salem Express

If you fancy an extraordinary diving experience, you should visit the wreck of the Salem Express. The 100 meter long ship sank in 1991 and has been a popular destination for divers ever since. The wreck lies at a depth of 30 meters and is overgrown with a variety of fish and corals. Of course there are many more dive sites in and around Safaga to discover. Whether you are an experienced diver or a beginner, in Safaga you will find a suitable dive site for every level. So what are you waiting for? Get ready for an unforgettable underwater experience in Safaga!

1. Diving in Safaga for Beginners - Inner Reefs and Ras Abu Soma

The inner reefs of Safaga Bay are unique and offer divers a wide variety of marine life. The dive sites are optimally protected and lie in shallow water, making them suitable for both beginners and advanced divers. This also makes the house reefs of the hotels in Safaga real treasures for divers. The big advantage of the house reefs is that you can just jump off the beach into the water and immediately see the underwater paradise.

Travel Report Safaga Impressions from diving in Safaga. Particularly impressive are the "Tobias", a reef system consisting of five different spots. Here you can discover large schools of reef fish, nudibranchs, seahorses and other sea creatures on almost every dive. Eagle, Napoleon and blue spotted rays are also not uncommon here. A special highlight for divers is the wreck of the Salem Express, which has been on the seabed since 1991 and has become an artificial reef for a variety of sea creatures.
Impressions of diving in Safaga. Photo: Sascha Tegtmeyer

The "Tobias", a reef system consisting of five different spots, are particularly impressive. Here you can discover large schools of reef fish, nudibranchs, seahorses and other sea creatures on almost every dive. Eagle, Napoleon and blue spotted rays are also not uncommon here. A special highlight for divers is the wreck of the Salem Express, which has been on the seabed since 1991 and has become an artificial reef for a variety of sea creatures.

The reefs in the north, Ras Abu Soma and Shaab Saiman, are also suitable for beginners and delight experienced divers with their biodiversity. The reefs are known for their spectacular drop-offs. Here you can find barracuda, tuna and moray eels. But the tiny creatures that live in the corals and gorgonians are also fascinating. The reefs can be dived to a depth of 25 meters and offer visibility of up to 40 meters.

The inner reefs of Safaga Bay are therefore a highlight for all divers. Here you can dive into a beautiful underwater world and discover many breathtaking sea creatures. But snorkelers also get their money's worth here. The shallow reefs offer impressive insights into the colorful underwater world even without equipment. Anyone who visits Safaga should not miss this fascinating underwater world.

2. Advanced - Diving on Safaga's outer reefs

Safaga offers numerous diving sites not only for beginners but also for advanced divers. The outer reefs such as Panorama Reef, Middle Reef, Shaab Quais and Abu Kafan are a little more challenging but definitely worth a visit. Here there are steep walls with abysses into the endless blue, which are several hundred meters deep. In addition, currents occur more frequently here, which must be taken into account when planning the dive.

Despite the difficult conditions, it is worth diving on the outer reefs because here you often have the chance to see large fish such as reef sharks, thresher sharks, hammerhead sharks, tiger sharks, manta rays and even whale sharks. Dolphins can also be spotted. Mackerel and tuna can also be found here.

The fantastic outer reefs such as Panorama Reef and Abu Kafan are only visited in good weather conditions. Photo: Sascha Tegtmeyer
The fantastic outer reefs such as Panorama Reef and Abu Kafan are only visited in good weather conditions. Photo: Sascha Tegtmeyer

For beginners, the outer reef plateaus offer sandy bottoms and often coral-covered erks that grow upwards and attract many sea creatures. Beginner divers can also stay here and settle for the plateaus.

The trip to the outer reefs takes up to 1,5 hours. Sometimes the spots are not approached in wind and waves. Then the captains switch to the inner reefs, especially Ras Abu Soma. Overall, there are numerous dive centers in Safaga, located north and south of the city, which regularly offer day trips to various reefs. Most dive centers are attached to the hotels that line up north of the city like a string of pearls.

Many of the diving centers are German-speaking and have been established on site for decades and are correspondingly experienced. Half and full day boat tours are offered daily. Diving safaris can also be booked in Egypt. Diving and snorkeling is a cult in Safaga and attracts many Egypt fans every year.

3. For wreck fans: Salem Express and Riffe in the south

In addition to the already mentioned dive sites north and south of Safaga, there are a few more reefs to discover. A special highlight is the Shaab Hamdallah coral reef, which is located in the very south of Safaga's dive sites. A breathtakingly beautiful and varied underwater world awaits the diver here, consisting of colorful corals and an impressive variety of fish.

