Port Ghalib Travel Guide

Explore the best places to see, things to do, and where to stay in Port Ghalib, Egypt. Plan your trip with our comprehensive travel guide.


Travel Guide to Port Ghalib, Egypt

Located on the Red Sea Coast of Egypt, Port Ghalib is a hidden gem in North Africa. With crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and a rich cultural heritage, Port Ghalib offers a unique blend of leisure and adventure. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking for a relaxing holiday, Port Ghalib has something for everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take you through the top things to do, see, and experience in Port Ghalib.

List of Places to Visit in Port Ghalib

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Port Ghalib Museum: Port Ghalib Museum is a must-visit attraction for history lovers. It showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region, including artifacts from the Roman and Islamic eras.

  • Marsa Alam Temple: The Marsa Alam Temple is a famous ancient temple that dates back to the Ptolemaic period. Its well-preserved ruins are a testament to the majestic architecture of ancient Egypt.

Natural Attractions of Port Ghalib: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Marsa Alam Beach: With its clear blue waters and soft white sand, Marsa Alam Beach is the perfect place to unwind and soak up the sun.

  • Hamata National Park: Hamata National Park is a haven for nature lovers. It’s home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including migratory birds, dolphins, and sea turtles.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Port Ghalib

  • Wadi Gemal National Park: Wadi Gemal National Park offers several hiking and biking trails that lead to scenic viewpoints, hidden lagoons, and picturesque desert landscapes.

Best Things to Do in Port Ghalib: Activities and Tours

  • Diving and Snorkeling: The Red Sea is renowned for its vibrant coral reefs, colorful marine life, and clear visibility. Join a diving or snorkeling tour to witness the underwater beauty of Port Ghalib.

  • Desert Safari: Take a desert safari tour to explore the rugged terrain of the Sahara, ride a camel, and witness the awe-inspiring sunset over the sand dunes.

Week-Long Itinerary for Port Ghalib

Day 1 Arrival and check-in at your hotel
Day 2 Visit Port Ghalib Museum and Marsa Alam Temple
Day 3 Snorkeling/diving tour at Marsa Alam Beach
Day 4 Hike/bike at Wadi Gemal National Park
Day 5 Desert Safari tour
Day 6 Relax at your hotel or visit Hamata National Park
Day 7 Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Port Ghalib

Must-Try Dishes

  • Koshari: A popular Egyptian street food consisting of lentils, rice, pasta, and chili tomato sauce.

  • Fatta: A traditional Egyptian dish made of shredded bread, rice, meat, and tomato sauce.

Local Beverages

  • Karkadeh: A refreshing hibiscus tea that’s commonly served in Egypt.

  • Sahlab: A hot, sweet, and creamy milk-based beverage that’s popular in Egypt during the winter months.

Where to Stay in Port Ghalib: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Port Ghalib Resort: A luxurious resort that overlooks the Red Sea and features a private beach, a spa, and several restaurants.

  • The Three Corners Fayrouz Plaza Beach Resort: A family-friendly resort that offers spacious rooms, an outdoor pool, and a variety of recreational activities.

  • Marina Lodge at Port Ghalib: An eco-friendly hotel that’s located right by the marina and offers stunning views of the sea and mountains.

What to Buy in Port Ghalib: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Egyptian Cotton: Egypt is renowned for its high-quality cotton, which is used to make everything from clothing to bedding.

  • Spices: Bring home a taste of Egypt by purchasing spices such as cumin, coriander, and saffron.

Local Culture and Customs of Port Ghalib

Egypt is a Muslim country, and visitors should be mindful of local customs and dress modestly when visiting religious sites. It’s also customary to remove shoes before entering a mosque or someone’s home.

Best Time to Visit Port Ghalib

The best time to visit Port Ghalib is during the winter months (November to March) when the weather is mild, and the sea is calm. The summer months (May to September) can be scorching, with temperatures reaching up to 40°C.

Do’s and Don’ts of Port Ghalib

Do:

  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and public places.

  • Bargain with vendors at local markets to get a good price.

Don’t:

  • Take photos of military installations or government buildings.

  • Drink tap water. Stick to bottled water or bring a water purifier.

Safety and Health

Safety in Port Ghalib

Port Ghalib is a safe destination for travelers, but visitors should take standard safety precautions, such as avoiding deserted areas at night and being alert to pickpockets.

Health in Port Ghalib

Visitors should be up-to-date on routine vaccinations and consider getting vaccinated against Hepatitis A and Typhoid. Avoid eating raw or undercooked food and drinking tap water.

Getting to Port Ghalib: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Port Ghalib

  • Marsa Alam International Airport (RMF): Marsa Alam International Airport is located 10 km from Port Ghalib and has flights to and from several international destinations.

  • Hurghada International Airport (HRG): Hurghada International Airport is located 260 km from Port Ghalib and offers flights to and from several European cities.

Bus Stations Near Port Ghalib

  • Luxor Bus Station: Luxor Bus Station offers several daily buses to Port Ghalib.

  • Cairo Bus Station: Cairo Bus Station offers several daily buses to Port Ghalib.

Other Options

  • Private/shared taxis are available from Marsa Alam and other nearby cities.

How to Get Around in Port Ghalib

Taxis, buses, and rental cars are available for getting around in Port Ghalib. However, many attractions are within walking distance, and it’s easy to explore the town on foot.

Where to Go Next from Port Ghalib: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Luxor: Luxor is home to some of the most impressive ancient sites in Egypt, such as the Karnak Temple and the Valley of the Kings.

  • Aswan: Aswan is a laid-back city that offers stunning views of the Nile River and several ancient temples.

Conclusion

Port Ghalib is a destination that has something for everyone. With its diverse range of attractions, unique cultural heritage, and pristine natural beauty, Port Ghalib is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who visits. Plan your trip today and experience the best of Egypt’s Red Sea Coast.