Safaga is a Red Sea port town about 50 to 65 km south of Hurghada depending on the source, roughly 50 minutes by road. It is at once a port, a seaside resort quieter than Hurghada, and a starting point for the Nile valley along the Qena road. Travellers go for the beaches, diving and snorkelling, and for the steady wind of Soma Bay and the neighbouring coast, popular with kitesurfers. The transport details are estimates from travel sources, to be confirmed locally.
Highlights
The Red Sea at Safaga
Clear water and dive boats at anchor set the tone: people come here for the sea first. Clubs offer introductory dives, snorkelling trips and dives on the nearby reefs.
The town of Safaga
A seaside town in full development, with low buildings and the mountains of the Eastern Desert behind. It stays quieter than Hurghada.
The port
Safaga is above all a port, used notably for sea links and Red Sea cruises. Excursions to Luxor and the Nile valley leave the town along the Qena road.
Practical info
Tips
- Kitesurfing is mostly practised around Soma Bay, just north of Safaga, and in front of some hotels on the coast: according to specialist guides the beaches suit all levels, and schools rent equipment. For snorkelling, the trip to Tobia Island leaves in the morning from the town. A taxi to or from Hurghada must be negotiated before leaving; there is no practical direct coach link. Many travellers come for the day on an organised excursion: compare the packages, because the transfer from Hurghada is sometimes charged extra.
How to get there
About 50 to 65 km south of Hurghada, 50 minutes by car or taxi along the coast road. There is no really practical direct bus: take a private taxi or an excursion with transfer. Count the trip from Hurghada airport the same way.
Opening hours
Our guides that feature it
Nearby
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