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A dive on the wreck of the Salem Express.

The Salem Express wreck is another dive site not to be missed in Safaga. The wreck of the ferry that struck a reef and sank in 1991 with over 700 people on board is now a popular destination for wreck divers. The wreck is beautifully overgrown and offers unique insights into the underwater world. However, diving the Salem Express wreck is controversial for ethical reasons, as many people are still missing in the wreck. Every diver must therefore decide for himself whether he can reconcile this type of diving with his conscience.

Travel pictures Safaga - impressions of the beach and intact, colorful underwater world

Luckily we had our underwater camera with us and brought back some impressions of the underwater world of the Red Sea near Safaga. The pictures were all taken in June 2018 on the reefs while diving in Safaga.

Snorkeling in Safaga - great house reefs right in front of the beach

Safaga offers not only divers, but also snorkelers excellent opportunities to explore the underwater world of the Red Sea. The house reefs of the hotels, which often lead into the water via a jetty, are ideal for this. The Orca Dive Village also has such a jetty and a large house reef right in front of the front door, where you can observe an impressive underwater world with many colorful fish, corals and other sea creatures.

Turtles everywhere on the house reefs

A special attraction are the sea turtles, which often stay in the shallow water right on the beach and are a highlight for snorkelers and divers. But other sea creatures such as squid, parrot fish and many more can also be discovered here. Snorkeling in the bay is very pleasant and, due to the shallow water, is also suitable for less experienced snorkelers.

Snorkeling on numerous reefs

If you want to experience even more, you can go on snorkeling trips to the surrounding reefs such as Tobias or the outer reefs, which are also popular with divers. There are often impressive cliffs and a variety of fish and other sea creatures to discover. Here too you can often encounter sea turtles, rays or even sharks.

Travel report Safaga - tips for leisure activities

During your holiday in Egypt - and of course also in Safaga - you can do a lot of leisure activities. That’s why you should plan a few more days when booking your Egypt trip – especially for that Diving and snorkeling, because that is the Safaga tip par excellence - but also some other excursion options that can really spice up the holiday. I have put together the most important general Egypt tips for leisure activities for you.

1. Absolute must-do on Egypt vacation - diving and snorkeling on world-famous reefs

Scuba diving and snorkeling are absolute musts for holidaymakers vacationing in Egypt, as the true splendor of the Red Sea lies beneath the surface of the water. You should grab a diving mask and jump into the water - that's probably the top tip for Egypt. You can go scuba diving in the Red Sea and visit some of the most beautiful dive sites in the Red Sea.

Hello Nemo: An anemone fish is sitting on his habitation. Photo: Sascha Tegtmeyer
Hello Nemo: An anemone fish is sitting on his habitation. Photo: Sascha Tegtmeyer

With local dive schools, which are typically located at each hotel and resort, you can take scuba excursions—full-day and half-day dive boat tours—as well as schedule shore dives. The dive centers in Egypt are often under European management. You can get your diving license there with PADI or SSI. The Red Sea is the ideal place to start scuba diving because of the excellent diving conditions.

If scuba diving is too much effort for you, you can simply go snorkeling on your own. Our hotel often had an excellent house reef, where there was really a lot to see: colorful corals, many different fish, even small schools of fish and many larger sea creatures such as blue spotted rays and sea turtles.

Fish on the reef: Especially near the surface the reefs are just beautiful colorful! Photo: Sascha Tegtmeyer
Fish on the reef: Especially near the surface, the reefs are just beautifully colorful. Photo: Sascha Tegtmeyer

A visit to the reef is particularly worthwhile in the early morning, as there are not as many waves then, there are fewer snorkelers in the water and you can usually see more animals. It's also worth snorkeling once or twice a day because you'll always see other marine life on your tours - such as a baby turtle, which is extremely rare to see.

2. Go swimming and soak up the sun on the beach

Sharm El Sheikh Travel Report Tips The holiday destination Egypt is simply wonderfully diverse and exciting! Photo: Sascha Tegtmeyer
Travel report Egypt: In the hotels and resorts you can relax wonderfully on the beach - like here in Sharm El Sheikh. Photo: Sascha Tegtmeyer

If you don't spend your time snorkeling, you can just relax in the crystal clear and lukewarm water or find a beach chair and bask in the sun. There is often a lot of hustle and bustle on the beach - so we avoid it more often and look for a quieter place - for example in a nearby bay with a small beach without loungers.

