Giftun Islands
- Address:Mahmya Beach, Hurghada
- Admission:Free
Good Place to Relax, Must-Do Experience, Nature & Wildlife, Scuba Diving, Swim & Snorkel, Water Sports, Beach, Island
The Giftun Islands are a popular excursion from Hurghada, offering snorkeling, diving, sunbathing and a welcome retreat from the mainland bustle.
Offshore reefs provide spectacular drop-offs for experienced divers, hiding moray eels and fish in amongst the corals. Closer to shore, the coral reef snorkeling is superb.
The islands are famous for their pristine protected beaches, and a resort on the larger island provides all the facilities you need for a day by the sea, along with tours and windsurfing.
Latest Reviews All Giftun Islands Reviews »
A picturesque location,but very crowded I counted 70 boats in the area. Go now before the reef is ruined.The meal on the island is good,but drinks pricey. Watch out for the sand flies as you can end up with a lot of bites. Continue Reading »
Positives:
Excellent on the vegetarian information chain. EVERYONE knew about the requirement which was an achievement given the number of people involved in the communication chain.
Pick-up and collection. Very good. It was also excellent that the guide did not go with us on the 'cruise' as it was both unnecessary and would have invaded personal space.
Mahyar.
A slick organisation ideally partnered for this type of day trip.
Negatives.
The sequencing of events gave a rushed and 'tourist processing' feel to the day. For groups wanting to snorkel it would have been better for them to go directly to the area and to be briefed and equipped en route, that way more time snorkelling on the reefs. This was the way they did it in the Caribbean.
The reef was damaged from tourists standing on it etc. The marine park authorities and tour operators didn't supervise the swimmers so, unsurprisingly, other groups (not Mahyar) were seen standing on the reef.
On balance I wouldn't pay for a trip like this in Egypt again, but this is not a criticism of Viator organisation.
Continue Reading »Practical Info
The Giftun Islands are in the Red Sea offshore from Hurghada, a 45 minute sail by day cruise from the mainland.
The islands are called Giftun Kebir and Giftun Sughayer (Big and Little).
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