Around the Egyptian seaside resort of Marsa Alam there are dozens of luxurious hotels and resorts, beautiful house reefs with colorful corals and thousands of fish, turtles, rays and other sea creatures, as well as picturesque, secluded bays. Best conditions for snorkeling in Marsa Alam. What is there to discover? And what should you definitely pay attention to? I have put together the most beautiful house reefs and the best hotels for you – and answered the most important questions. I will also tell you where and how you can snorkel with the manatee of Marsa Alam.

Shortly after seven in the morning the sun was already burning hotly and relentlessly as we walked to the jetty in shorts, light holiday fins and diving goggles. What a wonderful day – no wind and the sea was as smooth as glass. Someone is doing yoga on the beach, the Beach Boys are pushing the lounge chairs together. The air smells like Summeras we walk the 800 meters from our room to the top of the jetty. The crystal clear water looks like you want to jump in straight away - and that's exactly what we're doing now.

Use picture-book days in Marsa Alam for snorkeling

You don't always experience such picture-perfect days on the Red Sea - it's often windy or even stormy. During our stay in Marsa Alam The yellow or even the red flag flies most days. Decent waves make snorkeling a more relaxed affair. You have to take advantage of the days with the best conditions.

We put on our fins, masks and jump into the water – watched by a few early morning Nordic walkers. The water feels cool, 28 degrees, flowing through the short wetsuit. Seconds later we stick our heads under the water and immerse ourselves in this other, strange world that spreads out directly in front of the jetty and stretches for kilometers along a fringing reef full of life.

In my experience report about snorkeling in Marsa Alam I would like to show you how beautiful the underwater world in the south is Egypt is. If you dive, you probably know this. If it's your first time snorkeling, you'll learn how to get started. With my post I would like to share my enthusiasm for snorkeling in Marsa Alam with you.

Video – Snorkeling in Marsa Alam with a manatee

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Snorkeling in Marsa Alam – the most important things in a nutshell

• Southern Egypt offers many excellent hotels and resorts with breathtakingly beautiful house reefs.
• When snorkeling in Marsa Alam you can discover a lot - colorful corals, thousands of fish and many other sea creatures such as turtles, rays and even dolphins and sharks.
• The absolute highlight when you go snorkeling in Marsa Alam is an encounter with a manatee - a dugong.

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Best conditions all year round - why go snorkeling in Marsa Alam?

I have visited many regions in Egypt for snorkeling and diving - but Marsa Alam is special in many ways. If you are looking for a holiday destination that combines breathtaking beaches with a fascinating underwater world, Marsa Alam is the right place for you. The Egyptian coastal city lies on the Red Sea and is home to some of the most diverse and colorful coral reefs in the world.

Quiet location deep in the south

One of Marsa Alam's advantages is its remote location, deep in the south, so it doesn't get as crowded as other popular Red Sea resorts. This means more pristine reefs and natural landscapes can be seen in the region, as well as rare and impressive wildlife such as dolphins, turtles, manatees and even sharks.

Warm temperatures all year round

Another advantage of the region is the ideal weather conditions for snorkeling all year round. In Marsa Alam it is - at least it feels like - still a degree warmer than up in the north near Hurghada and Co.

The water in the Red Sea is warm all year round and has a temperature of 23 to 32 degrees Celsius, making it comfortable to swim and snorkel without freezing. In addition, the water is very clear and the visibility is up to 30 meters or more, so you can see every detail of the underwater world.

Different types of reefs

Marsa Alam has something for every snorkeler. Especially if you not only snorkel, but also go diving. There are different reef types to choose from, such as fringing reefs and barrier reefs, each with their own characteristics and inhabitants. For example, our hotel near Marsa Alam had a fringing reef – and a sheltered inner reef better suited for beginners. Famous spots like Abu Dabab Bay where you can swim with dugongs (manatees) or Elphinstone Reef where you can see hammerhead and white tip sharks.

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My experiences snorkeling in Marsa Alam

I've been snorkeling in the Marsa Alam region time and time again over the past few years - and that's exactly what prompted me to write this blog entry and say: Try snorkeling in Marsa Alam in a few places, you won't regret it! Turtles are often seen while snorkeling in the region. I don't want to say always - but often. In my opinion much more often than up north near Hurghada. At least that's how it seems to me.

