About the ride from Aswan to Marsa Alam
Aswan lies at the meeting point of Lake Nasser and the Lower Nile, where you can discover ancient temples that date back to the beginnings of recorded history. You can lose yourself on a shopping spree while haggling in its markets. And at the end of the day, you can marvel at the scene of feluccas framed by the sunset as they drift quietly along the Nile.
Yes, you can get a heavy dose of history and scenery in southern Egypt’s largest city. But with the crystal clear waters of the Red Sea within reach, limiting your travels to the shores of the Nile would be a real shame. Fortunately, adding a few days at the beach to your itinerary is very simple to do.
The closest beach town to Aswan is Marsa Alam.
Thankfully, getting there is a very straightforward overland affair.
The browns and beiges that have scrolled by your window for the first five hours of your journey will fade away once you catch sight of the gorgeous aquamarine waters off the coast of Marsa Alam. Resist the temptation of asking the driver to stop so you can jump in and go directly to your hotel.
Once you’ve gone diving on the pristine reefs and lazed away an afternoon on its sandy beaches, leaving Marsa Alam might be a little more tricky.
Top things to do in Marsa Alam
For many years, this once sleepy fishing village was known only to hardcore divers looking for an untouched underwater wonderland. However, the addition of an international airport and luxury resorts has put Marsa Alam on the global map.
Here are some of the best things to do in there:
Go looking for turtles and dugongs. The waters near Marsa Alam frequently attract sea turtles and dugongs, commonly called sea cows. Like manatees, encountering these gentle giants captivates casual divers and snorkelers alike.
Get wet (or not) exploring the reefs. Marsa Alam offers access to several world-class reefs. While divers will have no lack of choices, snorkelers can get in on the action as well. And if swimming with the fish is outside your comfort zone, a glass-bottom boat tour will give you similar views without needing a swimsuit.
Explore the desert at Wadi El Gemal National Park. If you can tear yourself away from the water, a trek into Egypt’s mighty desert is the stuff of adventures.
Just 28 miles (45 km) south of town is Wadi El Gemal National Park, a protected desert reserve where you can explore the rugged landscape, discover local wildlife, and visit archaeological ruins.
Hit the beach and stay there. Considering this is Egypt, it’s no surprise you can find yourself a nice spot of sand. The clear, turquoise waters of Marsa Alam have some calling it the “Maldives of Egypt.” Pull up a lounger and judge for yourself.
How to get from Aswan to Marsa Alam
You can choose either a minivan or a car to get between Aswan and Marsa Alam. Each has its appeal, depending on your budget and the size of your traveling party. Here’s a breakdown:
Minivan
You can choose between private and shared minivan options. The latter is the cheapest option, starting at $57 per person. Shared minivans usually have a three-person minimum.
A private minivan is a practical option if your traveling party consists of more than two people but fewer than twelve. It can comfortably accommodate everyone and has the added benefit of a flat rate for the whole vehicle. Private minivans start at $155.
Either way, the ride will take around five hours. You can choose to be picked up at your hotel in Aswan and dropped off at your accommodations in Marsa Alam.
Minivans have air conditioning, charging stations, English-speaking drivers and possibly even WiFi. Check the individual operator for details, and don’t forget to review the luggage policy. It differs by company.
Car
If you’re traveling solo or as a couple, a car transfer isn’t much different in price than a minivan.
You’ll have less legroom but a very nice ride.
Private cars have a flat rate starting at $161, with a maximum of three passengers. The number of bags varies per operator.
Once again, expect around five hours of drive time.
You will have the same option of being picked up and dropped off at the accommodations of your choice.
Expect the car to be equipped with air conditioning, charging stations, and possibly WiFi.
When is the best time of year to visit Marsa Alam?
Being farther south than more mainstream Red Sea resort towns like Hurghada or Sharm el Sheik, you are pretty much guaranteed pleasant weather all year round.
That said, the warmest months are from April through October, with August seeing the highest temperatures (96°F/36°C).
The winter months have temps in the low 70’s°F (20’s°C low), which is pleasant weather for touring the desert.
No matter what time of year you arrive, you won’t have to worry about rain. In fact, that lack of runoff is what makes the water and reefs so clear and healthy.
How much time do I need in Marsa Alam?
If you trek all the way out to Marsa Alam, you should realistically spend at least three days relaxing, diving or snorkeling, and visiting Wadi El Gemal National Park. But that’s just a minimum.
To really enjoy the laid-back vibe and explore many diving and snorkeling opportunities, give yourself a week.
Divers: If you’re heading home right from Marsa Alam, remember to wait at least 24 hours after your last dive before flying.
Where to travel after Marsa Alam
Egypt’s Red Sea coastline is vast, so you can easily take it in from several scenic towns. The closest option would be the small beach town of Safaga. And just a little further up the road is the well-established resort town of Hurghada.