El gouna, in Egypt, is a man made resort within a short transfer of Hurghada Airport on the Red Sea Coast. The town itself was developed with tourists in mind and offers a wide range of activities, restaurants and nightlife set in a relaxed and laid back atmosphere. Combine this with a range of very good quality hotels El Gouna is an excellent choice for those travelling with families or non-kitesurfing partners.
El Gouna is becoming a popular resort for the kitesurfing crowd and with good reason. The site offers awesome conditions for learners and experienced riders alike.
MOVENPICK HOTEL Host to Red Sea Zone. This spot offers similar conditions to the Movenpick except that it's not as exclusive and can get quite crowded. There is waist high water for approx. 100m out from the centre (a few hours each side of high tide) with flat water. Past this there is a drop off where the water is a little more lively and then out and upwind there is a very cool sand bar to play around.
MANGROOVY BEACH: Host to Red Sea Zone. This spot offers similar conditions to the Movenpick except that it's not as exclusive and can get quite crowded. There is waist high water for approx. 100m out from the centre (a few hours each side of high tide) with flat water. Past this there is a drop off where the water is a little more lively and then out and upwind there is a very cool sand bar to play around.
The wind in El Gouna is side to side-on shore at both spots. As with all Red Sea resorts there is good wind year around although the most reliable conditions are in the summer months from April to November.
Due to the shallow flat water conditions El Gouna is best suited to the beginner, the intermediate kiter or for the more advanced rider looking for some easy conditions to practice those slick tricks !
Despite being an awesome kite spot El Gouna is also an excellent holiday resort in general and non-kiters can enjoy a friendly secure environment with excellent resort facilities all within easy walking distance.
Non-kiting activities include diving, snorkelling, windsurfing, golf, horse riding, go-kart racing, volleyball, snorkelling, water-skiing and wakeboarding, fishing, sailing, island trips and of course plain sunbathing
The windsurfing facilities in El Gouna are very basic with a small centre based at the Movenpick hotel. Instruction for beginners can be arranged via the Kite school as they are also qualified windsurf instructors.
In the evening there is an excellent choice of restaurants to choose from both around the Marine and 'Down Town' area. There are also a few good bars and a large club that kicks off a couple of times a week.
UK / EU passport holders should have a full 10 year passport valid until at least 6 months after date of return. Other passport holders please check with Egyptian Embassy (020 7235 9777).
You will require a full Egypt visa for entry into El Tur. The easiest way to get it is on arrival at Sharm el Sheikh Airport where it will cost £12. It can also be obtained in advance from the Egyptian Embassy at a cost of £15 - £20.
There are no compulsory inoculations if travelling from the UK although Hep A and Typhoid are recommended. Please check with your GP or local travel health clinic for the latest advice.