3. Egypt insider tip - visit a manatee in Egypt

Marsa Mubarak's manatee rummages through the ground for food and doesn't let itself be disturbed at all. Photo: Sascha Tegtmeyer Seekuh Egypt experiences Dugong Marsa Alam Marsa Mubarak
Marsa Mubarak's manatee rummages through the ground for food and doesn't let itself be disturbed at all. Photo: Sascha Tegtmeyer

Those who go on vacation in the Marsa Alam region in southern Egypt have a great advantage: there are numerous manatees that you can observe during your vacation. A total of around 16 different species of these marine mammals were counted in the region, most of which live in bays in the immediate vicinity of the beach. If you are on holiday in Marsa Alam, you should definitely pack your snorkeling gear and go snorkeling in a bay. A dive center or water sports operator can probably tell you more about where a dugong lives near the hotel. We were lucky enough to see a manatee more than once in Egypt.

4. Swimming and snorkeling with turtles and dolphins

Turtles can be found almost everywhere in the Red Sea - and snorkeling with them is definitely a must-do Egypt tip. There are so many of these reptiles that you will see one or more almost every time you snorkel or dive. I love sea turtles and have seen hundreds diving over the years. However, I still get excited like a little kid when I see a turtle in the water. Because the animals look so strange and unusual and glide so slowly and carefree through the water, every encounter with a sea turtle in Egypt is a unique experience.

Dolphins in the Red Sea: Tourists can swim with dolphins in several places. Photo: Sascha Tegtmeyer
Dolphins in the Red Sea: Vacationers can go swimming with dolphins in several places. The animals are particularly common in the Marsa Alam region. Photo: Sascha Tegtmeyer

It's a little harder Swim with dolphins in Egypt. The fascinating marine mammals are also frequently encountered in the Red Sea. However, the animals are often visited by far too many excursion boats and harassed by dozens of snorkelers. Of course, this has nothing to do with sustainable tourism. If you want to swim or snorkel with dolphins, you should go to a reputable diving school and ask about their experiences. The most beautiful thing is to go snorkeling with wild dolphins.

If you are traveling in Egypt with a tour boat, you are sometimes lucky that the ship is accompanied by dolphins. Video: Sascha Tegtmeyer

The dive center can certainly organize a day trip with you to watch dolphins. Even if you are not a diver, you can join a day trip. You can snorkel while the divers are in the water.

4. Essential Egypt Tip – Trip to a secluded beach

Marsa Aassalaia north of the city of Marsa Alam: This visit is also considered an insider tip for bathing and swimming among locals. Photo: Sascha Tegtmeyer
Marsa Aassalaia north of the city of Marsa Alam: This visit is also considered an insider tip for bathing and swimming among locals. Photo: Sascha Tegtmeyer

Lonely, idyllic beaches like Marsa Aassalaia north of Marsa Alam for bathing, swimming, snorkeling and diving can be found on the entire west coast of the Red Sea, as there is still a lot of undeveloped area despite the many hotels. In your hotel and resort as well as in the dive centers and water sports centers you will find experienced experts who know the most beautiful bays in the area, can plan excursions with you and show you the most beautiful beaches in the region. There you often have much more privacy than on the hotel beach and you can enjoy the originality of the Red Sea even more.

5. Typical holiday tip for Egypt - Quad tour in the desert

With the quad in the desert you can really accelerate. Photo: Sascha Tegtmeyer
With the quad in the desert you can really accelerate. Photo: Sascha Tegtmeyer

A quad tour through the terrain and through the middle of the desert should be experienced at least once in Egypt - it is, so to speak, the standard holiday tip for Egypt. With the companions, you really step on the gas off-road until the dust fogs your visor. You often travel in a larger group and visit a Bedouin tribe on the way and stop for tea there.

Travel report Egypt: With the quad we go from Sharm El Sheikh to the Sinai desert. Photo: Sascha Tegtmeyer
Travel report Egypt: With the quad we go from Sharm El Sheikh to the Sinai desert. Photo: Sascha Tegtmeyer

If you like it a little less action-packed, you can also go on a jeep safari. With the off-road vehicle in the desert you certainly have more range and get further into the desert. Of course there are also longer tours with overnight stays in the desert.

6. Sunset camel ride on the coast

A camel safari allows you to ride along the coast while enjoying the spectacular sunset. Photo: Sascha Tegtmeyer Travel Report Marsa Alam Tips Experiences - Egypt
A camel safari allows you to ride along the coast while enjoying the spectacular sunset. Photo: Sascha Tegtmeyer

An exciting experience is also a camel tour, which often also leads into the desert or along the coast. It's a bit more leisurely than quad biking. Of course, excursions at sunset are particularly romantic and ideal for couples. But of course families especially get their money's worth with camel rides. As with all leisure activities in Egypt, you should also choose a reputable provider here - even if it costs a few euros more.

