Mahmaya & Giftun: Snorkelling the Red Sea’s Coral Gardens
A half-day boat trip from Hurghada where sunlit sand meets thriving reefs
The boat slips free from Hurghada as the city’s heat settles into the mirrors of the marina. Wind tugs at the awnings; gulls argue over a last piece of breakfast. Fifty minutes into the trip the shoreline drops away and the water opens into a palette of turquoise, teal and deep blue. Mahmya, a sandbar on the western edge of the Giftun islands, appears like a deliberate pause in the ocean — an unadorned crescent of white sand hugged by coral gardens that rise like underwater cathedrals.
Trail Wisdom
Pick the right departure time
Morning departures mean calmer seas and cooler sun exposure; late afternoon light is best for photography and cooler surface temperatures.
Bring a well-fitting mask
Most operators provide gear, but a personal mask that seals well avoids leaks and fogging during longer swims.
Use reef-safe sunscreen
Oxybenzone and some chemical sunscreens harm coral—choose certified reef-safe formulas or wear a UV shirt.
Prepare for seasickness
If prone to motion sickness, take medication before boarding and sit mid-boat for the smoothest ride.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Snorkel the shallow bommies on the island’s eastern side for easier visibility and calmer water
- •Walk the southern spit at low tide to find quiet sandbars and small tidal pools
Wildlife
Parrotfish, Green sea turtles
Conservation Note
Operators and visitors are encouraged to use mooring buoys, avoid anchoring on reefs, use reef-safe sunscreens, and take all trash back to shore to reduce impact.
The Giftun islands have long been part of coastal Red Sea life—today they’re valued as protected marine areas that support local fishing communities and tourism.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Calmer seas, Mild temperatures, Good visibility
Challenges: Occasional spring winds, Busy holiday periods
Spring offers warm water and generally calm conditions, making it ideal for long snorkeling sessions and family trips.
summer
Best for: Longest beach days, Warmest water, Abundant daylight
Challenges: Very hot onshore temperatures, Stronger sun exposure, Potential afternoon breezes
Summer delivers hot sun and warm water—plan for early departures, hydration and sun protection to stay comfortable.
fall
Best for: Stable sea conditions, Pleasant air temperatures, Great visibility
Challenges: Occasional high-tourist demand, Intermittent weather shifts
Autumn is often the most pleasant time: water is still warm, crowds thin after summer, and winds are usually moderate.
winter
Best for: Calmer seas, Fewer tourists, Good underwater clarity
Challenges: Cooler air mornings, Occasional choppy days
Winter brings cooler mornings but excellent visibility; a light wetsuit or UV layer can make snorkeling more comfortable.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Snorkel mask (personal)Essential
A well-fitting mask prevents leaks and fogging during extended swims.
Rash guard or UV swim shirtEssential
Protects skin from intense sun and reduces the need for chemical sunscreens.
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects you from UV and the reef from harmful chemicals—apply before boarding.
Water shoes or reef boots
Helpful for walking on sandbars and rocky boat ladders; gives extra traction.
Common Questions
How long is the boat trip and how much time is on Mahmya?
Typical excursions run 4–6 hours, with 2–3 snorkeling stops and roughly 1–2 hours of beach time on Mahmya, depending on the operator and sea conditions.
Is snorkeling gear included?
Most operators include masks, snorkels and fins, but bringing a personal mask ensures the best fit and comfort.
Can beginners snorkel here?
Yes — the sites near Mahmya are family-friendly with shallow reefs and calm water, though basic swimming ability is required.
Are meals and transfers included in the price?
Many tours include a simple lunch, soft drinks and transfers from Hurghada hotels; confirm inclusions when booking.
What wildlife can I expect to see?
Common sightings include colorful reef fish like parrotfish and wrasse, and occasionally green sea turtles and rays in sandy patches.
Is the reef protected and what should I avoid?
Giftun reefs are managed with conservation in mind—avoid touching coral, use mooring buoys when available, and choose operators that follow low-impact practices.
What to Pack
Mask and snorkel (better fit and visibility); reef-safe sunscreen (protect reefs and skin); lightweight towel and change of clothes (dry off comfortably); motion-sickness remedies (prevent nausea on the crossing)
Did You Know
The Red Sea’s coral reefs are unusually heat-tolerant compared with many other reef systems, which contributes to their high biodiversity and resilience.
Quick Travel Tips
Book morning departures for calmer seas; confirm whether hotel transfer and lunch are included; bring cash for small tips and purchases; check visa and entry requirements for Egypt before travel
Local Flavor
After the trip head back to Hurghada Marina for fresh grilled seafood and a cold drink on the promenade—the marina has a cluster of waterfront restaurants where locals and travelers mingle. For a quick local bite, try a shore-side fillet or a simple Egyptian salad at a café near the marina.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Hurghada International Airport (HRG); Typical departure: Hurghada Marina or hotel piers (10–30 minutes drive from central Hurghada); Cell service: good in town, intermittent on Mahmya; Permits/fees: park fees are often included in tour pricing—confirm with operator.
Sustainability Note
Mahmya sits near protected reef systems—use mooring buoys, avoid anchoring on coral, apply reef-safe sunscreen, and carry out any trash to protect the ecosystem.
Continue Reading
Red Rock Primer: Two Hours Inside Sedona’s Scarlet Circuits
A fast, guided primer to Sedona’s iconic formations: two hours of geology, Wild West stories, and the best photo frames that will shape the rest of your trip.
Sedona, Arizona
Between Plates and Parliament: Hiking Thingvellir’s Rift and Waterways
Where Iceland’s parliament met and two continents keep a slow, visible disagreement—Thingvellir combines short cultural walks, long ridgeline hikes, and the surreal clarity of Silfra. It’s an intimate, elemental introduction to Icelandic landscape and history.
Reykjavík, Capital Region