Giftun Islands Tours

The two Giftun Islands—Giftun Kebir and Giftun Sughayer—are some of the closest to Egypt’s resort town of Hurghada and comprise part of a marine reserve in the Red Sea with spectacular coral reefs and drop-offs teeming with life. Day-trippers come for snorkeling, diving, and sunbathing on the pair of islands’ pristine, protected beaches.

The Basics
A vast majority of visitors to the Giftun Islands arrive as part of an organized day trip from Hurghada on Egypt’s mainland. Join a full-day excursion to snorkel above the bright coral reefs, relax and swim at a white sand beach, and do some dolphin watching on the way to and from the islands. Most day trips include lunch and any necessary snorkel equipment. Certified scuba divers can book a guided dive trip for a closer look at coral gardens, sea turtles, skates, and other marine life.

If hiring a boat to travel independently, consider visiting Giftun Kebir, where you’ll find a resort with some facilities needed for a day by the sea.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The Giftun Islands are a must-visit for snorkelers, scuba divers, and beach lovers.
• Don’t forget to bring sun protection, a change of clothes, and anything else you’d want for a day at the beach.
• Day trips to the islands typically last six to eight hours, depending on the activities included.

How to Get There
The Giftun Islands are located in the Red Sea, a 45-minute sail by day cruise from Hurghada. The easiest way to get there is by organized tour.

When to Get There
Warm weather throughout the year means there isn’t really a bad time to visit the Giftun Islands. Particularly hot and humid temperatures in July and August make time spent in the water even more appealing.

Giftun Islands Orientation
The Giftun Islands comprise two separate islands, the larger Giftun Kebir (“Big” Giftun) and the smaller Giftun Sughayer (“Little” Giftun). Most tours to the islands visit the former. The area popularly known as Paradise Island is, in fact, part of Giftun Kebir, situated on its southern coast.