Marsa Alam, Egypt

Marsa Alam is one of the only places in the world where you can reliably swim alongside wild dugongs (sea cows) in their natural habitat, particularly in the protected waters of Abu Dabbab Bay.

Beyond its modern resorts, the hinterland of Marsa Alam was once a vital source of emeralds for ancient Egypt, with the historical mines of Wadi Barramiya believed to have supplied Cleopatra herself.

Marsa Alam International Airport, opened in 2003, holds the unique distinction of being Egypt's first privately owned and operated international airport, revolutionizing direct access to the southern Red Sea.

The Sataya Reef, often nicknamed 'Dolphin House,' is home to a permanent superpod of over 100 spinner dolphins, offering one of the largest and most consistent wild dolphin encounters in the Red Sea.

A unique custom rigorously enforced in Marsa Alam is the 'no-touch' policy for diving and snorkeling, emphasizing the profound respect for its pristine coral reefs and fragile marine ecosystems.

Elphinstone Reef, off the coast of Marsa Alam, is a world-renowned dive site known for its dramatic drop-offs, ancient soft corals, and frequent sightings of oceanic whitetip and hammerhead sharks.

Marsa Alam has become a significant hub for marine conservation research in Egypt, hosting numerous scientific expeditions dedicated to studying and protecting the Red Sea's unique biodiversity, especially endangered species.

Due to its incredibly clear desert skies and minimal light pollution, Marsa Alam is rapidly gaining a reputation as one of the best locations in Africa for amateur astronomy and stargazing, with specialized desert camps offering telescope experiences.