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El Gouna is a resort town located on the Red Sea coast of Egypt, approximately 25 kilometers north of Hurghada.

Visual Characteristics

El Gouna is characterized by its interconnected lagoons, artificial islands, and low-rise architecture. Buildings primarily utilize sand-colored stucco and terracotta roof tiles. The town is divided into distinct areas, each with its own architectural theme, often incorporating Mediterranean and Nubian influences. The water within the lagoons is typically clear and turquoise, contrasting with the surrounding desert landscape.

Location & Access Logistics

El Gouna is accessible via Hurghada International Airport (HRG), located approximately 30 kilometers south. From the airport, private taxis or pre-booked transfers are the primary means of reaching El Gouna, with a travel time of about 30-40 minutes. Within El Gouna, transportation is facilitated by a network of internal roads, tuk-tuks, and water taxis that navigate the lagoons. There are no direct public bus lines connecting El Gouna to Hurghada city center; however, local buses operate within the resort town itself.

Historical & Ecological Origin

El Gouna was conceived and developed by the Orascom Hotels and Development company, with construction beginning in 1989. The project transformed a coastal desert area into a self-contained resort town designed to integrate with the natural marine environment. The town's layout is a result of extensive land reclamation and the creation of artificial waterways, carefully planned to minimize environmental impact while maximizing waterfront access.

Key Highlights & Activities

Activities include diving and snorkeling in the Red Sea, with numerous dive centers offering excursions to nearby reefs. Kitesurfing and windsurfing are popular due to consistent wind conditions. Boat trips to nearby islands, such as Giftun Island, are available. Golfing at the championship courses, exploring the town's marinas, and visiting the Abu Tig Marina are also common pursuits. Guided tours of the town's architecture and infrastructure are offered.

Infrastructure & Amenities

El Gouna features a comprehensive range of amenities including hotels, restaurants, cafes, shops, and medical facilities. Restrooms are widely available in public areas and establishments. Shade is provided by awnings and umbrellas in outdoor seating areas and along walkways. Mobile phone signal (4G/5G) is generally strong throughout the resort town. Numerous food vendors and restaurants are present within the town and its marinas.

Best Time to Visit

The optimal period for visiting El Gouna is between October and April, when daytime temperatures are pleasant, ranging from 20°C to 30°C. The summer months (June to August) can experience high temperatures exceeding 35°C. For photography, early morning and late afternoon offer softer lighting conditions. High tide is not a significant factor for most activities within the resort town itself, though it can influence access to certain outer reef areas for diving.

Facts & Legends

A notable aspect of El Gouna's development is its commitment to sustainability, with initiatives including solar power generation and wastewater treatment plants. The town's design intentionally incorporates windbreaks to mitigate desert sand encroachment. A local anecdote suggests that the initial planning phase involved extensive hydrological studies to ensure the lagoons remained naturally flushed by the Red Sea tides.

Nearby Landmarks

• Hurghada Grand Aquarium (15km South)
• Senzo Mall (20km South)
• Old Town Hurghada (El Dahar) (25km South)
• Hurghada Marina (25km South)