I have already been able to examine several reefs

I have snorkeled on several reefs and house reefs in Marsa Alam. Since I am a diver and always do a few dives during my trips to Egypt, snorkeling is more of a pastime for in between. You can quickly jump into the water without much preparation and just as quickly get out again when you've had enough. Snorkeling is often in no way inferior to diving. Or you are very lucky to see dolphins or a whale shark while snorkeling at the fringing reef. Everything is possible.

My highlight was the manatee encounter

My absolute highlight while snorkeling was encountering the Manatee by Marsa Mubarak, about which I wrote a detailed report. In addition to the many turtles in the bay, we also found the majestic dugong, which we were able to snorkel with for half an hour.

What a unique experience - perhaps one of the most beautiful I've ever had while snorkeling and diving. All in all it was my second encounter. A few years earlier I had seen a manatee in Marsa Alam. The encounters are rare - but you can be lucky, because some animals stay stationary in certain bays.

Snorkeling in Marsa Alam is highly recommended

I highly recommend snorkeling in Marsa Alam. As a beginner, you can comfortably practice on an inner reef in the lagoon. And if you're more advanced, you can snorkel out on the fringing reef or take a tour of the reefs further out. The variety of snorkeling in Marsa Alam is almost endless.

The most beautiful snorkeling spots in Marsa Alam

If you ask me, you don't have to look far for the best snorkeling spots in the Red Sea near Marsa Alam. You can find them right on your house reef Hotels and in the immediate surroundings, because there are an incredible number of secluded bays in the entire Marsa Alam region that are recommended by the locals and visited by the diving schools. However, there are some top spots that you can visit if you are looking for turtles, dolphins or manatees. Below I will introduce you to some of the best snorkeling spots in Marsa Alam.

1. Shaab Marsa Alam

If you want to snorkel in Marsa Alam, don't miss Shaab Marsa Alam. This reef is one of the most beautiful and diverse in the area and is located just minutes from shore. Here you can explore a fascinating underwater world characterized by colorful corals, caves, overhangs and a wreck.

You'll also have the chance to see many different species of fish and marine animals, such as barracuda, rays, moray eels and maybe even turtles or dolphins. Shaab Marsa Alam is a snorkeling paradise for anyone who wants to experience the beauty and diversity of the Red Sea.

2. Shaab Samadai

I went diving at Shaab Samadai and can therefore safely say that it is also an excellent snorkeling spot. It is also known as Dolphin House. Here you can observe dolphins in their natural habitat and perhaps even interact with them. The reef is a protected habitat where the dolphins play, sleep and mate. This is an unforgettable experience that should not be missed.

But the reef itself is also very beautiful and offers a variety of corals and fish that you can admire. Shaab Samadai is a nature reserve where the dolphins are protected and can behave freely and undisturbed. Therefore, you should always be respectful and careful when encountering them and follow the rules of the reef.

3. Marsa Shoona Bay

If you're looking for a snorkeling spot that offers an impressive variety of marine life, then Marsa Shoona Bay is for you. This reef is one of the top snorkeling destinations in Egypt and impresses with a fascinating underwater world full of colorful fish, corals and other sea creatures.

Marsa Shoona Bay is a shallow reef, perfect for both beginners and advanced surfers. Here you can dive up to 15 meters deep and discover the wonders of the underwater world. The highlights include the impressive schools of barracuda, mackerel, moray eels and rays. You can also expect a variety of coral species such as brain, star and fire corals, as well as anemones, sponges and seaweed.

But Marsa Shoona Bay is more than just a snorkeling paradise. Nestled in a sheltered bay and surrounded by stunning desert scenery, it is also a place to relax. Here you can sunbathe, enjoy the fresh sea breeze and simply unwind. A visit to Marsa Shoona Bay is an absolute must for any snorkeling enthusiast visiting Egypt.