For my Safaga travel report I stayed at the Orca Dive Resort and The Breakers – depending on your budget you can choose between different hotels and resorts in Safaga. Photo: Sascha Tegtmeyer
For my Safaga travel report I stayed at the Orca Dive Resort and The Breakers – depending on your budget you can choose between different hotels and resorts in Safaga. Photo: Sascha Tegtmeyer

Holidays in Safaga - solid mid-range resorts around the place

Safaga is a safe and good place for divers to spend an unforgettable vacation in the Red Sea. There are numerous resorts and hotels around the city, most of which are located north of Safaga. These include Orca Dive Village, Hotel Menaville and Hotel Lotus Bay. The further you go towards Soma Bay, the more luxurious the accommodations become. In Soma Bay itself, for example, there are the Sheraton and The Breakers, where you can spend a relaxing luxury holiday. Most resorts have improved a lot in recent years, especially when it comes to food and room comfort.

Safaga's dive sites are another reason why most guests keep coming back. Some of the most beautiful dive sites in the Red Sea such as Abu Kafan, Panorama Reef and Salem Express are around Safaga. There are numerous diving centers in the region that are suitable for both beginners and advanced divers. Many of the diving centers are German-speaking and have been established on site for decades, so that they have the appropriate experience.

In addition to diving, there are other activities in Safaga. Most resorts offer water sports such as windsurfing and kite surfing. Excursions are also available to nearby cities such as Hurghada and Luxor, known for their historical attractions. If you don't want to be in the water, you can just relax on the beach or visit a nearby bay that is less crowded.

All in all, Safaga is an excellent place for divers and holidaymakers looking for a quiet and relaxing holiday. The hotels and resorts offer a high level of comfort and the dive sites in the Red Sea are impressive and varied. Despite the tourism, the place has retained its charm and is a good starting point to explore the beauty of the Red Sea.

Safaga or Soma Bay? Diving holidays made by divers for divers

Both Safaga and Soma Bay are popular diving destinations and offer a variety of diving holiday options. While Safaga is best known to divers who want to experience an unforgettable diving holiday, Soma Bay is more suitable for divers who are looking for luxurious comfort and wellness in addition to diving.

Travel Report Safaga Chilling on the beach? The Breakers Soma Bay offers divers every comfort imaginable. Photo: Sascha Tegtmeyer
Chilling on the beach complacent? The Breakers Soma Bay offers divers every comfort imaginable. Photo: Sascha Tegtmeyer

Most of the hotels in Safaga are located north of the city and cater to divers. The diving centers in the region have been in business for decades and offer the best diving spots. The hotels and resorts in Safaga cater to people who love to dive or learn to dive and want to spend most of the day with a scuba tank on their back. Hotels in Safaga tend to be solid mid-range hotels with basic rooms and good diving facilities. However, if you are looking for more luxury in your diving holiday, you should try Soma Bay a little further north.

Soma Bay offers superior standards and luxury accommodation perfect for divers who want to pamper themselves on their vacation. There are chic hotels, its own golf course and a settlement with luxury apartments. Diving in Soma Bay is also top notch and there are many excellent dive sites nearby. If you not only want to dive, but also want to relax and unwind, Soma Bay is the place for you.

Dive Center in Safaga – Orca Dive Center

Orca Dive Center on the northern outskirts of Safaga is a relatively large and sprawling dive center and the logistical center of Orca Dive Clubs in Egypt. In addition to normal holiday diving, the base has specialized in the increasingly popular tech diving and is one of the leading tech diving bases on the Red Sea. Base manager Susi Barth and her professional and relaxed team take care of their guests with love and personal care and ensure that every dive becomes an unforgettable experience.

Orca Dive Club Safaga is relaxed and informal. Photo: Sascha Tegtmeyer
Orca Dive Club Safaga is relaxed and informal. Photo: Sascha Tegtmeyer

The base is well equipped with full scuba equipment, compressors and nitrox equipment as well as a spacious tech and rebreather area. The dives visit the popular dive sites around Safaga such as the inner reefs of Tobia and Soma Bay, Panorama Reef, Middle Reef, Abu Kafan and the famous Salem Express wreck.

