As the year begins, many turn to winter vacations to create joyful memories that last a lifetime. For this reason, numerous tourists prefer visiting destinations in the Middle East, with Egypt being a top choice. The country boasts a mild winter climate and affordable tourist prices, especially after the continuous devaluation of the Egyptian pound in recent years.
Popular Winter Destinations in Egypt
Egypt offers several winter getaways, including Sharm El-Sheikh, Hurghada, and Alexandria. While Alexandria is traditionally known as a summer destination, it attracts some tourists in winter as well, many of whom visit family members, given the large number of foreign families residing in the city.
Travel and Healing Combined
Some prefer traveling to Egypt’s western regions, such as Marsa Matrouh and Siwa Oasis. These destinations offer unique experiences and therapeutic treatments for various ailments, particularly bone diseases, which can be difficult to treat with modern medicine despite advancements in the field.
Luxor and Aswan: Dual-Role Destinations
Certain Egyptian cities and governorates serve dual purposes, such as Luxor and Aswan. Tourists flock to these destinations during the New Year to explore ancient Pharaonic monuments and enjoy relaxing winter retreats in southern Egypt. Highlights include hot air balloon rides and memorable Nile cruises in Aswan.
The mid-academic year vacation in January increases demand for winter resorts, attracting not just foreigners but also Egyptians.
Nile cruises offer a unique experience aboard floating hotels, combining accommodation with sightseeing. Typically lasting three nights, these cruises begin in Aswan and end in Luxor (or vice versa), with visits to historical sites in both cities. Guests also enjoy breathtaking views and cultural entertainment onboard these “Nile Cruises.”
Sahl Hasheesh
On the Red Sea coast, Sahl Hasheesh stands out as a popular destination near Hurghada International Airport. It boasts historical sites, resorts, gardens, markets, various tourist activities, stunning beaches, restaurants, cafes, shops, and luxury yacht marinas. Sahl Hasheesh is ideal for family vacations, youth trips, and especially honeymoons. It also features top-tier golf courses, equestrian clubs, and sports centers.
Alongside Sahl Hasheesh, El Gouna, located north of Hurghada, is a favorite among tourists. Built around lagoons and waterways, it offers a festive atmosphere perfect for honeymoons. Attractions include the Turtle House, El Gouna Corniche, the digital library, and a yacht marina. Visitors can enjoy marine activities like fishing, kite surfing, swimming, and diving, as well as land-based activities like safaris, golf, horse riding, parasailing, cycling, hiking, tennis, squash, and volleyball. Accommodation options range from West Golf to Mangroovy Resort, Swan Lake, and Waterside.
Marsa Alam: A Coral Reef Paradise
For coral reef enthusiasts, Marsa Alam is the ideal winter destination, attracting both foreign and Arab tourists. Highlights include the shrine of Abu Al-Hassan Al-Shazly, Mount Hamata, Wadi El-Gemal, Khwar Island, Rocky Island, and Zabargad Island.
Expert Insights
Adel Bahr, a travel agency owner, stated that New Year’s season sees an influx of Arab and foreign visitors to Egypt, drawn by its mild weather and the strong purchasing power of foreign currencies against stable local prices.
He told Invest-Gate that Luxor and Aswan remain the most popular destinations in January due to their sunny weather, historical sites, and enjoyable experiences.
Tour guide Mohamed Samir highlighted Egypt’s growing popularity among foreigners during the New Year, thanks to various tourism offers and facilitated transportation between destinations. He added that foreigners are increasingly aware of relatively new tourist spots like El Gouna, Marsa Alam, and Sahl Hasheesh, benefiting all parties involved, including tourists, guides, companies, and the Egyptian economy, which relies heavily on foreign currency.