4. Marsa Mubarak

In Marsa Mubarak I had my encounter with the manatee, which regularly stays there. If you want to watch turtles, you should definitely go to Marsa Mubarak. The reef is known for its large turtle population that feeds on the seagrass beds. With a bit of luck you can also observe manatees and other sea creatures.

You should go to Marsa Mubarak either very early in the morning or late in the afternoon, otherwise there will be dozens of snorkelers in the water. You won't find much coral or fish in the bay - but huge turtles live there alongside the manatee, which you can see while snorkeling if you're lucky.

5. Wadi El Gemal

Wadi El Gemal is a paradise for everyone who wants to experience nature in all its diversity. This national park covers an area of ​​more than 7000 square kilometers and includes both desert landscapes and coastal areas. Here you can find unique flora and fauna, some of which only occur in this region. Highlights include the Nubian ibex population, endemic acacia species and rare desert birds.

You can also discover traces of the past here, such as the remains of an ancient emerald mine, one of the oldest in the world. Anyone who loves the sea will also get their money's worth in Wadi El Gemal. The underwater world is a true El Dorado for divers and snorkelers, who can enjoy the colorful coral reefs and the rich marine fauna. Wadi El Gemal is an ideal place to combine adventure, relaxation and culture.

6. Sataya Reef

If you would like to snorkel with dolphins, you should put Sataya Reef, also known as Dolphin Reef, on your list. The reef is one of the largest and most beautiful in the Red Sea and is located about 130 kilometers south of Marsa Alam. To get there, you'll have to take a boat ride of about three hours from Hamata, but it's worth it. The Sataya Reef offers a fascinating underwater world with colorful corals, caves and gorges.

In addition to the friendly dolphins, you can also admire other sea creatures such as sharks, manta rays and tuna. However, you should be well informed beforehand about how you can visit the reef responsibly. The Sataya Reef suffers from mass tourism, which stresses the dolphins and disrupts their natural behavior. Therefore, choose a dive center that adheres to the guidelines for sustainable handling of the dolphins and respect their distance and rest times.

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The best hotels with the most beautiful house reefs for snorkeling in Marsa Alam

If you want to enjoy the breathtaking underwater world of Marsa Alam without having to go far from your hotel, you should choose one of the hotels with their own house reef. A house reef is a coral reef that you can access directly from shore or from a jetty without having to take a boat. So you can snorkel or dive when and how much you want. There are many hotels in Marsa Alam that have house reefs, but some stand out for their beauty and diversity. Here are some of the best:

1. Three Corners Fayrouz Beach Resort

If you are looking for a dream vacation on the Red Sea, you should take a closer look at the Three Corners Fayrouz Beach Resort. This 4-star hotel is located directly on a beautiful sandy beach, perfect for sunbathing and swimming. The hotel is surrounded by a well-kept garden with palm trees and flowers, offering an oasis of calm.

The highlight of the hotel, however, is its own house reef, which is located directly in front of the hotel and is one of the most beautiful reefs in Egypt. Here you can discover the fascinating underwater world with its colorful fish and corals. The hotel offers you snorkeling and diving equipment as well as professional diving courses so that you can fully enjoy this experience.

All information about the resort: threecorners.com/en/red-sea/fayrouz-plaza-beach-resort/

2. Solymar Reef Marsa

If you dream of a wonderful holiday on the Red Sea, then check out Solymar Reef Marsa. This luxurious gem offers you a picturesque sandy beach, refreshing pools, green gardens and world-class cuisine. But the real highlight? The breathtaking in-house reef, one of the most impressive in the Red Sea.

The Solymar Reef Marsa is located directly on the beach in Marsa Alam, a hotspot for diving and snorkeling in Egypt. From the hotel's own jetty you can climb directly into the sea and immerse yourself in the fascinating underwater world. The pristine reef is home to a variety of marine life - from colorful fish to turtles and rays to sharks and dolphins. You can snorkel on your own or take part in one of the tours organized by the hotel. Whether you are a newbie or an experienced diver, this reef will captivate you.