The dive center in Safaga offers a wide range of courses for beginners and advanced. The base is known for its professionalism, excellent equipment and high safety standards.

The friendly staff at the Orca Dive Center ensure a relaxed atmosphere and are always available for questions and tips. We had a lot of fun with the base staff and enjoyed the many beautiful dives. We can recommend the Orca Dive Center in Safaga to any diver and will definitely be back.

Contact: Orca Dive Clubs Safaga

Address: .، جزيرة سفاجا، Safaga, Red Sea Governorate, Egypt

Phone: +20 65 3260111

Website: orca-diveclubs.com/safaga

Email: info@orca-diveclub-safaga.com

1. Hotel in Safaga – The Orca Dive Village

Diving in Safaga The Orca Dive Village at Safaga is fully designed for divers. Photo: Sascha Tegtmeyer
The Orca Dive Village at Safaga is fully designed for divers. Photo: Sascha Tegtmeyer

Orca Dive Village in Safaga is a small but cozy resort specially designed for divers. With just 26 ground-level rooms, it offers a tranquil atmosphere that allows guests to focus on their diving. The rooms are spacious, clean and air-conditioned, with shower, toilet and a cozy terrace. The resort is ideal for divers who want to relax and dive on vacation. The dive center is just a few steps away and offers full diving equipment and a spacious technical and rebreather area. The base is well equipped and the staff is relaxed, professional and lovingly look after the guests.

The food at the resort is regional and really tasty. There is a rich breakfast and dinner buffet with many regional delicacies. Snacks and lunch are available at the beach bar, where you can also get cheap drinks such as a cola for 2,50 euro or a beer for XNUMX euros. The resort has its own beach and pool, but guests can also use the pool at the neighboring Lotus Bay Hotel.

More information about the Orca Dive Village at TripAdvisor.

2. Hotel in Soma Bay – The Breakers Soma Bay

Great hotel area: The Breakers in Soma Bay. Photo: Sascha Tegtmeyer
Great hotel area: The Breakers in Soma Bay. Photo: Sascha Tegtmeyer

For vacationers who want to combine their dive vacation with a little more luxury, The Breakers Soma Bay offers every conceivable amenity. The spacious and comfortable rooms meet European standards and the international cuisine of the resort spoils the guests with culinary delights. A spacious wellness area and a fitness center invite you to relax.

If you don't want to spend the whole day at the pool or beach, you can take the shuttle to the house reef and snorkel or dive there. The Breakers also owns the Orca Dive Club Soma Bay, which offers its guests great diving excursions. Not only house reef dives, but also day trips are a good alternative from here. Orca day boats depart from the base in Safaga and the shuttle bus ride takes just a few minutes.

The Jetty leads to the house reef of the Breaker Soma Bay. Photo: Sascha Tegtmeyer
The Jetty leads to the house reef of the Breaker Soma Bay. Photo: Sascha Tegtmeyer

If you want to experience a special highlight, you can go diving on the panorama reef. Here you have the chance to encounter the world famous hammerhead sharks. Another spectacular dive site nearby is the Salem Express wreck, which holds a special fascination for divers because of its tragic history. There is also a diverse underwater world to discover in the Tobia Archipelago with its beautiful reefs, cliffs and caves.

In The Breakers Soma Bay you can not only dive, but also relax wonderfully. Whether it's a refreshing cocktail at the pool bar or a stroll along the beautiful sandy beach - there are many ways to enjoy your holiday. The resort is simply ideal for those who want to combine their diving holiday with a touch of luxury and relaxation.

More information about The Breakers at TripAdvisor – book cheaply at HolidayCheck*

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Travel report Safaga – tips & experiences for diving, snorkeling and beach holidays

My detailed conclusion

Safaga is not only a dream destination for divers and snorkelers, but also for sunbathers and beach goers who just want to relax. With mild temperatures and almost always bright sunshine, Safaga offers the perfect environment for relaxing hours by the sea all year round.

As a long-time Safaga fan, I can only recommend visiting this beautiful place and getting inspired by diving and snorkeling in the fascinating underwater world. My travelogue should help to get an insight into the many possibilities and experiences that Safaga has to offer.

All in all, Safaga is a great place for an unforgettable diving holiday, but also for a relaxing beach holiday with the opportunity to explore the unique underwater world of the Red Sea. Those who like to be away from the tourist crowds will find a quiet and relaxed atmosphere in Safaga and can look forward to unforgettable diving and snorkeling experiences.

Travel report Safaga - Have you ever been to Egypt or are you planning your first trip? Share your experiences in the comments.

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