Giftun Island National Park is one of Egypt’s most important protected marine areas, located
in the Red Sea near Hurghada. The island is known for its clear waters, coral reefs, and rich
marine biodiversity.
As a protected area, activities on Giftun Island are carefully managed to preserve coral reefs
and coastal ecosystems. Visitors can enjoy beaches, swimming areas, and guided marine
experiences in a natural setting.
For travelers, Giftun Island National Park offers a perfect combination of relaxation, nature,
and Red Sea scenery
- 🏖️ Relax on Protected Beaches: Choose between the famous Orange Bay (known for its wooden swings in the water), Paradise Beach, or the more secluded Mahmya 🏝️.
- 🏊 Swim in Crystal Shallows: Wade through knee-deep turquoise water that remains calm and transparent, perfect for a relaxing dip away from the mainland crowds 🌊.
- 🤿 Snorkel Marine Zones: Explore the island’s perimeter, which serves as a sanctuary for Brain Corals, Giant Clams, and schools of Bannerfish 🐠.
- 🐦 Observe Wildlife: Keep an eye out for the White-Eyed Gull, a species endemic to the Red Sea that nests on the island’s rocky outcrops 🦅.
- 📸 Scenic Landscapes: Capture the contrast of the stark, sandy island hills against the multi-tonal blues of the surrounding deep-sea channels 🤳.
- 🛥️ By Daily Boat Tour: The most common method. Boats depart from the Hurghada Marina or private hotel piers. Tours typically include lunch, snorkeling gear, and national park fees 📍.
- 🎟️ By Tour Package: Book through a reputable provider (like Star Fish or Mahmya) to secure access to the private beach clubs on the island 🎒.
- ⛵ Private Boat Charter: For more flexibility, hire a licensed motorboat or small yacht. This allows you to visit “Hidden Beach” or arrive before the large tour groups 🚗.
- 🛑 Conservation Rules: This is a National Park. It is strictly forbidden to collect shells, stones, or touch the coral. Even “dead” coral is part of the protection data 🪸.
- 🧴 Eco-Friendly Sunscreen: With thousands of visitors daily, the chemical load on the reef is high. Use only mineral-based, reef-safe sunscreen to protect the island’s future 🧴.
- 💵 National Park Fee: Most boat tours in 2026 include the mandatory $5.00 USD (approx. 250 EGP) park entrance fee, but confirm this with your operator before boarding 💳.
- 👟 Footwear: While the beaches are sandy, the shallow water can contain small rocks or sea urchins. Bring water shoes for a safer entry into the snorkeling zones 👣.
- 🕒 08:30 AM – **Depart from Hurghada** via boat, enjoying the 45-minute cruise across the open Red Sea ⛵.
- 🕒 10:00 AM – **Arrive at Giftun Island** (Orange Bay or Mahmya) and secure a shaded sun lounger 📍.
- 🕒 10:30 AM – Spend your morning **swimming and snorkeling** at the designated reef blocks just off the shoreline 🤿.
- 🕒 12:30 PM – Enjoy a **buffet lunch** (usually included in tours) featuring fresh Egyptian salads and grilled fish 🍽️.
- 🕒 3:30 PM – Board the **return boat journey**, often stopping for one last deep-water snorkel on the way back to the mainland 🌅.
