12 Reasons Why You Should Visit El Gouna in Egypt

El Gouna exists since 1990 on the banks of the Red Sea, 20 km from Hurghada.The city dominates with artificial lagoons and 20 islands. The most electrifying are the buildings designed by European and American architects referencing Egyptian and Nubian villages. 

The next paragraphs will guide you to explore the most interesting places and activities in El Gouna. 

Most visitors to Egypt typically arrive through larger airports, with Hurghada being a more common entry point than the smaller facilities near El Gouna. You can use the public bus (very cheap but might be more complicated for foreigners who do not speak Arabic), book a taxi, or use Uber (7 EUR).

In El Gouna, transportation options include walking, biking, driving, taking a taxi, or utilizing a tuk-tuk. Typically, prices for these services fall within a similar range.

Play golf

Though this sport is often associated with retirement and older people, it is something you can do when visiting El Gouna. There are couple of notable golf clubs. They go by the name El Gouna Golf Club, Steinberger Golf Resort El Gouna, or Ancient Sands Golf Club. Summertime, with temperatures soaring above 30°C, may not be the ideal season for this sport. It is better suited for winter or springtime when temperatures hover around a comfortable 25°C. They are usually open from 7 am year round. When visiting the places you need to abide by certain dress codes. Perhaps one of the few areas in the city adorned with lush, consistently green grass.

Do kitesurfing

The best windy conditions are from June to September. During winter, it is advisable to wear a long wetsuit, while in spring and autumn, a short wetsuit is recommended, and during summer, lycra is preferred. The majority of the waters near the coast are very flat and choppy when you go further. You can enroll in classes and rent equipment at several kite schools in El Gouna, such as KBC, Element, Red Sea Zone, Kite People, and Osmosis.

Architecture

El Gouna is a great place for everyone who loves architecture. The town is full of resorts, some pretty expensive. Sometimes hard to distinguish them from ordinary living houses. The main influences come from Europe, mostly Mediterranean (white-washed, vibrant accents, terracotta roofs). Some are arab-islamic (arches, domes, decorative tiles), and Nubian (vibrant earthly colors, geometric patterns, mud brick construction).

Sometimes you can spot certain brutalist features. For example the building of the new Gouna Conference and Culture Centre with its high colonnades within artificial lagoon. Soon-to-be 600-seat concert hall with a center is supposed to be ready in a couple of years. Its main goal is to cater to sports and cultural events like the El Gouna Film Festival, or just be used as a public plaza.

Some neighborhoods do not relate to the initial Nubian designs. For example Tawila with its clean and straight lines.

Another example is the Technical University of Berlin Campus where you have typical German architecture with functional and straight lines set into the Egyptian desert. Over time, the G-Space transitioned from its initial Nubian-inspired design to a harmonious blend of modern aesthetics and local influences. Today, it boasts a variety of contemporary working spaces catering to diverse needs and preferences.

Lagoons and canals

All the canals and lagoons in the city are artificial. They do resemble a little bit Netherlands except the weather is less windy, and rainy and there are not many bikers on the streets, as well as no coffee shops selling weed. You can book a boat trip and cruise around the lagoons for a different perspective.

El Gouna Film festival

The festival founders established it in 2017. The main person behind it is engineer Naguib Sawaris. Its mission is to showcase a diverse range of movies mostly aiming for a well-versed audience and to connect local filmmakers with international ones.

Nubian cultural events

Visit Tamr Henna Square to experience an event dedicated to traditional Nubian entertainment, featuring belly and Tanoura dancing.

Desert safari and stargazing

If you’re craving adventure beyond water sports, consider booking a safari tour to experience the desert at sunset and under the stars. Drive a quad bike across the desert, visit the local Beduin village, and try camel riding.

Public beaches

The cool thing about El Gounda when compared to Hurghada is the fact that there are many public beaches free of charge (besides the private ones owned by resorts and hotels). One of the famous beaches is Zeytouna – perfect for both relaxation and sports.

Visit the Desert Breath

This is a land artwork piece in the Eastern desert near Hurghada in the form of a double-spiral form on land. It captures the experience of the infinity of the desert area as a landscape of mind or human intervention.

Experience nightlife and local art

El Gouna Marina is the place where festivals happen. It usually offers programs filled with Egyptian traditional dances. Another option is to visit Mangroovy, a place where you can enjoy BBQ with drinks during sunset as well as dance. During the day, it functions as a Kite surfing center and later it has some dance club events on Sundays and Wednesdays.

Marina and downtown shops

Shopping in El Gouna, Egypt offers a delightful experience with its array of boutique stores, souvenir shops, and artisan markets. Visitors can explore the vibrant Tamr Henna Square, a bustling hub filled with charming shops offering everything from locally made handicrafts to stylish clothing and accessories. For those seeking luxury brands and designer goods, Marina Boulevard presents an upscale shopping environment with an impressive selection of boutiques and galleries. Additionally, the weekly open-air markets provide an authentic shopping adventure where one can haggle for unique finds.

Boat ride with glass bottom

Those who want to experience the underwater life of the Red Sea but do not wish to get wet do not like snorkeling or diving or maybe are too young for it, can book a tour on a boat with a glass bottom. As you cruise along, marvel at the colorful coral reefs, fish, and other fascinating creatures without getting wet. This immersive journey provides an educational opportunity for nature enthusiasts and families alike.