All information about the resort: jazhotels.com/hoteldetail/53-egypt-marsa-alam-solymar-reef-marsa

3. Jaz Solaya Hotel

If you are looking for a hotel that gives you access to one of the best diving spots in Egypt, then Jaz Solaya Hotel is an excellent choice. This hotel is part of the Madinat Coraya complex, which consists of several hotels sharing a long jetty. This jetty takes you directly to a spectacular reef that will enchant you with its diversity and beauty.

The reef is divided into different zones that differ in depth and characteristics. You can explore caves, glide along sheer walls, or swim through colorful coral gardens. The corals come in all sorts of shapes and colors, from delicate fans to massive brains to spiny fire corals.

All information about the resort: jazhotels.com/de/hoteldetail/13-egypt-marsa-alam-jaz-solaya

4. Brayka Bay Resort

If you are looking for a comfortable and versatile hotel in Marsa Alam, you should take a closer look at Brayka Bay Resort. This 4-star hotel offers you everything you need for a relaxing and varied holiday: around 320 air-conditioned rooms with balconies or terraces, several bars and restaurants with different cuisines, a spa with sauna and massage, a fitness studio with modern equipment and a shopping center with souvenirs and local products.

The highlight of the Brayka Bay Resort is undoubtedly its location on its own bay on the Red Sea, which gives you direct access to a fantastic house reef. The house reef is one of the most beautiful and best protected in the region and delights snorkelers and divers with its colorful and lively underwater world. You can reach the reef without a jetty from a sheltered bay and let yourself be carried away by the current.

All information about the resort: braykaresorts.com

5. Steigenberger Coraya Beach Resort

If you are looking for a luxurious and relaxing holiday in Egypt, then the Steigenberger Coraya Beach Resort could be just the thing for you. This 5-star hotel, exclusively for adults, is located directly on a beautiful sandy beach and boasts an impressive house reef. If you're an underwater fan, you'll get your money's worth here, because the reef is home to a colorful world of corals and fish that you can discover while snorkeling or diving.

As part of the renowned Steigenberger chain, you can expect first-class service and exquisite cuisine here. Choose from several restaurants and bars that serve both regional and international delicacies. The wellness area invites you to relax, while sports enthusiasts can get active in the fitness room or on the tennis court. If diving is your passion, you will appreciate the hotel's partnership with the Coraya Divers diving center, which offers professional diving trips.

All information about the resort: hrewards.com/en/steiger-coraya-beach-marsa-alam

6. Jaz Grand Marsa

If you are looking for a luxurious and relaxing holiday in Marsa Alam, then the Jaz Grand Marsa could be just the thing for you. This 5-star hotel welcomes you directly on a beautiful sandy beach where you can dive into the crystal clear water and explore the colorful underwater world of the Red Sea.

Surrounded by a green oasis of palm trees and trees, the hotel offers the perfect backdrop for relaxation. There are 396 modern and comfortably furnished rooms and suites at your disposal, all with a balcony or terrace and breathtaking views of the sea or the garden. The hotel spoils you with culinary delights in several restaurants and bars with a wide range of regional and international specialties.

All information about the resort: jazhotels.com/hoteldetail/52-egypt-marsa-alam-jaz-grand-marsa

Snorkeling with Marsa Mubarak's manatee

If you take the infamous... Manatee by Marsa Mubarak If you want to see them, it can be difficult to find them without fighting through the crowds of snorkelers. Dugong Bay is a hotspot for tourists wanting to observe the rare manatees in their natural habitat. If you catch the wrong moment, there will be dozens of snorkelers in the water.

To avoid mass tourism, it is advisable to go to Marsa Mubarak early in the morning or late in the evening. An elderly lady had given us snorkelers a helpful tip, which came true: if you come to Dugong Bay when there are fewer people, you have a better chance of seeing a manatee.

However, the reality was different. During our visit to Marsa Mubarak, we were surprised at how many tourists populated the bay. At peak times, more than a dozen tour boats are anchored there and an estimated 50 to 100 snorkelers paddle in Dugong Bay in search of the manatees. This type of mass tourism is alarming and is damaging the delicate ecosystem in which the manatees live.

Despite the crowds of tourists, we were lucky enough to find the manatee we had been looking for while snorkeling. We followed the animal and were finally able to spot it just a few meters from the beach. It was an unforgettable experience to see the manatee in its natural habitat.

The Marsa Mubarak manatee is a rare and majestic animal that must be seen in Marsa Alam. However, it is important to behave responsibly and protect the environment. Following the advice of the locals and leaving the manatees alone will help ensure that these fascinating animals can survive and thrive in their natural habitat.

Snorkeling in Marsa Alam - dangerous or not?

Snorkeling in Marsa Alam offers you a fascinating and particularly diverse underwater world with colorful coral reefs and a variety of sea creatures. But as with all water sports activities, there are some safety precautions to follow. The Red Sea can be treacherous and I strongly encourage you not to enter the water without preparation.

1. Preparation and basic knowledge

Before embarking on an adventure, it is essential to ensure that you have solid swimming skills. Even if snorkeling takes place in shallow waters, unforeseen circumstances can complicate the situation. A life jacket can provide additional safety here and is particularly recommended for beginners or people who feel unsafe in open water.

2. Together is safer

Snorkeling in groups is not only more sociable, but also safer. If everyone pays attention to others, potential dangers can be identified more quickly and rapid action can be taken in an emergency.

3. Environmental protection

The delicate coral reefs are not only impressive to look at, but also essential to the marine ecosystem. Touching them can break or damage corals, which can have long-term effects on the entire ecosystem. In addition, avoiding waste should be a matter of course. Leave no waste behind and reduce your ecological footprint.

4. Natural hazards and how to deal with them

• Currents: The sea can be deceiving. Even when it looks calm, strong undercurrents can occur. It is important not to swim too far from shore and to keep yourself informed about current current conditions.
• Sea creatures: Sea urchins, fire jellyfish and other creatures can cause painful injuries when touched - some Animals in the Red Sea can be really dangerous. Special water shoes protect against unpleasant encounters on the seabed. Although sharks are rare in the Red Sea and not necessarily dangerous, you should always pay attention to warnings from local authorities and not snorkel at dusk or at night. Before Sharks in the Red Sea You don't have to be afraid - the animals are usually quite harmless and rather shy when snorkelers come.

5. Drink regularly

The sun burns hot from the sky. And if you've already walked two kilometers to the top of the jetty, you should definitely drink enough - both before and after snorkeling. The strong sunlight and heat will dehydrate you faster than you think.

Snorkeling in Marsa Alam review - the most beautiful region for snorkeling in Egypt?

My conclusion

I think it is fair to say that the Marsa Alam region offers the most beautiful snorkeling spots in Egypt. And there is a very simple reason for that: there is not so much going on in the deep south of Egypt - and accordingly you will simply find more sea creatures in the water there. I recently had the direct comparison. While you could hardly save yourself from turtles in the Marsa Alam region, there are noticeably fewer animals further north. And this applies not only to the reptiles, but also to fish and other sea creatures.

Were my tips helpful?

I hope that my experience report about snorkeling in Marsa Alam was able to give you a few valuable tips and motivate you to try it out yourself. The purpose of this article is to inspire you with the beauty of the underwater world. If I managed to do that, the post has served its purpose. As an avid snorkeler, I can only recommend Marsa Alam as one of the most beautiful snorkeling spots in Egypt. I've done a few snorkeling trips in Egypt, but none were as impressive as this one.

Clear water in Marsa Alam

The clear waters in Marsa Alam offer visibility of up to 40 meters and a variety of colorful corals and fish. The reefs are in very good condition and there are many pristine snorkeling spots. I was particularly impressed by the sea turtles, which you can regularly see here in their natural habitat. Dolphins and sharks can also sometimes be seen here.

Most hotels have a house reef

Most of the hotels in Marsa Alam have direct access to the sea, so you can go snorkeling at any time. There are also many boat tours to the various snorkeling spots along the coast. If you would rather snorkel at a house reef, you should check out The Three Corners Fayrouz Plaza Beach Resort hotel, which has a beautiful house reef.

Have you been snorkeling in Marsa Alam or Egypt? Which animals have you seen? Where was it most beautiful? Share your experiences in the comments.

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